The magic of Peru: Behind the scenes of our annual guide trip

One of the questions travellers most often ask our guides is “Where should we go next?” With B&R the options, of course, are plentiful, so how do you narrow down the list? 

To help our guides give an educated perspective and ensure they steer travellers to destinations and experiences that are the best match possible, we host an annual Guide Adventure. Our trip leaders gather from around the world in a destination that might seem under the radar but that we know is going to be on everyone’s lips soon. It’s an opportunity for them to explore a new place and learn from each other—all of which they bring back to our travellers out on the road. 

This year’s destination: Peru.  

The week’s itinerary was designed by Stephanie Gulledge, B&R’s Experience Designer for Peru, who also used to guide trips in the South American country. “Peru is an excellent destination for the active traveller,” she says. “Not only does it lend itself well to incredible hiking, but we have options to explore by bike, kayak, SUP and even horseback.”  

During the trip, guides experience the destination as if they are travellers. In Peru, they were immersed in the Sacred Valley, a must-visit region in the Andean highlands that’s steeped in Incan history. It’s home to the city of Cusco and the gateway to magical Machu Picchu. The week together is also a chance to put to the test new hotels, restaurants, cultural experiences and hands-on learning opportunities so that guides can offer feedback on how to make each of these things most impactful for our travellers. 

The group trekked trails through rural villages and went horseback riding to Incan archeological sites on Peruvian Paso horses who have a unique gait making them one of the smoothest rides in the world. They visited the Kuska School in Ollantaytambo, a vital educational centre for the community that B&R supports through our Slow Fund, and walked segments of the Inca Trail to soak in 360-degree views of Machu Picchu. Testing the routes with our guides also allows us to adapt how we design activities to ensure an unmatched experience for our travellers. “There are new guidelines to visit some of the ancient sites, so we are always adapting and learning to ensure the best experience for our travellers,” Stephanie says. 

Music filled the air as they walked alongside llamas roaming the ruins of the Sacred Valley. Our friend Jorge guided them through the Offering to Mother Earth, a traditional Andean ceremony during which gratitude is offered for the blessings of Earth and its elements. And more than once, their tastebuds danced with the fusion of flavours in Peruvian cuisine. All of these experiences found on our Scheduled and Bespoke trips. “Once in Peru, I think a lot of our travellers are surprised by how incredible the food is and how luxurious the lodging options are!” she adds. 

Beyond the breathtaking landscapes and almost overwhelming scale of ancient Incan architecture, the group spent time with community members who shared more of Peru’s magic. “I was excited to connect our guides with the locals of Peru,” Stephanie says. “They are so warm and hospitable that I knew our guide crew from Europe would immediately feel the love and connection that B&R has in region.”  

Another perk of the country? Its location, says Stephanie. "From North America, you deal with almost no jet lag, so it’s a really easy destination to visit!”