New Business Development Executive Dawn Bridges explored Peru during a trip with Belmond and ESA Latin America. Learn more about her experience in this diverse, friendly country and why you should consider an incentive trip to Peru below.

Machu Picchu

Do you want a destination that will take your organization’s incentive trip to the next level?

Look no further than Peru!

After experiencing the amazing sights, so

unds, and tastes of this beautiful country first-hand, I quickly realized that Peru would be an incredible destination for an incentive trip:

Ease of Travel

There are direct flights to Lima from most of the major gateway cities in the US, so getting to Peru is easy. And even better, for those traveling from the US there is a minimal – if any – time difference (i.e. minimal – if any – jetlag!).

Bucket List Experiences

Incentive Travel is not only one of the most effective ways to motivate employees, but it also increases loyalty while the team bonds during the trip. Now add a bucket list experience like seeing Machu Picchu in the mix, and who wouldn’t be driven to earn a spot on the trip?

During our trip, we visited Machu Picchu with the most incredible guide – a must! He was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about this UNESCO World Heritage Site and answered every question we threw at him. He also showed us some of the secret areas and gave us insight into the history of the Incan people.

The amazing people of Peru

The People

The Peruvian people are very warm and friendly. From shopping to dining, everyone we met was kind and gracious. Whether your team travels all the time or rarely, they will feel welcome and comfortable with the locals during an incentive trip to Peru.

More Incredible Experiences

Peru isn’t just limited to Machu Picchu for once-in-a-lifetime experiences! Getting to “The Lost City of the Incas” was just as special as seeing it. In the morning, we were greeted at the train station by traditional dancers as we boarded the Belmond Hiram Bingham train. Aboard this historic train we danced and dined our way across the Peruvian countryside and back.

The Hotels

Peru is home to some of the most beautiful hotels. In Lima, we experienced the urban sanctuary that is Belmond Miraflores Park. This property is in the stylish Miraflores district of Lima which allowed us the opportunity to walk along the neighborhood paths that overlooked the Pacific Ocean and shop to our hearts content in the nearby shopping plaza.

Dawn in Peru

Next we went to Cusco where we stayed at Belmond Palacio Nazarenas. Set in a tranquil plaza near the city’s main square, this hotel features several beautiful courtyards, four-poster beds, Peruvian marble in the bathrooms, heated floors, the list goes on. They even pump oxygen into the rooms to help with any altitude issues. This hotel is truly one of my most favorite ever!

The Food

The food in Peru is SO GOOD! After a day of exploring, you and your group can bond over a delicious, fresh meal. Peruvian food is all about spices and big flavors inspired by Europe, Africa, and East Asia. Of course, all of this tasty food was accompanied by the local cocktail “Pisco Sour” made out of Pisco which is a type of brandy developed by Spanish settlers in the 16^th century.

Our final night dinner took place at a local museum and included many delicious dishes such as ceviche with Peruvian fish, roasted potatoes with huancaina sauce (Peru has over 4,000 native varieties of potatoes!), and my personal favorite cuy, or guinea pig. When in Peru right? Bottom line: Peruvian food is delicious so be sure to pack your stretchy pants!

There are so many other reasons why Peru would be an incredible destination for an incentive trip, and I cannot say enough about how amazing this trip was and what delightful partners both Belmond and ESA Latin America were. If you’re interested in an incentive trip to Peru and would like to hear me rave about what a fabulous destination it is, feel free to contact me anytime. Or better yet, let’s grab a Pisco Sour in Cusco, and you can see for yourself!