Archaeology and Hidden Flavours

Highlights:

• Discover Ecuador’s pre-Hispanic heritage at Museo Casa del Alabado
• Explore a traditional Quito market and select fresh local ingredients
• Learn about Ecuadorian cuisine during a hands-on cookery experience
• Prepare a selection of local dishes and enjoy them for lunch

The day begins with a short walk to Museo Casa del Alabado, one of Quito’s most important cultural landmarks. Housed within a beautifully restored colonial mansion dating from 1671 in the heart of the Historic Centre, the museum is home to an exceptional private collection of nearly 5,000 archaeological artefacts from Ecuador’s pre-Hispanic cultures. Its thoughtfully curated galleries explore the deep connections these communities formed with the natural world through food, symbolism and ritual, many of which continue to resonate today.

As you explore the collection with your guide, gain insight into the different cultures that have shaped Ecuador while discovering some of the museum’s most significant pieces and the stories behind them. Afterwards, continue your discovery of Ecuador’s heritage through its cuisine with a visit to one of Quito’s traditional markets. Here, browse colourful displays of local produce and regional specialities, and meet the market women, or ‘vecis’, who are often happy to share their cooking tips and ancestral knowledge.

Having selected a variety of fresh ingredients, continue to a local restaurant for a hands-on cookery experience with a local chef. Inspired by the ingredients and flavours discovered at the market, the chef will introduce you to traditional Ecuadorian dishes and the techniques used to prepare them. You will then take part in creating several dishes, which will be served as part of your lunch. After lunch, enjoy a pleasant walk back to the hotel.

Please note: This tour is subject to a minimum of 4 passengers to operate. Rates are available on request for fewer than 4 passengers. Tour must be pre-booked to guarantee availability.

What's included

• Return transfers
• Museo El Alabado entrance fee
• Lunch with two soft drinks