David

David Quispe
Cusco, Peru – Cultural & Local Experiences Partner for Let’s Eat Peru

Rooted in the Andes

David Quispe — CEO of Sun Gate Tours — was born in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and a place where history is not just taught but lived every day. Raised among mountains, Quechua stories, and family traditions, he carries the Andes in everything he does. His fluency in Quechua, the language of his ancestors, allows him to connect with communities in a way that brings travelers into genuine, heartfelt exchange.

A Calling Shaped by Stories

David’s path into tourism unfolded naturally over the years. Drawn by Peru’s cultural richness and landscapes, he found himself wanting to share the depth of his heritage with others. As a child, he absorbed the stories told by elders in his community — tales that now shape the journeys he designs. His itineraries often carry the echo of those voices, offering travelers a taste of the Andean worldview beyond monuments and markets.

The Places He Loves Most

Ask David about his favorite corners of Cusco, and he’ll point you toward San Blas — a neighborhood where artisans still open their workshops to the street, bread scents the air, and sunset paints the city in warm gold.
In Lima, he feels at home in Chorrillos, especially near the fishing pier and small coves, and he finds creative spark in the colorful streets of Barranco.
If he had to choose a single dish for life, it would be Chiri Uchu, a celebratory Cusqueñan plate that unites flavors from Peru’s coast, highlands, and jungle.

The Work Behind the Magic

David begins his days early, coordinating with his team to ensure travelers feel cared for at every step. His favorite moments are often the simplest — meeting guests at the end of a journey and hearing how Peru changed them.
One of his fondest memories is teaching a group a few Quechua greetings. They practiced them with such joy that when they reached a local community, they were welcomed with an impromptu celebration. It remains one of his clearest reminders that openness builds bridges.

A Guiding Philosophy

Inspired by the teachings of Andean communities, David believes deeply in honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth). Responsible and regenerative tourism isn’t a trend for him — it’s a necessity. His work is grounded in respect for ancestral techniques, native ingredients, and the families who keep traditions alive.

Life Beyond the Itinerary

When not working, David is often out on the trails, reconnecting with nature or capturing spontaneous photographs of daily life — hands working, faces smiling, moments unfolding. He also collects Quechua words that are slowly disappearing, preserving them one note at a time. His philosophy is simple:

Live with respect and gratitude toward Pachamama — everything given returns multiplied.

The Path to Let’s Eat Peru

I met David in Cusco over a Pisco Sour, where our shared passion for meaningful cultural experiences became immediately clear. He connected deeply with my mission to build community through food, and I was inspired by his dedication to preserving Andean heritage.

What began as a simple conversation turned into a year-long collaboration as we shaped Let’s Eat Peru — an experience that blends David’s intimate knowledge of his homeland with the kind of culinary storytelling that has always guided my work. We’re thrilled to finally share it with travelers eager to discover the Peru he calls home.