CUSCO FOOD TOUR - Cusco changes pace after dark. The tour groups thin out, the air cools, and the city settles into something older and quieter. Lantern light flickers against Inca stone walls, grills are lit on street corners, and the scent of smoke, corn, and slow-cooked meat begins to hang low in the narrow streets
Our evening food tour follows a winding route through the historic centre, slipping between lively plazas, markets and backstreets over four hours and 15+ tastings.
Youβll start with flavours that speak to Peruβs unique mix of influences β pan con lomito and arroz chaufa, where the unmistakable imprint of Chinese technique meets Andean ingredients, alongside classics like trout ceviche, adapted to the cold waters of the highlands.
Anticuchos, smoky skewers of grilled beef heart, hiss over open flames, brushed with chilli and spices, a street food with roots stretching back centuries. Pork crackles over coals, maize toasts and bursts open in hot pans, and tamales steam.
Deeper into the tour, the Andes come through more strongly. Thick corn soups, stuffed peppers, and dishes like papa rellena. And then thereβs cuy, roasted guinea pig, an Andean staple so important to it's history it's painted as the centrepiece on Cusco Cathedral's the Last Supper.
Sweets and drinks soften the edges. Picarones come hot and syrup-soaked, traditional 'king kong' adds layers of sweetness, and glasses of chicha morada and aguaje juice cut through the richness with something cooling and unfamiliar.
This isnβt fine dining. It's the real Cusco through the eyes of a local tastemaker.
With 15+ tastings over four hours, you're trying dishes from across Cusco's culinary influences. Youβll taste the historic influence of Chinese cooking techniques alongside Andean ingredients, understand why corn here is central to everything, and see how pre-Columbian traditions still shape whatβs eaten on the streets today.
Most visitors experience Cusco during the day, ticking off sights before heading out early. This tour flips that. It shows you the city when it slows down, when locals gather to eat. It's an authentic look at the real food scene of Cusco.
A proud CusqueΓ±a, Cristina brings a warm and welcoming energy to every tour. She enjoys connecting with guests and introducing them to the flavours, markets, and daily rhythms of Cusco through a localβs perspective.
Nataly is passionate about Cuscoβs food scene, from traditional Andean dishes to hidden local favourites. She loves guiding guests through the cityβs flavours, uncovering the spots and bites that most visitors would never find on their own.
Born in Cusco, Teddy is fascinated by the cityβs rich history and cultural layers. He brings the past to life through engaging stories, connecting Cuscoβs food and traditions to its Inca and colonial heritage.
Born and raised in Cusco, Alcira has a deep connection to the cityβs Andean roots and traditions. She loves sharing the stories behind local dishes and ingredients, helping guests understand the cultural heritage that shapes everyday life in Cusco.
To join the Cusco food tour, use the calendar to select your date and secure your tour with your card. For special requests, private bookings, or dietary requirements, pleaseΒ contact us. Safety of our customers is our first priority, so if you have any allergies, pleaseΒ contact usΒ before booking.
Our Cusco food tour is designed for adventurous eaters with an interest in discovering the food that locals eat. Itβs an easy-paced walking tour with plenty of rest (eating) stops along the way.
This Cusco food tour departs from outside theΒ Mercado Wanchaq market just east of the historical centre.Β It's easy to reach by taxi from most of the hotels in the city. There will be more details on your booking confirmation.Β