Arequipa: Food Tour Experience

Arequipa: Food Tour Experience
Located in the heart of Peru’s stunning Arequipa region, this 5-hour culinary journey gives travelers a chance to explore the city’s vibrant food scene, from bustling markets to traditional dishes. For $115 per person, you’ll join a small group, guided by an English-speaking expert, to uncover some of Peru’s most beloved regional flavors.
What we really love about this tour is how it combines hands-on cooking classes with cultural sightseeing — so it’s not just about eating, but understanding the stories behind each dish. Plus, the visit to Mercado San Camilo and scenic stops like Yanahuara provide a taste of local life and stunning views.
On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind: walking between stops may involve some modest physical activity, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of food, culture, and scenic city sights, especially those eager to learn traditional recipes and connect with local life.

Key Points

• Authentic culinary experience blending market visits, city sights, and cooking.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) enhances interaction and personalized attention.
• Diverse menu options including Andean, traditional, and seafood dishes.
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights into Peruvian ingredients and customs.
• Scenic city stops like Plaza de Armas and Yanahuara Overlook for memorable views.
• Value for money given the inclusion of food, drinks, and guided tours in a well-rounded experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Arequipa Food Tour Experience

The Starting Point: Mercado San Camilo

Our adventure begins at the lively San Camilo Market, the beating heart of Arequipa’s local food scene. It’s a colorful, bustling space where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to homemade delicacies. Walking through this market gives you a real sense of what locals prioritize in their daily diets — fresh, vibrant ingredients and a sense of community.
Our guide, whose name I wish I remembered, explained that visiting this market is “the best way to understand what people eat every day” — and it’s true. You’ll see fruits, vegetables, meats, and traditional Peruvian spices, all laid out with a kind of organized chaos that somehow works.

Guided Market Tour and Food Tasting

The tour takes about 40 minutes here, giving us ample time to soak in the sights and sounds. We sampled Chicha Morada, a sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn, which is both refreshing and a perfect way to start. It’s a small but meaningful detail that sets the tone — this tour isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing local flavors in their natural setting.
The guide shared stories about ingredients like yellow peppers, potatoes, beans, and cheese, explaining their importance in Arequipa’s cuisine. Many travelers noted the “informative and friendly guide,” who made the market visit both fun and educational.

Walking to the Cloisters of The Company

Next, we took a short 7-minute walk to the Cloisters of The Company, a peaceful historic site where we received a 20-minute guided tour. This stop adds a cultural layer, giving context to the city’s colonial architecture and history. It’s a peaceful contrast to the vibrant market, and the guide explained its significance in local history, making the experience feel well-rounded.

More Great Tours Nearby

Food Tasting in a Local Restaurant

From here, we moved to a cozy local restaurant for a 25-minute tasting session. Here, we sampled some of the city’s signature dishes. Reviewers mention that “the food was authentic and plentiful” and that it’s a great opportunity to try Peruvian classics in a relaxed setting. The tour emphasizes regional flavors, and you’ll get a real taste of what locals love to eat.

Exploring the Plaza de Armas and Basilica Cathedral

Our sightseeing continues with a 20-minute guided walk around Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa. This lively square is framed by colonial buildings, street performers, and cafes. Our guide shared interesting tidbits about the city’s history and architecture. We then passed by the Basilica Cathedral — a quick 5-minute pass-by that’s worth a photo for its impressive façade.
These stops remind us that food is just one part of a city’s identity; the architecture and atmosphere are equally compelling. Many travelers appreciate the balance of cultural sightseeing with culinary experiences.

Further Food Tasting and a Visit to Barrio de San Lázaro

Another 25-minute tasting takes us into Barrio de San Lázaro, a neighborhood known for its authentic local vibe. Here, we explored more regional specialties, and many review comments highlight the “delicious, home-style food” and the friendly local atmosphere.
This stop stands out as a favorite for those who want to see the real daily life of Arequipa’s residents. The guide’s knowledge enhanced the experience, making it feel personal and genuine.

Scenic Overlook at Yanahuara

Our final stop is the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook, about 20 minutes away on foot. From here, the views of Misti Volcano and the city provide a stunning backdrop to wrap up the day. Travelers often say it’s “a perfect ending,” offering sweeping vistas that let you reflect on the day’s culinary and cultural discoveries.

Wrap-Up and Reflection

The tour concludes back at Yanahuara, giving you plenty of time to savor the last views. Throughout the day, we learned that this experience isn’t just about filling your stomach — it’s about connecting with Arequipa’s heart, from bustling markets to homey eateries and scenic vistas.

The Cooking Class: A Hands-On Culinary Journey

A highlight of this tour is the interactive cooking class led by a professional chef. After arriving at the designated kitchen, we started with a welcome drink of Chicha Morada — a sweet, purple corn beverage that’s both culturally iconic and delicious.
We then prepared one of three menus: Andean, Traditional, or Seafood — each offering a different taste of Arequipa’s culinary diversity. The chef explained each step with patience and humor, creating a lively, engaging atmosphere.
The Andean menu includes a Solterito salad and Rocoto Relleno, a spicy stuffed pepper. The Traditional menu features Causa, a flavorful mashed potato dish filled with avocado and tuna or chicken, followed by Lomo Saltado, a stir-fry blend of beef, onions, and fries. The Seafood menu offers Ceviche and Pescado a lo Macho — fresh, bright, and hearty options for seafood lovers.
According to reviews, “the dishes turned out fantastic,” and many appreciated that they learned to cook authentic recipes they could recreate at home. After cooking, we sat down to enjoy our creations, making it a fulfilling, hands-on experience that truly connects you with local cuisine.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $115, you’re getting far more than a typical city tour. The price covers all food and drinks, guided visits to key sights, and the chance to learn traditional recipes directly from a local chef. Compared to eating out independently, this experience provides a curated, insightful look into Arequipa’s culinary culture with the added bonus of sightseeing.
The small group setting (limited to 10) ensures personal attention, and the tour’s flexibility — with options to reserve and pay later — makes planning easier.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to learn about Peruvian cuisine, travelers who appreciate cultural context alongside sightseeing, and those looking for a fun, interactive way to explore Arequipa. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and connect with locals. Given the walking involved, good footwear and moderate fitness are recommended.

The Sum Up

The Arequipa Food Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the city’s flavors, sights, and stories. It’s a chance to see the local markets, taste traditional dishes, and learn to cook in a friendly, engaging environment. The scenic stops, knowledgeable guides, and delicious food all contribute to a memorable experience that goes beyond just ticking boxes.
Perfect for curious travelers who want to dive into Arequipa’s culinary soul, this tour provides real value and a deeper appreciation of the city’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, it’s an opportunity to connect with Arequipa’s everyday life in a flavorful and fun way.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately 5 hours, including sightseeing, market visits, and the cooking class.

• What is included in the price?
  The cost covers all food and drinks, guided tours of attractions, and the cooking class.

• Do I need to prepare or bring anything special?
  Bring your passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a hat.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Children 4 and younger are free if they do not occupy a seat or request food.

• How much walking is involved?
  The tour involves some walking between stops — expect around 7 to 15-minute walks.

• Can I reserve today and pay later?
  Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

• Are the guides fluent in English?
  Yes, the tour is led by an official English-speaking guide.

• Is there a particular menu I will cook?
  You’ll learn to prepare one of three menus: Andean, Traditional, or Seafood, depending on your choice.

• What if I have food allergies?
  Restrictions or allergies must be informed at the time of booking to accommodate your needs.

• Where does the tour end?
  It concludes back at Yanahuara Scenic Overlook, close to the start point.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
  More Great Tours Nearby