Arequipa: Peruvian Cooking Class

This Peruvian cooking class in Arequipa offers a vibrant taste of local flavors paired with a fun, interactive experience. Priced at $53 per person for about two hours, it takes place in a charming open kitchen surrounded by lush gardens right in the heart of Arequipa’s historic center. Led by a professional chef who speaks both Spanish and English, you’ll get to prepare and enjoy multiple traditional dishes, making this a great choice for food lovers eager for an authentic taste of Peru.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines learning with participation—you’re not just watching a demonstration, but actively cooking alongside a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the setting is idyllic, with a garden backdrop that makes the whole process more relaxed and scenic. The class also includes a refreshing Chicha Morada—a sweet, nonalcoholic purple corn drink—that perfectly kicks things off and keeps you refreshed.

One potential consideration is that menu flexibility can be limited, especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, as the reviews suggest that options for vegetarians or specific allergies are not always accommodated. Also, note that roundtrip transfers from your hotel are not included, so you should plan your transportation to and from the meeting point in Casa de Avila Hotel.

This tour is best suited for curious foodies, solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to get a deeper understanding of Peruvian cuisine in a laid-back, scenic environment. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy hands-on experiences and appreciate local culture served with a side of good humor and camaraderie.

Key Points

• Authentic Cooking Experience: Learn to make traditional Peruvian dishes with a professional chef.
• Beautiful Setting: The class takes place in an open kitchen surrounded by lovely gardens.
• Multiple Menu Options: Choose among Andean, Traditional, or Seafood menus, tailored to your preferences.
• Includes a Refreshing Drink: The class starts with a nonalcoholic Chicha Morada.
• No Transfers Included: You need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
• Limited Menus for Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and allergy-friendly options may require advance notice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Cooking Class Experience

When we first arrive at the Casa de Avila Hotel in Arequipa’s historic center, it’s easy to feel a sense of stepping into a culinary oasis. The open-air kitchen, nestled among greenery, immediately sets a tranquil tone. As you don your apron and chef’s hat, the atmosphere is relaxed but lively, with plenty of opportunities to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.

The Welcome and Introduction

Your experience begins with a refreshing Chicha Morada, a signature drink made from purple corn. It’s a lovely way to start, as the sweet, slightly tart flavor wakes up your palate and introduces you to one of Peru’s most beloved beverages. The guide explains a bit about the drink’s significance and its place in local culture, making the experience more meaningful.

The Menu Options and Cooking Process

You’ll have the chance to prepare one of three menus—Andean, Traditional, or Seafood—each showcasing different aspects of Peruvian culinary heritage.

The Andean Menu features the Solterito salad, a colorful mix of onion, tomato, corn, beans, cheese, and potatoes, offering a fresh and hearty start. The main dish, Rocoto Relleno, is a striking red pepper stuffed with seasoned ground meat, cheese, and raisins, with a spicy kick that reflects regional flavors. This dish is particularly interesting because rocoto peppers are quite hot, and learning to manage their heat is a fun challenge.

The Traditional Menu begins with Causa, a mashed potato dish seasoned with yellow pepper and lemon, layered with avocado and either tuna or chicken. It’s visually appealing and flavorful—a true crowd-pleaser. The highlight here is Lomo Saltado, a Chinese-inspired stir-fry with beef, onions, peppers, and French fries, served with rice. It’s a perfect example of Peru’s culinary fusion and a dish you’ll likely want to try at a restaurant later.

The Seafood Menu features Ceviche, marinated fish with lemon, onion, sweet potato, and corn—a dish that embodies Peruvian freshness—and Pescado a lo Macho, a fried fish fillet topped with a savory tomato-onion sauce. Cooking ceviche allows you to understand the importance of freshness and balance in Peruvian seafood dishes.

Why You’ll Love It

We loved how the chef explains each step with patience and clarity, making it easy for even beginners to follow. The chance to participate actively rather than just watch makes the class feel genuine and rewarding. We also appreciated the scenic garden backdrop, which makes the entire experience more relaxing and authentic—almost like cooking in a Peruvian backyard.

Sharing stories, laughs, and culinary secrets with the guide and other travelers transforms this from just a cooking lesson into a memorable social event. Plus, tasting your own creations afterward allows you to savor the fruits of your labor—often a highlight of any cooking class.

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Considerations and Limitations

That said, some reviews point out that the menu options are not customizable once the class starts. This can be a hiccup if you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or vegetarian preferences. You might find the options somewhat limited, but with advance notice, the organizers may accommodate special requests.

Another aspect to keep in mind is that hotel transfers aren’t included. If you’re staying outside the historic center, you’ll need to plan your own transport to Casa de Avila Hotel. Fortunately, the meeting point is centrally located and easy to reach by taxi or on foot.

Practical Details

The class lasts about 2 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. The group size is capped at 12 people, which helps maintain a personal atmosphere. The price of $53 includes all ingredients, cookware, a guided session in both Spanish and English, and the delicious Chicha Morada.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you’re passionate about food and eager to learn traditional recipes firsthand, this class offers a hands-on approach that’s both fun and educational. For those who appreciate scenic settings and a relaxed atmosphere, the garden surroundings add scenic charm. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to connect with Peruvian culture through its cuisine rather than just observing it.

However, if dietary restrictions are strict or if you prefer a more customizable experience, you might need to communicate your needs early or consider other options. Also, those expecting a large-scale, high-energy culinary adventure might find this experience more intimate and laid-back.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Worth It?

Absolutely. This class provides more than just cooking skills; it offers a glimpse into Peruvian culinary traditions in a welcoming environment. The value for money is reasonable given the included ingredients, the personalized attention, and the scenic setting. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want an authentic, engaging activity that leaves them with new skills and delicious memories.

For anyone wanting to bring home a piece of Arequipa’s flavors, or simply looking for a fun cultural experience, this cooking class hits the right notes. It combines local ingredients, expert guidance, and a relaxed vibe that makes learning about Peruvian food a true pleasure.

FAQ

What languages are the classes conducted in?
The classes are offered in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, there are vegetarian options, but it’s important to request them when booking so the organizers can prepare accordingly.

Does the price include transportation?
No, roundtrip transfers from your hotel are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for cooking are recommended. Expect to get a little flour or sauce on your clothes, so dress casually.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8, so consider the age and interests of younger family members before booking.

How many people are in each class?
The group size is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a friendly, personal atmosphere.

In closing, this Peruvian Cooking Class in Arequipa offers a delightful, practical way to engage with local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about Peruvian flavors, you’ll walk away with new skills, tasty dishes, and a vivid memory of a serene garden kitchen in one of Peru’s most charming cities.

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