Cusco street food tour

Discover Cusco’s Hidden Food Treasures

If you’re heading to Cusco and want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, this Street Food Tour offers a flavorful way to experience the city’s local life. For just $39 per person, you’ll spend an hour and a half wandering through the charming streets, sampling traditional Peruvian delicacies, and soaking in the city’s illuminated beauty at night. Led by friendly guides, this tour is perfect for curious travelers who love trying authentic food and want a taste of Cusco’s vibrant street culture.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the highlights—the chance to enjoy the night views of Cusco, often overlooked by daytime sightseeing, and the opportunity to savor a variety of local dishes like picarones, arroz con leche, and anticuchos. Both are authentic and flavorful, offering a real taste of Peruvian cuisine. However, since the tour only covers four food stops, it might feel a bit brief for those eager to indulge more extensively in Cusco’s culinary scene. This walk suits travelers who prefer a manageable, guided introduction to local flavors rather than a full-blown food marathon.

If you love exploring new neighborhoods by foot and are keen to pair your culinary adventures with scenic city views, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially good for first-timers who want a safe, structured, yet intimate taste of Cusco’s street food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: Taste local specialties like emolientes, picarones, arroz con leche, and anticuchos.
• Scenic Night Views: Enjoy the illuminated cityscape that makes Cusco magical at night.
• Brief but Rich: The 1.5-hour duration keeps things lively without overwhelming, perfect for those on a tight schedule.
• Local Guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now, pay later.
• Good Value: For just $39, you get a guided walk plus several tastings, making it an affordable way to indulge in Cusco’s street food.

An In-Depth Look at the Cusco Street Food Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins promptly in front of the Cusco Cathedral, a central and easy-to-find landmark. From here, your guide, whose identity might be a local with a passion for Cusco’s food, will lead you through narrow alleys and bustling streets. The itinerary is designed to showcase 4 food stalls, with each stop offering a taste of something unique and traditional.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The stops are well-paced and curated to highlight typical Peruvian flavors. You might find yourself sipping emolientes, a traditional herbal drink often served hot and sometimes used for medicinal purposes. These are not just beverages but a cultural experience, often served at local stalls where you can observe the vibrant atmosphere and friendly vendors.

Next, you’ll taste picarones, sweet doughnuts made from squash and sweet potato, fried to golden perfection—an absolute must-try when in Cusco. According to reviews, the deliciousness of the picarones really stands out, with many guests noting they’re “absolutely delightful.”

Then, enjoy arroz con leche, a comforting rice pudding infused with cinnamon, and mazamorra morada, a purple corn pudding that’s both visually striking and flavorful. The tour may also include ponches—a warm drink combining Peruvian fruits and spices—and anticuchos, skewered and grilled beef hearts or other meats, seasoned with Peruvian spices. These tastings are authentic and give a real flavor of local street-side cuisine.

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The Night Views: A Magical Touch

One of the tour’s unique features is the chance to enjoy Cusco’s nightscape. As the city lights sparkle around you, the atmosphere becomes quite enchanting. Many reviews highlight how the lighting transforms the city into a “magical place,” making the experience more memorable. This combination of good food and beautiful views creates a perfect setting for photography, relaxed conversation, or simply soaking in the vibrant local life.

Why This Tour Works

The guided approach ensures you’ll learn about each dish’s significance, ingredients, and history—adding depth to the tasting experience. The small group size offers an intimate atmosphere, allowing you to ask questions and connect with your guide.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour offers a fantastic overview of Cusco’s street food, it’s relatively short—lasting only an hour and a half. For those with a serious appetite or culinary curiosity, this might feel like just a brief introduction. Also, since it’s a walking tour, expect to be on your feet and navigating cobblestone streets, which could be tiring for some.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, authentic taste of Cusco’s street food scene. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate scenic city views combined with cultural insights and delicious local snacks. If you love trying a variety of small dishes and are keen to explore the city at night, this tour hits the right notes.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $39, you’re paying for a guided experience that covers local culinary traditions and scenic views—something many travelers would pay more for if they went solo. The inclusion of tastings at four different stalls ensures you sample enough of Cusco’s street food to get a real sense of local flavors without overindulging or feeling overwhelmed. The fact that guides speak both Spanish and English maximizes understanding and comfort, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the language or local customs.

Practical Tips for Your Street Food Adventure

• Wear comfortable shoes: Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven.
• Bring cash: While most vendors accept cash, small bills help with tips or extra snacks.
• Stay hydrated: Some tastings, like emolientes, are warm and soothing but don’t forget to drink water.
• Arrive early: Confirm your starting time and location in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
• Adjust expectations: This is a short tour meant for a quick introduction, not a full meal or exhaustive culinary exploration.

The Sum Up

This Cusco street food tour offers a delightful and practical way to experience the local cuisine and atmosphere of one of Peru’s most iconic cities. Perfect for travelers who want a manageable, guided taste of authentic street foods while enjoying beautiful nighttime scenery. The combination of flavorful snacks, scenic views, and expert guidance makes it a memorable addition to your Cusco itinerary—especially if you’re short on time but craving a genuine local experience.

If you’re eager to discover Cusco through its food and streets, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially suited for curious travelers, first-timers, or those wanting a relaxed yet immersive introduction to Peruvian street dishes.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick and manageable experience during your Cusco visit.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Cusco Cathedral, a central, easily recognizable landmark in Cusco’s main square.

How many food stops are included?
The tour features four stops at different food stalls, where you’ll taste local specialties.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, which helps make the experience accessible for international travelers.

What types of food are included?
You’ll sample emolientes, picarones, arroz con leche, mazamorra morada, ponches, and anticuchos—all authentic Peruvian street foods.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While some items like anticuchos are meat-based, others like picarones and arroz con leche are vegetarian-friendly. Check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

This guide should help you decide whether this Cusco street food tour fits your travel style—delicious, scenic, and authentic, all wrapped into a fun and informative 1.5-hour walk.

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