Curious Monkey Cusco- Eat the Streets, Walking Food Tour

Discover Cusco’s Flavors with the Curious Monkey Eat the Streets Food Tour

If you’re looking to really get under the skin of Cusco beyond the usual sightseeing, the Curious Monkey Cusco – Eat the Streets walking food tour offers a lively, authentic dive into local flavors and culture. For $75 per person, and lasting between 2 to 3 hours, this small-group experience is limited to just 6 to 10 travelers, making it a cozy way to explore the city’s night-time culinary scene. Your guides, with names like Liz or Flor, are praised for their warmth, knowledge, and passion for sharing Cusco’s food traditions.

What’s special about this tour? First, you get to sample a variety of local favorites—from hearty potatoes and meats to sweet treats—often at spots that you might overlook on your own. Second, the combination of delicious bites paired with engaging stories about Cusco’s history and culture makes each stop more meaningful than just a quick snack run.

A few considerations: the tour emphasizes local street food, which means you should be prepared for some informal, outdoor eating and possibly limited options if you have specific food allergies or sensitivities. It’s also weather-dependent, so dressing appropriately for the evening is wise. It’s best suited for adventurous eaters, history buffs, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Cusco’s night life.

This experience suits travelers who love discovering hidden local gems, enjoy immersive cultural encounters, and want to start their Cusco trip with a memorable, flavorful introduction. With overwhelmingly positive reviews praising the guides, the variety of food, and the insight into Cusco’s cuisine, it’s a tour that’s hard to beat for value and genuine experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Small groups and engaging guides deliver an intimate look at Cusco’s street food scene.
• Diverse tasting menu: Expect a mix of sweet and savory dishes, many of which are traditional street favorites.
• Educational and fun: Guides share plenty of stories about Cusco’s history and culture alongside food tastings.
• Great value: At $75, you get multiple tastings and insights, making it a cost-effective way to start your trip.
• Weather adaptable: The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.
• Limited spots: Book in advance—on average 35 days ahead—to secure your place in this popular tour.

A Deep Dive into the Cusco Street Food Experience

An Introduction to Cusco’s Night Market Atmosphere

The tour begins at Curious Monkey Food Tours’ meeting point on Arequipa Street, where a small crowd gathers before winding through the enchanting streets around Cusco’s historic center. With a limit of 6 to 10 travelers, the small-group size means you’re likely to get personalized attention from your guides, Liz or Flor, who are consistently praised for their friendliness and wealth of knowledge.

Walking at a leisurely pace, the guides share snippets of Cusco’s history, weaving in stories that relate directly to the food you’ll taste. As you stroll, you’ll notice the city’s lights flickering over colonial facades and the bustling night vendors setting up their stalls—part of the vibrant street life that makes Cusco so memorable.

What Makes This Tour Special?

First, the variety of local dishes you’ll encounter is impressive. Unlike some tours that focus solely on sweets or one type of cuisine, this experience balances savory classics like anticuchos (meat skewers) and tamales, along with sweet treats such as picarones (Peruvian doughnuts) and chicha morada (purple corn drink). Many reviewers mention how they appreciated tasting foods that are popular locally but might not be on a tourist menu—like the famed Causa or street-side chicken skewers.

Second, the personal stories shared about each dish and vendor add a layer of authenticity and connection. As one traveler noted, “Liz and Luuis were both great guides. They explained the histories of the foods and we had a variety of good traditional foods to taste.”

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s stops are carefully chosen for their cultural significance and delicious offerings. Starting from the meeting point, your guides will lead you through some of Cusco’s most lively streets, stopping at local markets and food stalls.

While the exact stops vary, the focus is on street food that locals love—not gourmet restaurants—giving you a taste of everyday Cusco life. Expect to sample potatoes in many forms, since they’re a staple here, along with meats like chicken and beef cooked on open grills. The tour also introduces you to Peruvian sweets, which many find surprisingly complex and flavorful.

Your guide will tell you about the history of Cusco’s food, how certain ingredients are produced, and the cultural significance behind each dish. One review highlights, “Flor went above and beyond to make us have a great time learning about the food and history of Cusco.”

Food Quality and Authenticity

Despite some critiques about the food being predominantly sweet, most reviews emphasize the authenticity and deliciousness of the dishes. Several travelers mention that they found the food surprisingly good, with some calling it “traditional” and “well worth the price.”

However, a few guests noted the tour had a stronger focus on desserts and sweets, sometimes out of proportion compared to savory options. This is something to expect if you’re hoping for a full, hearty meal—this tour is more about tasting and learning than filling up.

Guide Expertise and Atmosphere

The guides are a highlight for many guests. They’re praised for their friendly demeanor, knowledge, and storytelling skills. One reviewer said, “Lizbet was a great host. I felt like a family member was taking me around town,” capturing that personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just eating.

They also provide practical touches like hand sanitizer, plates, and taking care to explain allergen information when possible. Some reviews mention that guides are eager to answer questions about Cusco’s history, culture, and food.

Group Size and Pacing

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. Guests have plenty of opportunities to interact, ask questions, and savor their bites without feeling rushed. This small-group setup makes the experience feel personal and flexible, especially helpful if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.

Price and Value

At $75 per person, the tour offers good value considering the number of tastings—many guests note that they ate a lot of food and gained insights into Cusco’s culinary traditions. The included items like coffee or tea and local taxes add to the value, making it a more immersive experience.

It’s also a great way to kick off your Cusco visit, as many reviewers mention starting their trip with this tour to get a taste of local life and cuisine. The fact that most book around 35 days in advance shows its popularity.

Practical Considerations

The tour runs rain or shine, so dress in layers and bring an umbrella if needed. Since it’s an evening tour starting at 6:00 pm, be prepared for the cooler night air. It’s suitable for most travelers, including children with adult supervision, but those with food allergies should communicate their sensitivities beforehand. The tour does not accommodate nut allergies, so check if your needs are compatible.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals most to food lovers eager to explore authentic local flavors in a relaxed setting. If you enjoy learning about a place through its cuisine and don’t mind a mix of sweet and savory bites, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a friendly, guided taste of Cusco’s street food scene, or seasoned travelers looking for an engaging local experience.

It’s less suited for those seeking a full, sit-down meal or with strict dietary restrictions not accommodated by the guide. Also, if you’re particularly averse to street food or outdoor dining, consider the weather forecast before booking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available. Be sure to specify dietary preferences when booking.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the group and stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ca. Arequipa 401, Cusco, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are food allergies accommodated?
Allergies should be communicated at booking. Note that the tour cannot accommodate nut allergies.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers all food tastings, local guide, coffee or tea, local taxes, and pickup/drop-off at designated points.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves walking through streets and markets, so accessibility may be limited; confirm with the provider.

Can children join?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for young travelers, but please check for specific dietary or age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather; evenings can be cool. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 35 days ahead. The tour has limited spots, so early booking is wise.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. Bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

To sum it up, the Curious Monkey Cusco Eat the Streets walking food tour is a lively, authentic way to start your visit. It offers a taste of everyday Cusco life, combining delicious food with engaging stories and local insights. Perfect for curious eaters, culture buffs, and those wanting a genuine introduction to Peruvian street cuisine, this tour promises a memorable flavor-filled experience—just arrive hungry and ready to explore!