Curious Monkey Cusco- Market and Streets, Walking Food Tour

A Flavorful Walk Through Cusco’s Streets and Markets

Starting at the Plazoleta Santa Catalina, this Curious Monkey Cusco Market and Streets Walking Food Tour offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s culinary soul. For $75 per person, you’ll spend around 2 to 3 hours meandering through lesser-known alleys and vibrant markets with a small group of no more than 10 travelers. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Lizbet, who impresses with her storytelling—you’ll visit at least five vendors, sampling everything from meats and sweets to local beverages.

What we love most about this tour are the intimate size and local insights. With just a handful of fellow food lovers, you’ll get personalized attention and authentic stories behind each dish. Plus, the chance to taste local favorites that you might otherwise overlook makes this experience both delicious and memorable. One possible drawback? It’s a walking tour, so comfort and good shoes are a must, especially given the roughly 2.5 miles (4 km) of strolling.

This tour is especially well-suited for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to experience the real Cusco beyond the usual tourist spots. If you enjoy discovering hidden culinary gems and learning about local traditions through food, this tour offers a perfect blend of flavor and history.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Intimate tours with a maximum of 10 people ensure personalized attention.
• Authentic local flavors: Sample traditional dishes you might miss on your own.
• Cultural insights: Guides share stories about Cusco’s history and food preparation.
• Flexible dietary options: Vegetarian options available, with prior notice.
• Educational experience: Learn the stories behind each vendor and dish.
• Convenient meeting point: Close to public transportation, starting at Plazoleta Santa Catalina.

An In-Depth Look at the Cusco Food Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at Curious Monkey Food Tours’ meeting point in Cusco’s main square area—Plazoleta Santa Catalina. It’s a lively spot, often bustling with locals and visitors alike, making it a great starting point to get a feel for Cusco’s vibrant street life. Here, you’ll meet your guide, and after a brief introduction, the group sets off into the charming side streets.

Walking Through Cusco’s Streets

As you wind through narrow alleys and bustling markets, you’ll notice how the city’s architecture and street life blend perfectly with everyday commerce. Your guide, like Lizbet, fills the walk with stories about Cusco’s history, weaving in anecdotes about the city’s evolution and the role of food in local culture. Expect to cover around 2.5 miles—a manageable pace that allows plenty of stops for tasting.

Visiting the Markets and Vendors

The highlight of the tour is visiting a minimum of five vendors—each offering a unique taste of Cusco. These stalls range from small family-run businesses to specialty vendors with decades of tradition. You might see vendors selling succulent meats, colorful sweets, or local beverages, giving you an inside look into daily life.

One reviewer highlights the experience, saying, “We went to so many little gems that we would have walked right past without knowing.” This points to the value of guided visits, where you gain insight into why these food spots are cherished by locals.

Sampling Local Dishes

Expect to sample a variety of sweet and savory dishes—from traditional meats and tapas-style bites to local desserts. The tour emphasizes trying favorites you might not encounter on your own, providing a well-rounded culinary snapshot. Many guests remark on how much they ate—”Come hungry because you will eat A LOT,” advises one reviewer.

Beverages and Extras

Included in the tour are coffee and/or tea, perfect for warming up or refreshing after bites. Drinks are not included, which means you might want to bring a little extra cash if you want additional beverages at vendors.

Food Allergies and Dietary Needs

The tour is attentive to dietary restrictions. Vegetarian options are available if booked in advance, but note that nut allergies cannot be accommodated, and the tour includes foods with wheat, sugar, dairy, meat, peanuts, and corn. Be sure to inform your guide about allergies or sensitivities when booking.

The Guide’s Role

Our guide, Lizbet, was praised for her knowledge and storytelling skills. She not only explained how dishes are prepared but also shared historical insights that deepened the tasting experience. One guest noted, “Lisbet also took us to hidden gems of restaurants,” which underscores the personalized nature of this tour.

End of the Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point, giving you time afterward to explore more of Cusco on your own. The entire experience is weather-dependent, but rain or shine, the tour operates, so dress appropriately.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $75 per person, you’re paying for an authentic, guided experience that unlocks Cusco’s culinary secrets. Compared to eating at touristy restaurants, this tour provides a more genuine taste of local life and a deeper understanding of Cusco’s culture. The small group size and knowledgeable guide ensure you get personalized stories and a chance to ask questions.

Many guests felt that the tour was well worth the price, especially considering the diverse tasting opportunities and the insider access to local vendors. If you’re keen to expand your palate and learn about Cusco’s traditions through food, this tour offers a compelling blend of flavor and cultural insight.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk approximately 2.5 miles.
• Come hungry—the tasting is generous and meant to be a substantial part of your meal.
• Book in advance, as the tour is popular and typically booked around 32 days ahead.
• Inform your guide of allergies or dietary restrictions during booking.
• Bring cash for additional drinks or souvenirs, as they are not included.
• Dress for the weather, since the tour runs in all conditions; a rain jacket or hat might be helpful.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This food and street market tour is perfect for adventurous eaters who want more than just a meal—they’re looking for stories, local culture, and hidden culinary gems. It’s also ideal if you prefer small groups for a more personalized experience and value guides who bring history and food together seamlessly.

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring on foot, tasting diverse dishes, and hearing local tales, you’ll find this tour both fun and enriching. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to deepen their connection with Cusco through its food, rather than just ticking tourist sights off a list.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, covering about 2.5 miles of walking.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers food tastings, a local guide, coffee or tea, and local taxes. Drinks are not included, and food allergies like nuts cannot be accommodated.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by adults and can participate comfortably, especially if they enjoy walking and trying new foods.

Can I book this tour on the day of my arrival?
It’s best to book around 32 days in advance, as it’s popular and often sold out, especially during peak seasons.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking and bring weather-appropriate clothing, since the tour goes rain or shine.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available, but please advise during booking. Note that the tour includes foods containing wheat, sugar, dairy, meat, peanuts, and corn.

Do I need to bring cash?
While all tastings are included, you might want extra cash for additional drinks or souvenirs, as these are not covered.

Embarking on this Curious Monkey Cusco street food tour offers a fantastic way to connect with Cusco’s lively streets, enjoy delicious bites, and hear stories behind each dish—a truly flavorful way to get to know this vibrant city.