Cusco Cultural and Tipsy Drinking Tour

Imagine spending an afternoon in Cusco where you don’t just passively observe but actively participate in savoring and creating local traditions. For $39 per person, this 2 to 3-hour tour packs in a flavorful mix of cultural insights, hands-on experiences, and breathtaking views. Led by guides like Abelardo and Titch, this experience is designed to give you a taste of Cusco’s lively spirit, from mastering the art of the Pisco sour to painting your own shot glass—each moment capturing the essence of this historic city.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of immersive activities and stunning vistas—you’ll be learning and tasting, all while soaking in some of Cusco’s most iconic sights. The visit to Bullfrogs Rooftop offers a panoramic view of the bustling Plaza de Armas, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scene. Plus, pairing award-winning craft beer from the Sacred Valley with organic chocolate at sunset is a decadent highlight that elevates this experience from ordinary to memorable.

A possible consideration is the timing, as the tour starts at 5:00 pm, which might not suit travelers with early morning plans. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point or final stop. This tour suits those who enjoy active, interactive outings with a mix of education, tasting, and scenic moments—perfect for curious travelers eager to engage rather than just observe.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences include making your own Pisco sour and painting a shot glass.
• Stunning city views are a highlight, especially from the rooftop at sunset.
• Tasting local flavors such as organic chocolate and craft beer offers a deeper appreciation of Cusco’s culinary scene.
• Small, intimate groups (max 15) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Educational insights from knowledgeable guides make the experience enriching.
• Cost-effective at $39, considering all activities and tastings included.

A Practical Guide to the Cusco Cultural and Tipsy Drinking Tour

This tour is best suited for travelers who want more than just a quick look at Cusco. If you enjoy hands-on activities, local flavors, and scenic views, this experience ticks all those boxes. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a well-rounded, culturally immersive outing without the burden of complex logistics or long hours.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop

Start at Plazoleta Santa Catalina
This quaint square acts as a charming starting point, where you’ll meet your guides Abelardo and Titch. The small, peaceful square, with a tiny church at its center, offers a welcoming atmosphere. The meeting is straightforward, with contact details provided if you need help finding the spot. Since this is a free, 5-minute gathering, it’s an easy way to kick off the experience without feeling rushed.

Visit to Museo del Pisco
Here, the fun begins with a Pisco sour master class led by a professional bartender. You’ll learn about the varieties of Pisco, grapes, and flavors that give Peru’s national drink its distinctive character. What makes this stop special is the opportunity to try different fruit macerates—some exotic—that can be used in your own cocktail. The hands-on approach means everyone gets to make their own Pisco sour, which is a fun, interactive way to understand local bartending techniques.

A reviewer noted, “Everyone can make their own pisco sour and the bartender will help you throughout the process,” emphasizing the approachable, friendly vibe. Expect to taste a variety of flavors, so it’s wise to stay mindful of your alcohol intake if you’re planning to continue sightseeing afterward.

Rooftop Painting Workshop at Bullfrogs
Next, we ascend to one of Cusco’s most scenic terraces, offering a breathtaking view of Plaza de Armas with its cathedral and lively street life. This is where you get to decorate your own shot glass, a creative activity that also serves as a memorable souvenir. The experience is relaxed, with your guides encouraging inspiration from the surroundings, all while sipping hot Té Piteado—a local, spicy, and sweet hot alcoholic drink that’s a flavor explosion.

One review mentioned, “we will serve you the most iconic alcoholic drink of Cusco ‘te piteado’ an explosion of flavors in your mouth,” highlighting its memorable taste. The painting activity adds a personal touch, making it engaging even for those who don’t consider themselves artists.

Sunset Pairing at Limbus Restobar
The final stop is a spectacular viewpoint in San Blas, Cusco’s artsy neighborhood. From here, you’ll enjoy a pairing of local craft beer—including an IPA and a Porter from Sacred Valley—matched with artisan organic chocolate from Chunchos. This is more than just a tasting; it’s a chance to appreciate flavor combinations that highlight Peru’s culinary creativity.

The pairing is thoughtfully explained, focusing on the benefits of organic ingredients and why these flavors work so well together. We loved the way the sunset added a warm glow to the scene, making this a perfect cap to an active, flavorful afternoon.

Why This Tour Is a Great Match for You

This experience offers a delightful blend of local culture, hands-on activities, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to engage actively rather than just observe. The small group size ensures a personal touch, and the inclusive nature of the activities means you don’t need any prior experience—just a sense of curiosity and a willingness to try new flavors and crafts.

If you’re looking to expand your understanding of Cusco’s traditions in a fun, relaxed setting, this tour delivers. It’s also a fantastic way to meet fellow travelers and share memorable moments over drinks and art.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Experience

The Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

Starting at Plazoleta Santa Catalina, you’ll notice its cozy atmosphere and the charming church, setting the tone for a blend of history and local life. Guides like Abelardo and Titch are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the experience engaging from the start. This informal setting encourages questions and interaction, perfect for solo travelers or small groups.

The Pisco Sour Master Class

This part of the tour is especially valuable because it offers educational insight wrapped in a fun activity. You’ll learn about the different Pisco types—such as Pisco Acholado and Pisco Puro—and see how flavor profiles can be adjusted with fruit macerates. Making your own drink allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each cocktail and adds a personal touch to the experience.

Several reviewers appreciated this segment. One commented that “everyone can make their own pisco sour and the bartender will help you,” emphasizing the approachable nature of the activity. It’s a chance to try your hand at bartending while savoring the flavors of Peru’s beloved spirit.

Artistic Expression on a Scenic Rooftop

The painting activity at Bullfrogs combines art, scenery, and local flavors. Decorate your shot glass inspired by the sights around you, with the plaza, cathedral, and city life for inspiration. The experience is relaxed, and guides encourage creativity. The hot Té Piteado is a signature drink—spicy, sweet, and warming—and it perfectly complements the artistic vibe.

Insightful guidance and the opportunity to create a personalized souvenir make this stop particularly meaningful. It’s a fun break from more structured sightseeing, and the views of Cusco’s rooftops and streets from this vantage point are simply spectacular.

Sunset Beer and Chocolate Pairing

The journey culminates with a visually stunning view of Cusco from San Blas. Here, you get to taste two award-winning craft beers directly from the tap—an IPA and a Porter—both from Sacred Valley, paired with organic chocolate from Chunchos. This pairing isn’t just about taste; it’s about understanding how local ingredients and craft can come together.

The owner’s story and the explanation of why organic chocolate is prized (from farmers considered to produce the best organic chocolate in the world) add valuable context. Watching the sunset while savoring these flavors makes for a relaxing and memorable finale.

Final Thoughts: Who This Tour Is for

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to interact with local culture in a fun and informal way. It suits those who appreciate scenic views, hands-on activities, and tasting local flavors. You’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to learn, create, and taste, making it ideal for curious, social travelers.

While it does require self-arranged transportation to the meeting and ending points, the value offered through interactive activities, authentic tastes, and breathtaking scenery makes it well worth considering. The modest price for all included activities and tastings makes it a good investment in your Cusco experience.

This tour stands out as a well-rounded introduction to Cusco’s culinary and artistic traditions, all wrapped into a manageable, engaging package.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point at Plazoleta Santa Catalina and the final stop at Limbus Restobar.

What is the tour start time?
The tour begins at 5:00 pm, which is ideal for catching the sunset and enjoying the views during the last part of the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The activities focus on drinks and tasting, and alcohol is strictly for those 18 and older. Non-drinkers might find the tasting portions less appealing, but the artistic and scenic elements could still be enjoyable.

How long does each stop last?
The Pisco sour class and painting workshop each last about 40 minutes, while the final pairing and sunset viewing take around 50 minutes. The overall experience runs approximately 2 to 3 hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for light walking and sitting outdoors are best. Bring layers if you’re sensitive to cooler evenings, especially near sunset.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Changes within that window are not accepted, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, the Cusco Cultural and Tipsy Drinking Tour offers a lively, authentic way to connect with Cusco’s flavors, sights, and local crafts. Whether you’re into learning to make cocktails, painting a keepsake, or enjoying panoramic views, this tour covers all bases with a friendly, relaxed vibe. It’s an ideal pick for travelers who want an active, flavorful afternoon that leaves them with memories and souvenirs—not just photos.