Walking Culinary Experience

Walking Culinary Experience in Cusco: A Flavorful Journey through Peruvian Cuisine

If you’re looking to combine your love of food, culture, and walking, this Walking Culinary Experience in Cusco is a fantastic choice. For just $70 per person, you’ll spend roughly two hours wandering the historic streets, sampling Peruvian street food and local dishes at three carefully selected restaurants. Led by passionate chefs and guides, this tour offers an intimate look at Cusco’s gastronomic traditions, making it a perfect way to start or end your day in this lively Andean city.

What we love most about this experience is how personal and engaging it feels. First, the chef-led guidance ensures you’re not just eating, but also learning—about ingredients, cooking techniques, and cultural stories behind each dish. Second, the variety of tastes—from street food to sit-down bites—keeps the experience dynamic and authentic.

One thing to keep in mind is that vegetarian options are limited, especially for anticuchos, which is a traditional grilled beef heart dish. Also, Picarones (Peruvian donuts) are not gluten-free, so those with dietary restrictions should plan accordingly. Overall, if you’re eager to explore Cusco’s culinary scene in a relaxed, social setting, this tour is well suited for foodies, first-timers, and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Dining: Taste a mix of street food and traditional dishes, all with the guidance of local chefs.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Peruvian ingredients and culinary traditions that shape Cusco’s cuisine.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Flexible Experience: The tour lasts about two hours, making it easy to fit into your Cusco itinerary.
• Value for Money: At $70, it includes multiple tastings, drink pairings, and educational stories.
• Ideal for Food Lovers: Especially those interested in local culture and authentic flavors.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

Imagine strolling through Cusco’s charming city center, with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, while your guide—often a local chef—introduces you to Peruvian gastronomy. Starting at Cusco Adventure Travel headquarters, the tour kicks off at 5:30 pm, just as the city’s evening buzz begins to swell. Over the next couple of hours, you’ll visit three different spots, each offering a unique taste of Cusco’s culinary landscape.

The experience emphasizes small-group intimacy—typically no more than 8 travelers—which creates a warm, conversational environment. You’re encouraged to ask questions, taste freely, and absorb the stories behind each dish. The entire journey is designed for those who want more than just a meal but an interactive, educational glimpse into local food culture.

The First Stop: Marcelo Batata Cooking Classes

The tour begins at a renowned Cusco restaurant that doubles as a cooking school. Here, you’ll meet your guide or chef, who is usually enthusiastic and eager to share their knowledge. The first bites are bite-sized appetizers—say, a little ceviche or local snacks—paired with a Pisco Sour or another Peruvian cocktail that sets the tone for the evening.

One reviewer described this first stage as “an experience, beginning with making Pisco Sours,” highlighting how the tour doesn’t just serve food but often involves a bit of participation and demonstration. This makes the moment more memorable than just ordering at a restaurant.

Street Food Delights

Next, it’s out into the streets—where Cusco’s vibrant food scene truly shines. You’ll sample picarones (Peruvian donuts made from squash and sweet potato), anticuchos (skewered grilled meats—traditionally beef heart), and tamalitos (little tamales). These are not just quick snacks; they are cultural staples with stories and traditions behind each flavor.

Multiple reviews praise the quality and authenticity of these tastings. One said, “I was completely full, and a little happier with some Pisco Sours,” emphasizing how satisfying and delicious the street food is. Expect friendly vendor interactions and plenty of opportunities to ask about ingredients or cooking methods.

The Second Restaurant: Traditional Dishes

After the street food, you’ll move to a second restaurant where the focus shifts to more substantial, sit-down dishes. Here, you might try trout fresh from local lakes or enjoy a potato-based dish, reflecting Peru’s famous potato diversity. Many reviewers mention the unique potato preparations, which are a highlight of Cusco cuisine.

Chef-guided explanations offer insights into the local ingredients—like the use of potatoes, corn, and chili peppers—and how these staples influence dishes today. The pairing of food and drinks—such as local beers or non-alcoholic options—adds a layer of flavor exploration.

Final Stop: Hot Picarones & Llama Sausage

The last tasting usually features hot Picarones, paired with a hot beverage or soda, rounding out the evening on a sweet note. Some reviews mention the fun of trying llama sausage, a true taste of Peruvian meat traditions. This part of the tour often draws praise for its variety and depth, giving a complete picture of Cusco’s culinary richness.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authentic Local Flair: Unlike generic food tours, this experience emphasizes local vendors, traditional dishes, and a personal touch from passionate guides. As one reviewer noted, “Christina was an amazing host and guide, very passionate about the history and culture behind the food.”

Educational Focus: You don’t just eat—you learn. From how to make Pisco Sours to the stories behind anticuchos and picarones, this tour enriches your understanding of Peruvian gastronomy.

Diverse Tastes: The combination of street food, sit-down dishes, and drinks keeps the experience lively. This variety also means you get a well-rounded taste of what Cusco has to offer.

Small Group Intimacy: With a maximum of 8 guests, the tour fosters personal interaction and allows guides to tailor the experience slightly, which many reviews highlight as a big plus.

Practical Details and Value

For $70, you get multiple tastings, alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings, coffee or tea, and a guided narrative—a package that offers value for food lovers eager to dive into local cuisine without the hassle of organizing multiple restaurant visits.

The tour’s length (just over two hours) makes it perfect for those who want a light, flavorful evening without sacrificing too much sightseeing time. Plus, the mobile ticket feature adds convenience, and most travelers find the booking process straightforward, often reserving 37 days in advance.

Travelers with a curiosity about Peruvian culture will appreciate the stories behind each dish. Foodies will relish the chance to try street food and traditional dishes with guidance from local chefs. It’s also ideal for those who prefer an intimate, small-group setting where questions are encouraged.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, social way to explore Cusco’s culinary traditions, this tour hits the mark. However, if dietary restrictions are strict, note the limited vegetarian options and the presence of gluten in some items.

This experience is best suited for adventurous eaters eager to taste authentic Cusco flavors, learn about their origins, and enjoy an evening of lively conversation and delicious bites.

This Walking Culinary Experience offers more than just tasting food—it’s a culture. The guides’ knowledge and authentic dishes make it a worthwhile addition to any Cusco itinerary. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to ask questions and savor each dish in comfort.

The variety of tastings, from street food to sit-down specialties, makes it a well-rounded introduction to Cusco’s cuisine. The focus on local ingredients and cultural stories transforms a simple dinner into an educational journey. It’s a great value considering the number of tastings and the personalized attention from guides who are passionate about sharing their culinary heritage.

If you’re a food lover, a cultural explorer, or just someone eager to get a taste of Cusco’s authentic flavors in a relaxed, friendly environment—this tour is likely to become a highlight of your trip.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
There are no vegetarian options for anticuchos, and Picarones contain gluten, so vegetarians might find limited choices. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically runs for about 2 hours to 2 hours 10 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers bite-sized appetizers, street food tastings, drink pairings (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), coffee or tea, and guidance from a chef or guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if needed.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cusco Adventure Travel (C. Palacio 135) at 5:30 pm and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this experience accessible for people with altitude sickness?
Many reviews mention guides recommending herbal remedies for altitude, and the tour’s moderate pace and focus on food might be easier on those sensitive to altitude. It’s advisable to inform your guide of any health concerns.

Is prior booking necessary?
Since it’s popular—often booked 37 days in advance—reservations are recommended to secure your spot.

This culinary tour in Cusco is a well-balanced blend of local flavors, storytelling, and cultural insight. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious about Peruvian cuisine, it promises a memorable evening filled with delicious tastes and engaging conversation.