Peruvian Food Experience

Starting from the meeting point at the San Camilo Market, you will embark on a walking tour of this iconic location. The infrastructure of this traditional market has undergone several renovations following the earthquakes that impacted the city of Arequipa.

Uncover the captivating history behind the market's construction, a hidden gem shaped by transformations. In 1817, the Red Cross Order built this magnificent church, yet its history goes beyond its religious origins. After the devastating earthquake of 1868, this notable building was repurposed as a military hospital, offering aid during crises. Later on, it evolved into a school, leaving an unforgettable impact on the community.

Besides admiring a wide range of products such as fruits, vegetables, groceries, meats, cheeses, and more, you can sample delicious local fruits here.

The tour continues through the historic center of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. You will visit the Cloisters Compañía de Jesus, situated in the Plaza de Armas. This stunning building, established by the Jesuits, dates back to the 17th century and boasts a charming inner courtyard with quaint cafes and craft shops.

Your next stop will be to relish three typical dishes of Arequipa: guinea pig, alpaca, and sango arequipeño. Challenge your taste buds with these traditional dishes that are integral to Peru's culinary heritage. Guinea pig and alpaca offer rich flavors, while sango arequipeño is a sweet side dish made from wheat with raisins, peanuts, and chancaca.

Marvel at the beautiful Plaza de Armas of Arequipa, featuring a central fountain and surrounded by historic buildings. Among them is the majestic Cathedral of Arequipa, which we will admire panoramically from the square.

Our food tour in Arequipa continues as we learn to prepare and taste an exquisite traditional sauce known as ocopa. This sauce, made from huacatay, peanuts, and chili, is typically served over boiled potatoes. We will also enjoy tastings of chichas, corn-based drinks.

The next stop is the traditional neighborhood of San Lazaro, one of the city's oldest areas. We will wander through its charming narrow streets, taking in its incredible architecture, including mansions, temples, and plazas. This area is home to excellent picanterías offering traditional Arequipa cuisine.

You will savor delightful traditional dishes such as rocoto relleno and a creamy potato cake. You will also enjoy chicha morada, a sweet beverage made from purple corn.

The gastronomic tour in Arequipa brings you to taste a classic dessert called queso helado. Arequipa's queso helado is an exquisite creation made from fresh, creamy milk combined with natural ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon, and the distinctive Arequipa cheese.

This culinary journey concludes at the picturesque Yanahuara viewpoint, located in the district of the same name. Here, you can soak in panoramic vistas of the Arequipa countryside and the imposing Misti volcano.

The tour concludes at this point.