Arequipa Food Tour: Guided Tasting of Picanterías & Local Flavors
Taste Arequipa’s picanterías and market flavors on a four-hour guided walk through the city’s best-loved kitchens. Sample regional stews, broths and desserts while learning the cultural and agricultural stories behind each dish.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pace your tastings
Portions are samplers across several stops—eat steadily rather than rushing the first dishes to enjoy the whole route.
Carry small bills
Many traditional picanterías prefer cash for extras and tips; bring local currency in small denominations.
Hydrate and layer
Bring a refillable water bottle and a light layer—plaza sun can be strong but interiors are often cool.
Declare allergies ahead
Notify the operator of dietary restrictions before booking; traditional dishes commonly contain dairy, pork, and corn.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A small family-run picantería near Yanahuara plaza that still cooks over wood fire
- •Early-morning market stalls on San Camilo for fresh cheeses and corn specialties
Wildlife
- •Hummingbirds near market flower stalls
- •City-dwelling Andean sparrows around plazas
Conservation Note
Support sustainability by choosing vendors who use local produce and avoiding single-use plastics; small picanterías rely on steady local patronage to persist.
Arequipa’s cuisine evolved from Andean staples and Spanish colonial techniques; picanterías are a heritage dining form that preserves communal recipes.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Good soles help on cobbled streets and uneven restaurant thresholds.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated between tastings and reduces plastic waste.
Sun protection (hat/sunscreen)Essential
Protects against strong sun in the plaza and open market areas.
Light layers
Morning and evening temperatures can differ; a light jacket is handy.
Common Questions
Are tastings included or do we pay per dish?
The tour includes seven tastings, four drinks and one dessert as part of the fixed itinerary; optional extras at stops may require cash.
Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes—inform the operator at booking. Many vendors can adjust dishes, but truly strict diets may limit options.
Is the route wheelchair accessible?
Much of the route follows paved streets and plazas, but some traditional venues have steps or uneven floors; check accessibility with the operator before booking.
What language is the tour offered in?
Guides typically speak Spanish and often English; confirm language availability when you book.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Arequipa, Arequipa Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves several short walks on paved and uneven surfaces.
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