Market Tour and Gourmet Peruvian Cooking Lesson with a Professional in Urubamba

Cusco , Peru

Market Tour and Gourmet Peruvian Cooking Lesson with a Professional in Urubamba

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(5 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Upon your arrival, Anilu will greet you with a friendly welcome and explain the day’s activities. Then you will set off in a rickshaw to visit the local market. As you walk through the market, Anilu will introduce you to the regional fruit, vegetables and livestock like chickens, guinea pigs, ducks, sheep and alpacas.

After the tour, you'll join Diego in his outdoor kitchen where he will show you how to make classic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado (marinated beef sirloin, sautéed with onions, peppers and fried potatoes), tacu tacu (rice and roasted beans) and papa la huancaína (potatoes with a spicy, savory sauce) or causa rellena (potato puree garnished with yellow aji sauces and lemon, stuffed with onion, avocado and tuna). You will learn how to properly cut the fish for the ceviche, how to carefully balance flavors in Peruvian cuisine and some of Diego's favorite cooking tricks!

Available options

Market + cooking + dinner

Market tour, cooking class and dinner with your hosts Anilu and Diego

Market + cooking + lunch

Market tour, cooking class and lunch with your hosts Anilu and Diego

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Private market tour and cooking class with your host Anilu

Homecooked Peruvian meal

Gratuities

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Menu may vary depending on the season

If any travelers in your party have any allergies, dietary restrictions or cooking preferences please advise at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Private, personalized experience

Please note, this is not a commercial cooking class, rather this experience is a visit into a Urubamba home to meet a local who is an expert cook, and share Peruvian culture and cuisine together!

Meeting point

This experience takes place in Urubamba. Pakakuna is located 1.5 hours from Cusco. Exact meeting location, address and Google Maps link to the location is available in your ticket/voucher, upon confirmation.

Important notes

Host name: Anilu and Diego Contreras
Host phone: +51 998 142 007
Host email: infopakakuna@gmail.com or diego.benites.03@gmail.com
Host address: Pakakuna Restaurante, Sector Chajuar sin numero, Urubamba, Peru - 08661
Host neighborhood: PV48+FQ Urubamba, Peru
Meeting location for this experience: Pakakuna is located 1.5 hours from Cusco. It is possible to take public transportation to their home, but it involves several changes. Please make your own way to Pakakuna and before you get there please contact Anilu directly for directions. Here is the Google Maps link to the location: https://goo.gl/maps/818PfiKzMePLJPhw9

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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.

We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions