Peruvian Culinary Experience in Arequipa: Discover Authentic Flavors and Traditional Cuisine

After meeting at the starting point located in San Camilo Market, you will begin a walking tour of this emblematic place. The infrastructure of this traditional market underwent several renovations following the earthquakes that struck the city of Arequipa.

Discover the fascinating history that surrounds the construction of the market, a hidden treasure full of transformations. In 1817, the Red Cross Order erected this magnificent church, but its history extends beyond its religious function. After the devastating earthquake of 1868, this emblematic building reinvented itself, becoming a military hospital that provided assistance to those in need during times of crisis. Years later, it changed into a school, educating and leaving an indelible mark on the community.

In addition to admiring a wide variety of products such as fruits, vegetables, groceries, meats, cheeses, and many more things, here you can taste delicious local fruits.

We will continue the tour through the historic center of Arequipa, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. You will visit the Cloisters Compañía de Jesus, located in the Plaza de Armas. This beautiful building founded by the Jesuits dates back to the 17th century and features a lovely inner courtyard with small cafes and craft shops.

The next stop will be to savor three typical dishes of Arequipa: guinea pig, alpaca, and sango arequipeño. Dare to try these traditional dishes that are part of Peru`s culinary culture. Guinea pig and alpaca are very flavorful meats. Sango arequipeño is a sweet accompaniment made from wheat with raisins, peanuts, and chancaca.

You will admire the beautiful Plaza de Armas of Arequipa, which features a fountain in the center and historic buildings surrounding it. The imposing Cathedral of Arequipa is one of them, and we will be able to see it panoramically from the square.

We will continue the food tour in Arequipa to learn how to prepare, and taste, an exquisite traditional sauce known as ocopa. This sauce is made from huacatay, peanuts, and chili, and it is usually served over boiled potatoes. We will enjoy tastings of chichas, drinks made from corn.

The next visit will be to the traditional neighborhood of San Lazaro, one of the oldest in the city. We will explore its beautiful narrow streets while admiring its incredible architecture, including mansions, temples, and plazas. In this area, you will find excellent picanterías with traditional Arequipa cuisine.

You will taste delicious traditional dishes such as rocoto relleno and a creamy potato cake. You will also try chicha morada, a sweet drink made from purple corn.

The gastronomic tour in Arequipa will take you to taste a traditional dessert called queso helado. Arequipa`s queso helado is an exquisite creation made from a base of carefully selected fresh and creamy milk. This delightful dessert combines the richness of milk with natural ingredients such as vanilla, cinnamon, and, of course, the distinctive Arequipa cheese.

You will end this gastronomic walk at the beautiful Yanahuara viewpoint, located in the district of the same name. Here you can enjoy panoramic views of the Arequipa countryside, as well as the imposing Misti volcano.

The tour concludes at this point.