How to Combine Cusco Food Tours with Machu Picchu
How to Combine Cusco Food Tours with Machu Picchu
How to combine Cusco food tours with Machu Picchu is a question many travelers ask when mapping out a journey to Peru. These two experiences—sampling the unforgettable flavors of Peruvian cuisine in Cusco and visiting the awe-inspiring Lost City of the Incas—can easily become the highlights of any South American adventure. With a bit of planning, it’s possible to enjoy the best of both worlds: savoring local delicacies and exploring one of the most legendary archaeological sites on the planet.
Why Combine Food Tours in Cusco with a Machu Picchu Visit?
Cusco, widely known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, is a fascinating city rich in history, culture, and exceptional culinary offerings. While most travelers come for the ancient ruins, the city itself deserves ample time for exploration—especially for food lovers. By weaving food tours into your Machu Picchu plans, you’ll deepen your understanding of Peruvian culture and ensure your trip is packed with unique flavors and memorable experiences.
Planning Your Itinerary: Step by Step
A well-structured itinerary is key to making the most out of both Cusco’s culinary scene and the journey to Machu Picchu. Here’s how to approach it:
1. Book Your Arrival in Cusco
Most international travelers arrive in Peru via Lima, then catch a domestic flight to Cusco. Due to the city’s high altitude (over 11,000 feet), allow at least a day or two to acclimate. This is the perfect time to explore at a relaxed pace and embark on a food tour or two.
Tip: Start sampling light, easy-to-digest local foods as you adjust to the altitude. Soups, teas, and breads are excellent choices.
2. Embark on a Cusco Food Tour
Numerous guided tours take you through Cusco’s markets, family-run eateries, and even cooking classes. These experiences commonly include tastings of:
– Ceviche: Peru’s famous citrus-marinated fish
– Choclo con queso: Local corn with cheese
– Lomo saltado: Wine-braised beef stir fry
– Cuy: Traditional roasted guinea pig (for the adventurous)
– Chicha morada: A sweet purple corn drink
A local guide will introduce you to the stories behind each dish and the agricultural influences of the Andes.
3. Allow Time for Exploration
Dedicate an extra day to wander the cobbled streets of San Blas, visit San Pedro Market, and try street food snacks. This will help you experience Cusco’s vibrant food culture before setting off to Machu Picchu.
4. Make Your Way to Machu Picchu
There are several ways to reach Machu Picchu:
– Train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo: The most popular and comfortable route, with beautiful scenery along the way.
– Inca Trail or Alternative Treks: For the adventurous, a multi-day hike is an unforgettable way to approach the ruins and often includes delicious, hearty meals prepared by trek chefs.
5. Where to Eat Along the Route
Travelers heading by train can enjoy a meal at Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, or Aguas Calientes (the town at Machu Picchu’s base). Many upscale and budget-friendly restaurants here offer Andean cuisine, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh trout from the Sacred Valley.
Best Tips for Booking Cusco Food Tours and Machu Picchu Tickets
Secure Machu Picchu Tickets Early
Entry is limited daily to protect the site, especially during peak season (May–September). Secure your entrance ticket in advance, and book train tickets early if you’re not trekking.
Schedule Food Tours Before Machu Picchu
Since Cusco sits higher than Machu Picchu and acclimatization is essential, arrange your food tours when you first arrive. This lets you enjoy the city’s flavors while adjusting to the altitude and saves the big adventure for when you’re ready.
Consider a Day Trip or Overnight in the Sacred Valley
Split your visit to include time in the Sacred Valley. You’ll find unique food experiences in towns like Pisac and Urubamba, where farm-to-table dining thrives.
Experiencing the Best of Peruvian Cuisine and Incan Heritage
The true charm of combining these two experiences lies not just in seeing breathtaking ruins or tasting delicious food, but in understanding how they’re connected. Ancient Incan agricultural terraces, still farmed today, provide most of Cusco’s produce. Many of the ingredients you’ll enjoy on your food tour—quinoa, potatoes, and corn—have been grown in the region for centuries.
You’ll also learn how the Inca civilization and modern Peruvians are bound by culinary traditions, agricultural wisdom, and local hospitality.
Sample Itinerary: 5 Days in Cusco and Machu Picchu
– Day 1: Arrive in Cusco, check in, and rest. Take a gentle evening food tasting tour.
– Day 2: Morning cooking class or market tour. Afternoon at leisure exploring local cafés.
– Day 3: Sacred Valley day trip with lunch in Urubamba. Overnight in Ollantaytambo or return to Cusco.
– Day 4: Early train to Aguas Calientes, visit Machu Picchu. Enjoy a dinner of Amazonian fusion cuisine.
– Day 5: Return to Cusco, try final street foods or visit a chocolate or coffee workshop.
FAQ: Cusco Food Tours and Machu Picchu Trips
1. How many days should I spend in Cusco before going to Machu Picchu?
Most travelers benefit from at least two days in Cusco to acclimatize and enjoy food tours before heading to lower-altitude Machu Picchu.
2. Are Cusco food tours suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Absolutely—many tours offer vegetarian and vegan options, with plenty of quinoa, corn, beans, and potatoes featured in local cuisine.
3. Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets in advance?
Yes, tickets often sell out, especially during the high season. Booking both your entry ticket and train in advance is highly recommended.
4. Can I take a food tour on the same day I arrive in Cusco?
It’s suggested to rest for a few hours before joining a tour, but gentle evening or half-day tours are ideal for your first day.
5. Is the street food safe in Cusco?
Stick to busy stalls and popular markets. Guides in food tours lead you to reputable places with safe and delicious foods.
6. What are must-try dishes in Cusco?
Try rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), adobo (pork stew), and traditional Andean soups, in addition to famous staples like ceviche.
7. Are food tours available year-round?
Yes, food tours typically operate throughout the year, but the best time to visit both Cusco and Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September.
8. Can I book a combined culinary and Machu Picchu package?
Some agencies offer combination packages that blend city food tours and Machu Picchu excursions, making planning seamless and convenient.
With thoughtful planning, your journey through Cusco’s rich flavors and the ancient mysteries of Machu Picchu will unfold into an adventure to be savored in every sense.
