Walk Lima’s downtown markets and Chinatown sampling 12 classic Peruvian snacks — from ceviche and anticuchos to siu mai and picarones — with a local guide who unlocks VIP stalls and culinary history.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The tour begins on a sun-washed block of Jirón Cusco, where vendors slice purple corn for chicha morada and the Atlantic-fed wind from the Pacific brushes the market stalls. You move from a busy fruit alley into Chinatown, forks clacking against ceramic plates, then into the Central Market where charcoal grills hiss with anticuchos and the aroma of frying dough draws you like a proven local map.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and walking on city streets for up to 3.5 hours.
Wildlife
History
Lima’s markets reflect centuries of exchange — Indigenous ingredients and Spanish colonial trade combined with Chinese and Japanese immigrant culinary techniques to create modern Peruvian cuisine.
Conservation
Support vendors who use reusable containers or paper packaging and avoid single-use plastics; reducing food waste at tastings helps preserve market livelihoods.
Reserve your spot on the Food Tour and Market Experience: 12 Peruvian Snacks today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry small bills (soles)
Many market stalls prefer cash and may not accept cards; bring small denominations for quick purchases and tipping.
Pace your tasting
Share portions or skip similar items early so you have room for later highlights like ceviche and picarones.
Comfortable shoes required
Downtown sidewalks are uneven and there are short walking segments between stops—closed-toe walking shoes reduce risk of slips.
Bring a reusable napkin or wet wipes
Street snacks are tasty but often eaten by hand; quick hygiene helps between tastings.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides traction and support on uneven downtown sidewalks and market floors.
Small daypack
Holds water, wipes, cash, and any purchases without getting in the way during tastings.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from strong coastal sun during outdoor market stops on clear days.
summer
Light rain shell
Lima’s winter garúa (coastal mist) can be chilly — a thin shell keeps you comfortable without bulk.
winter