Walk through the colorful chaos of Mercado 1 de Surquillo, taste 35+ native fruits, then learn to prepare a four-course Peruvian meal and a Pisco Sour. This five-hour market-to-kitchen experience combines urban food history with hands-on technique.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Under the crowded awnings of Mercado 1 de Surquillo, a corridor of fruit stalls unspools like a living map of Peru’s climates. You start among pyramids of lucuma, camu camu and cherimoya, their scents bright against the grease and diesel of the nearby avenue. The guide prowls the alleys, naming tubers and grains from the high Andes and pulling ripe samples—today you will taste more than 35 fruits before a short transfer to a compact teaching kitchen where Pisco Sours await.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Good mobility for walking, standing and light kitchen tasks; able to climb few steps and handle short periods of chopping and stirring.
Wildlife
History
Surquillo markets grew during Lima’s 20th-century expansion as a major conduit for Andean and coastal producers to supply the city, shaping modern Peruvian gastronomy.
Conservation
Support vendors who source locally and reduce single-use plastics; declining food-waste practices and supplier transparency are key concerns in Lima’s market economy.
Reserve your spot on the Market Tour, Tasting of 35 Fruits, and 4-Course Peruvian Cooking Class in Lima today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry small bills
Vendors prefer cash for quick fruit purchases and tips—have coins and small notes ready.
Wear closed-toe shoes
You’ll spend an hour walking market aisles and then standing in a kitchen—comfortable, protective footwear is smart.
Declare allergies early
Notify the operator of any dietary restrictions when booking and again at the start to avoid cross-contamination.
Time your visit
Markets are liveliest early morning; the tour runs best before midday heat and vendor slow-downs.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Protect feet in crowded market aisles and during standing cooking sessions.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during market walking and in a warm kitchen.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses)
Useful for exposed stretches between market and kitchen on sunny days.
summer
Small daypack or crossbody bag
Keeps purchases, wallet, notebook and any samples secure while you move.