San Pedro Market Cusco

If you are planning a trip to Cusco, one place you should not miss is the San Pedro Market Cusco. This vibrant marketplace is not only a central part of local life but also one of the best places to experience the true flavors, colors, and culture of the Andes. Whether you want to try traditional Peruvian food, buy handmade souvenirs, or simply immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of the city, the San Pedro Market has something for everyone.

In this detailed guide, you will learn what to expect, what to buy, what to eat, and how to make the most of your visit to this iconic market.

What Is San Pedro Market in Cusco?

The San Pedro Market is the most famous market in Cusco. Located just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas, this lively space is packed with vendors selling everything from exotic fruits and medicinal herbs to alpaca wool scarves and hand-carved souvenirs. It is both a tourist attraction and a vital part of everyday life for locals.

Built in 1925 and designed by Gustave Eiffel’s company (yes, the same Eiffel who created the Eiffel Tower), the building itself is a blend of colonial charm and practical Andean architecture. The market is open daily and welcomes hundreds of visitors, both local and international.

Where is San Pedro Market located?

You can find San Pedro Market Cusco about six blocks west of the Plaza de Armas. It is located on Calle Santa Clara, just across from the San Pedro train station, making it a convenient stop for anyone heading to or returning from Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley.

The walk from the main square takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your pace. The route is safe, and the surrounding streets are filled with local shops, bakeries, and small cafes worth exploring.

What Can You Find at San Pedro Market Cusco?

The market is divided into sections, each dedicated to different types of products. Exploring it is like walking through a living museum of Andean culture. Here is what you can expect to find:

1. Fresh Produce and Exotic Fruits

Peru is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, and this is evident in the fruit and vegetable section of San Pedro Market. You will find:

• Purple corn (used to make chicha morada)

• Lucuma (a creamy, caramel-flavored fruit)

• Granadilla (a sweet cousin of passionfruit)

• Camu camu (loaded with vitamin C)

• Dozens of types of potatoes, including the famous papa amarilla and oca

Locals come here every morning to shop for the freshest ingredients.

2. Juice Stalls

One of the highlights of visiting San Pedro is trying a fresh juice made on the spot. There is a dedicated juice section where women in traditional dress prepare blends from mango, papaya, pineapple, strawberry, orange, and more. Try a “triple mix” or ask for the local favorite—avocado with banana and orange.

Juices cost between 5 and 10 soles and are a perfect boost for your day of sightseeing.

3. Traditional Peruvian Dishes

Feeling hungry? San Pedro Market is a great place to try authentic Peruvian food at a low cost. Head to the food section and sit at one of the communal counters. Popular dishes include:

• Adobo—pork stew in a spicy broth

• Chairo—Andean soup with potatoes and dried meat

• Caldo de gallina—chicken soup with noodles and egg

• Tamales—corn dough stuffed with meat or cheese

• Lechón con tamal—roasted pork with a tamale

Prices range from 8 to 15 soles, and portions are generous.

4. Herbs, Spices, and Natural Remedies

This section is particularly interesting if you are curious about Andean medicine. Here you will find:

• Coca leaves—used to combat altitude sickness

• Muña—an aromatic herb for digestion and breathing

• Uña de gato—cat’s claw, believed to boost the immune system

• Maca powder—an energy-enhancing root

Vendors are happy to explain the uses of each plant. Even if you are not buying, the smells and colors are worth the walk-through.

5. Souvenirs and Handicrafts

Looking for gifts to take home? San Pedro is an excellent place to buy:

• Alpaca wool scarves, hats, gloves, and sweaters

• Handwoven textiles with traditional designs

• Silver jewelry with Inca symbols

• Leather bags and belts

• Wooden carvings and ceramic figures

Bargaining is expected, but always be respectful. If an item says “baby alpaca” and the price seems too good to be true, it is probably synthetic.

Best Time to Visit San Pedro Market

The market is open every day from early morning until around 6:00 PM, although some stalls begin closing by 4:00 PM. For the best experience:

• Go early (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) to see the full variety of products and beat the crowds.

• Weekdays are less busy than weekends.

• Avoid the lunchtime rush if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.

If you plan to buy perishable goods or eat lunch there, arrive by 11:30 AM, as the food stalls fill up quickly.

Is San Pedro Market Safe?

Yes, San Pedro Market Cusco is generally safe, especially during daylight hours. It is a well-traveled area and heavily frequented by tourists. However, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a money belt or a secure crossbody bag.

• Avoid bringing valuables.

• Always ask before taking photos, especially of vendors in traditional clothing.

• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded aisles.

Tips for Visiting San Pedro Market

• Bring small bills and coins. Many vendors do not accept large denominations or credit cards.

• Try something new. Even if you are unsure, many of the juices and foods are delicious and safe for tourists.

• Ask questions. Locals are friendly and often happy to explain the uses of their products.

• Be respectful when bargaining. Negotiating is normal, but do it politely and with a smile.

• Watch your step. The market can be uneven in places, and there may be puddles or slippery floors.

Cultural Insights You Can Gain

San Pedro Market is more than a place to shop or eat. It is an excellent opportunity to observe everyday life in Cusco and to better understand Peruvian traditions.

You will see how the modern city continues to integrate ancestral customs—from food preparation to herbal healing. The market is a reflection of Cusco’s Andean roots, where

Quechua is spoken alongside Spanish, and traditions are passed from generation to generation.

How to Get to San Pedro Market

If you are staying near the Plaza de Armas, simply walk down Santa Clara Street or Nueva Baja. The market is well-signposted and easily recognized by its large open structure and busy atmosphere.

From other areas of the city, you can take a taxi for 5 to 10 soles. Most drivers will know exactly where to go if you say “Mercado San Pedro.”

Can You Visit San Pedro Market on a Tour?

Yes. Many walking tours of Cusco include a visit to San Pedro Market as part of their itinerary. These tours offer the advantage of a local guide who can explain the origins and uses of various products.

If you prefer a deeper cultural experience, look for culinary tours that include shopping at the market followed by a cooking class.

Comparing San Pedro with Other Markets in Cusco

While Cusco has other markets like Wanchaq Market, El Molino, and San Blas Artisan Market, San Pedro stands out because of its:

• Central location

• Historical architecture

• Wide variety of products

• Strong presence of traditional culture

For tourists, it is the best starting point to understand Cusco’s dynamic street life and ancient Andean commerce.

Is San Pedro Market Cusco Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Visiting the San Pedro Market in Cusco is one of the most authentic, affordable, and enriching experiences you can have in the city. Whether you want to eat like a local, shop for handmade souvenirs, or simply watch life unfold in a traditional Peruvian market, this is the place to do it.

It is not a polished attraction or a place designed for tourists. Instead, it is real, chaotic, colorful, and full of life—just like Cusco itself.

So grab a fresh juice, chat with a vendor, buy a bag of coca leaves, and lose yourself in the organized chaos. The San Pedro Market is waiting to welcome you into the heart of Cusco.

Cusco Tours After Visiting San Pedro Market