Lunch options in Peru’s Chinchero district bring authentic Andean flavors straight to your table. Traditional family-run kitchens serve up hearty meals using age-old recipes and local ingredients. The best experiences come from small-group Sacred Valley tours that include a buffet stop in nearby Urubamba – I love these because you’ll taste multiple regional specialties in one sitting. For independent travelers, skipping the organized lunch lets you explore the district’s local spots, where home-cooked meals cost less and offer a more intimate setting.
Our favorite tours combine cultural visits with carefully selected lunch venues that showcase real Peruvian highland cuisine. Check out these top-rated Sacred Valley experiences with the best food stops:
Good To Know
- Traditional Andean buffet lunch is available during the Cusco | Sacred Valley tour, providing an immersive cultural experience in the Urubamba region.
- Chinchero, one of the key archaeological sites visited, is known for its traditional textile and dyeing techniques, which can be explored during the tour.
- The Andean buffet lunch is priced at $29.00 per person and is included in the full-day Cusco | Sacred Valley tour.
- Travelers have praised the comprehensive exploration of the region and the flexibility in dining options in tours without a mandatory lunch.
- Individuals with mobility impairments or certain health conditions may not be suitable for the Cusco | Sacred Valley tour, according to customer feedback.
Cusco | Sacred Valley + Andean Buffet Lunch |
Starting with a tour of the Cusco | Sacred Valley region, travelers can experience an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba. Priced from $29.00 per person, this 1-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the area’s archaeological sites, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. The tour includes hotel pickup between 7:00-8:00 a.m. and drop-off near Plaza Kusipata in Cusco around 6:30 p.m.
The tour highlights Inca culture and archaeological centers, as well as the opportunity to discover Andean textiles in Chinchero. The Andean buffet lunch is included, providing a taste of the local cuisine. Other inclusions are a professional bilingual guide, first aid kit, and partial Tourist Ticket. Travelers should bring their passport and cash in soles for the ticket. The tour operates in any weather, though it may not be suitable for those with visual impairments or wheelchair users. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient way to explore the Cusco | Sacred Valley region.
Read our full review: Cusco | Sacred Valley + Andean Buffet Lunch | Review
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Cusco | Sacred Valley – Urubamba Without Lunch |
The Cusco || tour offers a condensed version of the previous itinerary, focusing on the major archaeological sites without the Andean buffet lunch. Priced from $18 per person, this one-day excursion takes visitors to the Sacred Valley, including the Pisac Archaeological Center and the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress. The tour provides hotel pickup, professional bilingual guides, and all necessary transportation, allowing participants to explore these iconic Incan sites at their own pace.
While the tour doesn’t include a dedicated lunch break, it provides ample time for travelers to find their own dining options in Urubamba, giving them the flexibility to choose a meal that suits their preferences and budget. The tour also includes a visit to Chinchero, where visitors can learn about the traditional dyeing techniques used in the region’s textiles. With a duration of approximately 11.5 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of the Sacred Valley’s cultural and historical highlights.
Read our full review: Cusco | Sacred Valley – Urubamba Without Lunch | Review
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From Cusco: Super Sacred Valley Without Lunch
This Super Sacred Valley tour without lunch offers a comprehensive exploration of the Cusco region’s most iconic archaeological sites. Priced from $36 per person, the full-day tour departs from Cusco hotels at 6:30 am and returns by 7:00 pm.
Highlights include visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. Along the way, travelers will discover ancient Inca ruins, agricultural terraces, and the historic Maras salt mines.
With a bilingual guide, the tour provides insights into the area’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Free time is allotted for lunch in Urubamba, allowing participants to explore the local cuisine on their own.
The tour caters to a range of travelers, though it’s not recommended for those over 70, with recent surgeries, or who are pregnant. Participants must bring their passport or ID card, and the tour prohibits alcohol, drugs, and pets.
With a 5/5 rating based on two reviews, this Super Sacred Valley experience is an excellent option for those seeking an immersive cultural journey.
Read our full review: From Cusco: Super Sacred Valley Without Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Dining Time for Lunch in Chinchero?
Most locals in Chinchero enjoy lunch between 12:00 and 2:30 PM. This is the typical dining time as it aligns with the local work and meal schedules. Many restaurants and eateries cater to this lunchtime period.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available?
Yes, there are vegetarian and gluten-free options available in Chinchero. Many local restaurants offer plant-based dishes and cater to dietary restrictions, providing a range of healthy and delicious lunch choices for all diners.
Do Restaurants in Chinchero Accept Credit Cards or Only Cash?
Most restaurants in Chinchero accept credit cards, though it’s best to have some cash on hand as well. Some eateries may only accept cash payments, so it’s wise to inquire about payment options when making dining plans.
What Is the Average Cost of a Lunch Meal in Chinchero?
The average cost of a lunch meal in Chinchero is around 15-25 soles, or $4-$6 USD. Many local eateries accept both cash and credit cards, providing flexibility for visitors’ dining experiences.
Are There Any Special Dietary Considerations for the Andean Buffet?
The Andean buffet often caters to dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options. Guests should inform staff of any special dietary needs to ensure a suitable meal selection.
The Sum Up
The Cusco and Sacred Valley region offers diverse lunch experiences. From the Andean buffet in Chinchero to the scenic Urubamba without lunch, there’s something to suit different travelers’ preferences. Whether you’re looking for an immersive cultural meal or a more casual sightseeing experience, the area provides a range of options to make the most of your lunchtime in the Peruvian Andes.