Arequipa: San Camilo Market Tour

Arequipa’s San Camilo Market is a vibrant hub of local culture and culinary delights. This guided walking tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors that make this market a beloved destination. From traditional Peruvian specialties to medicinal plants, the tour promises an engaging and educational experience. With convenient pickup, a focus on customer satisfaction, and flexible cancellation options, it’s an enticing opportunity to explore the rich history and vibrant energy that define this iconic Arequipan landmark. But what exactly can one expect to discover within the bustling stalls and lively atmosphere of the San Camilo Market?

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Shopping Tours In Arequipa.

Key Points

• A guided walking tour of the historical San Camilo Market in Arequipa, offering insights into local food, traditions, and cultural significance.
• Flexible tour options, including Spanish and English-language tours, hotel pickup, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• Opportunity to learn about and sample traditional Peruvian specialties, such as rocoto relleno, adobo, and queso helado.
• Approximately 1-hour duration, with a focus on exploring the vibrant market atmosphere and engaging with the local vendors.
• Daily tour availability from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with comfortable clothing and cash recommended for the market visit.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The San Camilo Market tour offers visitors a guided walking experience through this historic landmark in the heart of Arequipa.

Priced at $35.33 per person, the approximately 1-hour tour is available in Spanish and English.

Hotel pickup from the Historical Centre is included, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, providing added flexibility.

The tour operates daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the start time coordinated at booking.

Comfortable clothing and cash are recommended, as the tour is suitable for all ages but not wheelchair accessible.

Historical Significance

Established in 1938, the San Camilo Market has a rich history.

Originally built as the San Camilo de Lelis church in 1817 by the Red Cross, the market’s building was abandoned after the devastating earthquake of 1868. It then served as a military hospital and school before being transformed into the bustling market it’s today.

Designed by the renowned French architect Gustave Eiffel, the market building was declared a Monumental Historical Heritage in 1987, adding to its cultural significance.

Today, the San Camilo Market stands as a testament to Arequipa’s vibrant history and culinary traditions, drawing in locals and travelers alike.

Market Experience

Visitors can explore a vast array of fresh products at the San Camilo Market, including an abundance of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats.

They’ll have the chance to learn about traditional Peruvian food and medicinal plants.

Travelers can savor local specialties like rocoto relleno, adobo, and queso helado, and visit typical food stalls to experience the culinary richness of Arequipa.

The market offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to see, smell, and taste the vibrant flavors and traditions that make this Peruvian city unique.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup from the hotel, taking approximately 10 minutes to reach the main stop at the historical Mercado San Camilo.

The guided walking tour at the market lasts around an hour, allowing visitors to explore the vast array of fresh produce, from fruits and vegetables to cheeses and meats.

During the tour, guests will learn about traditional Peruvian food and medicinal plants, with opportunities to taste local specialties like rocoto relleno, adobo, and queso helado.

After the market exploration, the tour returns to the hotel, taking another 10 minutes.

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Preparation and Accessibility

Comfortable clothes and cash are recommended for the tour.

The guided walking tour of Mercado San Camilo is suitable for all ages, though it’s not wheelchair accessible. The tour operates daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, with the start time coordinated at the time of booking.

Visitors can expect to spend around an hour exploring the historical market, learning about traditional Peruvian foods and medicinal plants.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at hotels located in Arequipa’s historical center, providing a hassle-free experience.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply curious about local culture, the San Camilo Market tour offers an immersive and enjoyable experience in Arequipa.

Pricing and Booking

The tour of Mercado San Camilo is priced from $35.33 per person. Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility.

The tour lasts approximately one hour and includes pickup from hotels in Arequipa’s historical center. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund.

The tour operates daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the start time is coordinated at the time of booking.

With the ability to explore this historic market and sample local specialties, the Arequipa market tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience for a reasonable price.

Pickup and Transportation

The guided walking tour of Mercado San Camilo includes pickup from your hotel in Arequipa’s historical center. The pickup takes around 10 minutes, and you’ll be transported directly to the market.

Once there, you’ll embark on a 1-hour guided walking tour, exploring the vast array of fresh produce, traditional foods, and medicinal plants. After the tour, you’ll be returned to your hotel, again in about 10 minutes.

The tour is designed to be accessible, with the main stop at the historical market, though the specific itinerary may vary. Remember to bring comfortable clothes and cash, as the tour is suitable for all ages but not wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation Policy

Flexibility and convenience are hallmarks of this Arequipa market tour, as it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The tour also features a "reserve now & pay later" option, providing even greater flexibility. Whether unexpected changes arise or plans simply shift, the cancellation policy ensures customers can make the most of their Arequipa experience without unnecessary hassle or financial risk.

This level of flexibility is a testament to the tour organizer’s commitment to customer satisfaction and a seamless travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable clothes are recommended, as you will be doing a fair amount of walking around the market. Bringing cash is also advised for any purchases or tastings.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Preferences Accommodated?

The tour doesn’t specifically accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences. However, visitors can explore the market’s wide variety of local produce, meats, and specialty foods to find options suitable for their needs.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Market?

Yes, visitors are generally permitted to take photos inside the market. However, it’s polite to ask vendors for permission before taking their picture out of respect for their privacy and business.

How Much Local Currency Should We Bring for the Visit?

The guide recommends bringing around 100-200 Peruvian soles (PEN) for the San Camilo Market tour. This should cover any purchases of local specialties, snacks, or souvenirs you might want to make during the experience.

Is the Tour Guide Available for Questions Throughout the Experience?

The tour guide is available to answer questions throughout the market experience. Guests can engage the guide to learn more about the market’s history, products, and local cuisine during the 1-hour walking tour.

Recap

The San Camilo Market Tour in Arequipa offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant culinary heritage. Visitors can enjoy the local culture, explore a variety of fresh produce and traditional Peruvian specialties, and savor unique flavors like rocoto relleno. With convenient transportation and flexible cancellation options, this tour provides an unforgettable culinary adventure that showcases the rich history and diverse flavors of Arequipa.

You can check if your dates are available here: