Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop

The Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop in Antigua, Guatemala, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the local culinary traditions. Participants can explore a vibrant market, sample traditional snacks, and learn the art of making authentic Mayan-style corn tortillas from an expert chef. This two-hour experience promises to be a delightful and educational adventure, providing insights into the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply curious about the local culture, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the flavors and techniques that define Guatemalan cuisine.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Food Tours In Antigua.

Key Points

• Explore one of Guatemala’s largest markets, sampling traditional ‘Antojitos’ and learning about local produce and food culture.
• Participate in a hands-on tortilla-making workshop, guided by an expert in Guatemalan cuisine, to learn traditional Mayan cooking techniques.
• Enjoy a tuc tuc ride to the tortilla workshop location and a traditional Guatemalan lunch with a refreshing drink.
• Discover the cultural significance of tortillas in Guatemalan gastronomy through an immersive culinary experience.
• Experience a 2-hour comprehensive tour, including 6 food tastings and the creation of 3 self-made criollo corn tortillas.

Overview of the Tour

The market food tour and tortilla workshop takes place in Antigua, Guatemala and lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 10:30 am from the meeting point in front of the Main Cathedral at Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala.

Participants will explore one of Guatemala’s largest markets, tasting local dishes and observing a variety of produce.

The experience also includes a hands-on tortilla-making workshop at El Comalote, where guests will learn traditional Mayan cooking techniques.

The tour concludes back at the meeting point and includes 6 market food tastings, a tuc tuc ride, 3 self-made tortillas, and a traditional Guatemalan lunch with a drink for $79.00 per person.

Tour Highlights

Highlights of the market food tour and tortilla workshop include visiting one of Guatemala’s biggest markets, tasting local ‘Antojitos‘, and observing a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Participants can look forward to a hands-on experience making criollo corn tortillas at El Comalote.

The tour also includes a tuc tuc ride to reach the tortilla workshop location.

During the workshop, guests will learn traditional Mayan cooking techniques and get to make three of their own tortillas.

The experience culminates with a traditional Guatemalan lunch, complete with a refreshing drink.

Market Experience

Visitors embark on a captivating exploration of one of Guatemala’s largest and most vibrant markets, seeing the bustling atmosphere and diverse array of local ‘antojitos’ (savory snacks) that await their senses.

As they navigate the colorful stalls, they’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of traditional Guatemalan delicacies, from freshly-prepared tamales to sweet mango slices dusted with chili powder.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and cultural significance of the market’s offerings.

Guests will witness the intricate process of sorting, displaying, and selling an impressive selection of local produce, gaining a deeper appreciation for the vibrant food culture that defines this region.

Cooking Workshop

After exploring the vibrant market, participants move on to the cooking workshop, where they’ve the opportunity to learn the traditional art of making criollo corn tortillas.

Under the guidance of Chef Rebeca, known for her expertise in Guatemalan cuisine, guests engage in a hands-on experience, shaping and cooking their own tortillas using the same techniques passed down through generations.

Participants are provided with all the necessary ingredients and tools, allowing them to fully enjoy the process.

This interactive session not only teaches the intricacies of tortilla-making but also offers insights into the cultural significance of this staple food in Guatemalan gastronomy.

Included Offerings

The tour package includes six market food tastings, allowing participants to sample a variety of ‘Antojitos’ or local snacks found within one of Guatemala’s biggest markets.

Plus, the experience provides a tuc tuc ride to El Comalote, where guests will make three self-made criollo corn tortillas under the guidance of Chef Rebeca.

The tour concludes with a traditional Guatemalan lunch, accompanied by a refreshing drink.

The included offerings provide a well-rounded culinary adventure:

1. Discover unique Guatemalan street food.

2. Learn traditional Mayan tortilla-making techniques.

3. Savor an authentic Guatemalan lunch with a local beverage.

This comprehensive package offers an immersive exploration of Antigua’s vibrant food culture.

Additional Details

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps; participants should also have no serious medical conditions.

The experience is private, with only your group participating. Upon booking, you’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins. Alcohol isn’t included, but a traditional Guatemalan lunch with a drink is provided.

Reviews and Ratings

Guests have praised the knowledgeable hosts and the authentic experience of Guatemalan gastronomy on this tour. The tour boasts an impressive 5-star rating based on 5 reviews, with guests highlighting several noteworthy aspects:

The opportunity to learn about Mayan cooking techniques and local food history was an eye-opening experience.

Personal stories from participants have lauded the tour as a trip highlight, providing an immersive glimpse into Guatemalan culture.

Positive comments on the hospitality of the tour guides, Emily and Sandra, have underscored the warm and welcoming nature of the experience.

Host and Operator

Kukul Tales, the operator of this market food tour and tortilla workshop, has curated an authentic Guatemalan culinary experience led by Rebeca, a chef known for her expertise in the country’s cuisine, and tour guides Emily and Sandra, who are noted for their knowledge and hospitality.

Rebeca’s passion for Guatemalan gastronomy shines through as she guides participants in the hands-on tortilla-making workshop, imparting traditional Mayan cooking techniques.

Emily and Sandra expertly navigate the bustling market, providing insightful commentary on the vibrant array of local produce and ‘antojitos’ (street snacks) on offer.

Together, this dynamic team ensures an immersive and unforgettable exploration of Guatemala’s rich food heritage, leaving tour-goers with a deep appreciation for the country’s culinary traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes a selection of market tastings, a cooking workshop, and a traditional Guatemalan lunch with a drink, all provided by the tour operator.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour, but participants are recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for the market environment and hands-on cooking workshop. Closed-toe shoes are also advised for safety.

Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Market Visit?

Yes, participants can purchase additional items during the market visit. The tour includes market food tastings, but there will be opportunities to explore the market and purchase any extra items or souvenirs that interest the participants.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian and gluten-free diets. Participants with specific dietary needs should notify the operator in advance to ensure appropriate substitutions or modifications are made during the market visit and cooking workshop.

How Many People Typically Participate in Each Tour Group?

The tour group size is private, with only your group participating. This allows for a more personalized experience as you explore the market and create your own tortillas under the guidance of the knowledgeable hosts.

Recap

The Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop in Antigua, Guatemala offers an immersive culinary experience.

Guests explore a vibrant local market, sample traditional Antojitos, and learn authentic Mayan tortilla-making techniques from Chef Rebeca.

This hands-on adventure culminates in a delicious traditional lunch, providing an enriching opportunity to discover the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.

With positive reviews, this tour is a must-do for foodies visiting Antigua.