Wanchaq market
The Wanchaq market, familiar to locals in Cusco, is another noteworthy option.
Similar to other larger markets in the city, it offers a wide selection of fruits, vegetables, cheese, and meat, as well as clothing, kitchenware, and likely any other essentials you might require.
Location of the Wanchaq market: situated near Avenida Tullumayo (Parallel Street to Avenida del Sol).
Artisan’s market
For distinctive keepsakes, visit the Artisan’s Market in Cusco, where you’ll find a variety of items including alpaca sweaters, jewelry, pottery, and other crafts.
Experience the thrill of bargaining with fewer crowds of tourists.
Location of the Artisan’s market: Avenida El Sol, in front of the fountain known as the “Paccha” (which is actually the translation of fountain in Quechua)
San Blas Market
This is a much smaller market situated in San Blas’s pretty neighbourhood, northeast of the Plaza de Armas. It’s a far less touristy location and only sells staples such as fruit, vegetables, cheese and meat. However, it still makes for an interesting introduction to Cusco’s markets if you’re in the area.
The San Blas square around the corner also hosts an artisan’s market at weekends with great Peruvian souvenirs to check out.
Location of San Blas Market: San Blas Market is located in the San Blas neighborhood of Cusco, Peru. At the end of Lucrepata’s main street.
Vinocanchón’s Market
Situated at the southern edge of the city, just before reaching the city limits, this market stands as one of the largest and most comprehensive in town. Serving as a vital resource for individual households, restaurants, and small businesses in this part of Cusco, it offers a diverse range of products beyond fresh produce.
It’s a traditional market where encountering another foreign visitor is unlikely.
Location of Vinocanchón’s Market: This market is located almost at the end of the city, you can reach it by going to the disctrict’s stadium in San Jerónimo’s neighbourhood.
Tips before you head to any of these markets on your own
#1 Refrain from making immediate purchases.
Cusco’s markets overwhelm with choices. Often, identical items line neighboring stalls.
Whether it’s alpaca sweaters or cooking utensils, explore the entirety of the market before committing.
Expect initial high prices; bargaining is customary. Indicate disinterest, then negotiate for the best deal.
#2: Be vigilant with your belongings
Always look after your own goods, specially at crowded spots like San Pedro market, prone to pickpocketing due to tourism.
Stay cautious amid distractions while safeguarding valuables like cameras and phones. Consider wearing them on the front and utilizing internal pockets for money.
Keep a copy of your passport; store the original securely.
#3: Dedicate some time to exploring the local markets in Cusco to uncover a wide array of goods.
You’ll find that these markets offer a diverse selection of items, with San Pedro market standing out as the largest and most central, boasting a variety of clothing, souvenirs, kitchen supplies, and groceries.
Meanwhile, San Blas market, though smaller, exudes charm and provides a range of fruits, vegetables, and other grocery items. Wanchaq, while similar to San Pedro in terms of offerings, provides a less touristy atmosphere, making it ideal for mingling with locals.
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the discoveries you’ll make in and around these markets. Whether you’re in search of shoelaces, USB drives, birthday candles, Tupperware, or nail polish, you’ll likely find it here.