The best markets in Cusco and the Sacred Valley
Markets are the beating heart of Andean life, and around Cusco they range from a bustling local food hall to colourful artisan markets famous across South America. They're the place to find authentic textiles and crafts, taste local flavours, and feel the region's culture. Here are the best, and how to shop them well.
San Pedro Market: Cusco's local heart
A short walk from the Plaza de Armas, the Mercado de San Pedro is Cusco's main market and a feast for the senses — stalls of tropical fruit, fresh juices, cheeses, breads, herbs, chocolate and street food, alongside textiles and souvenirs. It's where locals shop, so it's a great place to grab a cheap, authentic lunch or a fresh juice and soak up everyday Cusco life. Go in the morning when it's liveliest.
Pisac and Chinchero: the artisan markets
For crafts, the Sacred Valley's markets are unmatched. The Pisac market is the most famous — a riot of alpaca textiles, ceramics, jewellery and Andean crafts, biggest on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. The Chinchero market (busiest Sunday) has a more local feel and is the place to buy weavings close to their source, where you can watch them being made.
| Market | Best for | Busiest |
|---|---|---|
| San Pedro (Cusco) | Food, juices, local life | Daily, mornings |
| Pisac | Textiles, crafts, souvenirs | Sun, Tue, Thu |
| Chinchero | Authentic weavings | Sunday |
What to buy
- Alpaca textiles — scarves, sweaters, blankets (real alpaca is soft, not scratchy).
- Handwoven goods — table runners and wall hangings, especially from Chinchero.
- Ceramics and jewellery — Andean designs and silver.
- Chocolate, coffee and coca products — easy, tasty gifts.
- Hats, gloves and ponchos — useful and characterful.
How to haggle and shop responsibly
Gentle haggling is expected at artisan markets — do it with a smile, and remember small amounts mean more to the seller than to you. Buying directly from weavers and cooperatives (as in Chinchero) ensures more of your money supports the makers. Carry small-denomination cash in soles, as cards are rarely accepted — see money in Peru. Watch your belongings in busy markets, per our safety guide.
Explore Cusco and the valley
See the markets, ruins and culture with a local guide.
Frequently asked questions
For local food and atmosphere, San Pedro Market in Cusco is the best. For crafts and textiles, the Pisac market in the Sacred Valley is the most famous, while Chinchero offers more authentic weavings closer to their source.
The Pisac artisan market runs daily but is biggest on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Chinchero's market is busiest on Sunday.
Alpaca textiles, handwoven goods, ceramics, silver jewellery, hats and ponchos, plus chocolate, coffee and coca products. Buying directly from weavers supports the makers.
Yes, gentle haggling is expected at artisan markets — do it politely and with a smile. Carry small-denomination cash in soles, as cards are rarely accepted.
