One of the best-kept secrets of Cuzco, Mercado de San Pedro is an active and colorful central market that is easily walkable from San Pedro rail station and Plaza San Francisco. Vendors at the market are welcoming and laid-back, encouraging visitors to relax and enjoy the sights and smells of the goods on display. Although the market is well known for its range of exotic fruits and its impressive assortment of butchered animal parts, it is also a haven for artisinal crafts and textiles. Local women who work in the market are often creating the  baskets and traditional fabric that they are selling on-site, which allows visitors to observe and appreciate the great skill and artistry that goes into many of the products being sold.

Because it is well protected from the scorching heat and occasional downpours common in Peru, the market is a popular and comfortable lunch spot for local workers. Serving up some favorite local dishes such as fried guinea pigs and frog soup, the food court provides culinary options that cater to both locals and tourists, which cost only a fraction of a visit to a restaurant.

Located near the historic center of Cuzco, Peru, Mercado de San Pedro is one of the city’s largest open-air markets. Frequently visited by local Quechua folk in search of fresh and affordable produce, the market is open every day from dawn to dusk. Housed in a giant warehouse a few blocks away from Cuzco’s main plaza, Plaza de Armas, the market is split into two main sections: the food court and regular fresh produce aisles. Since it is tucked away from the bustle and crowds of many other popular tourist sites, Mercado de San Pedro is an ideal place for those visitors hoping to get a glimpse of everyday Andean life.

Image credits, from top left: Scott Ableman via Flickr, Tony Bailey via Flickr, pululante via Flickr, Galo Manuel via Flickr, Scott Ableman via Flickr, Nick Wolf via Flickr