Roasted guinea pig in Cusco

The roasted guinea pig invites you to experience a unique culinary adventure in Cusco, where you can discover one of the most emblematic and traditional dishes of Andean culture, which is part of the millennia-old culinary heritage of the Andes.

What you will discover

A millennia-old tradition: Roasted guinea pig has roots that date back to pre-Inca times when Andean cultures began to domesticate these rodents for consumption. Over the years, this dish has become part of a culinary tradition passed down from generation to generation.

Your cultural connection: It’s more than just a dish; it’s a cultural experience that is part of Peru’s culinary legacy, especially in Cusco, a city where guinea pig remains a symbol of connection to the land and ancestral traditions.

The experience you will have

The authentic flavor: To enjoy a golden and crispy roasted guinea pig, you will experience a meat that is high in protein, traditionally seasoned with huacatay, garlic, cumin, ají panca, and other Andean ingredients that give it its unique and characteristic flavor.

The traditional sides: You will enjoy the guinea pig accompanied by roasted Cusco potatoes, baked noodles, stuffed rocoto, and the traditional uchucuta (ground chili with spices). Don’t forget to pair your guinea pig with a chicha morada or a local craft beer for a complete culinary experience.

Where to find it

Tipón – The must-visit destination: If you visit Cusco and want to experience a different culinary adventure, Tipón is what you’re looking for. This historic village is only 24 km from Cusco. It is famous for having a wide variety of family-run restaurants that offer the best guinea pig recipes from all over Peru.

Saylla – Family tradition: When you visit Cusco, you can find this typical dish in places called Saylla and Tipón, which specialize in preparing this dish and are located south of the city.

Restaurants in the city: You will also find excellent options in downtown Cusco, where specialized restaurants like La Cusqueñita, Chicha by Gastón Acurio, and other traditional spots prepare this delicacy using ancestral techniques.

The complete experience you will have during Corpus Christi in Cusco

The preparation day: On the Wednesday before the main day, you will witness the emotional moment when the sacred images depart from their original temples to the Cathedral. Each image is escorted by devoted stewards, musical bands, and groups of dancers that create a unique festive atmosphere.

The main day: On the central Thursday, you will participate in a solemn mass at the Cathedral, followed by the grand procession where the fifteen sacred images traverse the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) in an ancestral hierarchical order. The air fills with traditional music, religious chants, and the fervor of thousands of participants.

The ceremonial closing: A week later, you will accompany the return of each image to its original temple, marking the culmination of this celebration with new processions and festivities in each neighborhood.

The variations you will try

Classic roasted guinea pig: The star is the roasted guinea pig, the quintessential dish of the town, prepared in clay or adobe ovens.

Guinea pig with stuffed rocoto: Accompanying the roasted guinea pig with stuffed rocoto filled with vegetable stew and minced meat is an unbeatable combination.

Other preparations: You can also discover chactado guinea pig (fried and crispy), guinea pig on a stick (cooked over wood), and guinea pig pepián (in spicy sauce).

The nutritional value you will enjoy

High in protein: Guinea pig is an excellent source of protein, vital for building and repairing tissues in the body. For every 100 grams of guinea pig meat, you get approximately 21 grams of protein. Low in fats and calories: Guinea pig meat is notably low in fats and calories compared to other red meats.

Your contribution to responsible tourism

For many Cusco families, this is their main source of income. This contributes not only to preserving a part of our cultural heritage; it is also an endogenous and sustainable economic practice that helps improve the quality of life for Cusco residents.

Tips for your experience

• Keep an open mind to new culinary experiences
• Try it with chicha de jora, the traditional Andean drink
• Visit local restaurants in Tipón or Saylla for a more authentic experience
• Appreciate the preparation process and the family tradition behind the dish

The roasted guinea pig in Cusco is not just a meal; it’s a window into Andean culture that will allow you to connect with the millennia-old traditions of the Andes while supporting the local economy and preserving a unique culinary heritage in the world.