When visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll not only be able to enjoy the beauty of the Inca citadel and its landscapes, but also learn about an important part of the local culture through its traditional drinks. These beverages are not only pleasant to the taste but also reflect the customs and lifestyle of the Andean people.
Here at Machu Picchu Wayna, you’ll discover the most representative drinks of the area, the best places to try them, and how to fully enjoy them during your visit.
Traditional Flavors on Your Trip to Machu Picchu
The Cultural Importance of Typical Drinks
In Machu Picchu, traditional drinks are closely tied to the local culture and history. Coca mate, used by the Incas to adapt to high altitudes, and chicha de jora, a fermented drink with great significance, offer a connection to the past. In addition to being comforting, these beverages reflect part of the Incan heritage.
What to Expect When Tasting Local Drinks
Exploring traditional drinks is a culinary adventure that combines flavor, tradition, and health benefits. Some have medicinal properties, such as muña mate, while others, like chicha de jora, connect you with ancient ritual celebrations. Tasting these drinks will allow you to immerse yourself even further in Andean culture.
The Most Popular Drinks in Machu Picchu
Coca Mate: Benefits and Ancestral Tradition
Coca mate is perhaps the most iconic drink of the Andes. Made with coca leaves, this infusion is known for relieving the symptoms of altitude sickness and providing energy during long walks. It’s great to enjoy before exploring the Inca citadel or in Aguas Calientes, especially after an exhausting day.
Chicha de Jora: The Fermented Drink of the Incas
Chicha de jora is a fermented corn drink dating back to Inca times. It was used in religious ceremonies and remains a symbol of hospitality in the region. With a slightly sour and refreshing taste, this drink can be found in local markets and restaurants.
Muña Mate: Freshness and Medicinal Properties
Muña is an aromatic plant from the Andes known for its digestive properties and its ability to relieve stomach discomfort. Muña water, prepared as an infusion, is perfect for relaxing after meals and is an excellent alternative to coca mate.
Andean Herb Infusions: Natural Relaxation
Infusions made with local herbs, such as Andean chamomile or toronjil (lemon balm), are a popular choice for those seeking a calming experience. These drinks are offered at most accommodations and restaurants and are perfect for enjoying while taking in the Andean landscape.
Where to Enjoy Traditional Drinks in Machu Picchu
Local Restaurants and Cafes
In Aguas Calientes, the town that serves as the base for visiting Machu Picchu, you will find numerous cafes and restaurants offering traditional drinks, such as:
- Indio Feliz Bistro: A restaurant offering a blend of Peruvian and French flavors, known for its coca mate and chicha de jora.
- Café Inkaterra: Located at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, this café offers a gastronomic experience that includes Andean herb infusions.
- Mapacho Craft Beer & Peruvian Cuisine: A place that combines Peruvian cuisine with craft beers, ideal for trying Cusqueña beer and the Pisco Sour.
Markets and Small Businesses in Aguas Calientes
The Central Market of Aguas Calientes is an ideal place to discover and taste traditional drinks at reasonable prices. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn more about how these drinks are prepared.
Options During Excursions to Machu Picchu
Some guided tours include strategic stops where you can try coca mate or herbal infusions while enjoying panoramic views. These drinks are offered as part of the experience to help you acclimate.
Tips for Enjoying Typical Drinks
- Try chicha de jora in moderation: This fermented drink has a unique flavor, but it contains alcohol, so enjoy it at a relaxed pace.
- Enjoy coca mate to adapt to the altitude: If you’re not used to high altitudes, coca mate can help alleviate the effects of altitude sickness.
- Ask for local drinks: In many restaurants or markets, locals may offer you lesser-known but equally delicious beverages. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
- Pair them with traditional food: Many of these drinks are perfect accompaniments to traditional dishes of the region, which will enhance your experience even more.
- Take it slow and steady: Some drinks, like Pisco Sour, are best enjoyed when you take the time to savor and appreciate their ingredients.
- Engage with locals: Take the opportunity to ask about the preparation process of the drinks, as each one has a story or tradition behind it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traditional Drinks
Is it safe to consume coca mate during the visit?
Yes, it is safe to consume coca mate. Coca mate is traditionally used in the Andean region to help adapt to high altitudes and relieve the symptoms of altitude sickness. However, it is important to consume it in moderation and remember that, although it contains small traces of alkaloids, it does not have the same effects as cocaine.
Where can I try chicha de jora in Aguas Calientes?
You can try chicha de jora in several places in Aguas Calientes, such as the central market, where many local stalls sell it fresh. You can also find it in restaurants like Indio Feliz Bistro and Chullpi Machu Picchu Restaurante, which include this traditional drink on their menu.
What are the medicinal properties of muña mate?
Muña mate, an infusion made from the Andean plant Minthostachys mollis, has several medicinal properties. It is known for its digestive effects, as it helps alleviate issues such as indigestion, colic, and gas. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good remedy for relieving muscle and joint pain.
