Surquillo Market No. 1
Lima, Peru · Food
About Surquillo Market No. 1
Mercado No. 1 de Surquillo is one of Lima's most iconic traditional market halls, located just steps away from the trendy Miraflores district. It gained international fame after being highlighted by celebrity chefs as an essential pantry for authentic Peruvian gastronomy. Visitors flock here to experience a buzzing sensory showcase of exotic fruits, Andean grains, and ultra-fresh coastal ceviche.
Don't miss
- Eat freshly prepared coastal ceviche and leche de tigre at the bustling seafood counter stalls.
- Sample exotic native fruits like cherimoya, granadilla, and camu camu sliced fresh by vendor stands.
- Explore stalls stacked high with Amazonian cecina, jungle chilies, and hundreds of varieties of native potatoes.
- Order a custom-blended tropical fruit smoothie at one of the lively juice bars.
- 1-2 hours
- best_time
Plan your visit
Visit in the morning between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM for the freshest seafood and active market energy. Morning is also the best time to beat the heavy afternoon lunch rush.
Admission to the market is free, with no tickets or reservations required. You only pay for the food, drinks, and ingredients you purchase directly from vendors.
From Miraflores, it is an easy 10-minute walk northeast from Kennedy Park across the pedestrian overpass above Vía Expresa. If traveling from Historic Central Lima, take the Metropolitano bus south to Ricardo Palma Station, which is just two blocks from the entrance.
Tips for visiting
- Bring small denominations of Peruvian Soles in cash, as most vendors cannot make change for large bills or accept cards.
- Keep your bags secure and remain aware of your surroundings, especially in narrow, crowded aisles.
- Do not hesitate to ask fruit vendors for a taste, as they are often happy to let you try unfamiliar produce.
- Arrive with an empty stomach so you can graze across multiple stalls rather than committing to one large meal.
- Stick to cooked foods, freshly peeled fruits, and reputable ceviche stalls with high local turnover for food safety.
Surquillo Market No. 1 FAQ
Is Mercado Surquillo No. 1 safe for tourists?
Yes, the market is widely visited by international travelers and organized culinary tours during daytime hours. You should still take standard precautions by keeping valuables out of sight and staying within the main market avenues.
Are there vegan and vegetarian options available?
Yes, the market has an abundance of fresh fruit stands, fresh juice counters, nuts, and produce vendors. You can easily find plant-based options like custom juices, sliced fruit platters, and avocado sandwiches.
Can I pay with credit cards at the market?
Most stalls operate strictly on cash or local mobile transfer apps, so cards are rarely accepted. It is best to withdraw local cash from an ATM before heading inside.
How does this market compare to Surquillo Market No. 2?
Mercado No. 1 is significantly closer to tourist hubs like Miraflores and is much more oriented toward diverse gastronomy and seafood dining. Mercado No. 2 is located deeper in the district and mainly serves local neighborhood domestic needs.
More things to do in Lima
Historic Centre and Plaza Mayor Landmark
Wander past Spanish colonial architecture, the Government Palace, and the intricate catacombs beneath the San Francisco Monastery.
Larco Museum (Museo Larco) Museum
Admire thousands of years of pre-Columbian ceramics, gold treasures, and an exceptional garden cafe in an 18th-century mansion.
Malecón de Miraflores Nature
Walk or bike along six miles of coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, passing through Parque del Amor.
Barranco Bohemian District Neighborhood
Stroll across the Bridge of Sighs, discover vibrant street art murals, and relax in trendy cafes and cocktail bars.
Huaca Pucllana Landmark
Explore an adobe pyramid constructed by the Lima culture around 500 AD, right in the center of modern Miraflores.
Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua) Activity
Watch colorful fountain displays set to music and laser projections in the expansive Parque de la Reserva.
Costa Verde Paragliding Activity
Launch from the cliffs of Miraflores for a tandem flight with panoramic views of the city skyline and ocean waves.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: rdlncl, TimurKu on Pixabay.