If you are planning a trip to Peru, you should know that this country boasts a renowned and incredible gastronomy, which is deeply rooted in the cultural identity of its people.
Tasting non-alcoholic Peruvian drinks is a unique experience that every traveler should try. That’s why, together with Machu Travel Peru, we’ll explore a variety of drinks, where your palate will encounter flavors, stories, and local ingredients that will turn your trip into an unforgettable experience.
Best 12 traditional Peruvian non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy
- Chicha morada
- Chicha de jora
- Frutillada
- Emoliente
- Coca Tea
- Inca kola
- Cocona Juice
- Camu Camu
- Maracuya
- Kañihua punch
- Bean punch
- Aguajina
Chicha Morada
Chicha Morada is one of the most famous drinks in Peru, especially in its rural areas. Its main component is purple corn, originally from the Andean countries, which has a unique and refreshing flavor.
This drink has many health benefits. It has a great antioxidant capacity, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, and is even anti-inflammatory. In addition, it is one of the main beverages that accompany Peruvian food. Since its pre-Hispanic origin, this drink is part of the local culture, thus constituting an important pillar within the Peruvian gastronomic identity.
Chicha de Jora
Unlike Chicha Morada, chicha de Jora is a fermented drink. This is also a fairly old drink that dates back to Inca times. Its preparation and ingredients change based on where it is made.
However, it is mostly made from malted corn or Jora. Its flavor is slightly acidic and is often used to prepare traditional dishes. Among the many tours in Peru, you can try this incredible traditional drink in places like Cajamarca or Lambayeque.
Frutillada
Another of the many traditional Peruvian non-alcoholic drinks that you can find in Peru. Frutillada is considered a type of chicha, but made with wild strawberries. One of the conditions to prepare this delicious drink is that the strawberries have to be pink. But many times it is supplemented with beet juice to give it a stronger hue.
This incredible drink is very popular in areas like Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It is quite old and was served before the Inca empire itself.
Emoliente
Normally, a very popular drink in the wintertime times through the streets of Lima and other provinces. In the same way that chicha and other Peruvian drinks, this one has numerous health benefits. Its preparation depends a lot on the area since some herbs are used in Lima and others in Cusco.
In the same way, its general composition does not change, and it has barley, aloe, alfalfa, and many other herbs. Like the other traditional Peruvian non-alcoholic drinks, this is an ancient drink. Final fact: perfect for cold times.
Coca Tea
Those who could enjoy the varied tourism in Peru know that one of the main drinks that they receive at hotels and lodgings is the Coca tea. This drink is made from coca plants and is usually served in Cusco and its surroundings to alleviate altitude sickness.
Its flavor is very similar to green tea. It also has a symbolic value, as it acts as a natural energizer. So if you have routes of trekking in this country, coca tea will be your best ally in the mountains.
Inca Kola
This is one of the most famous traditional Peruvian non-alcoholic drinks in all of Peru. It is not the healthiest of all, but this soft drink is one of the most chosen by Peruvians.
This yellowish drink has a very particular flavor; some say that it is too similar to that of chewing gum. Even so, this soft drink has been around since 1910, and has a long history within the country. Although it is not usually everyone’s favorite drink, those who choose it usually accompany it with a portion of classic Peruvian food.
Cocona Juice
Cocona is an Amazonian fresh fruit with a tangy, slightly sour taste. To make its juice, the pulp is blended with water and sugar, and in some regions, a dash of spicy “ají charapita” is added.
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, cocona juice is not only delicious but also aids digestion. It’s especially popular in Peru’s jungle regions, where it serves as a refreshing, exotic beverage that showcases the Amazon’s biodiversity.
Camu Camu
Camu camu is a tiny Amazonian fruit packed with more vitamin C than any other known fruit. Its juice is made by blending the tart pulp with water and sugar. The result is a highly acidic yet invigorating drink, perfect for hot days or for boosting your immune system.
Known for its antioxidant power, camu camu juice is gaining popularity not only in Peru but around the world as a superfruit beverage with unique health benefits.
Maracuya
Passion fruit juice, known as maracuya in Peru, is beloved for its intense aroma and tropical flavors. It’s made by blending the pulpy seed with water and sugar, sometimes with crushed ice for an extra refreshing touch.
Rich in vitamins A and C, it’s great for hydration and digestion. Its sweet-sour balance makes it perfect with meals or as a standalone drink. Grown in various Peruvian regions, this juice is a true tropical treat.
Kañihua punch
Kañihua punch is a traditional Andean beverage made from the nutritious grain Kañihua. Cook the grain with water, milk, cinnamon, clove, and sugar until you reach a creamy texture.
Often served hot, especially on cold mornings in the highlands, this punch is full of protein, iron, and fiber. It’s both comforting and energizing. This makes it a great breakfast drink that keeps the ancient cooking traditions of the Andes alive.
Bean punch
Bean punch, or ponche de habas, is a nutritious and hearty drink from the Peruvian highlands. It’s made by boiling dried beans with cinnamon and cloves, then blending them into a smooth, creamy beverage, sometimes enriched with milk and sweetened to taste. Served hot, it’s a common breakfast item packed with protein and minerals.
This punch provides long-lasting energy and warmth, especially in the cooler regions of Peru.
Aguajina
Aguajina is a traditional Amazonian drink made from aguaje, a nutrient-rich fruit high in phytoestrogens and vitamin A. To prepare it, the fruit pulp is soaked in water, strained, sweetened, and served cold.
Its flavor is slightly tart, earthy, and very refreshing. Besides its unique taste, it’s valued for supporting skin health and hormone balance. Aguajina is more than a drink; it’s a cultural symbol of the Amazon and its natural wealth.
“I AM NOT THE SAME, HAVING SEEN THE MOON ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD”
There are many things to do in Peru, but we consider a stop to enjoy non-alcoholic Peruvian drinks a must. Indulge in the different flavors and blends of native products from the Andean country on your next adventure
Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact Us today to plan your dream adventure!
