CUSCO, PERU. The Mercado Central in Cusco is situated only a few streets away from the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square. Inside a giant warehouse, its wooden food stalls stretch for several blocks. The market opens its doors as soon as as the sunrises and does not stop until 5:30 in the afternoon.

In the early morning, a typical Cusqueña breakfast consisting of rice, potatoes and beef, is served. During the day, giant bags of coca leaves appear next to bowls of frogs ready to be eaten, llama meat and delicious fried guinea pig, everything for only a few soles. The narrow paths in between the stalls are flooded with traditionally-clad locals and fascinated tourists until closing time. Colours can be seen everywhere and the air is infused by the most intriguing mix of food odors.