Where to Buy Coca Leaves and Coca Tea in Cusco

Coca leaves have been an essential part of Andean culture and history for thousands of years. Many travelers visiting Cusco want to try coca tea to help them adjust to the high altitude or buy coca leaves as a unique souvenir. However, questions often arise: Where can you buy them? Is it legal? Can you take them on a plane?

Here’s everything you need to know before making your purchase.

Is It Legal to Buy Coca Leaves in Cusco?

Yes.

In Peru, the sale of coca leaves for traditional and medicinal purposes is legal under national regulations. In Cusco, you can easily find coca leaves in local markets, some natural product stores, and authorized shops.

However, this does not mean you can freely take them out of the country, as many nations prohibit the import of coca leaves under their customs regulations.

Where to Buy Coca Leaves in Cusco

1. San Pedro Market ⭐ (Best Option)

San Pedro Market is the most popular place for both locals and tourists.

Here you’ll find:

Selected coca leaves
Coca tea bags
Coca candies
Traditional coca sweets
Coca flour
Coca cookies

Prices are usually lower than in tourist shops, making it one of the best places to buy authentic products.

2. Natural Product Stores

Throughout Cusco’s Historic Center, you’ll find specialty stores selling:

Coca tea
Organic coca infusions
Traditional Andean herbal teas
Certified natural products

Many of these products come in attractive packaging, making them ideal souvenirs.

3. Souvenir Shops

Many souvenir stores located near:

Plaza de Armas
Triunfo Street
Procuradores Street
El Sol Avenue

sell beautifully packaged boxes of coca tea designed specifically for tourists.

Although prices are generally higher, the presentation is ideal for gifts.

4. Supermarkets

Some supermarkets, including Plaza Vea, Orion Supermarkets, and other local grocery stores, may sell:

Coca tea
Andean herbal infusions
Packaged coca-based products

Fresh coca leaves, however, are not always available.

How Much Do They Cost?

Prices vary depending on the season and where you shop, but as a general guide:

Small bags of coca leaves: S/ 3 to S/ 10
Box of coca tea: S/ 8 to S/ 20
Coca candies: S/ 5 to S/ 15

Premium or export-quality products may cost more.

What Is Coca Tea Used For?

Many visitors drink coca tea to help their bodies adjust to Cusco’s high altitude.

Traditionally, it is consumed to:

Support altitude acclimatization
Reduce feelings of fatigue
Ease mild digestive discomfort
Promote general well-being during the first days at high elevations

Important: Although many travelers report positive experiences, coca tea is not a substitute for medical advice and does not guarantee prevention of altitude sickness for everyone.

Can You Take Coca Leaves Out of Peru?

In most cases, it is not recommended.

Many countries classify coca leaves as a restricted or prohibited product, even when intended for traditional or cultural use.

Countries with strict regulations include:

United States
Canada
Australia
Japan
Several European countries

Before traveling, always check your destination country’s customs regulations.

What About Coca Tea?

Even though coca tea is processed and commercially packaged, it may still be restricted in some countries.

Before flying, you should:

Check your country’s official customs website.
Review agricultural and health import regulations.
Avoid carrying coca products if you’re unsure whether they are permitted.

Is It Better to Buy at the Market or in Tourist Shops?

That depends on what you’re looking for.

San Pedro Market

✅ Better prices

✅ Greater variety

✅ Authentic local experience

Tourist Shops

✅ Attractive packaging

✅ Gift-ready products

✅ Labels available in multiple languages

Tips Before Buying

Purchase only from reputable stores.
Check that products are fresh and properly packaged.
Verify the expiration date on boxed coca tea.
Avoid buying coca leaves stored in poor conditions.
Always review your destination country’s customs regulations before traveling with coca products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all hotels offer coca tea?

Many hotels in Cusco provide complimentary coca tea in their lobby or dining area to help guests adjust to the altitude. However, this service is not mandatory and may vary depending on the hotel.

Does coca tea help with altitude sickness?

Many travelers drink coca tea during their first days in Cusco as part of a traditional local practice. However, its effects vary from person to person, and it should not replace medical advice or other recommended measures for preventing altitude sickness.

Is it legal to consume coca leaves in Cusco?

Yes. Traditional consumption of coca leaves and coca tea is legal in Peru and is an important part of Andean culture.

Can I take coca leaves on an airplane?

Generally, there is no issue on domestic flights within Peru. However, for international flights, you must check the regulations of your destination country, as many customs authorities restrict or prohibit the import of coca products.

Final Thoughts

Buying coca leaves or coca tea in Cusco is a unique opportunity to experience one of the oldest traditions of the Andes. If you’re looking for authentic products, San Pedro Market and specialty stores in Cusco’s Historic Center are excellent options.

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