Things To Do
in Cusco
Cusco, Peru is a vibrant city located in the Andes Mountains, once the capital of the Inca Empire. It is known for its well-preserved Incan architecture, including the impressive stone walls of Sacsayhuamán. Cusco is a popular destination for tourists due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to the famous Machu Picchu.
Visitors can explore the city's charming cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and historic landmarks.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the incredible Pisac Market, where you can browse local handicrafts and fresh produce. Afterward, hike up to the Pisac ruins for stunning views of the valley.
In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba. Then, head to Ollantaytambo to explore its ancient Inca architecture and terraced hills.
Finish off your day with a relaxing dinner in Ollantaytambo, trying local dishes such as cuy. Stroll through the charming streets before heading back to Cusco.
Begin at the iconic Plaza de Armas, visiting the Cathedral of Cusco and the Church of La Compañía. Take a moment to appreciate the colonial architecture that reflects the city's rich history.
Visit the Qorikancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, and learn about its significance. Spend the afternoon wandering the San Blas district, known for its artisan shops.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Peruvian cuisine. Take a leisurely evening stroll through the vibrantly lit streets of Cusco.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including Incan ruins and colonial architecture.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Andes mountains and Sacred Valley.
- Vibrant local markets and cuisine, offering unique Peruvian dishes and ingredients.
- Gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
- Diverse recreational activities, including trekking, cycling, and cultural tours.
- High altitude (over 11,000 feet), which can cause altitude sickness for some visitors.
- Tourist crowds, especially during the peak season, can detract from the experience.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in other major cities, leading to possible inconveniences.
- Some areas can be more expensive for tourists compared to other parts of Peru.
- Seasonal weather variations can lead to rain in certain months, affecting travel plans.
Best Activities in Cusco
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the various hiking trails in the Cusco region, including the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Enjoy the thrill of mountain biking through the stunning landscapes and mountainous terrain around Cusco.
Experience the adrenaline of white water rafting on the Urubamba River, with options for different skill levels.
Try your hand at rock climbing in the sacred valley and surrounding areas, with options for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Embark on guided tours to explore the rich history and culture of Cusco, including visits to historic sites and local communities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cusco with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cusco
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient Inca fortress with panoramic views of Cusco.
Incan temple ruins with a beautiful garden and great view of the city.
Church with a terrace offering stunning views of Cusco.
Scenic viewpoint with a picturesque view of the city and surrounding mountains.
Food in Cusco
Cusco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try Peruvian dish featuring fresh raw fish, cured in citrus juices, and often accompanied by onions, corn, and sweet potato. Try it at Cevicherias like Punto Azul and Marcelo Batata.
Must-Try!
A popular stir-fry dish that combines marinated strips of beef with onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables, served with rice and often French fries. Look for authentic Lomo Saltado at Chicha por Gastón Acurio.
Tender and flavorful skewered meats, traditionally made with marinated beef heart, grilled to perfection. Street food vendors along Tullumayo Avenue offer delicious Anticuchos.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cusco better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The largest market in Cusco, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local dishes, and street food. Sample empanadas, tamales, and other traditional snacks here.
The main square in Cusco where you'll find numerous street food vendors selling everything from tamales and anticuchos to refreshing fruit juices and chicha morada (purple corn drink).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cusco, it is important to respect Pachamama, the Andean earth mother. This involves showing reverence for nature, the land, and the environment.
When meeting someone in Cusco, it is customary to greet them with a handshake and maintain eye contact. This is a sign of respect and acknowledgment.
Cusco is home to many historic and sacred sites such as Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha. It is important to show respect when visiting these places, including following any specific cultural guidelines or rules.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cusco with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cusco
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cusco, Peru, tipping is customary and expected in the service industry. A typical tip is 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tour guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff also appreciate small tips for good service.
In Cusco, Peru, cash is widely used for most transactions, especially in local markets and small businesses. However, many restaurants, hotels, and larger shops accept credit cards, especially in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry both cash and cards for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cusco.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cusco with clear skies, sunny days, and lower chance of rain. Perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city and nearby attractions.
Expect frequent rain showers and higher humidity during this season. However, Cusco's landscapes become lush and green, and it's a good time to visit if you're interested in seeing the region's agricultural terraces and waterfalls at their peak.
Cusco at Night
Hiking in Cusco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous trekking route leading to Machu Picchu, offering stunning views of the Andes and ancient ruins.
A picturesque valley with numerous hiking trails, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
A challenging trek that takes you through diverse ecosystems and leads to the impressive Salkantay Mountain.
A high-altitude trek that circles the Ausangate Mountain, with colorful lagoons and rugged terrain.
A culturally rich trek that connects local communities and hot springs with beautiful mountain scenery.
A short hike to an archaeological site featuring rock formations and ceremonial spaces, located near Cusco.
A hike that leads you through the impressive ruins of Pisaq, with stunning views of the Sacred Valley below.
A popular day hike that rewards trekkers with views of the turquoise lake and the surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cusco through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cusco by plane.
The main airport serving Cusco, Peru, located just a few kilometers from the city center.
Located in Lima, it is the largest and busiest airport in Peru, approximately 1,200 kilometers from Cusco.
Located in Arequipa, about 500 kilometers from Cusco, serves domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Juliaca, approximately 400 kilometers from Cusco, serves regional and some international flights.
Located in Jauja, about 300 kilometers from Cusco, primarily serves domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Cusco, Mestizos are individuals of mixed Indigenous and European descent and constitute a significant portion of the population.
A prominent demographic group in the region, including various communities like the Quechua and Aymara, maintaining traditional customs and languages.
Representing a smaller portion of the population, Europeans in Cusco mainly consist of descendants of Spanish colonizers and other European settlers.
A minority group in Cusco, Afro-Peruvians have roots in the descendants of enslaved Africans brought to Peru.
This group includes people of Chinese, Japanese, and other Asian descents, making up a small part of the demographic landscape.
The Soul of Cusco
Discover the essence of Cusco through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Cusco, with many local teams and a strong following during national championships.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and communities, often regarded as a sport that unites the community.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Cusco, especially among the youth, with many local courts available for play.
Though less common, American football has a niche following among enthusiasts in Cusco.
Traditional sports, such as 'Takanakuy,' a local fist-fighting competition, are celebrated during festivals.
Given the diverse terrain of Cusco, mountain biking is popular among adventure seekers exploring the region's landscapes.
Athletics, especially track and field events, are promoted through schools and local clubs in Cusco.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cusco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cusco's cosmopolitan dining scene includes numerous restaurants and cafes catering to vegetarians and vegans. Look for options such as quinoa-stuffed avocado, vegetable-based stir-fries, and scrumptious vegan desserts.
While traditional Peruvian cuisine heavily features grains, many modern eateries in Cusco offer gluten-free alternatives. Dishes like ceviche, quinoa salads, and grilled meats can often be enjoyed without gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cusco with these cultural adventures.
