Welcome to Cusco

To make the most of your time in this wonderful city, you should try to visit as many of the sites as possible. This way, you’ll leave with a great knowledge of the history and some lovely memories. Below you’ll find all the one day tours.

To help you decide which of the places you want to prioritise, we’ve provided a short description of each.

Cusco Cathedral

Sat overlooking the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) of Cusco, this grand cathedral is a must. It was built between 1560-1654 and is even more beautiful on the inside. Attached to the cathedral is the smaller Triumph Church, which was the first Christian church in Cusco and built around the same time as the cathedral.

Within its walls, the cathedral boasts some incredible artifacts and relics, as well as some expert architecture. It’s an excellent example of the colonial art in the city.

Qoricancha

It is said that Qoricancha was a political and religious centre during the Inca times. It was possibly the most important building at the time. Its name means Temple of the Sun, or Golden Temple, because its walls were covered in gold.

If you take a trip to the Santo Domingo Convent and Qoricancha you’ll find a detailed museum, original Inca structures that show off their amazing architectural skills, as well as the fascinating and beautiful convent. Unfortunately the gold is no more, as during the Spanish invasion it was all taken. However, it’s one of the most visited places in the city and is a great addition to your itinerary.

Tambomachay

Situated 7km from the city centre of Cusco, you’ll find Tambomachay. Experts believe that the site was very important for the worship of water, which is why it’s sometimes known as the ‘Inca Baths’.

You’ll find an interesting complex of canals, walls, and windows. These all show how great the Incas were at architecture and understanding hydraulics. It’s very close to the city of Cusco, so can easily be visited during the morning or afternoon.

Puca Pucara

Puca Pucara is another Inca site close to Cusco that was a military construction. The fort is made up of large walls, terraces, and steps. It was part of the defensive buildings that protected the city from invasion.

Puca Pucara in Quechua means ‘Red Fort’. It got this name due to the red color the rocks took on during sunset. As well as being a military centre, it was used for administration.

Ollantaytambo

This archaeological site was a former administrative centre as well as an entrance to the Antisuyo corner of the Inca Empire. It sits in the north of the Sacred Valley. During the Spanish invasion, it was the last stronghold for the Inca leader at the time.

The town itself is quaint and home to the train station from where many tourists set off to go to Machu Picchu. The ruins sit up high overlooking the main square of the small town.

Pisaq

Pisaq is another site in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. As well as the inca ruins there, you’ll find a large market 3 times a week on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. This attracts many tourists from all around.

The terraces constructed by the Incas above the town are still used today. The archaeological site served at least three purposes in its day. These were military, religious, and agriculture.

Maras Moray

These are two sites about an hour out of Cusco. They are often visited together as they are very close to each other. Maras is fascinating as they are salt mines that are still in use today and have been around since the time of the Incas. They make for an incredible sight when you look out over them.

Moray was likely used for farming in the time of the Incas, but it’s unclear. The site itself is very unique, and almost looks as though something extra-terrestrial created it. It’s a view you shouldn’t miss when in Cusco.

Cusco is a city in Peru that is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. Its high altitude makes it one of the highest cities in the world and can affect visitors who are not accustomed to high altitudes. It is important for travelers to acclimatize slowly and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.

Cusco, also spelled Cuzco, is a city in southeastern Peru, located in the Andes mountain range. It was the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a popular tourist destination known for its history, architecture, and proximity to Machu Picchu. The city is home to many well-preserved examples of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture, and its historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to Machu Picchu, other popular attractions in and around Cusco include the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the Rainbow Mountain.

The easiest way to get to Cusco, Peru is by flying into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which is located about 6 kilometers (4 miles) from the city center. Many airlines offer flights to Cusco from major cities in Peru and other countries in South America.

Alternatively, you can travel to Cusco by bus or train. There are bus services from major cities in Peru, as well as neighboring countries such as Bolivia and Chile. The train is a popular option for travelers who want to enjoy the scenic journey to Cusco from cities such as Lima and Arequipa.

Once you arrive in Cusco, there are taxis and buses available to take you to your hotel or other destinations within the city. It is also possible to walk to many attractions in the historic city center.

Cusco has a subtropical highland climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from April to October and a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, the weather is generally mild with warm and sunny days, cool nights, and low humidity. Daytime temperatures usually range from 18 to 20°C (64 to 68°F) while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F).

During the rainy season, there is a higher chance of rain and the weather can be more unpredictable. It is not uncommon to experience sunny mornings followed by rainy afternoons. The rain can cause disruptions to travel plans, and hiking trails to Machu Picchu may be closed temporarily due to landslides or flooding. Daytime temperatures during the rainy season usually range from 16 to 18°C (61 to 64°F) while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 6°C (43°F).

Overall, Cusco has a moderate climate with temperatures that can vary widely depending on the time of year and the altitude of the area you are visiting.

Cusco, Peru is a popular tourist destination known for its history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top things to do in Cusco:

Visit Machu Picchu

This iconic Incan citadel is one of the most famous landmarks in Peru and a must-visit destination for any traveler to Cusco.

Explore the historic city center

The city center of Cusco is filled with colonial-era architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and picturesque plazas.

Visit the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman

These impressive ruins are located on a hill above Cusco and offer panoramic views of the city below.

Hike to Rainbow Mountain

This stunning mountain is known for its unique coloration and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas

This picturesque valley is located outside of Cusco and is home to many Inca ruins, traditional markets, and small towns.

Take a cooking class

Cusco is known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn more about Peruvian food and culture.

Visit Machu Picchu

There are many museums and cultural centers in Cusco where you can learn more about the fascinating history and culture of the Inca Empire.

Attend a traditional festival

Cusco is home to many festivals throughout the year, including Inti Raymi, a celebration of the Inca sun god, and Corpus Christi, a colorful religious procession.

There are several walks that can take you to Machu Picchu, including:

Inca Trail

This is the most famous route to Machu Picchu and takes 4 days to complete. The trek covers a distance of 43 kilometers and offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains, Inca ruins, and lush cloud forests

Salkantay Trek

This is an alternative trek to Machu Picchu that takes you through the Salkantay Mountain range. The trek takes 5 days to complete and covers a distance of 74 kilometers. This route offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, high-altitude passes, and remote Andean villages.

Lares Trek

This is another alternative trek that takes you through the Lares Valley. The trek takes 4 days to complete and covers a distance of 33 kilometers. This route offers the opportunity to interact with indigenous communities, visit hot springs, and witness stunning mountain landscapes.

Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek

Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain will also take you to Machu Picchu passing through beautiful landscapes and colorful mountains, this circuit is the best seller for travelers who love adventure in the mountains, since you will be away from the large crowds of people, the circuit has elevations maximums of 5200 m and minimum elevations of 4400 m.

Choquequirao Trek

This is a challenging trek that takes you to the ruins of Choquequirao, which are often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. The trek takes 4-5 days to complete and covers a distance of 64 kilometers. This route offers a chance to explore lesser-known Inca ruins and trek through remote Andean landscapes.

Vilcabamba Trek

This is another challenging trek that takes you through the Vilcabamba mountain range. The trek takes 6-7 days to complete and covers a distance of 100 kilometers. This route offers a chance to explore lesser-known Inca ruins and trek through remote Andean landscapes.

It is important to note that all treks to Machu Picchu require a permit, and it is advisable to book well in advance to secure your spot on the trek of your choice.

The official currency of Peru, including Cusco, is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). The Sol is divided into 100 centimos. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 soles, while coins come in denominations of 1, 2, and 5 soles, as well as 10, 20, and 50 centimos.

It is recommended to exchange money at authorized exchange offices, banks, or ATMs, and to avoid exchanging money on the street or with informal currency traders. Many places in Cusco also accept major credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as well, especially for smaller purchases and in more remote areas.

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is generally mild and sunny, making it a great time to explore the city and visit nearby attractions like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

However, keep in mind that the dry season is also the high tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and tours. If you prefer to travel during a quieter time, consider visiting during the shoulder season, which runs from March to April and from October to November.

The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and while it can be more challenging to travel during this time due to the possibility of heavy rain and landslides, it can also be a beautiful time to visit. The landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists around. Just be aware that some hiking trails may be closed due to the rain, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time if you plan on hiking.

Overall, the best time to visit Cusco depends on your preferences, but the dry season is generally considered the most favorable time to visit due to the mild weather conditions.

Cusco has a diverse culinary scene that offers a wide range of traditional and modern dishes influenced by Inca and Spanish cuisine. Some popular dishes in Cusco include:

Ceviche

a dish made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.

Lomo Saltado

a stir-fry dish made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices, often served with rice and French fries.

Ají de Gallina

a creamy chicken stew made with yellow chili peppers, bread, and milk.

Papa a la Huancaína

boiled potatoes served with a spicy sauce made with yellow chili peppers, cheese, and milk.

Rocoto Relleno

a spicy dish made with stuffed bell peppers, usually filled with beef or pork and served with potatoes.

Anticuchos

skewered beef heart marinated in spices and grilled, often served with potatoes and corn.

Chupe de Camarones

a shrimp soup made with potatoes, milk, cheese, and spices.

Cusco also has many street food options, such as empanadas, churros, and tamales, as well as traditional drinks like chicha morada (made from purple corn) and mate de coca (coca leaf tea). Overall, the food in Cusco offers a unique blend of flavors and ingredients that reflect the city’s rich cultural history.

Cusco is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any city, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while in Cusco:

1. Be cautious of pickpockets and keep valuables hidden or locked up.
2. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
3. Stay in well-lit areas and use official taxis or ride-sharing services when traveling at night.
4. Be careful when withdrawing cash from ATMs, especially at night.
5. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers, as there have been reports of drink spiking in the city.
6. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s best to move away from the situation.
7. Stay up-to-date on local news and travel advisories.

Overall, by taking basic safety precautions and using common sense, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit to Cusco.

Cusco is known for its vibrant cultural events and festivals, many of which are rooted in the city’s rich history and traditions. Here are some of the most popular cultural events and festivals in Cusco:

Inti Raymi

This is the Festival of the Sun and is held on June 24th. It was an important Inca festival that celebrated the winter solstice, and today it includes a reenactment of the ancient ceremony at the ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

Corpus Christi

This is a Catholic festival that takes place 60 days after Easter Sunday. It involves a large procession through the city, with ornate floats and costumes.

Qoyllur Rit’i

This is a traditional Andean pilgrimage that takes place in May or June in the nearby Sinakara Valley. It involves a hike up a mountain to a shrine, where locals gather to worship and celebrate.

Cusco Jazz Festival

This is a relatively new festival that takes place in October and features jazz musicians from Peru and around the world.

Cusco Folk Festival

This is a festival that celebrates Andean folk music and dance. It takes place in August and includes performances by musicians and dancers from all over Peru.

Cusco Film Festival

This is a film festival that takes place in November and showcases films from Peru and around the world.

These events offer a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and traditions, and are definitely worth experiencing if you have the opportunity.