Cusco Complete Guide for Travelers Updated
Cusco sits at an impressive 11,152 feet above sea level. This altitude can be a challenge for many travelers, especially those coming from lower elevations. It’s important to give your body time to adjust to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Consider spending your first day taking it easy, drinking plenty of water, and perhaps trying the local remedy: coca tea.
- Hydration: Drinking lots of water is critical. Staying hydrated helps your body acclimate to high altitude more efficiently. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle to encourage frequent sipping.
- Rest: Taking it slow is vital during your first 24-48 hours in Cusco. Avoid strenuous activities, and ensure you get ample sleep to help your body adapt.
- Coca Leaves: Locals often recommend chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea as a natural remedy. It’s a traditional practice believed to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Common Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Recognizing these early can prevent more severe issues.
- When to Seek Help: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking medical advice. Severe altitude sickness can be serious and requires professional attention.
- Preventative Measures: Over-the-counter medications like acetazolamide can help prevent symptoms. Consult with a healthcare professional before your trip to discuss options.
- Strenuous Hikes: Avoid long hikes or physically demanding activities until you’re acclimated. Opt for gentle walks around the city instead.
- Alcohol Consumption: Steer clear of alcohol during your first few days as it can exacerbate dehydration and altitude symptoms.
- High-Energy Excursions: Postpone activities like cycling or mountain climbing, which can strain your body at high altitudes.
Cusco is a city rich in traditions and customs.
Understanding and respecting these can enhance your experience and help you connect with the local culture.
- Greetings: A simple “hola” is friendly and appreciated. In more formal settings, a handshake is common. For closer relationships, a cheek kiss is customary.
- Dress Modestly: While casual attire is fine, especially for tourists, it’s respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Women should consider a scarf or shawl for coverage.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas. Some locals may expect a small tip in exchange for taking their picture.
- Festivals: Cusco is known for its vibrant festivals. Participating in or observing these can offer deep insights into local culture and traditions.
- Language: While Spanish is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases in Quechua, the native language, can be appreciated by locals.
- Market Practices: Haggling is common in local markets. Engage politely and with humor, respecting the craft and labor that go into goods.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Consider dedicating some time to volunteer with local organizations. This can provide a deeper connection and understanding of the community.
- Cultural Tours: Opt for tours led by local guides for an authentic experience. They can offer unique insights into Cusco’s culture and history.
- Support Local Artisans: Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans to support the local economy. Handcrafted goods often carry stories and heritage.
Cusco offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences.
Here’s a quick guide to the main areas where you might consider staying:
The heart of Cusco, this area is perfect for those who want to be close to major attractions like the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Here, you’ll find a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget hostels.
- Luxury Hotels: For those seeking comfort and elegance, the historic center houses some of the city’s finest hotels. Expect exceptional service and stunning architecture.
- Budget Hostels: Backpackers and budget travelers will find numerous hostels offering affordable rates. Many include communal areas, ideal for meeting fellow travelers.
- Cultural Immersion: Staying in the historic center allows you to immerse yourself in Cusco’s vibrant history and culture. Explore museums and historic sites just steps away.
Known for its bohemian vibe, San Blas is an artsy neighborhood filled with galleries, cafes, and artisan shops.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere.
- Artisan Boutiques: Explore unique shops offering handcrafted goods from local artisans. It’s the perfect spot for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
- Cafes and Eateries: Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of cozy cafes and restaurants. San Blas is a haven for foodies and coffee lovers.
- Cultural Events: This neighborhood often hosts art exhibits and cultural events. Check local listings for opportunities to engage with the creative community.
If you prefer a quieter stay with stunning views, consider staying near the Sacsayhuamán ruins.
This area offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city center while still being conveniently located.
- Scenic Accommodations: Many lodgings in this area offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Enjoy tranquility and natural beauty.
- Historical Significance: Proximity to the Sacsayhuamán ruins offers a unique historical perspective. It’s an excellent base for exploring ancient Incan structures.
- Nature Walks: The area is ideal for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely walks with panoramic vistas of the city and mountains.
Cusco is a walkable city, and many of its attractions are located close to one another.
However, there are other options for getting around:
- Buses: Affordable and frequent, but routes can be confusing for newcomers. It’s an economical way to explore the city if you familiarize yourself with key routes.
- Taxis: Widely available, but always agree on a fare before your ride. Consider using reputable taxi services for safety and reliability.
- Colectivos: These shared vans operate on fixed routes and are a budget-friendly option for longer distances. They offer an authentic local experience.
The cobblestone streets and historic architecture make for a charming walk.
- City Tours: Consider joining a walking tour to learn more about Cusco’s history and landmarks. Guided tours provide insightful narratives and hidden gems.
- Self-Guided Exploration: Use maps or mobile apps to navigate the city at your own pace. Discover quaint alleyways and lesser-known attractions.
- Safety Tips: Be cautious when walking at night and stick to well-lit areas. Keep personal belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
- Bike Rentals: Available at several locations, biking can be a fun and efficient way to explore Cusco and its outskirts. Ensure you’re comfortable with the altitude before setting off.
- Bike Tours: Join a guided bike tour to explore more remote areas. Experienced guides can take you on trails offering scenic views and cultural insights.
- Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet and follow local traffic rules. Be mindful of uneven terrain and cobblestone streets.
Cusco’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its culture.
From street food to fine dining, there’s something for every palate and budget.
- Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, a Peruvian classic. Sample variations with different types of fish and spices for a true local flavor.
- Lomo Saltado: A savory stir-fry of beef, tomatoes, and onions. This dish combines traditional Peruvian ingredients with Asian influences.
- Cuy: Guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish for the adventurous eater. Often roasted or grilled, it’s a delicacy worth trying for the full cultural experience.
- Street Food: Discover the flavors of Cusco with local street vendors. Try anticuchos (grilled meat skewers) and tamales for an authentic taste.
- Traditional Restaurants: Experience traditional Andean meals in quaint, family-run establishments. Enjoy hearty soups and stews made from local produce.
- Fine Dining: Cusco boasts several high-end restaurants offering gourmet interpretations of Peruvian cuisine. Perfect for a special night out.
Expect to spend around $30-$50 per day on food, depending on your preferences. Street food is cheap and delicious, while dining in a nice restaurant will cost more.
- Budget Dining: With careful planning, you can enjoy delicious meals on a budget. Opt for set menus at local eateries for affordable full-course meals.
- Mid-Range Options: Many restaurants offer reasonably priced dishes with generous portions. Look for daily specials to maximize value.
- Splurge Meals: For a more luxurious dining experience, set aside a portion of your budget for a high-end restaurant. Enjoy expertly crafted dishes with local ingredients.
Cusco’s peak tourist season is from June to August, coinciding with the dry season.
However, visiting during the shoulder months (April, May, September, October) can offer a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
- Dry Season (May-September): Sunny days and cool nights, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Pack layers to adjust to varying temperatures throughout the day.
- Rainy Season (November-March): Warmer but with frequent rain showers. Be prepared for muddy trails if you’re planning to trek.
- Seasonal Variations: Each season brings its unique charm. Consider what type of experience you desire when planning your visit.
- Inti Raymi: Held in June, this is one of Cusco’s largest festivals. Witness vibrant processions and traditional ceremonies celebrating the Inca sun god.
- Corpus Christi: This festival in May/June features elaborate parades and religious observances. It’s a spectacular display of local devotion and artistry.
- Christmas & New Year: Experience Cusco’s festive spirit with street markets and celebrations. The Plaza de Armas becomes a focal point for gatherings and events.
- Off-Peak Visits: For a quieter experience, visit during off-peak months. Enjoy attractions without the crowds and potentially better rates on accommodations.
- Peak Season Tips: If visiting during peak season, book accommodations and tours well in advance. Early planning ensures availability and choice.
- Shoulder Season Benefits: Enjoy mild weather and fewer tourists. This period offers a perfect blend of pleasant weather and easy access to popular sites.
Cusco is a city that captivates with its history, culture, and natural beauty.
By understanding its altitude, respecting local customs, and planning your stay wisely, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savoring local cuisine, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Cusco promises an adventure like no other.
- Cultural Immersion: Take the time to immerse yourself in the culture. Engage with locals, participate in traditions, and learn from the rich history surrounding you.
- Nature and Exploration: Embrace the natural beauty of the Andes. Hike, explore, and appreciate the stunning landscapes and biodiversity.
- Personal Reflection: Allow Cusco’s unique atmosphere to inspire and guide your reflection on your journey. The city’s blend of history, culture, and beauty offers a space for personal growth.
The ancient capital of the Inca Empire, one of the most beautiful cities in Cusco, is the perfect starting point for visiting Machu Picchu.
Prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Cusco, and enjoy every moment of your journey to this incredible destination. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure or sharing the experience with others, Cusco will leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.
Cusco Complete Guide for Travelers Updated
- This summary covers the best things to do in Cusco, tours and day trips, safety, where to stay, what to bring in your backpack, when to visit, and how to get there.
- Cusco is a city that will captivate you. It is located in the Peruvian Andes at 3,400 meters above sea level.
- Cusco still retains its majesty and the original spirit of the Incas, factors that can not be overlooked.
- When you walk through the streets of Cusco, you will feel that the Inca civilization’s authenticity and heritage are long gone, but we recommend that you delve deeper and discover that there is more to it than just the streets.
- Take your time and get away from the crowds. You will have a great time in Cusco.
- Cusco is characterized by its narrow stone alleys and an abandoned square. You will suddenly understand the city’s rhythm when looking for food at the local market.
- Take the time to appreciate the city’s genuineness despite its tourist reputation.
- The people of Cusco live a simple and traditional life, which we like best here.
- The combination of local life, indigenous people, opportunities to take lots of street photos, beautiful scenery, main tourist attractions, beautiful day trips, and the best things to do makes Cusco the most important destination for travelers worldwide.
Cusco is the starting point for the Machu Picchu tour, including the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek.
To make your stay in Cusco pleasant, we have included this travel guide, which covers everything a first-time traveler should know before visiting.
This guide includes tips on how many days to spend in Cusco, the best time to visit, which hostel or hotel to choose, what to pack, and the best things to see and do in the city.
How many days should I spend in Cusco?
Cusco is a city that every traveler ends up in at least once during their trip to Peru, and it is hard to say how long to stay.
Suppose the motivation to visit Cusco is to reach Machu Picchu. In that case, we recommend staying at least 2 days to acclimatize (although Machu Picchu is at a lower altitude than Cusco, it is possible to suffer from altitude sickness). On these days, you can also visit the Sacred Valley.
You can also stay one day in Cusco and then travel slowly through the Sacred Valley, sleeping in a small village.
From our personal experience, we believe that the longer you can stay in Cusco, the better.
Although many travelers stay longer in Cusco, this shows the city’s rich sights, architecture, and activities.
There are many things to do and see in Cusco, both within and primarily outside the city limits; staying for several weeks is an excellent way to experience the city.
If you have the flexibility of days, you may like to do one—or multi-day Cusco tours (read on to see all these wonders you can experience), and you should get the optimal number of days.
Get to know a little bit of Cusco’s history.
The Cusco area was inhabited by farmers and shepherds more than 3000 years ago, but we know little about this period.
Between 900 and 1200 A.D., the Killke people (pre-Inca people) occupied the place. They built the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, but we call it an Inca ruin since the Incas later rebuilt it.
Many myths surround the arrival of the Inca people, but we know that this era began around 1200 AD.
The Inca Empire generally never developed a written language, but it was an exceptional builder and farmer. The Incas used a unique quipu system.
The Inca Empire prospered for four centuries, but it all ended when the Spanish arrived in 1533 and easily defeated the Incas, who knew neither weapons nor modern tactics.
The few survivors died of the diseases that the Spanish brought from Europe.
The Spaniards destroyed historic buildings in Cusco and built their own over the remains. However, earthquakes destroyed many of the Inca buildings. Although the Spanish buildings were damaged, the Inca structures stood.
Cusco was recognized as a unique architectural and cultural site in modern history and was included on UNESCO’s list.
What to do while in Cusco
Although it may seem that there are few activities in Cusco, you should dedicate at least one day to exploring the town’s narrow streets and discovering the indigenous heart that still beats strongly.
The Historical Center should focus on if you don’t have that much time.
If you dedicate more time to it, you can discover lesser-known places.
We have selected the best things to do in Cusco and tips on day trips from the city.
The Main Square of Cusco
The large square is the city’s architectural and cultural center, with a vast green park and a bronze statue of the most famous Inca ruler, Pachacutec.
On one side, you can see the cathedral of Cusco, a symbol of the Spaniard’s conquest.
This square has several buildings surrounding the court, including shops, restaurants, ice cream parlors, and many travel agencies—an excellent place to spend an afternoon sharing with the locals.
We are sure you will find enough to see in Cusco’s main square during your stay.
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is a great starting point for exploring other, more or less famous, places of interest.
The fortress of Qoricancha
When the Spaniards arrived in Peru, they tried to overthrow the Inca Empire, and one way to do so was to destroy its architecture. This history happened in Cusco and the north of Peru, such as Chan Chan, one of the most important cities.
The Qoricancha, known as the Temple of the Sun, was the most crucial construction in Cusco; it is said the roof was covered with gold. The Spaniards melted down the gold and built their church of Santo Domingo over the remains.
Who can write the name of this enclosure in different ways, both as “Coricancha” and “Qoricancha” (also often written Koricancha or Qoricancha)? The church of Santo Domingo is one building with two separate entrances.
The entrance fee to this tourist site is S/.20 (USD 6.00), while access to the Church of Santo Domingo is S/.10 (USD 3.00)
Even if you are satisfied with seeing this Inca site from the outside, this stop on your Cusco itinerary is worth it.
There is a garden near this place, where you can sit and contemplate the history. We have always liked to imagine what life would have been like before the Spaniards arrived.
The San Pedro Market
This market still maintains its charm, and we consider it one of the cheapest things to do in Cusco. In addition to traditional vendors, many tourists are looking to take souvenirs back to their respective countries.
The San Pedro Market is genuinely unique. Despite its popularity and the city’s size, it still has its soul (and its smell).
Whether you want fresh meat, fruits, or vegetables, purchase an Alpaca wool sweater as a souvenir, or grab a quick bite, the Mercado de San Pedro has it all.
This is the place to be if you like to prepare your food; here, you can find everything from vegetables to rare spices.
You will also be surprised that you can buy perfectly ripe watermelons or tasty grapes in Cusco—and lots and lots of fruit.
The traditional neighborhood of San Blas
From the Plaza de Armas, steep cobblestone streets lead to the Plaza de San Blas, also known as the artisans’ quarter, for its craft stores, cafes, and galleries.
It’s fun to stroll around San Blas, as there are many hidden gems here.
Some of Cusco’s best coffee shops are in San Blas, so you can start your morning here every day and find your favorite spot.
San Blas is also interesting for its architecture, so take a camera in hand and explore its narrow streets. In this neighborhood, you can also find good hotels and hostels.
The good news is that San Blas is easily accessible from the Centro Historico.
The enigmatic twelve-angle stone
Hatunrumiyoc Street in Cusco, where the famous twelve-angle stone is located, is the most outstanding example of the Incas’ expertise in stone work.
You can get there quickly by asking locals near the Plaza de Armas.
The street is flanked by a stone wall where you can admire the rigor of the Inca builders.
It is known that the Incas could cut huge stones that fit together with precision and without mortar.
These structures and walls have survived numerous earthquakes, in contrast to Spanish and modern buildings.
The cathedrals and churches of Cusco
Cusco has many cathedrals and small churches, so take the time to discover one or two outside the city’s historic center.
Dozens of churches and cathedrals are within walking distance, and you will undoubtedly find several on your way back to your hotel.
The most famous is the Cathedral of Cusco, in the Plaza de Armas, but other gems, such as the Church of San Francisco or San Cristobal, are also worth a quick visit.
These churches and cathedrals are usually built in European architectural style on the foundations of ancient Inca churches, giving the city a unique look.
Local museums in Cusco
To get to know Cusco, you must know the “Boleto Turístico.” This ticket offers many variations, including entrance fees to some of the city’s main attractions and the area.
The partial ticket includes the leading museums of Cusco (and, of course, the integral access also includes them).
This ticket does not include all the museums, so you will need to pay for most of the entrance fees separately.
If you want to see the Chocolate Museum, the Textile Museum, or the Coca Museum, ensure you have cash.
Visiting the museums is an excellent way to learn more about Cusco’s history and the events that define the lives of local people today.
The Inca Fortress of Sacsayhuaman
UNESCO lists this Inca site as being near the city of Cusco. You can reach it from the center of the town through a stone staircase; it should not take more than 45 minutes, although you can also go by public transport.
The Incas rebuilt Sacsayhuaman, considered one of the best examples of the Inca civilization’s building skills.
This Inca site is simply a must-see. You can admire what remains; the views are out of this world.
If you have more time, you can take public transport from Cusco and explore nearby ruins, such as Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
