High up in the Peruvian Andes lies Cusco, once the center of the Incan Empire. It is, of course, the launching point for MachuPicchu – Peru’s largest tourist attraction – but the city is well worth a visit, to acclimate and experience the mix of Incan and Spanish influences that define it.
What to Do in Cusco From colonial mansions to traditional markets that sell everything from souvenirs to coca leaves, there is always plenty to see and do in Cusco, Peru. Some of the spots are Plaza de Armas (the city’s main square), the San Pedro market, Sacsayhuaman, the temple of Qenqo, the Museo Inka, and the picturesque San Blas neighborhood. Contac us.
Things to do around Cusco For many travelers, Cusco is a stop-off before Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail. The city, however, is also a wonderful base for exploring countless other incredible cultural and historic Inca sites. Whether your day trips from Cusco take you to the famous Rainbow mountain, Sacred Valley and Humantay Lake or along the Salkantay trails, the city is a stepping-off-point that’s abundant with incredible adventure opportunities.
Cusco Travel Costs Your Cusco basic travel expenses (e.g. food, transportation, and accommodation) can vary anywhere from $25 to $80+ a day. Exact costs vary, depending on the activities you choose.
Weather During the day, temperatures in Cusco are generally warm. At night, however, temperatures drop and it can get quite chilly. Dressing in layers is therefore essential. If you’re visiting during the wet season (November through April), you will also need proper rain gear. If you want to discover more about what you’ll need during your adventures, check out the information contact us directly.
Altitude Sickness in Cusco Before you head off to Cusco, it’s worth noting that the city sits at an elevation of about 11,000 feet (3400m). Experiencing altitude sickness is common when arriving in Cusco. We would recommend getting to Cusco in the most staggered way starting from Lima. e.g. Lima Paracas Ica Nasca Arequipa Colca Canyon Puno Cusco
e.g. Lima Arequipa Colca Canyon Puno Cusco or Cusco Puno
Best Things to Do in Cusco (Chosen by Experts!) Check out our list featuring 20 of the best things to do in Cusco to discover the best Cusco activities and attractions on your trip. A brightly-lit view of Cusco city’s main Plaza de Armas at night.
With so many things to do in Cusco, the options are endless. Not only is this ancient Inca capital one of the top travel destinations in Peru, but it is also the main jumping-off point for tourists and trekkers on their way to Machu Picchu. Those who spend some time in this vibrant city may find the list of archaeological sites, museums, marketplaces, viewpoints and so on, can be hard to choose from. For this reason, we’ve compiled our top 20 favorite ideas, in no particular order, for things to do in Cusco to simplify your travel.
Alpacas
Plaza de Armas
Twelve Angled Stone
Coricancha and Convent of Santo Domingo
Sacsayhuaman
Qenko Ruins
Inti Raymi and Other Festivities
Viewpoints
Restaurants and Bars
Cooking Workshops
Cusco Planetarium
San Blas Neighborhood
Shopping
San Pedro Market
Museums
Spa treatments
Tambomachay
Horseback Riding
Rainbow Mountain Humantay lake Sacred Valley and Other Day Trips
