Whether you’re hiking the trails or just heading up to see Machu Picchu for yourself, you’ll be spending at least a couple nights in Cusco first. And honestly, it deserves more than just being a stopover.
Between the food, the markets, and the city’s own history, there’s plenty to fill your time while you acclimatise before you even get to the main event. Here are the five things worth doing while you’re there, plus where we’d recommend staying.
In a rush? Here are our favourite Hotels in Cusco, Peru
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco – Click here for rates & availability
⭐⭐⭐ Pariwana Hostel – Click here for rates & availability
⭐⭐ EcoHome View Guest House – Click here for rates & availability
If you have just arrived in Cusco, you would have researched the importance of acclimatisation in the Sacred Valley. Due to the altitude, it is important you take it easy the first couple days you are here. Here are some activities to take part in as your body gets used to the lower oxygen levels.
1. Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Tour
This day took us to the famous Maras Salt Mines, where you will get the opportunity to gaze upon a network of up to 3,000 pools, a stunning sight to see and so much to learn about.
You will also get the opportunity to see the great agricultural terraces in Moray, and learn about the diverse climates in Peru. It was fascinating seeing how Ancient Inca agricultural practices were still being used in the modern day.
I highly recommend doing this tour while you are in Cusco, the guides give so much context into the Inca culture, the language and history. As a tourist visiting Cusco, you really get an insight into the cultural significance the Incas had and continue to have in nature, people and language.
To book, you can head to GetYourGuide is very reasonably priced, at about £11 per person, for a half day tour. If you’re planning to do the same, use code ALYXBARNETT5 for money off your booking. It’s not limited to this tour either, the code applies across any tour or activity listed on their site/app.
2. San Pedro Market
In the centre of Cusco Old Town, you will find the San Pedro Market, the city’s oldest standing marketplace. From local dishes to beautiful textiles, there is so much variety in the market, even if you’re not buying anything, we would highly recommend you take a stroll.
If you are planning to walk the Inca or Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu, there’s no doubt you will come prepared with a packing list. San Pedro market and the surrounding areas stock an array of hiking gear, clothing layers, and recommended products to take with you on your journey’s.
3. Sacsayhuamán
Situated on the outer areas of the main city is the remains of an important Inca Empire Fortress made up of massive limestone boulders. This UNESCO World Heritage List site is such a convenient visit if you are staying in the city.
This archaeological site can be visited either by foot, taxi or guided tour. It all depends on where you are based in Cusco, your budget or travel style. In terms of entry prices, this tends to vary. Being in Cusco, you may have heard or seen a Boleto Turístico, or or Cusco Tourist Ticket. (insert pic)
You can buy the partial ticket for about 70 soles, (£15) which grants access to a few other nearby sites. Alternatively, you can buy the integral ticket, which is about 130 soles (£29). This gives you access to 16 attractions in Cusco and surrounding areas across 10 days.
Here is a link to a guided tour you can look into!!
4. Sapantiana Aqueduct + Siete Borreguitos
One for my history buffs out there, the Sapatiana Aqueduct is a hidden gem of Cusco, tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood away from the bustling town centre. What once carried water into the city now lies a picturesque stone structure, a piece of Spanish colonial history.
Pair this site with a visit to the Siete Borreguitos. I’d recommend taking a walk along this steep, narrow lane, where you can see old stone staircases, original Inca walls, and charming whitewashed adobe houses with traditional red-tiled roofs. It’s a great way to experience the mix of Inca and colonial history while exploring the area on foot.
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5. Plaza De Armas
The central section of modern-day Cusco, teeming with culture and atmosphere. The plaza is beautiful day and night, you can find many places to dine along the square, from traditional Peruvian meals to modern-day fusion restaurants. You will be approached by many vendors, promoting their tours, small business and souvenirs. Although, I found Peruvian salespeople to be quite respectful and not as pushy as many other places in the world
If your craving a pub meal you can also visit Paddy’s Irish pub, famously known and widely-recognised as the highest 100% Irish-owned pub in the world!
You will also find Spanish colonial arcades along the square, including impressive architecture, cathedrals all which dating back to the 16th century!
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