Cusco

The ancient Incan capital and gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco blends Incan stonework with Spanish colonial architecture in a stunning high-altitude city. It's indispensable for experiencing Peruvian heritage and accessing the Sacred Valley.

Things to do

• Plaza de Armas — Cusco's main square surrounded by colonial arcades, the Cathedral, and the Church of the Society of Jesus, offering a perfect introduction to the city's blend of Incan and Spanish heritage.
• Sacsayhuamán — A massive Incan fortress overlooking Cusco featuring precisely cut stone walls and panoramic views of the city, located just above the urban center.
• Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha) — The most important Incan temple dedicated to the sun god, now partially incorporated into the Spanish Colonial Church of Santo Domingo, showcasing the layering of two civilizations.
• Sacred Valley exploration — Day trip to nearby towns like Ollantaytambo and Pisac to visit Incan ruins, terraces, and traditional markets within striking distance of Cusco.
• Machu Picchu train departure — Cusco serves as the gateway to Peru's most iconic archaeological site, with trains departing from the nearby Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo or Poroy station.
• San Blas neighborhood walk — Explore the charming hillside district with narrow colonial streets, artisan workshops, galleries, and local cafés offering authentic Cusco atmosphere.
• Museo de Arte Precolombino — World-class museum housed in a colonial palace displaying exceptional Incan and pre-Incan artifacts in their original architectural context.

Food to try

• Ceviche — Fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice with red onions, cilantro, and ají peppers, served with sweet potatoes and corn as a classic Peruvian coastal dish adapted in highland Cusco.
• Cuy al horno — Roasted guinea pig seasoned with cumin and served with potatoes and corn, a traditional Andean delicacy that has been eaten in the region since Incan times.
• Quinoa soup — Hearty soup made with quinoa, potatoes, cheese, and local herbs, providing warmth and nutrition suited to Cusco's high altitude.
• Causa limeña — Layered potato terrine with lime, ají amarillo, and filled with chicken or seafood, a vibrant yellow dish reflecting Peru's coastal-highland fusion.
• Picante de carne — Spiced beef stew with potatoes, peanuts, and dried chilis creating a rich, warming dish popular in Cusco's cooler mountain climate.
• Chicha de jora — Traditional fermented corn beverage with pre-Incan roots, still consumed locally during festivals and celebrations as a cultural and ceremonial drink.

Local customs & good to know

• Altitude acclimatization essential — Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,150 feet), so spend your first day resting, drinking coca tea, and moving slowly to adjust to the thin air and prevent soroche (altitude sickness).
• Respect Incan heritage sites — Many ruins remain spiritually significant to local indigenous communities; ask permission before photographing people, remove hats at sacred sites, and follow guide instructions carefully.
• Learn basic Quechua phrases — While Spanish is widely spoken, Quechua—the indigenous language of the Andes—is respected and appreciated; simple greetings like 'Napaykullayki' (thank you) show cultural respect.
• Shop at local markets authentically — Visit San Pedro Market or smaller neighborhood markets early in the morning to experience daily Cusqueño life, practice respectful haggling, and purchase fresh local produce and crafts directly from vendors.