Cusco is connected by rail to the cities of Juliaca and Arequipa through the Southern Section of the Southern Railway, whose terminus in the city is the Wánchaq station. PeruRail is the largest Peruvian railway company and provides service to stations in Cusco. Cusco’s main international airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which provides service to 5 domestic destinations and 3 international ones. It is named in honor of Peruvian pilot Alejandro Velasco Astete who was the first person to fly across the Andes in 1925 when he made the first flight from Lima to Cusco. The airport is Cusco registration the second busiest in Peru after Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport.
It’s brilliant green and blue water makes it one of the most well-known lakes in Peru, as well as one of the top day trips from Cusco. The trailhead is only a 3-hour drive from Cusco, from where the hike to the lake and its breath-taking scenery will start. After an adventure-filled day, the return to Cusco and some well-deserved rest await. Its streets are steep and narrow with old houses built by the Spanish over important Inca foundations. It has an attractive square and the oldest parish church in Cusco, built in 1563, which has a carved wooden pulpit considered the epitome of Colonial era woodwork in Cusco.
- Even if you inexplainably didn’t want to visit Cusco, it’s almost inevitable that you would at some point wind up here on any first trip to Peru.
- If you have 4 days in Cusco, I recommend using your last day to explore the impressive salt mines of Maras and the agricultural terraces of Moray.
- Located only a 10-minute walk from the famous Sacsayhuamán archaeological site and offering panoramic views of the city, the Cristo Blanco statue is definitely worth visiting.
- It’s a cultural extravaganza that brings the history and traditions of the Incas to life.
- Artesanal craftwork reigns king in Cusco, and traditional weavers are among the many talented artists of the Andes.
- A visit to the museum is an enriching experience that complements the historical sites you’ll encounter throughout Cusco.
Plaza de Armas de Cusco
From sitting in the famous Plaza de Armas watching the world go by to exploring sacred archaeological sites. Or browsing through bustling markets and admiring the local architecture, every moment feels like a new discovery. Cusco is a magical place, and anyone who has wandered its cobbled streets, marvelled at its Inca walls, or sipped on a coca tea will tell you the same thing.
- Each of the houses and businesses lining the streets features painted blue doors and colorful adornments, which gives this bustling neighborhood its bohemian charm.
- Throughout the conflict and years of the Spanish colonization of the Americas, many Incas died of smallpox epidemics, as they had no acquired immunity to a disease by then endemic among Europeans.
- The best time to travel to Cusco is from April to October, during the dry season and far from heavy rains.
- Sample traditional Peruvian dishes at local eateries and indulge in freshly baked pastries from charming bakeries.
- A visit to the majestic, iconic, breathtaking, jaw-dropping, mind-blasting, world-famous Machu Picchu.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
A great place to grab a salad or something vegetable-based and healthy, although they do also serve alpaca dishes. Just a block from the main square, it is packed with everything from gold jewellery to mummies. Somewhat unusually for a Peruvian museum, it actually provides good information explaining the exhibits. Sacsayhuaman is the most famous nearby site, and then you of course have myriad ruins within an hour’s drive in the Sacred Valley. For a first visit to Cusco, you’ll want 2 days in the city itself and then at least 3 more for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
The 25 Best Things to Do and See in Cusco (Peru)
Here, participants dressed in elaborate costumes perform traditional dances and rituals, bringing the history and traditions of the Incas to life. The festivities culminate at the Sacsayhuaman complex, where a grand spectacle unfolds on the ancient stone terraces. High above Cusco, perched on a hill, stands the Cristo Blanco statue, a striking monument that offers panoramic views of the city below. This iconic statue of Christ with outstretched arms was a gift from Palestinian Christians in gratitude for the hospitality they received in Cusco. It’s a symbol of peace and unity, and a must-visit spot for breathtaking vistas of Cusco and its surroundings.
Guide to Cusco – Gateway to the Peruvian Andes
The more expensive options are generally located between the main square (Plaza de Armas) and the trendy San Blas district, a 15-minute walk away. Many of the fancier hotels are located in old colonial palaces, often with beautiful stone courtyards. Embarking on a day trip to Rainbow Mountain, aka Vinicunca, makes for a super epic adventure through the Andes.
Start your night at one of Cusco’s many rooftop bars, where you can enjoy a cocktail while taking in the panoramic views of the city. For those who love to dance, head to a club and groove to the beats of both local and international DJs. If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, there are plenty of cozy pubs and cafes where you can unwind and enjoy live music performances. In addition to its performances, the Qosqo Center of Native Art hosts workshops and exhibits that offer a deeper understanding of Andean culture. Whether you’re attending a live show or exploring the center’s exhibits, you’ll come away with a greater appreciation for the artistic traditions that make Cusco such a unique and vibrant destination.
San Cristobal is a peaceful spot where you can pause and reflect on the rich history and natural splendor of Cusco. Whether you’re a photographer seeking the perfect shot or simply looking for a quiet place to appreciate the beauty of the city, the San Cristobal viewpoint is a must-visit destination. The ascent to the viewpoint is a leisurely walk through picturesque streets, allowing you to soak in the charm and character of Cusco along the way.
Personally, I feel it every time I arrive in Cusco, even though I lead an active lifestyle. Because of the altitude, temperatures in Cusco can be hot during the day and very cold at night—and this is true year-round. Just keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance, but all other sites remain open.
The Twelve-Angled Stone
If you’re interested in the Inca empire or archaeology, they’re very much worth visiting. Taking nearly a century to build shortly after the Spanish had subjugated the Incas, Cusco’s cathedral dominates the main square and houses many treasures of colonial art. Cusco has a quite a few specific sites of interest to tourists, however the city is also just an extremely pleasant and atmospheric place. My favorite thing to do in town is honestly simply to wander around, enjoying the colonial architecture and the unique vibe. At some point during your stay, be sure to find a cozy cafe or good bar with a nice view and plan to post up there for an hour or two, just soaking up the city.