Whoever travels to Peru, can impossibly skip Cusco. Lying in the middle of the majestic Andes Mountains, this ancient capital of the Inca Empire is not only the gateway to the bucket list destinations such as the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountains; it’s a destination in its own right.
Next to the impressive Inca ruins and charming colonial architecture, Cusco attracts with its world-class restaurants, cozy cafes and fascinating day trips to surrounding areas.
Make your stay unforgettable by picking and choosing activities from our list of the best things to do in Cusco.
15 Best things to do in Cusco
1. Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas is the heart of Cusco. It’s buzzing with life at every time of the day. Once a sacred Inca gathering place, the Plaza de Armas later was transformed into a colonial hub adorned with grand cathedrals, including the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin, a Spanish Renaissance masterpiece, and The Church of La Compañía de Jesús. Enjoy the atmosphere by sipping an overpriced coffee or cocktail on the balconies of the surrounding colonial houses or shop for some souvenirs such as warm hats or pullovers with lama pattern.
Be warned that Cusco is very touristy and has annoyingly many sellers on the streets inviting you to their souvenir shops, travel agencies, restaurants or offering massage. Just politely decline by saying “no, gracias” and they will leave you alone.
2. San Blas Neighborhood
San Blas is a historic neighborhood in Cusco known for its narrow cobblestone streets, where colorful houses adorned with flowers create a lovely ambiance. Immerse yourself in its bohemian atmosphere as you wander around, exploring cool cafes, boutiques, and craft shops. And as this district is perched on a hill, it also offers great panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains.
3. San Pedro Market
The hustle and bustle of daily life makes the San Pedro Market a must-visit destination. And if you have not visited a market in South America before, this is the perfect one to start with. It is tidy, it has broad aisles and many tourists around, making it a safe and pleasant visit.
The San Pedro Market in Cusco pulsates with the colors and flavors of the region. You can find a broad variety of products here, from all kinds of fruits and potatoes (did you know that there are over 4,000 different types of potatoes in Peru) to local cheeses, chocolate and coca leaves. Handmade crafts and textiles sold here make some unique souvenirs.
One of the highlights of the market is its food section, where the aromas of traditional Peruvian dishes waft through the air. From pollo or ceviche to empanadas, this is the place to have an authentic culinary experience (but make sure to eat your ceviche in the morning). The market also features a section dedicated to delicious fresh fruit juices. Mango, pineapple or maracuya – you name it.
4. Qorikancha - the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo
Qorikancha, also known as the “Golden Temple of the Sun,” was one of the most sacred Inca temples, believed to once been adorned with golden decorations all over. It has been destroyed by the Spanish conquistadors, however, its foundation was repurposed as the foundation for the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo in the 16th century. The interplay of Inca stonework and Spanish colonial Baroque architecture makes the site a remarkable, symbolic representation of the cultural encounter during the colonial era.
You can visit the church and the museum inside the convent to witness the unique architecture and some nice galleries. The museum is included in the full Cusco Tourist Ticket which costs 130 PEN (≈ 35 USD) and includes several sites including Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley (read more about the Cusco Tourist Ticket in the next chapter). But you can also buy a single entrance ticket to Qorikancha for 15 PEN (≈ 4 USD).
5. Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman (usually pronounced as ‘sexy human’ by tourists) is an impressive Inca archaeological site located just 30 minute walk from the Cusco city center. This place is a must-visit to admire the remarkable Incan stonework, with massive limestone blocks fitted together seamlessly. Some of them are weighing up to 100 tons! Just imagine how they must have moved them! (The scientist have uncovered quite a few of Incan secrets, so google the internet or book a guide to learn more)
Sacsayhuaman is one of the masterpieces of the Inca civilization demonstrating their incredible engineering skills. And there’s another reason to go – the site also offers nice panoramic views of Cusco.
To visit Sacsayhuaman, you will have to buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket. There are two options available. The partial ticket costs 70 PEN (≈ 19 USD) and also allows you to visit the nearby Inca sites of Q’enco, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay on the same day. The full ticket costs 130 PEN (≈ 35 USD) and, in addition, includes the archeological sites in the Sacred Valley as well as some museums (read more about the Cusco Tourist Ticket in the next chapter).
6. Desde el Cristo Blanco
There’s no better way to spend the sunset in Cusco than by enjoying the views over the city, the patchwork of the red roofs and the Andean landscape. One of the best places to do that is from the viewpoint of the Desde el Cristo Blanco. You can see the 8-meter-high white Christ statue from the Plaza de Armas. You can walk up there just in about 30-40 minutes, passing through the charming neighborhood of San Blas. We recommend to leave the climb for the last day in Cusco once you are acclimatized to the high altitude. Or just take an Uber or a taxi to get you there.
7. Try the delicious chocolate
Cusco also holds a special place in the world of chocolate. The region’s unique microclimate and traditional farming practices lead to world-class cocoa beans with exceptional flavor and aroma.
You can get those creamy chocolate bars that just melt in your mouth from most street vendors. The prices are probably higher than what you would expect, but it’s important to know that Cusco’s cocoa production is sustainable and fair, ensuring that the communities receive a fair share of the profits from their cocoa beans.
If you are more interested in the history and making of chocolate, there are also chocolate museums and bean-to-bar workshops available in Cusco. Whereas the museums are free to visit, expect to pay about 25 USD for a 2-hour chocolate workshop.
8. Savor a cup of coffee
The Cusco region also offers ideal conditions for growing excellent coffee beans. The coffee from here is known for its balanced acidity, rich body, and complex flavor notes. Just try it out in some of the Cusco’s most outstanding cafes yourself. We can absolutely recommend to wind down and savor a cup of good coffee in Qura, Indie Cafe & Concept Store or Three Monkeys Coffee Cusco.
9. Machu Picchu
Do we even need to say more?
Tucked away high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel that has won the hearts of travelers from all over the world. Hidden for centuries by the jungle, this site was rediscovered in 1911 and has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
Standing amidst the towering peaks, looking down at Machu Picchu, it’s easy to understand why this place has won the hearts of so many people. Machu Picchu is more than just an old ruin. Surrounded by mountains all over, Machu Picchu looks like a place from a fairytale and it’ll be a memory that will stay with you forever.
To better manage the masses of visitors to Machu Picchu, the site has been divided into four circuits. Each ticket, priced at 152 PEN (≈ 41 USD), grants access to a specific circuit. Extended ticket options, which include entry to additional attractions like the Inca Bridge or iconic mountains such as Machu Picchu, Wayna Picchu, or Huchuy Picchu, are available for 152 PEN (≈ 41 USD) or 200 PEN (≈ 53 USD).
We also definitely recommend visiting the site with a guide to learn more about this special place. You can join one of the tours by looking for guides with blue vests at the entrance. It costs you 50 PEN (≈ 13 USD) – 60 PEN (≈ 16 USD) per person. Alternatively, a private tour around Machu Picchu costs 60-70 USD.
We highly recommend to book your tickets to Machu Picchu months in advance. Especially, if you are planning to travel in the high season. To protect this world wonder from over-tourism, Peruvian government has restricted the available tickets to 4.000 per day. 3.000 of them are available for booking online over the official website and the additional 1.000 can only be purchased a day before in Aguas Calientes based on first-come-first-served principle.
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10. Inka Trail
If you’re seeking an epic adventure, then the Inca Trail is calling. The iconic Inca trail, a legacy of the Incas, takes you through the Andes Mountains, past ancient ruins, and concludes at the Sun Gate, viewing over the legendary Machu Picchu at sunrise.
Embark on a 4-day adventure, tracing the footsteps of Incas, and uncover the secrets of a civilization that left behind an indelible mark on the world. Yes, the 43-kilometer long (approx. 27 miles) Inca Trail is challenging, but with the right spirit and preparation, it’s an experience that will reward you beyond measure.
So, lace up your boots, embrace the challenge, and let the mountains guide you on this unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
You can do the Inca Trail only as part of a guided tour. The cost of hiking the Inca Trail depends on your chosen tour operator. Typically, for the Classic Inca Trail, prices range from $550 to $750 per person. This covers the permit, porters, guides, food, and accommodation.
If a 4-day trek feels to much for you, you can start the hike partway to cover a shorter distance and still experience the legendary Inka Trail.
11. Salkantay Trek
Another popular way to hike to the iconic Machu Picchu is along the Salkantay trek. The Salkantay Trek attracts adventurers with the promise of an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and cloud forests.
On your 4- to 5-day trek of 72 kilometers (45 miles), you will enjoy stunning views over the turquoise Humantay Lake, challenge yourself with the ascent to the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at an elevation of 4,630 meters (15,223 feet) and passing the ruins of Llactapata, once a thriving Inca town with views at Machu Picchu. The trek leads you to Aguas Calientes, where the last challenge awaits – climbing up to Machu Picchu.
The Salkantay Trek is said to be more challenging than the Inca Trail, mostly due to its higher altitude and longer distance. Still, it was an adventure of our lifetime with spectacular views that didn’t disappoint. And now we can proudly say that we are the survivors of the Salkantay Trek.
The cost of the Salkantay Trek varies depending on the specific tour operator you choose, the number of days you trek, and the type of accommodation you choose. However, it is significantly cheaper than the Inca Trail and you can expect to pay between 210 and 500 USD for a 5-day trek. Alternatively, you can also embark on the journey independently.
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12. Sacred Valley
The Incas believed that the Sacred Valley, stretching along the Urubamba Valley, was connected to the cosmos and, thus, possessed special energies. This belief is reflected in the careful positioning of Inca temples and monuments to align with the stars and the Milky Way’s path. Nowadays many tourists follow the footsteps of the Incas, to learn more about this ancient civilization that left an indelible mark on this land.
There is much to explore in the Sacred Valley, such as the ruins of Ollantaytambo, a once-thriving Inca fortress, Pisac, an ancient Inca citadel perched atop a hill, or Maras Moray agricultural terraces, where the Incas ingeniously experimented with crop cultivation. Visit the region on your own or with a guided tour to understand the scale, importance and impact of the powerful Inca empire.
The Sacred Valley also serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. From Ollantaytambo you can start your train journey to Aguas Calientes, the base for exploring the famous Inca citadel.
There are several types of tours being offered to the Sacred Valley, from simple bus tours to adventurous quad bike rides. Depending on your chosen tour expect to pay 25-150 USD, including transportation, a guide, as well as, breakfast and lunch. Usually you will have to additionally buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket of 70 PEN (≈ 19 USD) or 130 PEN (≈ 35 USD) to visit the Inca sites, as well as, 10 PEN (≈ 3 USD) entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines.
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13. Rainbow Mountains and the Red Valley
As the name suggests, these magical mountains really represent almost all colors of the rainbow, ranging from red and green to turquoise and gold. Also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores (Mountain of Seven Colors), Rainbow Mountains are an absolutely incredible natural wonder.
Once permanently covered in snow, it was only in recent years, due to global warming and the melting of glaciers, that the colorful layers of the Rainbow Mountains were revealed. Today, it has become a top destination in Peru, with thousands of tourists coming to witness this masterpiece of nature.
To be honest, the Rainbow Mountain is absolutely overcrowded. This is why we recommend to escape to the Red Valley next to it which, in our opinion, was even more impressive. The valley floor is blanketed in an iron-oxide-rich soil, creating a striking otherworldly landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. This hike is definitely worth the extra detour. Alternatively, you can skip the crowds by opting for the Vinicunca’s little brother Palccoyo.
The tour to the Rainbow Mountain costs 22-80 USD depending on the chosen company and activities, including transportation, a guide, as well as, breakfast and lunch. For example, you can also take a brief spin with the quad bikes to explore the area. If you’d rather visit the place without a guide, you can hire a taxi to get you there and back.
Situated at an altitude of over 5,200 meters (17,000 feet), reaching Rainbow Mountain involves a challenging 1,5 hour trek uphill. This is why you should leave this site to the end of your trip. You can also hop on a horse, should the altitude sickness get the best of you. It costs around 80 PEN (≈ 21 USD) for one way.
14. Lake Humantay
Humantay Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake renowned for its turquoise waters and the incredible backdrop of the snow-capped Humantay Mountain. The color of the water is to the minerals present in the glacial meltwater from the nearby Humantay Glacier.
The lake is about 130 km (81 miles) from Cusco at an elevation of around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). You will have to hike 2 hours to get there, a journey uphill that should not be underestimated due to the high altitude. But the trail leading to the lake provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the experience less painful.
The full-day tours including transportation, a guide, as well as breakfast and lunch cost between 22 and 180 USD, depending on your chosen tour operator and whether you are going with a group or want a private guide.
15. Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek
The 7 Lakes Tour is another great hike that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Ausangate mountain range, to see the seven pristine lakes that shimmer in bright colors of turquoise, blue, and green. And, don’t miss the views on the mighty Ausangate Mountain, one of the tallest in Cusco!
This hike is around 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) long, and yes, you guessed it — also this hike is up there at an altitude over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). So, before you hit the trail, make sure you’re feeling good with the high altitude.
The tours to the 7 lakes trek cost 25 to 170 USD, depending on whether you go with a group or hire a private guide. The price includes transportation, a guide, breakfast and lunch.
About the Cusco Tourist Ticket
The Cusco Tourist Ticket, or Boleto Turistico del Cusco in Spanish, provides access to multiple archeological sites and museums in and around Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Depending on your travel plans you can choose between a full ticket or a partial ticket. You can conveniently purchase your ticket at any of the participating sites.
The full Cusco Tourist Ticket
The full Cusco Tourist Ticket covers entry to 16 places, perfect if you’re planning to explore both Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It costs 130 soles (approx. 35 USD) and stays valid for 10 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the sights.
Included sights: Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, Museo de Arte Popular, Museo Historico Regional, Museo Municipal de Arte Contemporaneo, Museo de Sitio de Qorikancha, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, Monumento de Pachacutec, Tipon, Pikillacta, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray.
The partial Cusco Tourist Ticket
With the partial Cusco Tourist Ticket, you have access to only specific sights listed on the ticket. Opting for this ticket might be suitable if you don’t plan to visit the Sacred Valley or archaeological sites or museums in Cusco. Priced at 70 soles (approx. 19 USD), this ticket also has a shorter validity of only 1-2 days.
Included sites for Circuit I – Sacsayhuaman: Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay.
Included sites for Circuit II – City & South Sacred Valley: Museo de Arte Popular, Museo Historico Regional, Museo Municipal de Arte Contemporaneo, Museo de Sitio de Qorikancha, Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, Monumento de Pachacutec, Tipon, Pikillacta.
Included sites for Circuit III – Sacred Valley: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray.
How to get to Cusco?
All roads in Peru lead to Cusco, the tourist capital of the country. From the biggest cities like Lima and Arequipa you can easily fly to Cusco, if you are on tight schedule.
In case you are more into seeing the scenic country while being on the road or traveling on budget, Cusco also has great bus connections from most of the cities. We recommend booking with Cruz del Sur or Civa bus companies to have a more convenient journey as their fleet is modern and offers seats reclining up to 180 degrees. You can check the schedules and book tickets directly on their homepage.
From Lima to Cusco by plane
The fastest and most comfortable option to get from Lima to Cusco is by taking a direct flight from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.
Flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours and expect to pay 50-80 USD for one way excl. luggage. The final price depends on the chosen departure date as well as the time of booking.
From Lima to Cusco by bus
Whereas buses are going from Lima to Cusco, the journey takes over 22 hours. Trust us, there are better ways to spend your time in Peru. As the intercountry flights are not so expensive when booking well ahead, we would rather recommend traveling by plane. If you still rather prefer getting there directly, we recommend choosing a better bus company and seats reclining 160 degrees, to make your travel as comfortable as possible.
The bus ticket from Lima to Cusco costs between 147 PEN (≈ 39 USD) to 180 PEN (≈ 48 USD).
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From Arequipa to Cusco by plane
There are several direct flights departing daily from Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) in Arequipa to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.
There is a morning and an evening flight from Arequipa to Cusco. Flight duration is around 1 hour and expect to pay 50-100 USD for one way excl. luggage. The final price depends on the chosen departure date as well as the time of booking.
From Arequipa to Cusco by bus
Several long-distance buses run between Arequipa and Cusco. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, which is perfect for a night bus.
Ticket prices vary from operator to operator, but expect to pay around 60 PEN (≈ 16 USD) to 80 PEN (≈ 21 USD) for a one-way trip from Arequipa to Cusco.
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From Puno to Cusco by bus
Buses operate also daily between Puno and Cusco. The bus journey takes approximately 6-8 hours.
The bus ticket from Puno to Cusco costs between 55 PEN (≈ 15 USD) to 80 PEN (≈ 21 USD). There is only one night bus from Cruz del Sur, so we recommend to book the ticket in advance to secure your seat.
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Where to stay in Cusco?
You have quite a few options when choosing a place to stay in Cusco. Look for an accommodation in the heart of Cusco’s historic district if you prefer to be near to major attractions, restaurants, and shops. Alternatively, San Blas is a bohemian neighborhood offering a charming atmosphere with narrow streets, art galleries, and artisan shops, while still being close to the city center. For a more tranquil experience, consider staying in towns like Urubamb, Pisac or Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.
Where to eat in Cusco?
Peru is known for its amazing culinary scene and Cusco, being the most touristy city in the country, has a lot to offer. In fact, there are more good restaurants than you can try during your stay. From fine dining to simple chifas, vegan to fusion food – there’s something for everyone.
Beers & Burgers
- Asian
- Budget
Juicy, simply delicious burgers and great beer. You can build your own burger, choosing from wide variety of ingredients. And, honestly, those were the best burgers we’ve had in whole Peru.
KION Peruvian Chinese
- Peruvian Chinese
- High
A nice place for Peruvian Chinese fusion food. The dishes are fancier than in usual chifas and so are the prices. We loved it and the dishes make you forget the price.
Jonas Restaurant Cusco
- Peruvian
- Moderate
Try some of the traditional dishes such as lomo saltado, cuy (guinea pig) or some alpaca steak. Jonas Restaurant Cusco offers these dishes with an interesting twist.
How to get around Cusco?
All Cusco’s main attractions and restaurants are concentrated in and around the historic city center. Therefore, you can easily move around on foot. Even the archeological site Sacsayhuaman as well as the White Christ viewpoint up the hill are easily reachable within 30-40 minutes. However, should you not feel like hiking any mountains at this altitude, also taxis and Uber are readily available in Cusco. Expect to pay 8 PEN (≈ 2 USD) to 12 PEN (≈ 3 USD) for a ride.
When is the best time to visit Cusco?
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season (May to September), when you can expect sunny days and clear skies, making it an ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds, especially around popular attractions like Machu Picchu.
If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April, October or November. Expect to have a few short showers now and then, but, in general, if you’re lucky, the weather is still sunny and warm during the day.
Keep in mind that Cusco’s high altitude means cool temperatures, especially in the evenings and early mornings. Therefore, it’s advisable to bring layers, a warm hat and gloves. But you can also buy the cute lama-patterned sweaters and accessorizes everywhere in Cusco should you still feel cold. Just be careful when street vendors claim it to be made of real alpaca or lama wool. If you are looking for these special pieces, it’s better to go to an official store.
What does it cost to visit Cusco?
Cusco, being the main tourist hotspot, is definitely one of the more expensive cities in Peru. Yet, it’s still quite affordable and really depends on your travel style. While there are plenty of opportunities to stay in luxury resorts, book fancy train rides and personal tours, there is always the possibility to travel to Cusco on a budget.
Here are our numbers: Expect to spend around 250 USD a week if you travel on a budget, up to a maximum of 2400 USD if you want to treat yourself with luxury. Note that, as always, we didn’t include flight prices, as they vary depending on your departure location and time of booking.
How many days to stay in Cusco?
Cusco and its surrounding area has much to offer, so at minimum you should plan with 3 days, but you can easily spend 6-10 days in the region without getting bored.
On your first day, get used to the altitude and take it easy. Explore the historic city center by walking on the vibrant Plaza de Armas, the city’s central square, visit Qorikancha, the ‘Temple of the Sun,’ and immerse yourself in the bustling markets, teeming with local handicrafts and colorful textiles. On the second day, roam around in San Blas neighborhood, ascend to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, and enjoy the sunset views from Desde el Cristo Blanco.
After having seen all the best things in Cusco, head to the Sacred Valley on day three. And then it’s finally THE day to visit the legendary Machu Picchu. If you also want to stay in the small town Aguas Calientes, you should even plan with 2 days for your tour.
Cusco lies at an altitude of 3.400 meters. To reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness in Cusco, consider starting your journey by exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, which are at lower altitudes. This gradual acclimatization can ease your body into the higher altitude of Cusco.
Once back in Cusco, you can elongate your stay as much as you want, through tours to the Rainbow Mountains, Humantay Lake or to the Ausangate 7 lakes.
In case you are planning to hike the Inka Trail or Salkantay trek, you have to plan another 3-4 days in your itinerary.
Is Cusco safe to visit?
Cusco is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in well-trodden areas like the historical city center and San Blas neighborhood. However, it’s important to exercise typical travel precautions to avoid pickpocketing, like safeguarding belongings in crowded places and staying cautious in less populated areas, especially at night.
Is Cusco worth visiting?
Instead of just passing through Cusco on your way to Machu Picchu, we believe staying a few nights is absolutely worth it. Cusco’s ancient ruins like Sacsayhuaman and Qoricancha offer visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Inca civilization.
We enjoyed roaming its cobblestone streets with colorful balconies, cozy plazas, and chrming churches, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. With a bit of luck you may even catch a glimpse of local dance groups in traditional costumes, adding to your unforgettable Cusco experience.
