What to do in Cusco? – The Ultimate Guide

Cusco is a beautiful city in Peru, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It was once the capital of the Incan Empire, making it a key place to learn about ancient Incan civilization. The city is filled with stunning architecture, colorful markets, and fascinating historical sites. Walking through the streets of Cusco, you can see a mix of Incan and Spanish colonial buildings, which tell the story of its past.

Alpaca Expeditions is the #1 tour operator in Peru, and we are proud to offer a wide range of tours and adventures in and around Cusco. Our goal is to provide excellent service and create unique, memorable experiences for all our clients.

Whether you have just one day or several to explore, we have tours that will take you to the most important cultural sites, breathtaking natural wonders, and hidden gems near Cusco. With our knowledgeable guides and well-planned itineraries, you will get the most out of your visit to this incredible city. Let us help you discover the magic of Cusco and the legacy of the Incas.

Exploring the Heart of Cusco

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the heart of Cusco, a place rich in history and culture. Once the center of the Inca Empire, it was the site of many important events. Today, it’s a bustling square where you can feel the vibrant energy of the city. Here, you’ll find beautiful colonial architecture, including the stunning Cusco Cathedral. This cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the blend between Inca and Spanish cultures.

exploring Cusco…Plaza de armas, Centro Historico

Cusco Cathedral

The Cusco Cathedral, located in the Plaza de Armas, is a must-see. Built on the foundations of an Inca palace, it showcases the history and significance of the area. Inside, you can explore its impressive altars, beautiful artwork, and the famous Black Christ statue. The cathedral’s architecture is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, making it a fascinating place to visit.

Visiting the Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral is a perfect way to start your adventure before heading out on the Cusco Inca Trail. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Cusco, setting the stage for the incredible journey ahead.

Discovering Inca Heritage

Exploring the Inca heritage in Cusco is a must for anyone visiting Peru. The Q’oricancha (Temple of the Sun) is a great place to start. This temple was the most important religious site in the Incan Empire. It was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God, and was covered in gold to reflect its importance. When the Spanish arrived, they built the Santo Domingo Church on top of the Inca temple. Today, you can see the Incan stone walls alongside the colonial architecture, showing a unique blend of cultures.

Another significant site is Sacsayhuaman, located just outside Cusco. This impressive fortress is famous for its massive stone structures, some weighing over 200 tons. The stones fit together so perfectly that you can’t even slip a piece of paper between them. According to legends, the fortress was built by thousands of workers using a method that remains a mystery today. Walking through Sacsayhuaman, you can imagine the grandeur of the Inca Empire and its architectural prowess.

These sites are highlights of the Cusco Inca Trail, offering a glimpse into the rich history and remarkable engineering skills of the Inca civilization. Exploring them is an unforgettable part of any trip to Cusco.

Day Trips from Cusco

Maras Moray Tour: The Maras Moray tour is a must-see for anyone visiting Cusco. The tour takes you to the fascinating salt mines of Maras, which have been in use since Inca times. These salt pools are a stunning sight, with thousands of sparkling white terraces cascading down the mountainside.

The tour also includes a visit to Moray, an archaeological site with unique circular terraces. These terraces were used by the Incas for agricultural experiments, and their design is both beautiful and ingenious. On this tour, you will learn about the history and significance of these sites, making it a memorable part of your visit.

Humantay Lake Hike: The Humantay Lake Hike is another fantastic day trip from Cusco. This hike takes you to the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with incredible views along the way.

To prepare, make sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and plenty of water. The hike offers a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty, making it a highlight of any trip. Both these tours are great ways to explore the rich history and natural beauty around Cusco, and they pair well with a trek on the Cusco Inca Trail.

Cultural and Historical Day Tours

Cusco City Tour: This half-day tour of Cusco lets you explore key historical and cultural sites. It starts at 1 PM with pickup from your hotel in the city center. First, you’ll visit the Plaza de Armas and the impressive Cusco Cathedral. Then, you’ll walk to the Q’oricancha (Temple of the Sun) to see its blend of Incan and colonial architecture. A bus ride will take you to the outskirts of Cusco to see the grand Sacsayhuaman ruins, where you’ll marvel at the giant stone walls.

Other Historical Sites:

• Q’enqo: This site features fascinating Incan altars, used for religious ceremonies.
• Puca Pucara: A small, circular Inca ruin that was a military outpost.
• Tambomachay: Known as the Water Temple, it has impressive fountains thought to be used for Inca bathing rituals.

These tours offer a deep dive into the rich history of Cusco and are a great introduction to the wonders of the Cusco Inca Trail.

Unique Experiences

Local Markets and Cuisine

When you’re in Cusco, visiting the San Pedro Market is a must. Here, you can see local foods, colorful crafts, and get a taste of Cusco’s vibrant culture. Try traditional dishes like cuy (roast guinea pig) or anticuchos (beef heart skewers) for a real taste of Peru.

Cultural Performances and Festivals

Cusco is famous for its festivals and traditional music. Don’t miss the Inti Raymi Festival in June, which celebrates the Inca sun god with music and dance. You can also find local performances at various cultural centers around the city.

Acclimating to the Altitude

Cusco’s high altitude can be challenging, especially if you plan to trek the Cusco Inca Trail. To avoid altitude sickness, spend a few days in Cusco before your trek. Gentle activities like walking around the city, visiting markets, and enjoying local food will help your body adjust. Drink plenty of water and take it easy to ensure you’re ready for your adventure.

Feel free to contact Alpaca Expeditions for more tips and to plan your perfect Cusco experience!

Ethical Tourism and Supporting Local Communities

At Alpaca Expeditions, we are deeply committed to ethical and sustainable tourism. This means we strive to protect the environment and respect local cultures while offering you incredible experiences, like the Cusco Inca Trail.

We believe in giving back to the communities that welcome us. Our social projects support local families and improve their quality of life. We also focus on the well-being of our porters, ensuring they work in fair conditions and receive fair wages.

Responsible travel is important to us. When you join us on a tour, we encourage you to respect local customs and protect natural sites. By choosing Alpaca Expeditions, you are supporting eco-friendly practices and helping preserve the beauty of Peru for future generations.

Whether you’re hiking the Cusco Inca Trail or exploring the city, your journey with us helps make a positive impact. We want to ensure that every adventure you have contributes to a better world and respects the people and places you visit.

Conclusion

Cusco is a city full of amazing experiences and important sites. From exploring the Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral to discovering the ancient wonders of Sacsayhuaman and the Q’oricancha, there is so much to see and learn. Don’t miss out on day trips like the Maras Moray Tour and the breathtaking Humantay Lake Hike. Each site and activity give you a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of this incredible city.

If you’re excited about the Cusco Inca Trail or any other adventure in Cusco, Alpaca Expeditions is here to help. As the #1 tour operator in Peru, we provide excellent service and create unforgettable experiences tailored just for you. Our knowledgeable guides will ensure you get the most out of your visit while you enjoy comfortable and ethical travel options.

Ready to explore Cusco and the stunning Cusco Inca Trail? Contact Alpaca Expeditions today to start planning your ultimate Cusco adventure. We can’t wait to show you all the amazing things Cusco has to offer!