World-renowned Cusco, capital city of the Incas, is often referred to as the “Tourism Capital of Latin America” and this is not for no reason. This vibrant city nested on the Peruvian Andes offers unique landscapes and lots of history to the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit it each year.
The number of attractions located in this corner of the world is so high that doing them all in one trip might look like an impossible task. While this is partly true, depending on the amount of time that you have, we believe that with a little organization and a little help from experienced travellers’ (like us!) you will be able to make the best out of your time.
So what exactly is there to do in Cusco? Let’s get started!
Absolute Must-Sees
1. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is obviously the first thing that comes to mind. The Inca Citadel is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and receives an incessant flow of tourists throughout the year.
There are a number of ways to get to Machu Picchu. From long multiple-day treks to day trips from Cusco by train, there is an option for all types of travellers. The classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu must be booked several months in advance whereas most of the other tours are usually available at short notice. Booking them upfront online saves you a lot of time and stress that you would get by having to shop around in town.
Since 2017 a new set of rules have been applied to minimize the negative impact of tourism in this historical place – make sure to look them up so that you are fully aware of what to expect.
2. Sacred Valley
If you want to get a complete overview of the Inca history and civilization, then you must visit the so-called ”Sacred Valley’. There are day trips leaving daily from Cusco and they are also pretty cheap too. They leave at around 9 am and include three main ruins: the massive Pisaq terrace system, the huge, unfinished temple of Ollantaytambo and then Chinchero, a little town with a mixed Inca and colonial past. Tours are back by 7 pm but there will be some time for lunch in the middle of the day. Don’t forget your sun screen, hat and camera! 🙂
3. Maras & Moray
Adventure Activities
Lesser-Known Gems