PERÚ TRAVEL PACKAGES
4 April, 2024
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a destination that arouses the curiosity and fascination of travelers from all over the world. Situated high in the Peruvian Andes, this historic city offers a unique blend of culture, colonial architecture and stunning landscapes. If you are planning a trip to Cusco, here is a guide on what to do to make the most of your experience in this charming city.
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a world-renowned tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. In addition to being the starting point to visit the legendary lost city of Machu Picchu, Cusco itself offers a wide variety of tourist experiences to suit all tastes. From exploring its rich history to immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Andes, here we present the different types of tourism you can enjoy in Cusco.
Cusco is a city steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage dating back to the time of the Incas. Some of the must-see experiences include:
Archaeological Sites: Explore the impressive Inca ruins scattered throughout the city, including Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha, and Puca Pucara, and marvel at the engineering and architecture of this ancient civilization.
Historic Center: Walk the narrow cobblestone streets of Cusco’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the charming squares, colonial churches and historic buildings that bear witness to its glorious past.
The stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes offer the perfect setting for outdoor activities and exciting adventures. Some options include:
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Embark on the iconic multi-day hike along the Inca Trail, which will take you through spectacular landscapes, ancient Inca sites and traditional villages, culminating in the mysterious citadel of Machu Picchu.
Rainbow Mountain: Take a hike to Rainbow Mountain, a vibrantly colored natural formation located in the Andes near Cusco, and enjoy a challenging but rewarding hike that will take you through stunning landscapes.
Peruvian gastronomy is recognized throughout the world for its diversity and exquisiteness, and Cusco is no exception. Some dining experiences not to be missed include:
San Pedro Market: Explore the lively San Pedro Market, where you can try a variety of delicious local dishes, such as ceviche, stuffed rocoto, and baked guinea pig, while soaking up the authentic Cusco culture.
Traditional Restaurants: Enjoy dinner in one of the traditional restaurants in Cusco, where you can taste typical dishes such as lomo saltado, ají de gallina and causa limeña, accompanied by delicious pisco sours and chicha morada.
Sacsayhuamán: Located on the outskirts of Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is an archaeological complex that will leave any visitor breathless. Explore the massive carved stones that form the imposing walls and admire panoramic views of the city from above.
Sacred Valley: A short distance from Cusco is the Sacred Valley, a region full of ancient Incan ruins, picturesque towns and spectacular landscapes. Visit archaeological sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Moray, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region.
Cusco is a paradise for adventure lovers, with a wide range of exciting activities that will allow you to explore the stunning natural and cultural beauty of the Peruvian Andes. From epic hikes to exhilarating water activities and unique mountain experiences, there is something for every taste and skill level in this vibrant city in southern Peru. So get ready for an unforgettable adventure and let yourself be captivated by the eternal excitement of Cusco.
Embark on one of the most famous hikes in the world: the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This ancient hiking route will take you through stunning mountain landscapes, ancient Inca sites and charming rural towns, culminating in the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. Over several days, you’ll hike winding trails, traverse cloud forests, and marvel at the majesty of the Andean peaks, all while following in the footsteps of the ancient Incas.
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River, which flows through the Sacred Valley of the Incas near Cusco. Descend exciting rapids and navigate beautiful natural landscapes as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the valley and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding Andes. This is a perfect activity for those looking for a dose of adrenaline and excitement during their stay in Cusco.
Take an excursion to Rainbow Mountain, a vibrantly colored natural formation located in the Peruvian Andes. This challenging but rewarding hike will take you through stunning landscapes, past remote villages and high-altitude grasslands, until you reach the top of this natural wonder. Once there, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the mountain, as well as the opportunity to witness the stunning mountain hues that give it its name.
Fly over the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas on an exciting zip line adventure. Descend high-speed cables and enjoy panoramic views of majestic Andean peaks, fertile valleys and ancient Inca ruins as you glide through the air. This activity is perfect for those looking for a dose of excitement and adventure while exploring the natural and cultural beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Challenge your limits and test your rock climbing skills on the towering walls of Sacsayhuamán, an ancient Inca fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco. With stunning views of the city and the surrounding Andes, this is a unique experience that combines adventure and culture as you climb the same stones that were once laid by the ancient Incas.
Cusco is much more than a tourist destination; It is a journey through time that takes you to a golden era of Peruvian history. With its stunning Inca architecture, charming colonial streets, and fascinating museums, this city captivates travelers with its rich cultural and archaeological heritage. So get ready to immerse yourself in the past and discover the secrets of Cusco, the jewel of the Inca Empire.
Cusco is dotted with impressive Inca ruins that attest to the grandeur and advanced engineering of this ancient civilization. Some of the most notable archaeological sites include:
Sacsayhuamán: This imposing fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco is known for its enormous stone blocks perfectly carved and assembled. Sacsayhuamán was an important ceremonial and defensive center of the Inca Empire and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.
Qorikancha: Also known as the Temple of the Sun, Qorikancha was the most important temple of the Inca Empire dedicated to the cult of the sun. Here, you can admire the remains of the impressive stone walls and vestiges of the intricate gold work that once adorned this sacred precinct.
Ollantaytambo: This ancient Inca city, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is famous for its impressive agricultural terraces and complex irrigation systems. Ollantaytambo was an important military, religious and agricultural center during the Inca Empire and offers a fascinating insight into life in the past.
The historic center of Cusco is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, charming squares and impressive colonial buildings that show the Spanish influence in the region. Some notable places to explore include:
Plaza de Armas: This main square is the heart of the city and is surrounded by magnificent colonial buildings, including the Cusco Cathedral and the church of La Compañía de Jesús. The square is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.
Hatun Rumiyoc Street: This narrow street is home to one of the most famous corners of Cusco: the Stone of the Twelve Angles. This stone carved in Inca times is a stunning example of the ancient Incas’ skill in stone construction.
Cusco has a variety of museums and galleries that offer a deeper insight into the history and culture of the region. Some notable museums include:
Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (MAP): This museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, metals, and ritual objects, offering a fascinating insight into the ancient cultures that inhabited the region.
Inka Museum: Located in an old colonial house, the Inka Museum exhibits a wide variety of Inca artifacts, including tools, weapons, jewelry and textiles, offering a detailed insight into the daily life and religious beliefs of this ancient civilization.
Cusco es mucho más que un destino turístico; es un santuario de relajación y bienestar que te invita a desconectar del estrés de la vida cotidiana y reconectar con tu verdadero yo. Con sus aguas termales, spas de lujo, retiros espirituales y paisajes impresionantes, esta ciudad te ofrece la oportunidad perfecta para renovar tu cuerpo, mente y espíritu en medio de la majestuosidad de los Andes peruanos. Así que prepárate para sumergirte en un viaje de sanación y bienestar y dejar que la magia eterna de Cusco te envuelva en su abrazo reconfortante.
Cusco has a large number of spas and wellness centers that offer a variety of therapeutic treatments designed to revitalize your body and relax your mind. Some of the most popular treatments include:
Traditional Massages: Enjoy a relaxing massage using traditional Peruvian techniques, such as hot stone massage or massage with aromatic oils, which will help relieve muscle tension and improve blood circulation.
Herbal Baths: Immerse yourself in a bath of medicinal herbs, an ancient healing practice used by the Incas to relieve stress, purify the body and restore internal balance.
Yoga and Meditation: Participate in yoga and meditation classes guided by expert instructors, which will help you connect with your inner self, find inner peace and improve your overall well-being.
The surroundings of Cusco are dotted with natural hot springs that offer therapeutic properties beneficial for health and well-being. Some options to enjoy a relaxing thermal bath include:
Aguas Calientes: Located near the city of Machu Picchu, the hot springs of Aguas Calientes are ideal for relaxing after a long hike along the Inca Trail or a visit to the legendary Inca citadel.
Baños del Inca: Located in the town of Urubamba in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Baños del Inca offer thermal pools fed by mineral-rich groundwater, which are known for their healing and relaxing properties.
Cusco is a sacred place for many indigenous peoples of the region, and is considered a point of convergence of cosmic and earthly energies. Some spiritual and healing experiences you can enjoy include:
Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Join yoga and meditation retreats led by local spiritual teachers, which will help you connect with your inner self and find harmony and peace in the midst of nature.
Traditional Ceremonies: Participate in traditional Andean ceremonies, such as the coca ceremony, the temazcal ceremony or the dispatch ceremony, which will allow you to connect with the land, the elements and the spirits of nature.
Enjoy outdoor yoga sessions in stunning natural settings, such as the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuamán or the banks of the Urubamba River, allowing you to practice your asana amid the serenity and beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
Cusco is a paradise for lovers of hiking and mountain tourism, with a variety of routes and trails that take you through some of the most impressive landscapes in the world. Whether you’re looking for an epic adventure on the Inca Trail or a leisurely hike through the Sacred Valley, Cusco offers you the perfect opportunity to explore the majesty of the Peruvian Andes and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. So get ready to put on your hiking boots, breathe in the fresh mountain air and let yourself be carried away by the eternal beauty of Cusco.
Without a doubt, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous hiking routes in the world. This ancient pilgrimage route takes you through stunning landscapes, passing ancient Inca sites, picturesque villages and lush rainforests, before culminating at the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. This multi-day trek is an unforgettable experience that allows you to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region.
One of the most impressive natural attractions in the Cusco region is Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca. This mountain offers a unique spectacle of vibrant colors, ranging from deep red to emerald green, due to the presence of minerals in the rocks. The hike to the top of Rainbow Mountain is challenging but rewarding, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped Andes peaks and surrounding valleys.
Hiking In The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is a paradise for hiking lovers. Here you will find a variety of hiking routes that will take you through stunning natural landscapes, ancient Incan ruins and charming rural villages. Some of the most popular hikes include the Pisac Ruins hike, the Moray Terraces hike, and the Maras Salt Flats hike.
For those looking for a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is an excellent option. This hiking route takes you through remote valleys, passing by the imposing Salkantay snow-capped peak and culminating at the southern entrance to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore beautiful natural landscapes, spot a variety of flora and fauna, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain.
In addition to multi-day hikes, Cusco offers a variety of short hikes and excursions for all skill levels. From scenic walks to hidden waterfalls and lagoons to cultural walks along the city’s cobblestone streets, there is something for everyone in this mountainous region.
Cusco is much more than a tourist destination; It is a gastronomic paradise that invites you to delight in a variety of flavors and aromas that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. From traditional dishes in local markets to luxury dining experiences in world-class restaurants, Cusco offers an unparalleled culinary experience that will satisfy even the most demanding palate. So get ready for a feast of flavors and let yourself be carried away by the eternal magic of Cusco cuisine.
Cusco cuisine is characterized by its use of local ingredients and its fusion of indigenous, Spanish and African influences. Some traditional dishes you must try include:
Baked Cuy: Cuy, or guinea pig, is a delicacy in Peru and is prepared in various ways. Baked guinea pig is a popular choice in Cusco, where it is slowly roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy.
Pachamanca: This ancient cooking technique involves burying ingredients such as meat, potatoes, corn and vegetables in the hot ground with hot stones. The result is a feast of smoky flavors and delicious aromas that reflect the deep connection to the earth.
Exploring the local markets is a must-do experience for any food lover in Cusco. Some of the most popular markets include:
San Pedro Market: This bustling market is a food lover’s paradise, where you will find a variety of fresh produce, meats, fish, exotic fruits, aromatic herbs and local products. Don’t miss the opportunity to try delicacies such as ceviche, empanadas and fresh fruit juices.
Wanchaq Market: Located on the outskirts of the city, this market is known for its variety of fresh meats, especially alpaca and guinea pig, as well as its street food stalls that offer traditional dishes at affordable prices.
Cusco has a wide range of restaurants that offer a mix of traditional and international cuisine. Some notable places to enjoy a memorable meal include:
Chicha by Gastón Acurio: Led by famous Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio, Chicha offers a modern reinterpretation of traditional Cusco cuisine, using local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
Cicciolina: This boutique restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and eclectic menu that combines Peruvian and international flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to try dishes such as lomo saltado, ceviche and causa limeña.
In addition to enjoying delicious meals at restaurants and markets, you can also participate in special gastronomic experiences that allow you to learn about Cusco’s culinary culture and participate in the preparation of traditional dishes. Some options include:
Cooking Classes: Join a cooking class led by local chefs who will teach you how to prepare traditional dishes such as ají de gallina, rocoto relleno and pisco sour, using fresh ingredients and authentic techniques.
Visits to Chicherías: Explore local chicherías, where you can try chicha, a fermented drink made from purple corn, and learn about its importance in Andean culture.
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