20 Thrilling Adventures in Cusco, Peru to Write Home About

Is there more to Cusco than just being a gateway to Machu Picchu? Definitely! In this article, let’s explore the other attractions of Cusco Peru.

Cusco is a fascinating city at 11,000 feet (3,350 meters) above sea level in the Peruvian Andes. It served as the Inca Empire’s former capital and still retains its majesty and Inca spirit.

Amazing landscapes, tantalizing turquoise lakes, and other breathtaking natural wonders like the Rainbow Mountain – all these and more lay in store for travelers who will venture to this former capital of the renowned Inca empire. 

Cusco’s museums, markets, cuisine, architecture, and other cultural fares vibrate with the energy and legacy of its glorious past. Exploring the city and its environs through various adventurous sporting activities will satisfy every outdoor enthusiast.

Before you pack your bags and finalize that South American itinerary, let’s take a virtual tour through this list of top Cusco sights and experiences. 

20 Things To Do in Cusco Peru 

1. Plaza de Armas

You can’t miss Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, the city’s central square. With a commanding green park in the middle and a bronze monument of Pachacutec, the most well-known Incan king, the huge plaza serves as the city’s architectural and cultural core. 

Do visit the Cusco Cathedral, a monument to the Spanish conquest. The remainder of the area is surrounded by various attractive buildings with arcades where you can enjoy a meal or your morning coffee while taking in the scenery.

2. Downtown Cusco 

On this free tour, you may discover more about the Incas’ history and the Incan civilization’s origins. 

Discover the anti-seismic Incan Walls, Incan palaces, Incan streets, and Incan aqueducts, some of the outstanding works of the ancient Peruvians. Hear the tale of the Incas’ downfall and conquering. Observe colonial architecture in the Baroque style, take in Mercado San Pedro‘s contemporary lifestyle, and much more.

You can easily discover the majority of downtown Cusco on foot. Walking around is one of the best ways to explore this mesmerizing place.

3. Visit the Rainbow Mountain

Peru has recently made the spectacular discovery of Rainbow Mountain. You must explore this incredible location that was recently discovered in the Andes. After a strenuous but enjoyable hike, you can reach the viewing area for the best panoramic views of this mountain and Ausangate Snowy Peak. 

The tour only costs around 322 Peruvian Sol/PEN (85 US dollars). You’ll leave early in the day to ensure you have enough time to hike up Rainbow Mountain, which stands at an altitude of approximately 17,060 ft (5,200 m) above sea level. While it’s a short hike in distance, you want to take it very slowly because of the altitude. 

4. Inca Jungle Trek

The Inca Jungle Trek is tailor-made for adventure and thrill-seekers seeking to fully embrace the splendor of the Andes. The trek provides a distinctive adventure that blends hiking, rafting, and ziplining, guiding you through the verdant Cusco jungle until you arrive at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This journey is a captivating and multifaceted experience that traverses stunning and varied terrains, encompassing mountains, jungles, and rivers.

5. Mount Salkantay

Discover the 20,574-foot (6,271-meter) Mount Salkantay, the second-largest mountain in the Cusco region and the reputed “guardian” between the mountains and the jungle, coming in second only to the formidable Mount Ausangate. 

You will witness breathtaking views of the glacier giants and the vast valleys they stand over as you pass between the peaks of Salkantay and Humantay.

6. Maras and Moray Tour

Come and experience the charm of Moray, a group of circular terraces situated deep within a natural canyon and used as an agricultural research facility since the time of the Incas. This journey is the ideal fusion of natural beauty and historical significance. 

Enjoy Salinas de Maras, a stunning collection of salt pits fed by an underground spring. Salt is currently extracted and processed for various uses, including human consumption. The tour price is only under 57 PEN ($15).

7. Cooking Lessons at Cusco

Using native ingredients like quinoa, yellow peppers, and fish will give you a unique perspective on Peruvian cuisine and culture. 

You will create fusion gourmet dishes with top chefs and take in the city’s most breathtaking vistas. The price of the excursion is just around 264 PEN ($59).

8. Tour to Choquequirao

The Inca king Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui most likely oversaw the construction of the Choquequirao complex, which is thought to have been the Sons of the Sun’s last line of defense and shelter. After escaping the besieged city of Cusco in 1535, the king and his people fled to Choquequirao under the direction of Manco Inca Yupanqui. 

The location was probably utilized as a checkpoint for entering the Vilcabamba area and a center for culture and religion.

9. Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour

One of the most well-liked excursions for people who wish to learn as much as they can about the Inca Empire and its sites is the two-day, one-night Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu tour. 

Spend the final day of the journey exploring the renowned Machu Picchu Citadel, constructed in a challenging, sterile environment with remarkable care and intellect. The excursion only costs about 2,526.68 PEN ($666.67).

10. Visit Humantay Lake

Humantay Lake has the most stunning, unmatched scenery. The breathtaking turquoise hue of the lagoon and the beauty of our Pachamama—mother earth in Inca culture—can be experienced on this one-day walk in the Andes. 

The Salkantay and Humantay glaciers surround this secret jewel waiting for you. The price of the excursion is only under $40.

11. ATV Quad Biking

With this 4-hour ATV quad bike journey across the Andes, you’ll explore Incan culture in a new manner, see stunning scenery in Cruzpata, Moray, and Maras, and experience the thrill of the adventure every step of the way. The prices begin at about 133 PEN ($35).

12. Twelve-Angled Stone

A stroll down Cusco’s Hatunrumiyoc Street, where a renowned 12-angle stone is located, is essential. 

You don’t need to worry about missing this sight if you are short on time because the city has evidence of the Incas’ prowess with stone. You can easily fit a trip to this destination into your itinerary because it is close to the city center.

13. Explore Lake Titicaca

Visit the renowned “floating islands” and Taquile’s remote mainland island settlement on a full-day boat tour of Lake Titicaca. 

You can learn about the local populations that call the world’s highest navigable lake home. The fact that there are native Peruvian advisors on buses to offer assistance, counsel, and further information is the best part. 

The cost of the tour starts from 190 PEN ($50).

14. Q’eswachaka Rope Bridge

A unique bridge may be seen in the center of Cusco. One of the few remaining specimens of the handwoven Incan bridges that were formerly typical of the Inca Empire is Queshuachaka. 

The best part is that you will have an enthusiastic local guide who speaks both languages and leads the visitor to the Q’eswachaka Rope Bridge.

15. Waqrapukara 

Anyone looking to explore a breathtaking archaeological site must go to Waqrapukara. You may find an Inca archaeological site called Waqrapukara in the little town of Huayqui, which is situated near the province of Acomayo in the department of Cusco. 

This tour is ideal for hikers, and the greatest part is that you may hike with one of Peru’s top tour companies to learn everything about Waqrapukara that you could be interested in.

16. Coricancha

Once upon a time, Coricancha, also known as the Sun Temple, was the most renowned building in Cusco. Its top was constructed of gold. The Spaniards melted the gold and erected their Santo Domingo church over the leftovers. 

Although Coricancha and Santo Domingo Church are essentially one structure today, there are two independent entrances. Coricancha is also frequently spelled as Koricancha or Qoricancha.

17. San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market isn’t the most genuine market you’ll ever see, but it still has its charm, and it’s one of the more reasonably priced things to do in Cusco. You can find everything at San Pedro Market, including fresh meat (no refrigerators here, so get there early), fruits and veggies, llama-wool souvenirs, and quick lunch options.

18. San Blas 

San Blas Plaza, the hub of the San Blas district, famed for its artisan stores, coffee shops, and galleries, can be reached from Plaza de Armas by steep cobblestone streets. Walking through San Blas is enjoyable since there are many hidden jewels to discover.

19. Museums

Before traveling to Cusco, you must learn the word Boleto Turistico. This ticket comes in various forms and essentially offers admission to some of the main local and regional attractions. The good news for history buffs is that one partial ticket covers Cusco’s main museums. 

20. Sacsayhuaman 

A short 45-minute walk from Cusco’s city center will take you to the nearby Sacsayhuaman Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, public transportation is also accessible. Sacsayhuaman is a pre-Incan structure originally erected by the Killke people, but the Incas eventually restored the location, making it one of the outstanding displays of Inca building expertise. 

There probably isn’t a better thing to do than take a stroll from Cusco’s historical center to Sacsayhuaman Ruins if you’re seeking a suggestion for a half-day excursion.

How to Get to Cusco Peru

Arriving in Peru is the first step toward getting to Cusco. International flights into Peru land in the capital city of Lima, which is also known as the “city of kings.” Because of Peru’s challenging topography, you may reach Cusco from this metropolis in about 55 minutes by plane or about 20 hours by bus.

Where to Stay in Cusco Peru 

• Quinua Villa Boutique – Best Budget Option

Quinua Villa Boutique is a great option for those on a tight budget. Quinua Villa Boutique is well-known for its classic furnishings and spotless rooms as an illustration of Peruvian hospitality. The villa is accessible only by an upward hike, but the reward is a charming balcony with a city view.

• Abittare – Best Mid-range Option

For those on a mid-range budget who want to live in more comfort, Abittare is a fantastic choice. Abittare is a newly renovated and lavishly decorated hotel close to all facilities. It is undoubtedly one of my favorite places in the heart of Cusco. 

The rooms and the patio are gorgeous, offering warm and cold breakfast options. You’ll think you’re vacationing somewhere in Europe because it’s tastefully decorated with Spanish-inspired architecture and furnishings.

• Estancia San Blas – Best High-Cost Option 

Estancia San Blas focuses on comfort, elegance, and self-indulgence. Estancia San Blas is a nice location with a 5-star service rating close to the city center. 

The beautifully appointed rooms will significantly improve your whole experience in Cusco. You won’t want to miss out on any of the foods on their breakfast menu, which is of the highest quality.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Tips To Stay Safe In Cusco Peru During Your Stay

• Beware of Petty Theft: Like many tourist destinations, Cusco has incidents of pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in crowded areas such as markets and bus stations. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Dress Appropriately: Nights in Cusco can be cold, so dress in layers. During the day, the sun can be strong, so wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Wearing sturdy footwear is advisable as the streets can be uneven and cobblestoned.
• Use Reputable Transportation: Only use official taxi services, which are typically marked and can be arranged by your hotel. For long-distance travel, choose reliable bus companies.
• Use Reputable Transportation: Only use official taxi services, which are typically marked and can be arranged by your hotel. For long-distance travel, choose reliable bus companies.
• Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Cusco Peru

What Is Cusco Peru Known For?

Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Civilization, is situated amid the Peruvian Andes. The city is renowned for its magnificent central square, cobblestone walkways, and homes with terracotta tile roofs that will transport you to a bygone era of European towns.

Is Cusco Peru Safe?

Yes, Cusco Peru is safe. Since tourism is Cusco’s primary source of income, the government is making every effort to safeguard visitors from any crimes that might occur there. Despite not being a very hazardous city, muggings and thefts occasionally happen in Cusco. The Plaza de Armas, on the other hand, is one of the risky places where you should avoid wandering alone at night.

What Is the Best Month to Visit Cusco?

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Cusco depends on whether you want to maximize your chances of enjoying sunny days with bright blue skies. Or perhaps you don’t mind occasional showers and prefer to avoid crowds at neighboring attractions.

There are two distinct seasons in the Cusco region. May might be the best choice during the winter because the landscape is still lush and green from the recent rains, and fewer tourists have yet to arrive. Aside from January and February, any time is great due to excessive precipitation.

How Many Days Do You Need in Cusco?

It can be challenging to determine how long to stay at Cusco Peru. Even though Machu Picchu is lower than Cusco, some individuals still experience altitude sickness, so you should stay in Cusco for at least two days to acclimate. You can also explore the city and the Sacred Valley during this time.

The minimum time you should spend in the city is two days because you should not miss the Sacred Valley and the nearby ruins. However, you can stay here for just one day before slowly leaving via the Sacred Valley and staying in tiny towns along the way.

Conclusion – Cusco Peru

This list of top things to do in Cusco will explain why this destination is high on many travelers’ bucket lists. Consider it your helpful guide during your adventure into the heart of this magical city. 

May you discover and enjoy everything wonderful in Cusco, from hiking the ancient Inca trails, enjoying the traditional cuisine, and marveling at the wondrous Rainbow Mountain to strolling around the historic Plaza de Armas. 

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