Explore the magic of Cusco and its highlights. Discover the ancient Incan capital, immerse yourself in the rich culture, delight your palate with authentic Peruvian cuisine, and embark on exciting adventures in the stunning landscapes of the Andes. From exploring historical sites to enjoying unique culinary experiences, our small guide provides you with the best tips to make the most of your experience.
15 Things To Do in Cusco
1. Explore the most popular archaeological sites in Cusco
Cusco offers a wide variety of tourist attractions for every type of visitor.
- Main Archaeological Tourist Attractions
- Take a tour called “Sacred Valley,” visiting places like Chincheros, Maras Village, Moray, the salt mines (salinas), Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
- Experience the “City Tour Cusco,” visiting key tourist attractions around the city such as Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Quenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
- Explore Machu Picchu in one day with the “Machu Picchu Full Day” tour.
You can visit these archaeological sites in 3 days, one tour per day. We recommend booking these tours with operators near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
2. Visit Plaza de Armas
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is more than just a public space; it’s a place steeped in ancestral history. Located in the heart of the Historic Center, this emblematic square serves as a starting point to explore the vibrant city of Cusco.
Plaza de Armas is the gateway to the panoramic and majestic Cristo Blanco, as well as the picturesque neighborhoods of San Cristóbal and San Blas. Around the square, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, bars, travel agencies, and entertainment centers, providing quality service for a complete visitor experience.
Points of interest surrounding Plaza de Armas include the majestic Cathedral, the historic Church of the Society of Jesus, and the First University of Cusco. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the beautiful fountain located at the center of the square.
3. Visit San Cristóbal Viewpoint
Reaching the San Cristóbal Viewpoint in Cusco is a must during your visit to the city. This is a destination for tourists and locals alike, as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Cusco’s historic center and the majestic peaks of the Andes that surround it.
From this elevated point, you can admire the magnificent colonial architecture of the city, along with the red-tiled roofs and narrow cobblestone streets that characterize its urban landscape. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to get a close look at the iconic Church of San Cristóbal, an architectural gem dating back to the colonial era and still an important place of worship for locals.
San Cristóbal Viewpoint is also a perfect spot to enjoy stunning sunsets over the Andes, with warm golden hues illuminating the sky at the end of the day. It provides an ideal setting for capturing spectacular photographs and creating unforgettable memories of your visit to Cusco.
4. Explore the San Blas Neighborhood
Exploring the San Blas neighborhood is immersing yourself in history, art, and culture. Known as the artisan’s quarter, San Blas is a picturesque and bohemian area that captivates visitors with its colonial architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful houses adorned with carved wooden balconies.
As you wander its winding streets, you’ll come across local artisan workshops where you can admire the skill and creativity of Cusco’s artists and purchase authentic pieces of art and craftsmanship, such as textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and paintings.
One of the main attractions in the neighborhood is the Church of San Blas, a colonial temple built in the 16th century that houses an impressive wooden altarpiece considered a masterpiece of Cusco’s baroque art.
In addition to its cultural richness, the San Blas neighborhood is known for its welcoming cafes, restaurants, and bars.
5. Visit the 12-angled Stone
Viewing the famous Stone of the 12 Angles in Cusco allows you to delve into the rich history and architecture of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Located on a narrow street, Hatumrumiyoq, near the Plaza de Armas, its strategic position just a block from the main square makes it a must-visit for those exploring the city of Cusco. It stands as an impressive example of the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Inca builders.
The 12-angled Stone is part of a wall that belongs to a larger Inca construction and is renowned for the precision and perfection of its cuts and joints. The wall fits together so precisely that not even a sheet of paper can be inserted between the stones.
Believed to represent the 12 months of the Inca calendar, some theories also suggest it marked the division between Hanan Qosqo (Upper Cusco) and Hurin Qosqo (Lower Cusco). Visitors can admire this architectural marvel, take photos alongside it, and learn about its history and cultural significance. This stone symbolizes pride and heritage for the people of Cusco and is a must-visit for anyone exploring this fascinating city.
6. Experience the Tradition of Corpus Christi in the Imperial City
During the first days of June, the city of Cusco comes alive with festivities to celebrate the most important church event in Cusco. You can enjoy music, colorful processions of saints, and the moving blessing of the Black Christ, also known as the Lord of the Earthquakes, a religious figure revered by the people of Cusco.
One of the highlights of this celebration is the chance to savor authentic Andean cuisine. Among the most iconic dishes is Chiri Uchu, which in Quechua means “cold dish.” This delicious feast consists of dried meat, seaweed, cheese, roasted corn, tortillas, and other typical regional ingredients. Accompanied by a refreshing Inca Cola, Chiri Uchu is a true delight that will tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in the rich culinary heritage of Cusco.
In addition to the food, during the celebration of the Black Christ, you can also enjoy a diverse cultural program, including folk dance performances, artisan exhibitions, and musical events. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique celebration, where faith, tradition, and joy come together to celebrate the identity and cultural heritage of Cusco.
7. Experience the Magic of Inti Raymi: A Unique Inca Cultural Event
Inti Raymi, deeply rooted in Cusco’s history, emerges as a living testament to Incan culture. This sacred event, dedicated to the Sun God, is an ancestral expression of gratitude for the light and warmth bestowed upon the world. Originally celebrated on June 21, coinciding with the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere, the festival was suppressed for centuries by Spanish colonization and republican-era restrictions.
However, the resurgence of Inti Raymi in the 20th century marks a triumphant return to Cusco’s cultural roots. With the date shifted to June 24, also honoring Peruvian Farmer’s Day, this celebration takes on new significance, merging devotion to the sun with recognition for those who till the land with effort and dedication. Thus, Inti Raymi becomes a symbol of resistance, renewal, and connection with ancestral traditions that endure at the heart of Cusco.
8. Immerse Yourself in Local Life: Visit the Pisaq Market
Discover Pisaq, a cultural gem just an hour from Cusco. In this picturesque village steeped in millennia-old traditions, bartering still prevails as an ancient economic practice. During pre-Columbian times, when currency was a distant concept, bartering was the common form of exchange among local inhabitants.
The Pisaq market is a treasure trove for art and craft enthusiasts. Among the colorful stalls, you can admire a wide variety of jewelry and textiles masterfully crafted by skilled local artisans, renowned for their expertise in silverwork. To experience the authenticity of this market at its best, we recommend visiting on Sundays when bartering is still practiced. While the market is open every day of the week, Sundays breathe traditional spirit, reviving the magic of ancestral exchange.
9. Experience Extreme Thrills: Bungee Jumping at Action Valley Park
Dare to live a unique experience at Action Valley Park in Poroy, just 15 minutes from the historical heart of Cusco! Bungee Jumping awaits in this extreme adventure, where you’ll leap from an elevated platform over 122 meters above the ground. The Bungee Jumping experience is conducted using state-of-the-art equipment ensuring 100% safety throughout the activity, allowing you to fully enjoy this thrilling adventure.
The activity is available from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the total duration of the tour, departing from Cusco, is approximately 2 hours.
10. Lodging at Great Heights: The Hanging Hotels
In the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas, located in the Urubamba province, lies a unique wonder: the renowned Skylodge Adventure Suites, inaugurated in 2013. These incredible suites offer the unparalleled opportunity to stay in hanging bedrooms, completely transparent, clinging to the rock and providing breathtaking views of the valley.
To reach these suites, visitors must ascend about 400 meters on mountain-embedded staircases. An experience that will leave an indelible impression on any adventurous traveler who dares to live it!
11. Natural Therapies: Experience the Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Three thermal pools fed by hot springs near the Vilcanota River. Currently, the three pools vary in size, depth, and temperature.
To access this wonderful place, there are a few pathways. You can hire the services of a local travel agency, trek to Salkantay, or take a collective bus to the town of Santa Teresa from Cusco. From Santa Teresa, you can board another collective bus to Qoqalmayo, with a travel duration of 5 hours.
12. Embrace Tradition: The Feast of the Virgin of Carmen in Paucartambo
A religious celebration is held annually in the Province of Paucartambo from July 15 to 18.
Central to this celebration are various folk dances of diverse origins (mestizo, Afro, indigenous, Spanish, etc.). During these days, dancers and the faithful pay homage to the Virgin of Carmen.
In addition to the religious festivities, between July 15 and 18, a very popular natural event occurs on the route to the town of Paucartambo, at a location known as Tres Cruces. This event involves witnessing a spectacular sunrise, considered one of the most beautiful. The recommended time to appreciate this spectacle is 5:00 am.
13. High-Altitude Adventure: Vinicunca Mountain in Cusco
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, stands as one of Peru’s most impressive destinations and the second most visited attraction after Machu Picchu. Located approximately 3 hours by vehicle from the city of Cusco, at the base of Nevado de Ausangate, this natural wonder presents a breathtaking display of colors that leaves visitors awe-struck.
Entrance to Rainbow Mountain costs 25 soles per person for foreign tourists and 15 soles for national tourists. The site is open every day, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty at any time of the year. Additionally, near this mountain is the famous Red Valley, another must-visit location to explore and admire the natural beauty of the region.
14. Explore the Tranquility of Huaypo Lagoon
If you’re seeking a natural getaway near the city of Cusco, Huaypo Lagoon is a perfect choice. Just an hour and a half by vehicle from the city, this lagoon offers a stunning landscape of crystal-clear waters and a mountainous environment that will leave you amazed.
Whether you’re looking to relax in a natural setting or experience thrilling outdoor activities, Huaypo Lagoon has something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of nature during your visit to Cusco.
15. Take a Free Walking Tour in Cusco
One of the must-do activities in Cusco is to take a Free Walking Tour. Explore the city for free, learn about its history, visit iconic places, and enjoy the experience of a cost-free walking tour.
Discover the cultural richness of Cusco through this interactive and educational option.
One of the main operators for this activity is the Cusco Free Walking Tour, offering daily departures and located at the water fountain in the center of Plaza de Armas.