Traveling to Latin America is an authentic adventure, full of culture, gastronomy, history, and impressive landscapes. In the midst of this rich diversity lies a city that has it all, from ancient cultures to one of the best coffee shops in the world: Cusco. That is why it does not surprise us that for the fourth consecutive year, Travel + Leisure magazine has recognized Cusco as the best city in South and Central America.
At Travel Peru Agency, we know that visiting the imperial city of Cusco is an essential part of every trip. That is why we have prepared a specialized guide here for your next trip to Cusco. Explore the iconic streets of Cusco and discover why this city continues to amaze millions of travelers from around the world.
Why is Cusco important?
Every traveler who has come to Cusco has been surprised in one way or another. From its cobblestone streets to the living culture present in every celebration, Cusco has it all. Therefore, we are not surprised by the recognition given to the imperial city by Travel + Leisure. Do you want to know more? Here we tell you why.
History
- During the Inca period, the city of Cusco (Qosqo) was recognized as the capital of Tahuantinsuyo, which is why all the roads of the Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail) led to Cusco.
- The Historic Center of Cusco has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
- In the Historic Center of Cusco, you can find a combination of 2 types of architecture, Spanish and Inca. This does not happen in any other historic center in Peru!.
- Throughout the city of Cusco, Inca history remains alive, so even when you walk through the streets, you can discover Inca palaces, such as the Kusicancha Inka Palace, temples, and other archaeological sites.
Impressive landscapes
- Archaeological sites such as Q’enqo, Sacsayhuamán, Puka Pukara, and more are located just a few minutes from downtown Cusco. You can visit them on a traditional City tour or on your own.
- A few hours from the city, you can find amazing landscapes such as the Rainbow Mountain, Pallay Punchu, Waqrapukara, and more. The most famous colorful mountains in South America!.
Living culture
- There are traditional neighborhoods such as the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops. In addition, on Saturdays, the artisans of the San Blas neighborhood participate in a small fair at San Blas Square, where you can purchase their handicrafts directly.
- In June, the city of Cusco fills with faith, art, living culture, gastronomy, and unique festivals. Throughout the month, the jubilee month of Cusco is celebrated, during which thousands of Cusco residents, businesses, schools, among others, congratulate Cusco on its anniversary, so you can see dance competitions, patron saint festivities, and more, almost every day!.
Gastronomy
- Gastronomy is essential in Cusco. From traditional restaurants to gourmet cuisine, Cusco has a special dish for every palate. Do not hesitate to take a chance and try delicious foods such as oven-roasted guinea pig or alpaca chicharrón!.
Without a doubt, a few days are not enough to get to know the city of Cusco, which is why the best way to start your trip is with a traditional City tour and then plan all your activities.
Transportation in Cusco
Getting around the city of Cusco is easier than you think. In Cusco, unlike other cities in Peru, bus lines and their routes have specific names and take you throughout the city directly. If you are coming to Cusco and do not know how to get to your accommodation from the airport, here we tell you about the main buses, routes, and services you need to know.
Urban transportation from the airport
The city of Cusco is characterized by having urban transportation with flat fares within the city. Learn about some of the local urban transportation companies.
- Urban transportation companies such as “Correcaminos”, “El Dorado”, “Imperial”, or “Liebre” have stops just a few steps from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ). You can travel on one of these buses, and they will leave you a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco.
- To use these buses, you do not need to purchase cards or anything similar because the fare is 1.20 soles (approximately 0.36 US dollars) and is paid when boarding.
- If you use urban transportation, it is important to always remember to carry cash because the buses do not accept any type of credit or debit card.
Also, remember that if your accommodation is in the historic center of Cusco, there are streets that, due to their age and access, can only be reached on foot.
Private transportation from the airport
This is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach your destination. At Travel Peru Agency, your comfort is our priority, which is why we offer private transportation service from the airport to your hotel. We have a large team of professional drivers as well as a fleet of comfortable vehicles for every traveler.
Contact us and request a quote for your next private trip.
Taxi transportation from the airport
Cusco is a safe city. However, if you are going to take a taxi on your own, we recommend prioritizing taxis through apps. Their fares do not vary significantly, although they are slightly higher than those of taxis outside the airport.
Gastronomic recommendations in Cusco
Gastronomy is one of the pillars of a good trip, and at Travel Peru Agency, we know this well. Consequently, we provide you with some recommendations to follow on your next trip.
- On your first day in Cusco, prioritize a light, low-fat diet. Avoid eating heavy foods such as rotisserie chicken or anticuchos (although they sound tempting). Cusco is located more than 3,400 m.a.s.l., so digestion is much slower on the first day and the body needs oxygen to adapt. Consequently, eating something heavy could lead to severe stomach cramps.
- Drink muña tea or coca tea on your first day. Both will help your body adapt to the climate of Cusco more easily.
- On your third day in Cusco, venture out and delight your palate with unique dishes such as pachamanca, oven-roasted guinea pig, among others.
In addition, if you are looking for a more complete gastronomic experience, we recommend visiting the community of Huilloc and delighting your palate with an authentic Pachamanca on our private tour.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Cusco
Many tourists come to Cusco believing that the altitude and climate will not affect them, but they end up losing a day or two resting due to altitude sickness (soroche)! That is why here we give you our practical tips as experienced travelers.
Use the local currency
In Peru, the current currency is called the sol. In the Cusco region, cash and small change are used quite frequently, so it is extremely important that when you arrive in Cusco, you use the local currency. You can exchange dollars at Cusco Airport or in the historic center at various exchange offices.
- Remember that most travel agencies prefer to receive payments in cash because credit or debit cards have additional fees and taxes.
It is essential to dress in layers
Regardless of whether you travel during the dry or rainy season, it is important to use the three-layer system.
- For the base layer (first layer), prioritize wearing long-sleeved shirts.
- For the middle layer (second layer), use a fleece jacket or wool sweater to retain heat.
- For the outer layer (third layer), it is recommended to use a waterproof or windbreaker jacket.
Use suitable trekking footwear
Many of the routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Trail, Inca Jungle Trek, or Salkantay trek require long hikes. Prioritize wearing suitable trekking footwear and enjoy every step.
Do not underestimate accessories
During the dry season, the sun in Cusco is radiant and the sky is clear. However, because the climate is dry, this can cause burning eyes or skin problems.
- Wear dark sunglasses.
- Try to buy good sunscreen. Do not underestimate the Cusco sun!.
- Bring accessories such as scarves, gloves, thick socks, hats, and more, especially if you come from cities or countries with warm climates.
Now that you know everything you need to know about Cusco, write to us and secure your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season to visit Cusco?
Definitely, June is the best month to visit Cusco. It coincides with the dry season, so the weather is sunny for most of the day. In addition, Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun) is celebrated this month, an event you should experience at least once in your lifetime.
How many days do I need to visit Cusco?
You need at least 7 days to visit Cusco in the traditional way. However, travelers come to Cusco and stay for at least 2 weeks to combine trekking with culture and adventure.
