Curator’s statement
Cusco feels like a city suspended in time, overflowing with charm and history. While it welcomes travelers from all over the world, it has managed to stay deeply authentic and true to its Peruvian roots. What makes it so special to me is the balance it strikes: you can wander cobblestone streets and lively plazas one day, then set off on epic adventures like the Salkantay trek, the Inca Trail, or Rainbow Mountain the next. It’s a place where culture and adventure intertwine seamlessly.
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Things to do in Cusco
The Ruins of Intipata, along the Inca Trail
The Salkantay Trek: A multi-day alternative to the Inca Trail, this challenging but rewarding trek takes you through snowcapped mountains, lush valleys, and eventually to Machu Picchu. It’s less crowded and feels more wild and adventurous.
The Inca Trail: The classic route to Machu Picchu, filled with ancient ruins along the way. It’s one of the most iconic hikes in the world and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for history lovers and trekkers alike. I did this hike and loved it!
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): A full-day excursion to see Peru’s famous striped mountain. The colors are unreal, and the high-altitude hike makes reaching the summit feel like an accomplishment in itself.
Sacred Valley tour: Just outside Cusco, you can visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Each site offers breathtaking ruins, bustling markets, and insight into Incan culture.
Moray & Maras Salt Mines: A fascinating half-day trip where you’ll see the ancient Incan agricultural terraces at Moray and the stunning patchwork of salt evaporation ponds at Maras.
San Pedro Market: Right in Cusco’s city center, this bustling market is perfect for sampling local snacks, fresh juices, and traditional Peruvian meals, while experiencing everyday Cusqueño life.
Food tours in Cusco: A guided food tour lets you taste everything from street food to high-end Andean cuisine. It’s a great way to discover dishes you might not order on your own, like chicha (corn beer) or alpaca stew.
Explore San Blas neighborhood: Known for its bohemian vibe, narrow streets, artisan shops, and cozy cafes. It’s the perfect area to wander in the afternoon.
Visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): Once the most important temple of the Inca Empire, it’s a fascinating blend of Incan foundations and Spanish colonial architecture.
Museo del Pisco: For something fun at night, this spot offers pisco tastings, creative cocktails, and a lively social atmosphere right in the heart of Cusco.
Places to eat & drink in Cusco
Pachapapa: Located in charming San Blas, this cozy courtyard eatery serves rustic Andean favorites like alpaca skewers, creamy ají de gallina, and oven-roasted cuy (guinea pig), a perfect introduction to local cuisine.
Chicha by Gastón Acurio: A culinary gem near Plaza Regocijo offering gourmet Peruvian dishes crafted by acclaimed chef Gastón Acurio. Reservations are highly recommended.
Mauka at Palacio Nazarenas (Belmond): A high-end experience by chef Pia León, housed in a luxurious former monastery. Mauka elevates ancestral Andean ingredients into beautifully plated modern cuisine.
Green Point: This vibrant 100 percent vegan restaurant is a global hidden gem, celebrated for its inventive, organic plant-based dishes that still honor Peruvian flavors.
Mil (Moray): Slightly outside Cusco, this is a destination-level restaurant set at altitude on an indigenous farm. Every ingredient is locally sourced, and the tasting menu includes creative dishes and even a rosé made from fermented sweet potatoes.
Los Toldos (Pollo a la Brasa): For arguably the best “pollo a la brasa” (Peruvian rotisserie chicken) in the world. Cooked over eucalyptus wood and priced under $10, it’s a flavorful, budget-friendly must-try.
Belmond Monasterio Lobby Bar: Situated inside a restored 16th-century monastery, this bar is as grand as it is historic, perfect for sipping a well-mixed cocktail in a remarkable setting.
Need to know
Cusco sits at high altitude (over 11,000 ft / 3,400 m), so give yourself at least a day or two to acclimate before diving into big hikes like Rainbow Mountain or the Inca Trail. Coca tea and staying hydrated really help with altitude adjustment. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers, as evenings get chilly, but the sun can be strong during the day. Bring cash (Peruvian soles) since many markets and small shops don’t accept cards. Finally, remember that Cusco is both a living city and a major tourist hub, venture beyond the main squares to discover quieter neighborhoods, local eateries, and authentic experiences that make the city so special.
Travel Advisor
Samantha Aguirre
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