Saqsaywaman, things to do in Cusco, Peru
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35 Fun Things To Do In Cusco, Peru

Last Updated: January 13 2024

If you read our Cusco Itinerary, you’ll already know how much we love this incredible city. For us, Cusco is easily one of the best places in Peru, South America.

Everything about this city is delightful; the people are amazing, the scenery is stunning, the architecture is incredible, and the culture is wonderful too. On top of that, there’s a huge range of things to do!

This guide is going to show you the very best attractions in and around the city, so you know exactly what’s on offer during your trip.

We’ve put a list together, showing you the best things to do in Cusco, Peru. It includes all the places you’ll need to visit, some unique experiences, and other top tips, so make sure you keep reading!

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The Best Things to Do in Cusco, Peru

1. Explore Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas

If you only have one full day in Cusco or you’re visiting on a day trip, you have to make sure you leave enough time free to visit Plaza de Armas, one of Peru’s landmarks.

It’s the main square and the heart of the city, so is a must for any itinerary. You can find some of Cusco’s most famous attractions here too, including Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesus and Cusco Cathedral.

Plaza de Armas is also the centre of celebrations in the city and is lined with shops, restaurants, tour operators, and hotels. Keep your eyes open for the statue of Incan ruler Pachacuti too!

2. Admire the views from Mirador de Plaza Sán Cristobal

Mirador de Plaza Sán Cristobal, Cusco

One of the best things to do in Cusco, Peru is to take in the impressive city and mountain views from Mirador de Plaza Sán Cristobal. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Plaza de Armas so it won’t take you long to get there.

When you reach this viewpoint, you can expect breathtaking views of the entire city and the Andes mountain range. We would have been quite happy sitting here all day, but there are simply too many other things to do in Cusco!

It might also be worth noting that Mirador de Plaza Sán Cristobal is one of the less touristy destinations so if you want to escape the hustle and bustle, it’s the perfect spot. We love it here at sunrise, so make sure you check it out!

3. Spend an evening at Paddy’s Irish Bar

Paddy's Irish Bar, Things to do in Cusco, Peru

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Cusco, Peru, make sure you visit Paddy’s Irish Bar. It’s definitely one of the coolest places in the city and it’s actually quite historic too!

This bar is the highest Irish-owned bar in the world, which is pretty fantastic, particularly if you have an Irish family (which Abbie does). As you would expect, Paddy’s Irish Bar serves Guinness, as well as craft beers, and wine.

The menu also offers popular and traditional cocktails, sharing snacks, and delicious mains, so you’ll leave the bar feeling very full! You can even pick up a free Paddy’s Irish Bar poster during your visit, to prove that you’ve been here.

4. Wander around Saqsaywaman

Saqsaywaman, Incan ruins

The next fun thing to do in Cusco, Peru is to explore Saqsaywaman, which is one of the most impressive Inca sites in the country. It’s an archaeological site that was built during the 1400s by order of the Incan ruler Pachacuti.

Once a military base, Saqsaywaman is now a well-preserved set of ruins that tourists visit to learn more about Incan architecture and take in views of the city. Unfortunately, a lot of the ruins were destroyed by the Spanish when they invaded.

Saqsaywaman was only rediscovered in 1934 and it now plays an important role in local culture.

5. Marvel at the Twelve-Angled Stone

Twelve Angled Stone, things to do in Cusco, Peru

Make sure you add Twelve Angled Stone to your Cusco Itinerary if you want to experience more of the city’s Incan heritage. You can find this place right near Plaza de Armas so you have no excuses not to visit.

The Twelve-Angled Stone makes up part of the Lienzo Pétreo Wall, which has a history that dates back approximately 700 years.

The wall is made up of green diorite rock and was believed to be part of an Incan palace. Quite brilliantly, every piece of stone used to make the wall fits together perfectly, despite being built without any binding materials or mortar!

6. Check out Cusco’s Regional Historical Museum

This museum is just a 3-minute walk away from Cusco’s main square, making it one of the best places to visit after exploring Plaza de Armas. The Regional Historical Museum sits in a stunning colonial building that was once the home of a famous Peruvian writer.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a huge range of different exhibits that explain Cusco’s rich history. In total, there are thirteen rooms to explore so you probably want an hour or two to see it all.

Some of the exhibits in the museum are from prehistoric times and most of Cusco’s history is explained including the Incas, Colonial Gods, Wari culture, and the Saints of Peru.

7. Head to Cusco Cathedral

Cusco Cathedral, Peru

No trip here is complete without a visit to Cusco Cathedral, so be sure to add it to your itinerary!

Cusco Cathedral is super easy to see because it sits along Plaza de Armas. The construction of the cathedral began in 1559 and was only completed in 1654. That means it took nearly 100 years to build, which is understandable given its beauty!

Also referred to as Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption, Cusco Cathedral is one of the city’s most important monuments, even though it was built by the Spanish, over the top of an ancient Inca temple.

8. Admire the epic views from Cristo Blanco

Cristo Blanco Statue

If you’re willing to go on a short hike, you can visit the Cristo Blanco statue that sits upon a hill overlooking the city. Day tours will take you here, but we much preferred going on our own.

From Mirador de Plaza Sán Cristobal, it’s around a 10-15 minute walk. Cross over the bridge that’s opposite Saqsaywaman to reach the Cristo Blanco statue, and then you can admire epic city views.

Commonly referred to as the ‘Protector of Cusco’, Cristo Blanco is an 8-metre (26 feet) statue of Jesus Christ. Visiting here is easily one of the best free things to do in Cusco, Peru!

9. Walk down the beautiful street of Siete Borreguitos

Siete Borreguitos, things to do in Cusco, Peru

Cusco is generally just a really enjoyable city to walk around, even if you don’t have an end location in mind. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the busy streets, dainty alleyways, and colourful squares, and we’re sure you will too.

One area we loved exploring was the San Blas District which you can find in Cusco’s historic centre. Also called ‘San Blas Neighborhood’ and ‘Artisan Neighborhood, you’ll find the charming Siete Borreguitos here!

Siete Borreguitos is a vibrant street that’s covered in beautiful murals, orange-tiled roofs, and fragrant hanging flower baskets. Be sure to wander down the street and grab a coffee in one of the many cafes.

10. Do a chocolate workshop at ChocoMuseo

ChocoMuseo in Cusco

One of our favourite attractions in Cusco is ChocoMuseo, where you can take part in entertaining workshops and try a wide range of delicious chocolate products. If you love chocolate like us, you will love it here!

ChocoMuseo is only a small chocolate factory found off the main plaza. You can walk around the factory for free and try out the free samples, or take part in the Bean to Bar Workshop.

This two-hour workshop allows you to make your own chocolate bar, which let’s be honest is pretty awesome!

11. Explore San Pedro Central Market

San Pedro Market

Another one of our favorite things to do in Cusco City is walk through San Pedro Market because it offers tourists the perfect opportunity to experience local life. This authentic market is the oldest market in the city too!

First opened in 1925, San Pedro Market will overload your senses with endless sights, unique smells, and lots of sounds. This market is primarily a food market and features stalls selling a huge range of local dishes.

However, there are also plenty of small craft stalls too, so be sure to buy yourself something to take home. This cooking and San Pedro Market tour is a great way to experience the market!

12. Visit Museo Inka

Museo Inka in Cusco

Museo Inka aims to keep Andean culture alive by presenting some of the finest Incan artefacts and exhibits in the whole of Peru!

This charming museum can be found to the northeast of Plaza de Armas so it won’t take you long to get there. It’s arguably the best museum in Cusco for those of you that love the Inca empire (let’s be honest, who doesn’t).

Inside, you will find a fine collection of Incan treasures, including gold, metalwork, pottery, jewellery, and ceremonial drinking vessels. The museum also houses mummies and Incan models that you don’t want to miss!

13. Go stargazing at the Cusco Planetarium

Peru night sky

Visiting Cusco Planetarium is one of the best things to do in Cusco City at night, so stay up late and don’t miss out on the action. This planetarium is actually one of the best planetariums in the world too, so you really don’t want to leave it off your itinerary!

Housed in a beautiful Andean adobe home, this family-run planetarium sits on a hillside overlooking the archaeological site Saqsayhuaman. From here, you can explore the universe and learn a great deal about the stars we see in the night sky.

You can buy Cusco Planetarium tickets in advance if you’re looking to secure a spot!

14. Have lunch at Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas, Cusco itinerary

While it’s great fun to travel around Cusco and take in as many day trips and tours as you can, sometimes it’s nice to take it easy and just take a minute to enjoy the surroundings.

The best way to do this is by sitting down for some lunch in one of the many restaurants that sit on Plaza de Armas. Not only do the restaurants here serve great food, but they also offer impressive views of the square!

Most restaurants feature balcony seating, which is where you’ll want to sit for the best views. Some places we’d recommend include Mistura Grill Cusco, Paddy’s Irish Bar, and Cafe Plaza.

15. Head to Qorikancha (The Sun Temple)

Qorikancha, things to do in Cusco, Peru

If you didn’t already know, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because there are so many wonderful things to see!

One place you seriously don’t want to miss when in Cusco is Qorikancha, also known as the Sun Temple.

Cusco was once the Incan Empire capital and Qorikancha was built during Túpac Yupanqui’s reign. The temple was dedicated to a sun god called Inti, but unfortunately, most of the temple was destroyed by the Spanish.

However, Qorikancha’s interior is still extremely impressive, as the Spanish rebuilt most of the temple in their own style, along with keeping some of the original architecture.

16. Haggle at the local markets

Haggling in a market, things to do in Cusco, Peru

It may not be one of Cusco’s attractions, but no trip to Peru is complete without at least one haggling experience!

Haggling isn’t something we’re all used to, us included, but it’s a way of life in Peru so never be afraid to do it. In fact, most locals expect you to haggle, with prices usually being set higher for tourists.

Generally, we don’t haggle the amount down too much as prices in Peru are already quite low for us, but it’s always nice to barter in an attempt to get the cost down a bit!

17. Visit Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asís de Cusco

Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asís de Cusco

The next attraction on our guide of things to do in Cusco, Peru is Museo y Catacumbas. Despite being incredibly interesting and unique, this museum is surprisingly quiet, and not a lot of people tend to visit.

As a result, it’s a great place to come if you want to explore the city away from the crowds. When we visited the museum, it only cost 15 Soles per person and that included a free guided tour!

The catacombs are amazing, but the paintings here take the crown. The museum houses some of the largest paintings in South America and books dating back to the 17th century, so there’s a lot to see.

18. Wander around Q’enco Archaeological Complex

Q'enco Archaeological Complex, Cusco

In our opinion, one of the best things to do around Cusco is to visit Q’enco Archaeological Complex, where you can find an impressive archaeological site and sacred Inca ruins.

Q’enqo (or Kenko) was a very important site to the Incas as it was where religious ceremonies used to be held. Many archaeologists aren’t sure, but it’s believed that it was built during Inca Pachacuti’s reign.

Inside the main complex, you can find a large amphitheatre, a sacrificial hall, underground chambers, and the remains of an observatory.

19. Have some fun at FIFA Sports Bar

FIFA Sports Bar, Cusco, Peru

Another great place to kick back and relax during your time in Cusco City is the FIFA Sports Bar. A fantastic place for sports lovers, and anyone that enjoys a good cocktail, this bar sits opposite Qorikancha.

Unfortunately, the bar doesn’t seem to appear on Google Maps, so you will just have to visit the Sun Temple and look across from the entrance.

What we love about this bar is that it serves good food, and a wide range of drinks, has super friendly staff, and leaves games on every table for customers to play. Of course, it also has an entertaining sports theme!

20. Watch a show at Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo

Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo is a performance centre that was opened in 1924, with the main purpose of preserving Peruvian music and dance.

Almost 100 years later and the theatre still draws in thousands of tourists and locals every year with spectacular performances. Currently, the theatre has more than 50 dances, a hundred melodies, and a huge collection of traditional instruments and costumes!

The cast consists of more than 70 artists and shows focus on the music and folk dances of Peru and Cusco. Many of the cast have even participated in national and international festivals so take in a performance if you can!

21. Take a Peruvian cooking class

Aji de Gallina in Cusco, Peru

If you’re looking for more unique activities in Cusco, you can take part in a cooking class. The cooking classes in Cusco show tourists how to make epic Peruvian food at home, and trust us, you’ll want to.

Most of the cooking classes in the city will take you to a local market to buy fresh ingredients. Then, you can take your ingredients and make a range of local dishes, including ceviche and lucuma gnocchi.

This Cusco cooking class offers a 4-hour culinary experience that includes a trip to a local food market, a class in local specialities, tastings, a meal, and drinks!

22. Explore Puka Pukara Archaeological Complex

Puka Pukara Archaeological Complex in Peru

The next place on this things to do in Cusco, Peru guide is Puka Pukara. Exploring this place is a must, so make sure you add it to your itinerary!

This site translates to ‘Red Fortress’ which relates to the type of rock used to build it. In comparison to other Incan sites, people don’t know much about Puka Pukara. However, most archaeologists believe it’s the site of a former military base, although others are somewhat sceptical.

This mystery only makes Puka Pukara more intriguing! The complex has three sections; the First Wall, the Second Wall, and the Third Wall, so be sure to visit all three.

23. Visit Museo de Arte Precolombino

Museo de Arte Precolombino, Peru

Another brilliant museum you can take a look at in Cusco is Museo de Arte Precolombino.

The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, otherwise known as MAP Cusco is an amazing museum that transports visitors back 3,000 years. In this museum, you have the chance to learn about the Incan Empire and the mythical creative spirit that brought life to it.

The exhibits in this museum belong to the Lima Larco Museum collection which is internationally recognized as one of the best in the world. You’ll find ancient materials, unique artefacts, and much more here!

24. Have a drink at Limbus Restobar

Pisco sour cocktail at Limbus Restobar

If you’re looking for somewhere relaxing to grab a drink in Cusco, but you still want epic views of the city, look no further than Limbus Restobar.

It’s a charming bar and restaurant that has a roof terrace, which offers incredible city views. Particularly impressive at night, this is a great place to unwind and enjoy a pisco sour as you watch the sun go down.

You can find the Limbus Restobar a few streets back from Cusco Cathedral. We can highly recommend grabbing something to eat here too as the menu has a wide variety of dishes to choose from!

25. Visit the archaeological site of Tambomachay

Tambomachay in Cusco, Peru

Tambomachay is a famous archaeological site that isn’t too far away from Puka Pukara. Therefore, you might want to consider visiting both locations in one day. There are plenty of day tours that go to both!

This archaeological site, like many near Cusco, is a former military base. Unlike others though, Tambomachay is also a ceremonial site.

Interestingly, this site is also known by the name El Baño del Inca which means Bath of the Inca. This would suggest that the site was an Incan spa too, but its actual purpose is still unclear to this day.

Tambomachay has four different terraces, which are home to impressive water channels and springs.

26. Head to Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco

Cusco textiles museum, Peru

One of the many wonderful things to do in Cusco, Peru is to visit Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco, which is a non-profit organisation dedicated to local weaving traditions.

This craft centre was opened in 1996 by traditional Andean weavers. The centre aims to maintain and demonstrate Cusqueñan textile traditions. During a visit here, you can watch the local indigenous people make different textiles and even take part in a workshop.

We must say, we absolutely love watching the locals make traditional textiles. The whole process is fascinating to us!

27. Learn about Peru’s famous cocktail at Museo del Pisco

Museo del Pisco in Cusco

Everywhere you go in Peru, you’ll find bars and restaurants serving Pisco. To Peruvians, Pisco is as popular as water. Everywhere you go, people drink it, and it’s not hard to see why!

In fact, a lot of people say God made it when he got thirsty creating heaven and earth.

Pisco is a colourless or yellowish spirit that is technically a type of brandy. Winemakers in the regions of Chile and Peru make it, and it’s certainly a drink you should try while in the country.

At Museo del Pisco, you can learn all about Pisco and its half-century of history. You’ll enjoy the museum even if you don’t like alcohol so make sure you check it out.

28. Go on a city tour of Cusco

Chincero Weavers, Peru

If you’re not sure what to do in Cusco first, we recommend going on a city tour. A Cusco City tour is a great way to see most of the top attractions in one day!

This is also a fantastic option for those of you that are simply passing through Cusco to get to Machu Picchu. Most Cusco tours, like the one we’ve linked, will start in the main square of Plaza de Armas.

You’ll have the chance to explore the square before then moving on to the famous nearby sites. This might include Puka Pukara, Sacsayhuaman, and Tambomachay. Some tours might also visit Sacred Valley or Humantay Lake too!

29. Try Peruvian cuisine at one of the many local restaurants

If you decide not to take part in a cooking class, you should at least try some of the local food. Almost every restaurant in Cusco serves Peruvian cuisine, so you won’t struggle to find some local dishes.

Peru has a huge range of different dishes to choose from so you’re spoilt for choice. During our time in the country, in particular Cusco, we tasted as much as we could!

Some of the dishes we can highly recommend are aji de gallina, lomo saltado, causa, and ceviche. These dishes are all lovely so keep a look out for them on local menus.

30. Learn a bit of Spanish while in the city

One of the most rewarding and entertaining things you can do in Cusco City is to learn some Spanish. The one regret we have from our time in Peru is not learning some of this incredible language.

We know some of the basics, but we would love to communicate with the locals better. If you’re in the same boat as us, you should definitely learn some Spanish during your time in the city.

You can do this by simply taking the time to talk to locals or by visiting a Spanish language school. Cusco has local Spanish language schools like Mundo Antiguo that will happily introduce you to the language via individual classes and programs.

31. Try out the city’s nightlife

Cusco at night, Peru

We must admit, we aren’t the biggest party animals. However, we loved exploring Cusco at night. The city is so different once the sun goes down (quite literally, night and day, as the saying goes).

The city can be busy during the day, but it comes to life at night. In the evening, the markets are bustling, the square is lively, and small nightclubs pop up all over the city.

If you want to experience Cusco to its fullest, you have to walk around at night! Make sure you head to the main square, explore the side streets, and walk around the local markets near San Pedro Central Market.

32. Walk to Acueducto de Sapantiana

One of the things to see in Cusco that most people forget about is Acueducto de Sapantiana. Despite being one of the most interesting sites in the city, this place is surprisingly quiet.

Acueducto de Sapantiana is a fine example of colonial hydraulic architecture. It was constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries by the Jesuit Order, and you can find it on the P’ujru River.

The aqueduct has four different arches and a beautiful stone wall with steps, which the water flows through.

33. Explore Cusco on an open-top bus

The architecture in Cusco, Peru

Arguably one of the most unique things to do in Cusco is to explore the city on an open-top bus. Travelling around Cusco this way offers you the chance to see the city from a different perspective.

A Cusco open-top bus tour will offer you panoramic views of the different tourist attractions within the historic centre. You’ll then be taken to some of the best archaeological sites found outside the city.

On this tour, you’ll also get to see Puka Pukara, Sacsayhuaman, Quenqo, and Qolcampata. Open-top bus tours are accompanied by a professional local guide who will tell you the history behind every place you visit, which is another huge bonus.

34. Check to see if there are any festivities on during your visit

Peruvian dance festival

During our visit to Cusco, Peru, we were lucky enough to experience a variety of different festivals. We visited Cusco in June and something was happening every day!

In fact, there’s some sort of local festivity on 18 days out of 30 in June. Examples of festivals we had the chance to see include Typical Dances Parades of Cusco, Traditional Corpus Christi Procession of Cusco, and ‘The Encounter of World’s’ Grand Parade.

Festivals in Cusco typically consist of traditional dances, parades, live music, and markets. Definitely take in some of the festivities if you get the chance!

35. Take a day trip out of the city

Moray archaeological site in South America

Despite all the things to do in Cusco, Peru, you’re probably going to want to head out of the city on a tour at some point. As far as day trips are concerned, travellers are spoilt for choice!

Cusco is the best place to stay for a wide variety of Peru’s best attractions. A lot of tourists leave here on a Sacred Valley tour or in search of the Inca Trail. Both are good options but they aren’t the only ones you have!

We went on a half-day Cusco tour that showed us Moray, Maras Salt Flats, and the Chinchero Weavers. This tour was one of our best days in Peru, as we got to learn so much about the country and its culture.

Helpful Information for Visting Cusco

How to get to Cusco

Cusco City

Now you know the best things to do in Cusco, Peru, let’s look at some helpful information that will make your visit easier, starting with how to get there!

There are a few different ways to get to Cusco, but the easiest is to fly in. Flights fly into Cusco from Lima, Arequipa, and Puerto Maldonado. Unfortunately, you won’t find many (if any) international flights flying into the city.

The airport is only a 10-15 minute drive from the main square, and you can easily book an Uber or jump on a bus to get there.

If you decide to travel overland, you can get to Cusco by bus, train, and car. Train routes run from Puno, Aguas Calientes, and Arequipa. Popular bus origins include Puerto Maldonado (the gateway to Tambopata National Reserve), Ica, Lima, and Arequipa.

How to get around Cusco

Hawk flying in the sky

Cusco is a very easy city to get around. Most of the time, you can walk from attraction to attraction, but even when you can’t, there are multiple transport options available!

Generally, aside from walking, you have three transport options to choose from; bus, car, and Uber.

We recommend Uber for attractions that are further out, as fares are cheap and the service is very reliable.

The Cusco buses are another brilliant and affordable way to get from A to B. They operate frequently across the city. Finally, if you want to visit the attractions outside Cusco, you can hire a car. Europcar and Hertz are good choices!

The best time to visit Cusco

Cusco City viewpoint

There are plenty of things to do in Cusco, Peru all year round so it doesn’t really matter when you visit. However, we do recommend visiting in June if you can!

June is Cusco’s anniversary, so you can expect a lot more from the city during this time. You can typically find events, celebrations, and parades in the city through most of this month.

This was definitely the case during our visit and it made the city so much more exciting. We found June to be a great time for tourists to admire local cultures too.

May to October is usually a very popular time to visit the city, and you can expect to experience crowds.

Between the months of December and April, prices are at their lowest, but this is when you’ll experience the highest rainfall. November is a cheap and quiet time to visit too!

Dealing with the elevation in Cusco

The Peruvian Andes in Moray

Cusco is over 3,000 metres (11,000 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest cities in the country. As a result, there’s a good chance you might suffer from altitude sickness (even Peruvians do).

Altitude sickness occurs when our bodies struggle to cope with the lack of oxygen. This can result in nausea, headaches, fatigue, breathlessness, and diarrhoea, among other symptoms.

To avoid altitude sickness, give yourself plenty of time to acclimatise and adjust. Staying well-hydrated can help too! You also might want to drink coca tea as this is what locals use to combat the symptoms.

Where to Stay in Cusco

Cusco rooftop terrace view

There are endless options when it comes to finding somewhere to stay in Cusco, no matter your budget. We recommend staying near Plaza de Armas so you can easily access the main attractions and restaurants.

Here are some of our best recommendations!

Luxury: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco

JW Marriott El Convento is a stunning 5* hotel that sits in the centre of Cusco. Just three blocks away from Plaza de Armas, this hotel features a gorgeous colonial courtyard, sculpted archways, and parquet floors.

This hotel also has amazing facilities including a heated pool, two restaurants, a spa, and two exhibition halls jam-packed with Peruvian artefacts. Of course, the rooms here are incredible too.

Mid-range: Cozy Room Cusco

We stayed in two places during our time in Cusco and Cozy Room Cusco was one of them. This hotel has a beautiful rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of the city and it’s only a 15-minute walk from Plaza de Armas.

As its name would suggest, this hotel provides travellers with cosy rooms. A fabulous buffet breakfast is included every morning too and you can leave your bags in the bag storage for free if necessary.

Budget: Hostal Qolqampata

The other place we stayed in Cusco was Hostal Qolqampata which is owned by the most amazing hosts. This is another lovely hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace.

Hostal Qolqampata is a 10-minute downhill walk from Plaza de Armas. You’ll also find popular attractions like Saqsaywaman nearby. The rooms sleep between 2-6 people and you’ll benefit from private bathrooms, free WiFi, and free airport transfers.

Booking.com

Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Cusco

How many days do you need in Cusco?

If we’re being honest, there are so many things to do in Cusco, Peru that you could quite easily spend 1 or 2 weeks there. However, 4 or 5 days will give you enough time to explore the city in great depth!

You’ll also have enough time to head out on a tour outside the city. At the very least, you need at least 3 days to see what the city has to offer. You might also want to allow an extra day to give yourself time to acclimatise.

What is a good budget for Cusco?

Generally, Cusco is an affordable place to travel. You can easily make it as cheap or as expensive as you like!

There are lots of affordable accommodation options and restaurants serving cheaper food. On the other hand, you could be more luxurious and spend more if you have a bigger budget.

Personally, we recommend a budget of £35 to £40 per person per day. You might want to increase this if you want to see more though!

Is Cusco safe after dark?

Cusco isn’t a dangerous city during the day or at night in our opinion. However, like in any city, opportunistic crimes like theft and muggings do happen!

We advise you to use your common sense at night, as you would anywhere else. Don’t wander around on your own if you can and stick to areas you know well. We never encountered any issues anywhere in Cusco at night, so we can’t see why you would, but it’s also best to be cautious.

What should you avoid in Cusco?

One of the biggest things to avoid in Cusco is the ladies walking around with baby alpacas!

For a small fee, you can pay to have your photo taken with a baby alpaca. While they look cute, these alpacas are tied up all day and walked around the city. They certainly don’t seem to be looked after as well as they should be, in our opinion.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Cusco, Peru

You’ll find plenty of incredible things to do in Cusco! So much so, that you’ll be spoilt for choice. That’s why you’ll want to allow plenty of time in this amazing city so you don’t rush your visit.

Whether you’re looking to explore ancient Incan temples or visit museums, there’s something for everyone here. Even if you’re just looking to relax, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so.

Not only is there plenty to do in Cusco but thanks to its location, there are lots of day trips that you can do as well. This includes the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu.

If you have any questions about things to do in Cusco, Peru be sure to get in touch with us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

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I’m one half of Acouplescalling. I'm passionate about all things travel and photography and I love sharing my experiences with others. I've seen a lot of the world already and I want to help as many people as I can do the same thing!

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