Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Cusco is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. As the former capital of the Incan Empire, this enchanting city offers an array of attractions that combine ancient heritage with modern vibrancy. In this blog series, we’ll explore Cusco’s top 20 attractions to help you plan the perfect trip. Here’s part one, featuring five unmissable landmarks.
1. Plaza de Armas (Main Square)
Description: The beating heart of Cusco, Plaza de Armas is a lively square surrounded by colonial arcades, historic buildings, and vibrant gardens. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching or starting your Cusco adventure.
History: Once the center of the Incan capital, the square was later transformed during the Spanish conquest. The impressive cathedrals and colonial-style buildings reflect this fusion of cultures.
Google Maps Link: Plaza de Armas
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: Easily accessible from anywhere in Cusco.
– On foot: Located in the city center.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Cicciolina – Known for its tapas and Peruvian fusion cuisine.
– Limbus Resto Bar – Offers excellent cocktails and panoramic views of the city.
Additional Tips: Visit in the evening when the square is illuminated. Don’t miss the Sunday parade showcasing local traditions.
2. Cusco Cathedral (Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin)
Description: This iconic cathedral is a masterpiece of colonial architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings, gilded altars, and an impressive collection of religious artwork.
History: Built between 1560 and 1654, the cathedral stands on the foundations of an Incan temple. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Spanish conquest.
Google Maps Link: Cusco Cathedral
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Entrance included in the Religious Circuit Ticket: 40 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By foot: Located on the Plaza de Armas.
– By taxi: A quick ride from most areas in Cusco.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse – Known for its modern take on Peruvian classics.
– Greens Organic – Offers healthy, farm-to-table dishes.
Additional Tips: Book a guided tour to learn about the cathedral’s fascinating history and hidden Incan symbols in its artwork.
3. Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Description: Once the most important temple in the Incan Empire, Qorikancha was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Today, its impressive stonework remains alongside the colonial-era Santo Domingo Convent.
History: The Spaniards built the convent over the Incan temple in the 16th century. Despite this, the original Incan walls have survived and showcase the empire’s advanced engineering.
Google Maps Link: Qorikancha
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– General admission: 15 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm.
– Sunday: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: A short ride from the city center.
– On foot: 10-minute walk from Plaza de Armas.
Nearby Restaurants:
– MAP Café – Located within the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, offering fine dining.
– Pachapapa – Specializes in traditional Andean cuisine like roasted guinea pig (cuy).
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the interplay of light on the stone walls.
4. San Pedro Market
Description: A bustling market filled with colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s the perfect place to experience local life and pick up unique souvenirs.
History: San Pedro Market has been a central part of Cusco’s daily life for decades, offering visitors an authentic taste of the region’s culture and flavors.
Google Maps Link: San Pedro Market
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By foot: A 10-minute walk from Plaza de Armas.
– By taxi: Easily accessible from anywhere in the city.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chicha por Gastón Acurio – Offers elevated Peruvian cuisine with market-inspired ingredients.
– Café D’wasi – Known for its cozy atmosphere and freshly brewed coffee.
Additional Tips: Bring cash, as most vendors don’t accept cards. Don’t miss trying freshly squeezed fruit juice from the juice stands.
5. Sacsayhuamán
Description: This ancient fortress sits on a hill overlooking Cusco. Known for its massive stone walls, Sacsayhuamán is a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the Incas.
History: Built in the 15th century during the reign of Pachacuti, it served as a military and ceremonial center for the Incan Empire. It played a significant role in the Spanish conquest.
Google Maps Link: Sacsayhuamán
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 15 minutes from the city center.
– On foot: A steep 30-minute walk from Plaza de Armas.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Limbus Resto Bar – Offers excellent views and creative cocktails.
– Green Point – Known for its vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu.
Additional Tips: Wear sturdy shoes and bring sunscreen. Visit during Inti Raymi (June 24) for a spectacular reenactment of Incan rituals.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit:
– Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral: Early morning or late evening for fewer crowds.
– Sacsayhuamán: Mid-morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures.
Transportation: Walking is the best way to explore central Cusco. Taxis are affordable and ideal for reaching more distant attractions like Sacsayhuamán.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss classic Peruvian dishes like alpaca steak, lomo saltado, and quinoa soup at the recommended restaurants.
6. Tambomachay
Description: Known as “The Bath of the Inca,” Tambomachay is an archaeological site featuring a series of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls. It is believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes and as a spa for Incan royalty.
History: Built during the height of the Incan Empire, Tambomachay showcases advanced hydraulic engineering and its importance in rituals associated with water and fertility.
Google Maps Link: Tambomachay
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 20 minutes from Cusco.
– By bus: Route to Pisac, with a short walk from the main road.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Tunupa Valle Sagrado – Known for its buffet of Peruvian dishes and serene views of the Sacred Valley.
– Puka Punku – Offers traditional Andean cuisine near Pisac.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a light jacket as temperatures can drop in the evening.
7. Qenqo
Description: Qenqo is an enigmatic archaeological site believed to have been a sacred amphitheater or ceremonial center. The site includes zigzagging channels carved into rock, thought to be used for ritualistic purposes.
History: Built by the Incas, Qenqo is part of the UNESCO-listed sites near Cusco. Its true purpose remains a mystery, adding an air of intrigue for visitors.
Google Maps Link: Qenqo
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 10 minutes from Cusco.
– On foot: A 20-minute hike from Sacsayhuamán.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Limbus Resto Bar – Perfect for cocktails and a light meal after visiting nearby sites.
– Morena Peruvian Kitchen – Known for its creative Peruvian dishes.
Additional Tips: Combine Qenqo with visits to other nearby sites like Sacsayhuamán and Tambomachay for a full day of exploration.
8. Pisac Archaeological Park
Description: Situated in the Sacred Valley, the Pisac ruins feature a hilltop citadel, agricultural terraces, and a bustling market. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and shoppers alike.
History: Pisac was an important Incan agricultural and spiritual site, strategically placed to guard the valley. The terraces still demonstrate the Incas’ advanced farming techniques.
Google Maps Link: Pisac Archaeological Park
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 45 minutes from Cusco.
– By bus: Departures from Cusco to Pisac are frequent and affordable.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Cuchara de Palo – Offers farm-to-table Andean dishes with organic ingredients.
– Blue Llama Café – Known for its fusion of local flavors and global cuisine.
Additional Tips: Visit on a Sunday to experience Pisac’s traditional market. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the terraces.
9. Moray
Description: Moray is an archaeological site featuring circular agricultural terraces, thought to have been an experimental laboratory for the Incas. Each terrace has its own microclimate, showcasing advanced Incan agricultural ingenuity.
History: Believed to date back to the 15th century, Moray exemplifies the Incas’ deep understanding of ecology and their innovative approach to farming.
Google Maps Link: Moray
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 1 hour from Cusco.
– By tour: Many Sacred Valley tours include Moray.
Nearby Restaurants:
– La Esquina de los Cuyes – Specializes in traditional Peruvian guinea pig dishes.
– Mil Centro – A high-end dining experience by chef Virgilio Martínez, located near Moray.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to the Maras Salt Mines, located just a short drive away.
10. Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)
Description: The Maras Salt Mines are a collection of thousands of salt pools that cascade down a hillside. This unique site has been in use since Incan times and remains an important source of salt for the local community.
History: These salt mines date back to the Incan Empire, where they were ingeniously built to harvest salt from a natural underground spring. Today, the mines are operated cooperatively by local families.
Google Maps Link: Maras Salt Mines
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– 10 PEN for entry (not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 1 hour from Cusco.
– By tour: Frequently combined with visits to Moray.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Tres Keros – Offers Peruvian fusion dishes near Urubamba.
– El Huacatay – Known for its creative Andean cuisine.
Additional Tips: Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be slippery. Purchase locally harvested pink salt as a unique souvenir.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit:
– Pisac and Maras: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting.
– Tambomachay and Moray: Visit during midday for pleasant weather and clear skies.
Transportation: Hire a taxi or join a guided tour to explore multiple Sacred Valley sites in one day. Public buses are also available for budget travelers.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss trying Andean specialties like rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers) or trout from local rivers.
11. Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
Description: Known as the “Living Inca City,” Ollantaytambo is a well-preserved Incan town featuring terraced ruins, a ceremonial area, and a fortress with stunning views of the Sacred Valley.
History: Ollantaytambo was an important military, agricultural, and religious center during the Incan Empire. It served as the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti and played a key role in resistance against the Spanish.
Google Maps Link: Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By train: Accessible from Cusco en route to Machu Picchu.
– By taxi or bus: Approximately 2 hours from Cusco.
Nearby Restaurants:
– El Albergue Restaurant – Known for its organic ingredients and farm-to-table dishes.
– Apu Veronica Restaurant – Offers hearty Peruvian meals with vegetarian options.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water. The climb to the top of the fortress can be challenging but rewarding with panoramic views.
12. Chinchero
Description: Known as the “Rainbow Village,” Chinchero is a charming Andean town with Incan terraces, a colonial church, and vibrant markets where traditional weaving techniques are showcased.
History: Chinchero was a significant agricultural hub during the Incan Empire. The colonial church was built atop an Incan palace, reflecting the blending of Incan and Spanish influences.
Google Maps Link: Chinchero
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 40 minutes from Cusco.
– By tour: Many Sacred Valley tours include Chinchero.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Parwa Restaurant – Offers local dishes with fresh, organic ingredients.
– Chullpi Restaurant – Known for its upscale take on traditional Andean cuisine.
Additional Tips: Visit the weaving cooperatives for live demonstrations of traditional dyeing and weaving techniques. Sundays are market day, offering a colorful and lively experience.
13. Tipón
Description: Tipón is an impressive Incan archaeological site renowned for its sophisticated water channels and agricultural terraces, thought to have been a ceremonial center dedicated to water.
History: Built during the reign of Pachacuti, Tipón showcases the advanced hydraulic engineering of the Incas and is considered one of Peru’s most important water temples.
Google Maps Link: Tipón
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket: 130 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By taxi: 40 minutes from Cusco.
– By bus: Take a bus heading to Oropesa and get off at Tipón.
Nearby Restaurants:
– La Estación Tipón – Offers traditional dishes, including the famous cuy (guinea pig).
– Picantería La Chomba – Known for its chicharrón and Andean specialties.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and take your time exploring the intricate water systems.
14. Raqch’i (Temple of Wiracocha)
Description: Raqch’i is an expansive archaeological site dominated by the Temple of Wiracocha, dedicated to the creator god of the Incas. The site also features living quarters, storage buildings, and ceremonial areas.
History: Raqch’i was a vital religious and administrative center during the Incan Empire. The temple’s unique design, with massive adobe walls, showcases the Incas’ architectural innovation.
Google Maps Link: Raqch’i
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– 10 PEN for entry (not included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus: En route to Puno from Cusco (3 hours).
– By tour: Many long-distance tours include a stop at Raqch’i.
Nearby Restaurants:
– El Portal del Inca – Known for hearty Peruvian stews and soups.
– La Laguna Café – Offers coffee and light snacks with scenic views.
Additional Tips: Pair your visit with other stops on the route to Puno for a well-rounded day trip. Bring sunscreen and a hat as there is little shade at the site.
15. Andahuaylillas Church (The Sistine Chapel of the Andes)
Description: This colonial church is famous for its intricate murals, gold-leaf altars, and Baroque architecture, earning it the nickname “The Sistine Chapel of the Andes.”
History: Built in the early 17th century, the church was constructed atop an Incan temple, symbolizing the blending of Catholic and indigenous traditions.
Google Maps Link: Andahuaylillas Church
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Entry: 15 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Sunday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus: Accessible on the route to Puno.
– By taxi: 1 hour from Cusco.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Qory Orcco – Offers a mix of Andean and modern dishes.
– La Pascana – Known for its locally sourced ingredients and warm hospitality.
Additional Tips: Photography inside the church is prohibited, but the exterior and surrounding plaza provide beautiful photo opportunities.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit:
– Ollantaytambo and Chinchero: Early morning to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
– Tipón and Raqch’i: Midday for optimal lighting and fewer visitors.
Transportation: Guided tours or taxis are the best way to explore these sites due to their locations outside central Cusco. Public buses offer budget-friendly options for independent travelers.
Local Cuisine to Try: Try pachamanca (meat and vegetables cooked underground) in Chinchero or freshly made bread from the Sacred Valley.
16. Humantay Lake (Laguna Humantay)
Description: A breathtaking turquoise lake nestled between snow-capped mountains, Humantay Lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
History: Considered sacred by the Incas, Humantay Lake is thought to be connected to the spiritual beliefs surrounding the nearby Salkantay Mountain.
Google Maps Link: Humantay Lake
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Entry fee: 10 PEN.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; guided hikes typically start early morning.
Travel Options:
– By tour: Many day tours depart from Cusco, including transportation and a guide.
– By car: Approximately 4 hours to the trailhead in Soraypampa, followed by a 1.5-hour hike.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Camp Soray Lodge – Offers simple meals for trekkers.
– Andean Lodge – Known for hearty, home-cooked Andean dishes.
Additional Tips: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring layers, as temperatures can drop at higher altitudes. Hydrate well to avoid altitude sickness.
17. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Description: A geological wonder, Rainbow Mountain features vibrant stripes of red, orange, yellow, and green caused by mineral deposits. It’s a must-see for its unique natural beauty.
History: Rainbow Mountain was hidden under snow until recently, when melting revealed its colorful layers. It has since become one of Cusco’s most popular attractions.
Google Maps Link: Rainbow Mountain
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Entry fee: 10 PEN.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; guided hikes start early morning.
Travel Options:
– By tour: Most tours include transportation, a guide, and meals.
– By car: A 3-hour drive to the trailhead, followed by a 1.5-hour hike.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Trailhead Cafeterias – Simple, local meals are often included in tours.
– Puka Rumi Lodge – Offers traditional Peruvian dishes near the trailhead.
Additional Tips: Acclimatize to Cusco’s altitude before visiting. Horse rentals are available for those unable to complete the hike on foot.
18. San Blas Neighborhood
Description: Known as the artisan quarter, San Blas is a bohemian neighborhood filled with cobblestone streets, art galleries, workshops, and a charming central plaza.
History: Originally an Incan residential area, San Blas became a hub for artists and craftsmen during the colonial period. Its church, Iglesia San Blas, features a beautifully carved pulpit.
Google Maps Link: San Blas Neighborhood
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; church entry is 15 PEN.
Opening Hours:
– Iglesia San Blas: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– On foot: A short uphill walk from Plaza de Armas.
– By taxi: Convenient for those avoiding the steep climb.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Limbus Resto Bar – Famous for its cocktails and panoramic views.
– Green Point – Offers vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit on a Saturday for the artisan market and explore the narrow alleys for unique souvenirs.
19. Ausangate Trek
Description: A multi-day trek around the Ausangate Mountain, known for its dramatic landscapes of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and hot springs. It’s a favorite for experienced hikers.
History: Ausangate is a sacred mountain in Andean mythology and continues to be a site for traditional pilgrimages like the Qoyllur Rit’i festival.
Google Maps Link: Ausangate Trek
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices:
– Entry: Free; guided treks vary in cost.
Opening Hours: Open year-round; best time to trek is May to September.
Travel Options:
– By tour: Multi-day tours include transportation, guides, and camping gear.
– By car: 3 hours to the trailhead in Tinke.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Meals are typically included in guided tours, prepared by local cooks.
Additional Tips: This trek is challenging due to its high altitude. Ensure proper acclimatization and physical preparation before attempting it.
20. Q’eswachaka Bridge
Description: A handwoven Incan suspension bridge made of grass, Q’eswachaka spans the Apurímac River and is the last of its kind still in use. It’s a testament to ancient engineering and cultural tradition.
History: The bridge has been reconstructed annually for over 500 years by local communities, maintaining Incan techniques passed down through generations.
Google Maps Link: Q’eswachaka Bridge
Official Website: N/A.
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options:
– By car: Approximately 3.5 hours from Cusco.
– By tour: Many tours include visits to the bridge and surrounding sites.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Local Markets – Simple, traditional Andean meals are available in nearby villages.
– Café Qeswachaka – Offers light snacks and drinks.
Additional Tips: Visit in June to witness the annual rebuilding ceremony. Wear sturdy shoes for crossing the bridge.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit:
– Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain: Early morning for clear skies and fewer crowds.
– San Blas: Late afternoon for sunset views and vibrant evening atmosphere.
Transportation: Join guided tours for long-distance attractions like Rainbow Mountain and Q’eswachaka. For San Blas, walking is the best option.
Local Cuisine to Try: Try coca tea to combat altitude sickness and classic Peruvian dishes like ají de gallina and lomo saltado at recommended eateries.
