Can You Enjoy Life in Cusco?

Cusco, commonly known as the “Imperial City,” is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history and a diverse range of activities and attractions for both locals and visitors. However, before packing your bags and moving to this beautiful city or booking a ticket to visit, you may be wondering if it is possible to enjoy life in Cusco. This blog post will provide you with a detailed guide on what to expect in terms of living, working, and exploring the city.

Lifestyle in Cusco

The people of Cusco are warm, friendly, and welcoming. They are proud of their culture and heritage and enjoy sharing it with others. The lifestyle in Cusco is laid-back, relaxed, and culturally rich. The city has a significant indigenous population that has managed to preserve their traditions, customs, and language, Quechua, which is still spoken by many people in the region.

The cost of living in Cusco is relatively low compared to other major cities in Peru, making it an affordable place for many expats to live. However, it is crucial to note that salaries in Cusco are lower than in Lima, the Peruvian capital. Therefore, if you are planning to work in Cusco, it is essential to factor in the lower salaries compared to living costs.

Working in Cusco

Cusco’s economy is fueled by tourism, agriculture, textiles, mining, and the service sector. The city is home to a growing number of expats, and many have started their own businesses. If you are planning to work in Cusco, it is essential to factor in the lower salaries and fewer job opportunities compared to Lima or other large cities. However, some jobs in the tourism industry can pay quite well, especially if you speak several languages.

Exploring Cusco

Cusco is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. The most popular tourist attraction in the city is Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world. However, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Cusco, such as visiting the Sacsayhuaman ruins, Qoricancha, San Pedro Market, and the picturesque San Blas neighborhood. Additionally, there are countless trekking routes, such as the famous Inca trail or Lares trek, where you can experience the spectacular scenery and natural beauty of the region.

Conclusion

Cusco is an outstanding destination to enjoy life, with a rich cultural history and a laid-back lifestyle. The city offers plenty of activities and attractions to experience, and costs of living in the region are relatively low. However, it is important to understand that salaries in Cusco may be lower than other major cities in Peru, and job opportunities can be limited. Despite the downsides, Cusco remains a wonderful place to explore and discover the magic of Peru.

So, can you enjoy life in Cusco? Absolutely!

Insider’s Guide: Cusco, Peru

Nestled in the Andes Mountains in southeastern Peru, Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire. Today it is a vibrant city that offers visitors a blend of ancient culture and colonial charm. From exploring Incan architecture and textiles, to trying local cuisine and experiencing traditional festivals, Cusco has something for everyone. This insider’s guide will help you make the most of your time in Cusco.

Attractions

Cusco is home to many must-see attractions, including:

– Machu Picchu: One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel that sits atop a mountain overlooking the Urubamba River Valley. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru.
– Sacsayhuaman: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sacsayhuaman is a complex of large stone walls and towers that was once an important Incan fortress and ritual site.
– Plaza de Armas: Known as the “Square of the Warrior” in the Incan era, this main square of Cusco is surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and is a great place to relax and people-watch.
– Qorikancha: An Incan temple dedicated to the sun, which was once entirely covered in gold, Qorikancha was later used as the foundation for a colonial church. Today, visitors can see the intricate stonework of the Incan temple beneath the Church of Santo Domingo.

Dining

Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its fusion of indigenous and colonial culinary traditions. Some of the best places to try local food in Cusco include:

– Chicha Por Gaston Acurio: This upscale restaurant features traditional dishes with a modern twist created by Gaston Acurio, a famous chef known for his creative approach to Peruvian cuisine.
– Kion: A popular and affordable option, Kion serves up Peruvian classics like ceviche, lomo saltado, and chicha morada, a refreshing purple corn drink.
– La Feria: Located in the San Pedro market, this is a great spot to try street food and local specialties like cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca steak.

Cultural Experiences

Cusco is a hub for Andean culture and has several experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in local customs and traditions. Some of the best cultural experiences in Cusco include:

– Inti Raymi: The Festival of the Sun, held each year on June 24, is one of the most important cultural events in Cusco and celebrates the winter solstice. The festival involves traditional dances, music, and worship of the sun god Inti.
– Museo de Arte Precolombino: This museum showcases ancient Peruvian art and artifacts, including pottery, gold, and textiles from the Incan and pre-Incan eras.
– Textile Workshops: Cusco is known for its beautiful textiles, and visitors can learn how to weave or dye fabrics from local experts.

Local History

Cusco has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Some of the most interesting historical sites in Cusco include:

– Qenko: An Incan temple carved into a rock, Qenko was a site for religious ceremonies and astronomical observations thousands of years ago.
– Puka Pukara: A fortress located on a hilltop just outside Cusco, Puka Pukara is thought to have been a military outpost and checkpoint for the Incan Empire.
– Cathedral of Santo Domingo: One of the most prominent colonial buildings in Cusco, this church was built in the 16th century and is home to many religious artifacts and works of art.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

For travelers looking for something less touristy, Cusco has many hidden gems to discover. Some off-the-beaten-path suggestions include:

– San Blas: This bohemian neighborhood has narrow cobblestone streets and is home to many artists and craftsmen. It also has a great view of the city from its hilltop location.
– Pisac Ruins: About an hour outside of Cusco, these Incan ruins are located on a mountainside and offer remarkable views of the valley below.
– Moray: An Incan agricultural site with circular terraces built into a natural depression, Moray is worth a visit for both its historical significance and stunning natural setting.

In conclusion, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or adventure, Cusco has it all. Use this insider’s guide to explore the best of what this magical city has to offer.