How to Spend a Day in Cusco, Peru

Cusco is a must-visit destination in South America and holds the title of Peru’s premier tourist destination. Located in the Andean mountains, the city sits 3,400 meters above sea level and offers some of the best walking trails, ruins, and culture in Peru. Whether you have a day, a week, or more time, you can experience a magical world in Cusco.

Before exploring Cusco, it’s important to acclimatize to the altitude. Many travelers suffer altitude sickness in Cusco and tour companies suggest that visitors spend at least one day in acclimatization near the city. Staying hydrated and eating light meals can also help combat altitude sickness.

Once you are acclimated to the altitude, you can explore all that this beautiful city has to offer. Here are some things to do if you have a day to experience Cusco:

• Visit Sacsayhuamán: A pre-Incan citadel located just outside of Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is a lesson in Incan architecture. Its impressive terracing with huge stones create a mesmerizing maze of ruins to explore.
• Visit the Cathedral in Plaza de Armas: The Cathedral stands as testament to Spanish colonization in South America. Inside you will find colonial paintings, religious statues, and stunning decoration.
• Explore the markets: Start by taking an hour-long walk of San Blas, an artsy district located just uphill from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. The streets are filled with workshops, colorful murals, and small shops. Stop by one of the many handicraft markets and pick up a souvenir or two.
• Visit hidden Incan sites: If time permits, take a day tour and learn more about the Incan empire. Choose from dozens of tour companies and explore sites like Huchuy Qosqo, Moray terraces, or Chinchero ruins for an authentic look at Incan culture.

Enjoying Cusco doesn’t necessarily mean signing up for guided tours. Taking a self-guided tour can be incredibly fulfilling and cost effective as you explore the city on your own time. Wander around Plaza de Armas and you’ll find monuments dedicated to local historical figures like Francisco Pizarro. The Plaza is also surrounded by bustling eateries, street performers and more to take in with your eyes.

For an even more immersive experience, take some language lessons or pick up a job at a local hostel or restaurant. Staying on for longer than a few days will enable you to get to know some of the locals and really experience their culture firsthand.

At the end of your day make sure to head out for some nightlife at one of Cusco’s bustling discotecas. Dancing until the early hours of the morning is part of Peru’s culture, and there is no better place to do it than in Cusco.

Overall, Cusco is the premier destination in Peru for its beautiful scenery and incredible culture. Above all else, it is important to remember that no amount of planning can replace interactions with locals and their warm hospitality. Cusco’s ancient Incan ruins show off their strength through history and its culture shows off its strength through warm welcomes and grinning faces. Make sure to use your time wisely by taking in all that this great city has to offer, while uncovering its hidden gems along the way.

To learn more about Cusco, check out this guide about things to do in Cusco, which includes some wonderful photographs of the ancient Incan ruins as well as all the other incredible attractions that this city has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco, Peru

Located in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is a historical city that was once the capital of the Incan Empire. It is now known for its mix of Spanish and Incan architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery. A day may not be enough to truly experience everything the city has to offer, but this guide will help you make the most of your time in Cusco.

Morning: Discovering the History of Cusco

Start your day off by exploring the historical sites of the city. A must-visit location is the Plaza de Armas, which is a large square located in the heart of the city. Here, you can visit the famous Cathedral of Cusco, which dates back to the 16th century and is home to numerous religious artifacts. Alongside the cathedral, you will find the Santo Domingo Church, which is built atop an Inca temple. This mixture of architecture makes it a fascinating site to explore.

After visiting the Plaza de Armas, head to the nearby Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman. It is a short taxi ride or hike away from the city center and offers panoramic views of the city. The ruins are a great way to learn more about Incan culture and history while taking in the stunning scenery.

Afternoon: Savoring Local Flavors

After exploring the historical sites, take some time to relax and sample some local cuisine. Cusco has no shortage of excellent restaurants and cafes. For a quick snack, visit one of the many street food vendors and try some local delicacies such as empanadas, anticuchos (marinated beef heart), and ceviche. For a sit-down meal, head to one of the many restaurants in the San Blas neighborhood, which is known for its array of international and local cuisine.

For a unique experience, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes. Many culinary experiences are available in the city, and it’s a great opportunity to learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques.

Evening: Experiencing Local Culture

In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional performance. Many venues offer shows featuring traditional Peruvian music, song, and dance. It’s an excellent way to experience the culture while enjoying a live performance. For a more relaxed evening, head to one of the city’s many bars and sample some of the local craft beer.

If you have some extra time, head to the nearby town of Pisac for an off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s a quaint town known for its Inca ruins and local market, where you can find traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Conclusion

Cusco is a city filled with history, culture, and delicious food. A day may not be enough time to fully experience everything the city has to offer, but this insider’s guide provides a great itinerary for a day trip. Don’t forget to take in the beautiful scenery of the city while exploring historical sites, savoring local flavors, and experiencing the local culture.