Cusco

Cusco is a city where history is visibly layered. The foundations of many colonial buildings are made of perfectly interlocking Inca stones, a testament to the city's past as the navel of the Inca Empire. Walking through the Plaza de Armas, visitors are surrounded by stunning architecture, including the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. Beyond the main square, the steep, narrow streets of the San Blas neighborhood offer a bohemian atmosphere, filled with artisan workshops, cozy cafes, and panoramic views of the terracotta-roofed city.

While Cusco is the undisputed gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, the city itself demands exploration. The formidable ruins of Sacsayhuamán loom over the city, showcasing massive stone blocks that leave engineers baffled to this day. The San Pedro Market provides a sensory overload of colors, smells, and sounds, where locals sell everything from fresh produce and medicinal herbs to traditional textiles. Whether you are acclimatizing for a multi-day trek or immersing yourself in Andean culture, Cusco offers an unforgettable, high-altitude adventure.

Reasons to Visit

• Inca History: Explore world-class archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha, and nearby Sacred Valley ruins.
• Gateway to Machu Picchu: The essential starting point for the Inca Trail and train journeys to the iconic citadel.
• Vibrant Culture: Experience the blend of indigenous Quechua traditions and Spanish colonial influence in daily life and festivals.
• Andean Gastronomy: Taste unique local dishes, from street food at San Pedro Market to high-end Novo-Andean cuisine.
• Trekking Hub: Access point for famous hikes including Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, and the Salkantay Trek.

Things to Avoid

• Overexertion on Day One: Avoid strenuous activity and heavy drinking immediately upon arrival to prevent severe altitude sickness.
• Drinking Tap Water: Stick to bottled or purified water to avoid stomach issues.
• Unlicensed Taxis: Always use official, registered taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber to ensure safety.
• Taking Photos of Locals Without Permission: Always ask before photographing indigenous people, especially those in traditional dress with alpacas, as they usually expect a tip.

Local Transportation Tips

Cusco's historic center is highly walkable, though the high altitude and steep, cobbled streets can make walking tiring. For longer distances within the city, official taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, but always agree on the fare before getting in, as they do not use meters. To explore the Sacred Valley, 'colectivos' (shared minivans) are a cheap and popular option among locals and backpackers. For a more comfortable journey to Machu Picchu, trains operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail depart from nearby stations like Poroy and Ollantaytambo.

Travel Etiquette

• Tipping: A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included. Tipping tour guides and porters is highly expected.
• Bargaining: Haggling is acceptable and expected in artisan markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
• Respecting Sacred Sites: Do not climb on fragile Inca walls or disrespect archaeological sites; they hold deep cultural significance.
• Greetings: A polite 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is appreciated when entering shops or interacting with locals.

Recommended Age Group

Cusco offers incredible historical and cultural experiences, but its high altitude and rugged terrain require consideration for different age groups.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not Recommended. The extreme altitude poses health risks for infants, and navigating cobblestone streets with a stroller is highly impractical.
• Kids (3-12 years): Neutral. While older kids might enjoy the ruins and train rides, the altitude can be challenging, and long travel days may cause fatigue.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. An excellent destination for adventurous teens interested in history, trekking, and exploring vibrant markets.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. The prime demographic for Cusco, offering the physical stamina needed for trekking, exploring ruins, and enjoying the nightlife and culinary scene.
• Seniors (65+ years): Neutral. Accessible tours and luxury trains make it possible, but the high altitude and steep, uneven streets require caution and a slower pace.

Accessibility Level: Low

• Cobblestone Streets: The historic center features uneven cobblestones and narrow sidewalks, making wheelchair navigation very difficult.
• Steep Inclines: Many neighborhoods, such as San Blas, require climbing steep hills and stairs.
• Archaeological Sites: Most Inca ruins, including Machu Picchu, have limited accessibility due to ancient stone steps and rugged terrain, though some specialized tour operators offer adaptive equipment.
• Accommodation: Look for modern or luxury hotels, as many historic boutique hotels lack elevators and have varied floor levels.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the original Inca city of Cusco was laid out in the shape of a puma? The puma was a sacred animal in Inca mythology, representing the earthly realm. The fortress of Sacsayhuamán formed the head of the puma, while the main plaza and the convergence of two rivers formed its body and tail.

Cool Statistics

• Elevation: Cusco sits at a breathtaking 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level.
• UNESCO Status: The city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
• Age: It is considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas, with settlements dating back over 3,000 years.
• Inti Raymi: The annual Festival of the Sun, held every June 24th, is the second-largest festival in South America.