Things to Do In Cusco, Peru

Cusco continues to stand out as one of Peru’s most remarkable travel destinations, offering a unique blend of history, culture, food, and natural wonder. Truly, there are endless things to do in Cusco, Peru, making it the perfect destination for adventure seekers and travelers curious about the beauty of South America.

Experience Cusco’s blend of Incan heritage, its colonial charm, and outdoor adventure opportunities that make this destination truly special. Acting as a hub of culture, adventure, art, and unique travel experiences, truly, Cusco is a destination that needs to be experienced for yourself. Take in one of the most stunning cities in South America, but also tap into exceptional outdoor adventure, historic culture ruins, and South American flavours that anyone can enjoy.

At the intersections of beauty and history, truly, Cusco should be one of your must-visit, bucket list travel destinations in South America.

A Living Legacy of the Inca Empire

What makes Cusco unique is that it’s the former capital of the Inca Empire, where its ancient ruins preserve the legacy of a truly unique time in ancient history. Visiting the ancient ruins of Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha is an experience quite like none other.

These sites, while also acting as a world-class tourist attraction, continue to be studied, standing as a site of ancient Inca heritage. Today, these sites remain a cultural destination rich in history, where Inca festivals are still held to this day. What were once important sites for the Inca Empire offer rich history lessons in culture and ancient construction techniques. A must-visit for any traveler who loves a great history lesson in ancient culture and traditions.

Travelers will be stunned at the incredible amount of ancient structures worth visiting, including Ollantaytambo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. What were once important military outposts continue to stand as reminders of the past.

The Energy and Spirit of the Andes

Travelers can take in some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes by visiting the Peruvian Andes. Take in a deep breath of fresh air and appreciate the truly mystical atmosphere that comes with visiting Cusco. The high-altitude setting, crisp air, and mountain views offer a unique spiritual energy that many travelers can feel upon arrival. In fact, this city is a high-altitude city, standing 3,399 feet above sea level. Many travelers will need to adjust to the higher altitudes, but for those who want a special vibe, here is where it all begins.

The Andes Mountain Range is ideal for those who love the great outdoors, where hiking and exploration are at their fingertips. Famous for its stunning natural mountain landscapes, it is one of the world’s longest and tallest mountain ranges, but also home to endless wildlife that makes the trip to Peru well worthwhile. The Peruvian Andes also include the ultra-famous and historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, the Uyuni Salt Flat, and the Sacred Valley.

Day tours, including self and guided tours, are plentiful across the city, and are a dream for many people who love to hike across natural wilderness. Explore natural wilderness that feels as though it has never been touched by humankind, and take in adventure travel that continues to draw thousands of visitors across the world.

This area is home to incredible national parks, partake in deep mountaineering trips, and take on high altitude adventures that aren’t for the faint of heart. However, there is something for everyone between casual hikes and extreme outdoor adventure opportunities. Thrill seekers can enjoy white water rafting, skiing, and mountain climbing entirely in one destination.

Rainbow Mountain is another hidden gem, where mountain tops look like they have been carefully painted by hand. Keep in mind that some hikes take some serious effort; this one is a stunner and worth the extra work. When it is all said and done, exhausted travelers can enjoy a guided horseback riding tour that gets you off your feet and enjoying a different pace of adventure. The mountains still look just as beautiful while you are exploring on horseback.

Likely a dream for outdoor adventure travelers, fun comes in all shapes and sizes, as Cusco is a hub for adventure travel in South America.

A Perfect Blend of Ancient and Modern

Not only is Cusco at the heart of natural wonders, but it also offers incredible architecture standing at the intersections of Spanish colonial buildings and Incan culture. Stone builds and foundations blend seamlessly into a stunning visual experience that makes the city experience well worth the trip. Ancient history is literally beneath your feet, as a simple guided walking tour makes for a unique and charming history lesson.

Standing as one of the most compelling and fascinating cities in South America, the architecture of this city will make you feel like you have stepped back in time, exploring a destination that oozes with the history lessons of the past. Further, stone masonry and ancient building techniques make the walls feel like this is a destination frozen in time.

A Hub for Culinary Expression

One of the best ways to experience a new travel destination is through food! Cusco comes with an incredible food scene, perfect for foodies who want a taste of Peruvian culture. Explore endless street food options, local markets, and fine dining that feature famous dishes that you simply can’t find at home.

Many restaurants embrace locally sourced ingredients, but also unique local eats, including out-of-the-ordinary options such as Alpaca (it’s delicious, we promise). Consider taking a stroll through the San Pedro Market or exploring the international food influence that makes the trip all the more delicious.

Cusco even offers cooking classes for visitors via the many local markets, where tourists can learn from the locals and see for themselves how tradition and culture make for the perfect dish. Further, a trip to Cusco isn’t complete without enjoying some of the artisanal chocolate that is locally sourced from the area. In fact, consider taking a chocolate workshop for yourself and embrace your inner sweet tooth.

Every Corner is a Work of Art

Many of the stoned walls of the city have been crafted by hand, where perfect lighting will make for some of the most beautiful travel photos possible. Run your hands along perfectly laid stone walls and consider peaking your head into a local art gallery that lines the city’s many streets.

The intricate stonework and colorful balconies make Cusco remarkably picturesque. City streets are lined with artisan shops where local craftsmanship is on full display. Anyone who loves a great souvenir will be delighted by the options available that include unique jewelry, hand-made textiles, and tokens of Inca culture that can help you take the vibe of this city home with you. Further, many locals craft handmade pieces of clothing that make your fashion choices truly one-of-a-kind.

Not only are the local streets incredible works of art, but this city also embraces art with many different local art galleries and museums. Enjoy Chavin art, a local art style based on ancient tradition, or consider browsing ancient artifacts without ever leaving the city at the Museum of Pre-Colombian Art. Take a stroll through cobblestone streets that feel like they are out of a movie.

Warm Hospitality and Vibrant City Life

Many locals welcome tourists from across the globe, where connecting with new cultures is simple and easy. The locals maintain a reputation for being incredibly welcoming, helping anyone from across the world connect with a unique South American culture, which includes colonial charm. Locals also enjoy connecting with tourists by practicing their English, but also deeply appreciate those who try their hand at speaking Spanish. Connect with them directly and see how their local community has thrived across hundreds of years of history.

Further, for those who enjoy the nightlife, Plaza de Armas stands as the central point of nightlife, where tourists can visit dance clubs, bars, our quiet drinks, or cocktails.

One of the best ways to take in the beauty of the city is to enjoy a Cusco sunset at a local rooftop bar. Rub shoulders with fellow travelers and adventure seekers, but also see for yourself why this is one of the most beautiful cities in South America. Further, many tourists can enjoy entertainment, local performances, and even Peruvian live music across the city. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Cusco remains at the center of arts, culture, and entertainment with its restaurant and bar scene.

As for accommodations, there are options for everyone, including those who enjoy luxury or wish to travel on a budget.

Let Caravan Take You There

Caravan builds extraordinary, all-inclusive adventures and guided tours for travelers on a budget. Since 1952, we’ve offered affordable tours guided by experts, along with guaranteed safety, room, and dining experiences, entirely inclusive and planned by our team of travel professionals. Explore destinations across South America, including Cusco, Puro, entirely alongside Caravan. Take in an experience alongside those who can offer insight and helpful information to help you better experience all that Cusco has to offer!

Before your next trip, let the experts at Caravan make your dream adventure to Peru a reality. Call one of Caravan’s agents at 1 (312) 321-9800, or call 1-800-CARAVAN, and embark on your next adventure. Visit the Caravan contact page for more information. Call us today and learn more about the adventure that awaits!