Cusco is one of the most impressive destinations in Peru and South America: it blends Inca history, colonial architecture, natural landscapes, culture and living tradition. Here are the must-see places, organized by category to make your planning easier.
Inside the city of Cusco
- Main Square (Plaza de Armas) — The historic and social heart of Cusco, surrounded by the Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. Great for photos, strolls and typical restaurants.
- San Blas neighborhood — A bohemian area with cobbled alleys, viewpoints and art shops. Perfect for crafts and panoramic photos.
- Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) — The most sacred temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the Sun god. Part of its structure supports the Convent of Santo Domingo.
- Hatun Rumiyoq Street — Famous for the Twelve-Angled Stone, an example of mortar-free Inca architecture.
- San Pedro Market — A traditional local market with fresh food, fruit and typical dishes; authentic for experiencing local life.
Nearby archaeological sites (Cusco Tourist Ticket)
- Sacsayhuamán — An impressive Inca fortress with enormous, perfectly assembled stone blocks.
- Qenqo — A ceremonial sanctuary with channels carved into the stone.
- Puka Pukara — An ancient fortress for military control and rest.
- Tambomachay — A site of ceremonial baths and water worship.
Outside the city — day trips
- Sacred Valley of the Incas — Includes Pisac (terraced ruins and craft market), Ollantaytambo (Inca fortress and gateway to the Machu Picchu train) and Chinchero (textile tradition and spectacular views).
- Maras & Moray — Maras: salt pans on terraces active since Inca times. Moray: circular amphitheaters used for agricultural experimentation.
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) — One of Peru’s most photogenic landscapes. A 3–4 hour hike (5,034 m); requires good physical condition.
- Red Valley — A magical place to connect with nature, an ideal complement to Rainbow Mountain.
- Humantay Lake — A turquoise lake at the base of the Humantay glacier. A demanding hike, but well worth it.
- Machu Picchu (separate excursion) — Peru’s world wonder. Visited in 1 day (full day) or 2 days with a stay in Aguas Calientes; requires advance planning of tickets and transport.
Recommended museums in the city
- Inka Museum
- Pre-Columbian Art Museum
- Natural History Museum
- Machu Picchu Museum (Casa Concha)
- Qoricancha Museum
Tips before visiting Cusco
1. Acclimatize before any physical effort. Cusco sits at 3,400 m and altitude sickness can affect those not used to it. Rest the first 24 hours, drink water and coca tea, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals on day one.
2. Plan ahead. Book tickets for Machu Picchu, the City Tour, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain (some have limited spots). In high season (June–August), buy trains, tours and lodging weeks or months in advance.
3. What to pack for the day. Passport or ID, comfortable layered warm clothing, hat, sunscreen and sunglasses, a waterproof jacket or poncho, a reusable water bottle, your tickets and cash (many places don’t take cards).
4. Respect the cultural heritage. Don’t climb or touch Inca walls, don’t litter or remove stones or plants, follow the signs and don’t fly drones without a special permit.
5. Take care of your health and safety. Wear proper footwear (streets are cobbled and slippery), carry a basic first-aid kit (altitude pills, painkillers, bandages) and enough personal medication. For long hikes, check your fitness or hire a horse.
6. Support responsible tourism. Choose formal agencies with certified guides, buy from local shops and craft markets, and don’t photograph local people without their consent.
7. Times of year. Dry season (April to November): better weather, ideal for hikes. Rainy season (December to March): fewer tourists, but more rain.
8. Enjoy the local cuisine. Try cuy (roasted or baked), chiri uchu, quinoa soup or Cusco-style chicharrón. And don’t miss the pisco sour and chicha morada!
