Exploring Cusco, Peru: A Traveler’s Guide
Cusco, Peru, often called the “Archaeological Capital of the Americas,” is a place packed with history and cool spots to check out. Whether you’re into old ruins, bustling markets, or just soaking in the vibe, Cusco’s got a lot going on. The city itself sits high up at about 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, so take it easy when you first get here to avoid altitude sickness – that’s a real thing, folks.
Must-See Ancient Sites
You can’t really come to Cusco and not see the ancient Inca stuff. Machu Picchu, perched at around 2,430 meters (7,972 feet), is obviously the big one, famous worldwide and totally worth the trip. It’s been a UNESCO World Heritage site since way back in 1983 and still blows travelers’ minds. But hey, there’s more to see! Places like Sacsayhuamán, a cool fortress right near Cusco at about 3,700 meters (12,142 feet), and others like Pisac (around 2,972 meters / 9,751 feet), Ollantaytambo (roughly 2,792 meters / 9,160 feet), and the more remote Choquequirao (sitting at about 3,050 meters / 10,007 feet) offer incredible glimpses into the Inca past. Seriously, these spots are more than just old rocks; they tell amazing stories.
Wandering Through Cusco City
Cusco city is like a living museum with its old-school cobbled streets mixing Inca foundations with Spanish colonial buildings. It was also recognized by UNESCO in 1983. Walking around feels pretty special; people say there’s a unique energy here. Don’t miss the main square, Plaza de Armas, or the cool stone of 12 angles on Hatun Rumiyoc Street. The San Blas neighborhood is also a favorite, full of artisan shops and narrow lanes.
Checking Out San Pedro Market
The San Pedro Market is the place where locals get pretty much everything, operating since 1925. It’s a sensory overload in the best way, with tons of fresh food, colorful fruits and veggies, meats, cheeses, and all sorts of crafts. It’s a great spot to grab a snack, pick up some souvenirs, or just watch daily life happen. The vibrant colors of everything on display make it feel super exotic.
Sipping a Cusqueña Beer
When in Cusco, lots of travelers like to try a Cusqueña beer. It’s brewed right here and has been around since 1909. It’s a smooth beer, often enjoyed after a day of exploring. They have a few types like Premium, Malt, and Wheat, each with its own flavor. It’s kind of a local icon.
Epic Hikes and Treks
If you’re into hiking, Cusco is your jam. The classic Inca Trail trek, about 39.6 kilometers (around 25 miles) long, is considered one of the top hikes globally. It takes you through stunning scenery, hitting viewpoints and ruins, finally arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate – pretty epic, right? But if you miss out on Inca Trail permits (they sell out fast, heads up!), no worries. There are other awesome treks like the one around the snowy peak of Salcantay. The highest point on the Salkantay trek, the Salkantay Pass, reaches about 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), offering seriously dramatic views. Another cool, though tougher, option is the trek to Choquequirao. These hikes aren’t just walks; they’re adventures through incredible landscapes.
Trying the Local Drinks and Food
You gotta try Pisco while you’re here. It’s Peru’s national drink, a strong brandy made from grapes. It usually packs a punch, often around 42% alcohol. A Pisco Sour is a classic cocktail many travelers go for.
For food, if you’re feeling brave or want to try something truly traditional, “Cuy” (guinea pig) is a famous dish. It’s typically roasted or fried and served whole, usually with potatoes and corn. It’s a big part of the local food culture here.
Exploring the Sacred Valley
Just outside Cusco is the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This valley is lower in altitude than Cusco, making it a good place to hang out if you’re adjusting. It’s a beautiful mix of old Inca sites, traditional villages, and agricultural terraces, sitting around 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) to 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) depending on the specific spot. The Incas loved this valley for farming, and the Spanish colonists did too, so you see a cool blend of cultures. It’s managed to handle tourism without losing its local vibe. Some popular spots in the valley are:
- Salineras de Maras: These are ancient salt pans on a hillside, worked by local families using traditional methods. It’s a wild sight, thousands of salt pools terraced down the mountain. These are located at an altitude of roughly 3,200 meters (10,500 feet). People have been harvesting salt here for over a thousand years, maybe starting with the Wari culture before the Incas.
- Moray: Check out these unique circular Inca terraces. They look like amphitheaters sinking into the ground. Experts think it might have been an agricultural experiment site where the Incas tested how crops grew at different temperatures and altitudes within the same area. Moray is located at an altitude of about 3,500 meters (11,500 feet).
- Ollantaytambo: This town is lovely and a key spot if you’re heading to Machu Picchu, as it has a train station. Besides the impressive Inca ruins right there, the town itself is still laid out with Inca walls and narrow streets. It’s a nice place to chill, do some shorter hikes, or just enjoy the scenery. As mentioned earlier, Ollantaytambo is around 2,792 meters (9,160 feet).
Cusco and the surrounding region offer an incredible journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. There’s a lot to see and do, so take your time and enjoy the ride!