Choose from 39 Fun Things to Do in Cusco
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Planetarium Cusco
The Planetarium Cusco is one of the most unique planetariums in the world. Housed in a humble Andean adobe home, the family-run planetarium sits on a Cusco hillside amid the archeological site Saqsayhuaman and the Llaullipata ecological reserve. From this wonderful locale, you can explore the mysteries of the universe as told through the eyes of the Inca.
The Basics
In a domed projection room, passionate local astronomers offer deep knowledge and fascinating stories as they guide visitors through the cosmos, explaining how the Inca saw and interpreted the stars. Using the rotating sky to guide their everyday life, the Inca were advanced and creative astronomers, finding Southern Hemisphere constellations like the Southern Cross and Orion's Belt as well as their own personalized groupings such as a baby llama, a puma, a toad, and a condor. After the educational presentation and tour—and depending on the weather conditions—you can peek through powerful telescopes to glimpse stars, planets, nebulae, and constellations.
Travelers have the choice to visit this singular planetarium alone, or as part of an evening tour of Cusco that also includes the San Pedro market, the illuminated historic center, and a restaurant for a traditional Peruvian dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The planetarium is suitable for all travelers, including families with young kids.
- Tours may include round-trip hotel transport, entrance fees, a local guide, and, depending on the tour, dinner and a Pisco sour. Gratuities and other extras aren’t include, and some tours require a minimum of two people.
- Independent travelers will need to self-book in advance so that planetarium staff is prepared.
How to Get There
The Planetarium Cusco is located up a hill, about a 15-minute drive from the historic center. It’s easily accessible by taxi—just ask your hotel. Tours include round-trip transfer from your hotel.
When to Get There
Open year-round, the planetarium welcomes visitors Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4pm.
Expert Inca Stargazers
The science of astronomy was deeply important to the Inca, who worshipped the sun and the moon as gods and connected it to agricultural planning and sacred ceremonies. Their stargazers identified constellations, sorting them in two groups: shapes linked in the classic connect-the-dots way to form “inanimate” animals, Gods, and mythological figures; and those formed by the dark spots of the Milky Way, the so-called “animate” animals.
Address: Av. Pardo 800, Cusco, Peru
From $ 23
Pisaq Potato Park
Located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, Pisaq Potato Park encompasses nearly 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares) of high-altitude Andean land where local residents manage and conserve one of their most important agricultural resources: potatoes. Some 700 varieties of potatoes grow within the park, many of them endemic to the region. Six Quechua communities joined forces on the conservation project with the aims of eradicating hunger, promoting gender equality and ensuring environmental sustainability.
Visitors to the Pisaq Potato Park can choose between three- or five-day guided treks through the park, or a single-day visit which includes a hands-on tour of a potato farm, a meal made from a variety of local Peruvian potatoes and visits to some of the communities involved in the project. The park also offers a cooking class using local potato varieties.
Practical Info
Pisaq Potato Park is significantly higher in altitude than Pisaq — something to keep in mind when deciding between a multi-day trek or day tour.
Address: Pisaq, Peru
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am-8:30pm
From $ 180
Salkantay Trail
For those who don’t want to book their tour dates six months in advance for the Inca Trail (especially during high season from June through August, when permits sell out quickly), the Salkantay Trail is a great alternative. Not only is it easier to plan because you don’t need to book in advance, it’s more affordable, less touristy and is often said to have a more authentic feel than the classic Inca Trail. Salkantay is a remote and scenic trek located in the same region as the Inca Trail, and immerses you in a world of glaciers, villages, lakes, tropical valleys, mountains, jungle and more, with postcard-worthy views every step of the way.
Keep a lookout for the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, an impressive peak at 20,570 feet (6,270 meters). On the fourth day of the trek you come to the cloud forest-covered town of Aguas Calientes, named for its hot thermal baths which you can rest your tired muscles in.
Typically hikers spend the night in a hotel before taking an early morning train to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highlight of the journey. After hiking the challenging Salkantay Trek for four days, you’ll really feel like you earned the right to be there. Keep in mind you’ll be trekking at high altitudes, so make sure to arrive in Cusco a few days early to acclimatize.
Keep a lookout for the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, an impressive peak at 20,570 feet (6,270 meters). On the fourth day of the trek you come to the cloud forest-covered town of Aguas Calientes, named for its hot thermal baths which you can rest your tired muscles in.
Typically hikers spend the night in a hotel before taking an early morning train to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highlight of the journey. After hiking the challenging Salkantay Trek for four days, you’ll really feel like you earned the right to be there. Keep in mind you’ll be trekking at high altitudes, so make sure to arrive in Cusco a few days early to acclimatize.
Address: Cusco, Peru
From $ 350
San Blas
San Blas is the artisan precinct of Peru’s most famous handicrafts town, Cusco.
This area of workshops and studios, galleries and shops is the home of Cusco’s weavers, sculptors and potters. The artists’ enclave is ideal for a stroll, its cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed adobe houses decorated with contrasting blue doors and window frames.
You’ll also see remnants of Inca walls in this hilly enclave, where some narrow streets are so steep they are stepped.
San Blas is a perfect late-afternoon destination, with bars and restaurants, galleries and studios for relaxed visits into the evening.
This area of workshops and studios, galleries and shops is the home of Cusco’s weavers, sculptors and potters. The artists’ enclave is ideal for a stroll, its cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed adobe houses decorated with contrasting blue doors and window frames.
You’ll also see remnants of Inca walls in this hilly enclave, where some narrow streets are so steep they are stepped.
San Blas is a perfect late-afternoon destination, with bars and restaurants, galleries and studios for relaxed visits into the evening.
Practical Info
San Blas focuses on the hilltop Plaza San Blas and the simple church of San Blas, with its golden altar and carved pulpit. The plaza is several blocks northwest of central Plaza de Armas, off Cuesta San Blas.
Address: Cusco, Peru
From $ 36
Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles
From boldly patterned, knitted ponchos to bright, intricately woven textiles or chullo hats made from baby-soft alpaca wool; few visitors leave Peru without buying some of the country’s colorful handicrafts. The Andean region in particular is world-renowned for its dazzling textiles, incorporating unique indigenous designs with traditional weaving techniques and locally sourced materials like sheep, alpaca and llama wool. It’s possible to buy the products all around Peru, but for those looking to learn more about the region’s rich craftmaking heritage, the Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles in Cusco is a must.
As well as admiring the elaborate designs and purchasing handcrafted clothing and gifts, visitors to the Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles can learn the origins and traditions of the age-old weaving techniques, used by local craftsmen for more than 2,000 years. Demonstrations of the wool preparation, dying and weaving techniques by skilled local weavers offers a unique insight into how the complex designs are created and the ladies are happy to share their inspirations behind the various patterns and color combinations, explaining how each Andean village has developed their own distinctive designs.
Practical Info
The Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles is located in the San Blas district in Cusco and is open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm and Sat 8am-6pm. There is no admission fee.
Address: Av El Sol 603, Cusco, Peru
From $ 110
Plaza de Armas (Huacaypata)
From the coastal deserts of southern Peru to the frigid peaks of the Andes, every part of the vast Inca Empire traced back to Cusco. Tucked within the Andean mountains, the scenic capital city was the beating heart of one of the greatest civilizations in history. Today, you can feel this powerful history most palpably in its central square, Plaza de Armas.
The Basics
Besieged during the Spanish Conquest, many of the buildings around the plaza, named Huacaypata by the Inca, were expeditiously razed to the ground. The colonial structures erected in their place often stand on the foundations the Inca so expertly and cunningly crafted, making this historic center a totally unique place in the world. Elevated on a stepped flank, the Cusco cathedral serves as the grandiose focal point of the Plaza de Armas. At its base, vendors haggle and hawk their wares, and fountains provide a calming influence to the frenetic activity.
Travelers have many options to explore Cusco’s Plaza de Armas and its many attractions, including private or group day (or nighttime) trips or multi-day tours that may combine visits to Lake Humantay, Machu Picchu, and key attractions in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Cyclists may opt to explore Cusco city as part of a multi-day mountain bike trek.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many attractions clustered around the plaza have small entrance fees, which are included if you’re visiting as part of a larger tour.
- Though the area is safe, it’s wise to be careful with your possessions and avoid wearing eye-catching jewelry and accessories.
- Remember sun protection.
- Because of the high altitude, be sure to stay hydrated and take it slow. Chewing on coca leaves or drinking coca tea helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
How to Get There
The Plaza de Armas, also known as Plaza Mayor, is located in Cusco’s historic center along Avenida del Sol and is walkable from most hotels. If you’re staying farther away, you're best off booking a tour that includes round-trip transportation, as public transit is scant.
When to Get There
The square is one of the city’s most popular attractions in the historic center. It’s a great snapshot of the buzz of the city any time of day; at night, illuminated with a golden glow, it’s even more enchanting.
Nooks and Crannies
Radiating from the Plaza de Armas is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and hidden pedestrian alleyways. Filled with small cafes, boutiques, and local artisans, these pathways are abuzz with beauty and energy. Stroll along Loreto Alley to a wall made of enormous stones, all masterfully cut and set in place by the Inca.
Address: Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru
From $ 25
Lares Trek
Travelers who want an alternative route to the famed Inca Trail can find the same scenic Peruvian landscapes, challenging paths and epic views on the popular Lares Trek. This well-known route is a bit shorter, but offers a more challenging climb for outdoor enthusiasts looking a less traditional route to Machu Picchu.
In addition to incredible landscapes and lush hillside vegetation, Lares Trek hikers will likely cross paths with traditionally dressed Andean farmers and local villagers along this scenic trek. Old-school settlements offer overnight shelter and mountainside markets showcase handicrafts and handmade items in an environment that allows travelers a chance to interact with locals.
Practical Info
The trek kicks off in the village of Lares, about 40 miles north of Cusco and 35 miles east of Machu Picchu. Travelers will need to transportation to start of the trail, which is about a five-hour trip from Lares.
Address: Lares, Peru
From $ 325
San Pedro de Andahuaylillas (Sistine Chapel of the Americas)
Walk inside San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, set in the central square of a tiny Andean village near Cusco, and you’ll quickly understand why the church got the nickname “The Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” The Baroque church, built during the late sixteenth century, appears whitewashed and rather banal from the outside, but the lavish embellishments found within — carvings, paintings, murals and an impressive gold-leaf alter — are what make the church so famous.
When Spanish missionaries were cementing their hold in this Incan region, they often used murals as a way to overcome the language barrier to evangelize the local population. The colorful murals packed into the small San Pedro de Andahuaylillas depict numerous biblical scenes, including a vivid take on the Last Judgement, imbued with Incan symbolism.
Practical Info
San Pedro de Andahuaylillas is located in the village of Andahuaylillas, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Cusco.
Address: Andahuaylillas, Cusco S15, Peru
Hours: 7am to 5:30pm
From $ 22
Mercado Central de San Pedro
There is a certain irony that one of the best sites in Cusco really isn’t a site at all. Rather, the Mercado Central de San Pedro (San Pedro Market) is simply the place in the center of Cusco where most of the locals go for their groceries.
The difference, however, is that grocery shopping in Cusco is a little bit different than shopping at the local market back back home. At the Mercado Central de San Pedro, all of the items are on vibrant display and are fascinatingly set right out in the open. You can wander the stalls past towers of fruit and be greeted by a pig’s head on the very next corner. You can shop for a dozen varieties of potatoes and then watch someone purchase a bag of fried guinea pigs. It’s an authentic look at everyday culture which lies outside the circuit of regular sights.
There is also a food court that serves local dishes at a fraction of the cost of most local restaurants. While some of the food might be safer than others (the quinoa and vegetables being a safer bet than meat that is served with visible hair), dining at the market is a unique experience where you can share in the flavors of Cusco with the locals.
In addition to shopping for produce and meat, there are also sections devoted to selling crafts such as textiles and Andean art. Haggling over prices is readily expected, although be sure to keep an eye on your wallet and valuables since pickpockets have been known to troll through the aisles.
All in all, however, the Mercado Central de San Pedro is one of the best stops in Cusco for experiencing everyday Andean life.
Address: Plaza de San Francisco, Cusco, Peru
Hours: Daily until 5pm
From $ 36
Inca Museum
Built on an authentic Inca foundation, this humble museum in the heart of Cusco houses an impressive collection of Incan artifacts. Hundreds of examples of handmade goldwork, pottery, textiles and queros line the halls of this truly memorable spot and offer travelers a rare look into the nation’s ancient past.
Visitors will find plenty to explore inside the Inca Museum, but its outdoor courtyard, where Andean weavers showcase their skills, is also worth checking out. Travelers can purchase handmade items directly from the artists, who provide demonstrations of old-school techniques and answer questions while they work. It’s a chance to experience ancient artistry in real time and take home a piece of the tradition, too.
Practical Info
The museum is located on Tucuman near Ataud, northeast of Plaza de Armas. It is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Both Spanish and English speaking guides are available for a small fee.
Address: Cuesta del Almirante, Cusco, Peru
Admission: Adults S / 10.00
From $ 59
Maras Salt Pools
Nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas is the remote town of Maras, known throughout Peru for its thousands of worked salt pans.
Salt has been collected here since before the time of the Inca, rising to the surface from a subterranean stream and evaporating in the Andean sunshine.
You can gather your own handful of salt or buy some packaged to take home from Maras’ gift store.
The terraced saltwork pools dotting the Andean hillsides look quite stunning, glittering like bright white snow in the sunshine, so bring your camera.
The town of Maras was quite important in colonial times, and you’ll see some out-of-place ornate Spanish homes and the mud-brick colonial church.
Salt has been collected here since before the time of the Inca, rising to the surface from a subterranean stream and evaporating in the Andean sunshine.
You can gather your own handful of salt or buy some packaged to take home from Maras’ gift store.
The terraced saltwork pools dotting the Andean hillsides look quite stunning, glittering like bright white snow in the sunshine, so bring your camera.
The town of Maras was quite important in colonial times, and you’ll see some out-of-place ornate Spanish homes and the mud-brick colonial church.
Practical Info
The town of Maras lies off the 28B Highway, between Cusco and Ollantaytambo in Urabamba province. Cusco is 40km (25 miles) away. The saltworks are northwest of Maras along a dusty road.
Address: Maras, Peru
Admission: Adults: 5 Nuevos Soles
From $ 25
Sacred Valley of the Incas
Between Cusco and Machu Picchu lies the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Urubamba Valley), home to some of Peru’s most interesting pre-Columbian ruins and attractive colonial towns and villages. While many travelers pass through here en route to Machu Picchu, the valley has become a destination in its own right.
The Basics
With its Quechua village festivals and markets, colonial churches, Inca ruins and other archaeological sites, river rafting, horseback riding, and trekking, there are plenty of reasons to head out into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for a day tour or longer. Day trips from Cusco might involve a guided trek to the Huchuy Qosqo ruins, a tour of the Maras salt mines, cycling on Moray Mountain, shopping the Pisac market, wandering the agricultural terraces at Ollantaytambo, or tucking into a traditional Andean lunch.
It’s also possible to combine a tour of the Sacred Valley with an overnight tour to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-see for adventure travelers, history buffs, and first-time visitors.
- A Sacred Valley tour from Cusco can last anywhere from eight to 12 hours.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- While lower than Cusco, the Sacred Valley still has a high altitude of 9,514 feet (2,900 meters), so plan accordingly.
How to Get There
While Cusco is the nearest major city to the valley, most travelers arrive by air into Lima before transferring to Cusco City. While it’s possible to rent a private car or ride public transportation, the easiest way to explore the Sacred Valley is on a guided tour.
When to Get There
High season in the Sacred Valley of the Incas falls between June and early September. The winter season brings dry weather, ideal for exploring the area’s many outdoor attractions, but larger crowds as well. Holidays aside, the valley is much quieter during the rainy season between November and March.
Shopping in the Sacred Valley
The local towns and markets of the Sacred Valley are perfect for picking up interesting local souvenirs. Look for pottery in Urubamba, peruse the market in Pisac for silver jewelry and alpaca fleece items, or pick up some local salt, pulled directly from the nearby mines, from the shops in Maras.
Address: Peru
From $ 32
Inca Trail
South America's most famous trek is an unforgettable way to reach the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu. Along the way, the four-day trek takes hikers past three Andean mountain passes, Inca ruins, and views of the snow-capped Andes, culminating in a stellar sunrise over Machu Picchu—a UNESCO World Heritage site—from the Sun Gate.
The Basics
For many travelers to Machu Picchu, hiking the Inca Trail through the Sacred Valley is as much a part of the bucket list experience as seeing the ruins themselves. It typically takes four days to cover the distance between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, with overnights at Huayllabamba, Pacamayo, and Huinay Huayna on the way. Shorter one- or two-day treks are also possible for more inexperienced walkers. To walk the trail, you need to join a group of fellow hikers led by a licensed guide. Trail permits are limited, with only 500 hikers permitted on the trail at any given time (including tour guides and porters), so you'll need to book ahead.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The trail is a must-see for adventure travelers.
- Inca Trail permits are limited, so it's important to book ahead.
- Everyone on the trail must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.
- Dress comfortably and in layers. Don't forget sturdy hiking shoes.
- Bring a pair of trekking poles, even if you don't think you'll need them.
- Before your hike, give yourself a couple of days in Cusco to get used to the high altitude levels.
How to Get There
The city of Cusco serves as a base for trekkers heading out on the Inca Trail and is serviced by Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Most tours include pickup from Cusco hotels and the bus ride to Km82 along the railway between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, where the hike begins.
When to Get There
The dry season (June to October) brings the best weather and the biggest crowds to the Inca Trail; if you plan to hike during this time, be sure to book months in advance. The spring and fall shoulder seasons—May in particular—see fewer tourists and occasional rain. The winter months are prohibitively wet for most trekkers, and the trail closes for maintenance during February.
Alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail Trek
With the growing popularity of the Inca Trail (and the permit limits placed on it), visitors are considering alternative treks to Machu Picchu. These include the Lares trek, beginning in the town of Lares and finishing at the ruins of Ollantaytambo (a short train ride from Machu Picchu), and the Salkantay route, famous for its diverse scenery.
Address: Peru
Hours: Open March - January
Admission: Adults: trek permit US$50
From $ 450
Urubamba Valley
Better known as the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba Valley is the ancient cradle of Inca civilization. It’s a place where merchants still speak Quechua while strolling the cobbled streets, and markets burst with the vibrant colors of traditional Inca art. It’s a place where ruins rise from the hillsides beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, and mysterious archaeological sites offer far more questions than answers. When visiting the mountains of southern Peru, rather than simply racing from Cuzco to the ruins at Machu Picchu, take some time to base yourself in the valley’s colorful towns. Wander the markets of Ollantaytambo or the nearby town of Pisac, and watch as crafters and Incan artisans perpetuate their heritage through art. Visit the sprawling Salineras salt mines to see hillsides of blindingly white terraces, or hike to the bottom of the Incan Moray—an agricultural ruin of concentric circles dug 100 feet into the Earth.
Practical Info
The Sacred Valley stretches for 62 miles from Pisac to Ollantaytambo. It’s possible to visit the entire valley on a one-day tour from Cuzco, but since the trip takes an entire day, travelers wanting more market or hiking time should allow multiple days to visit. From Cuzco, the towns of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo are accessible by public bus, and Ollantaytambo is accessible by trains en route to Aguas Calientes.
Address: Urubamba, Peru
From $ 175
Belmond Hiram Bingham
There are two main ways to get from the Peruvian city of Cuzco to Machu Picchu"”either by a long hike or a four-hour train ride, which is what most visitors choose. Though there are a few different kinds of train service, the crème de la crème is without a doubt, the Belmond Hiram Bingham, named for the archaeologist who discovered Machu Picchu. It is the most luxurious of the different trains and seats only 84 passengers.
The train, which runs on the same rails from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes as all the others, has been outfitted to look like a 1920s Pullman carriage, with polished wood and brass details, and comfortable seats that are set up for dining. Meals are included on the train, and are of typical Peruvian food, with basic drinks included. There is an observation car with full floor to ceiling windows to enjoy the view, and there is a bar car as well. There is a pisco sour-making demonstration, and the recipe given out as well, in case you'd like to make it for friends back home.
On the way back from Aguas Calientes (the point at which visitors board buses for the last 20 minutes up to Machu Picchu) there is live entertainment on the train, including live music and dance.
Practical Info
The Hiram Bingham is one of the earlier trains to leave for Machu Picchu (and therefore the first to arrive), and the return train is late in the day. If you would like to arrive back to Cusco earlier on your return day, you could take one of the other trains, though it will not be nearly as luxurious.
Address: Cusco, Peru
From $ 1,026
Tipon
When you hear “Inca ruins” you probably think Machu Picchu, and while the famous 15th century site deserves its bucket list status, Peru is home to other travel-worthy ruins as well. One of them, arguably the best demonstration of the incredible engineering skills of the Incas, is Tipón.
The 500-acre site, located near a natural spring 12 miles (20 kilometers) south of Cusco, comprises a network of agricultural terraces so elaborate that archeologists think they may have been used for testing difficult crops rather than for everyday farming. Some of the terraces are still in use and still supplied by the same ancient technology.
Since the site was part of an Incan noble’s estate, the elaborate stonemasonry exhibits the same stunning Imperial style as the structures seen at Machu Picchu, but with far fewer visitors to contend with.
Practical Info
The ruins of Tipón are accessible via a steep hike or by car on a dirt road. If you plan to hike, give yourself about two hours each way.
Address: Tipon, Peru
From $ 34
Sacsayhuaman
The largest and most impressive of four archaeological ruins on the outskirts of Cusco, Sacsayhuaman was built by the Incas from massive stones weighing as much as 300 tons. A critical military site in the battle with the Spanish for the Inca empire in 1536, the ruins offer impressive views over the city below.
The Basics
The ruins of Sacsayhuaman are close enough to Cusco to explore in a few hours; together the ruins and city make up a large UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided half-day tours often include Tambomachay, Qorikancha, Puca Pucara, or Qenqo, while a full day allows time for Cusco’s top attractions as well. To see the ruins from a different perspective, opt for a horseback riding tour. For a deep dive into the Inca empire, embark on a multi-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu that stops at Sacsayhuaman along the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sacsayhuaman is a great option for time-pressed travelers and history buffs.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera; the panoramic views of Cusco from an altitude of 12,139 feet (3,700 meters) are stunning.
- Tours visiting the Sacsayhuaman ruins last anywhere from three hours to a full day, depending on the option chosen.
- Bring along sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun at high altitude can be intense.
How to Get There
It takes about 30 minutes to walk to the ruins from the Plaza de Armas via a steep trail. Those who’d prefer an easier route should take a taxi or join a guided tour to the Inca site 1 mile (2 kilometers) north of Cusco.
When to Get There
While it’s possible to visit the archaeological site throughout the year (temperatures tend to hover in the mid to upper 60s), the best time to go is between June and September when rain is less likely.
Inti Raymi Festival of the Sun
Each year on the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere (June 21), Cusco celebrates its most famous festival, Inti Raymi or Festival of the Sun. The second-largest festival in South America includes a huge procession to Sacsayhuaman, where sacred rites and traditional dances take place in the grand square of the fortress. Entry is free during the festival, and food and drink vendors come out to keep the crowds sated.
Address: Peru
From $ 25
Machu Picchu
The lost city of Machu Picchu is the most famous archaeological site in Peru and all of South America. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed collection of temples, terraced hills, and plazas was once the mountaintop citadel of the ancient Inca empire under Pachacutec and Tupac Yupanqui. It may now be world famous, but Machu Picchu still hasn't revealed the mysteries behind construction, function, and eventual demise. The spectacular remains are thought to date from around 1450.
The Basics
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu sits at the top of many bucket lists. Visitors are required to enter with an official tour guide in small groups of up to 16 people. Entry is permitted in either a morning or afternoon time slot and is limited to four hours. To stay a full day, travelers must purchase two entrance tickets.
Those pressed for time often visit the ancient ruins on a day trip by train from Cusco, but the four-day trek along the legendary Inca Trail is another popular option. Some multi-day tour options also visit other regional highlights, such as Lake Titicaca and the Amazon rain forest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a must-visit site for history buffs and adventure travelers.
- Entry tickets sell out early, especially in the Peruvian winter (MayâÂÂSeptember). Book well ahead of time.
- All travelers must visit with a licensed guide.
- Selfie sticks, tripods, and strollers are not allowed at Machu Picchu.
- The Incan ruins offer little shade, so remember to bring sunscreen and a hat.
- One of the most iconic views of Machu Picchu is seen from the top of Huayna Picchu.
- Expect a full day tour from Cusco to last upwards of 13 hours.
How to Get There
The quickest way to Machu Picchu is by train (PeruRail or IncaRail) from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, followed by a short bus ride or steep hike from the town of Aguas Calientes. For some, hiking the Inca Trail is as much a part of the Machu Picchu experience as the ruins themselves. This busy trail isnâÂÂt the only trekking route; others such as the Salkantay trek or Lares route provide off-the-beaten-path alternatives.
When to Get There
In high season between late May and early September, the Lost City of the Inca allows a maximum of 2,500 people to visit each day. June, July, and August are the busiest and driest months, while January is the wettest and February sees the closure of the Inca Trail. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds.
Tips for the Inca Trail Hike
If your dream Machu Picchu experience includes hiking the Inca Trail through the Sacred Valley, book well ahead of time, as the number of hikers is limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters). This difficult trail requires a fair amount of physical fitness, particularly given the high altitude in the Andes mountains. Give yourself at least two days in Cusco to acclimatize, and buy some coca leaves to help with any altitude sickness. Pick up a pair of walking sticksâÂÂyouâÂÂll be glad you did.
Address: Peru
Hours: Varies
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Tambomachay
Tambomachay might not be one of the biggest ruins in Cusco, but it’s definitely one of the highest, topping out at nearly 13,000 feet.
Located five miles from the city center, Tambomachay is also known as “the Baths of the Inca” due to the multiple baths which are scattered about the site. The Inca held water in a spiritual regard as one of the sources of life, and the spring waters at Tambomachay are masterfully diverted into aqueducts, baths, and stone-carved waterways which would divert the water through the stone. Given the site’s natural beauty and the spiritual significance of its waters, it’s believed by historians that Tambomachay was reserved for Inca royalty.
When visiting Tambomachay today, be sure to admire the smooth mosaic of stone which forms the walls of the ruin. The way in which the stones are perfectly stacked on each other is an example of the handicraft for which the Inca were famous. Also, take a moment to notice the way that the multi-tiered terraces are built into the mountainside in such a way that they nearly blend as a natural part of the landscape. This is a relaxing, powerful, and meditative spot that sees far fewer visitors than some of the more famous ruins.
To visit Tambomachay, you can either take part in a guided tour or visit the site independently. For those who choose to visit on their own and are looking for a bit of a workout, consider riding a bus to the site and then strolling the five miles back towards the city. Remember to take it slow, however, as the altitude can easily be felt, and be sure to admire the views of Cusco that stretch out to the surrounding valley.
Practical Info
Tambomachay is located 5 miles north of the center of Cusco, and it is accessible as part of the Boleto Turistico, which allows entrance to 16 sites around Cusco for $43/adult or $23/student.
Address: Cusco, Peru
Hours: Daily 7am-6pm
From $ 25