{"id":27085,"date":"2025-10-22T13:46:54","date_gmt":"2025-10-22T18:46:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/?p=27085"},"modified":"2025-10-25T13:59:41","modified_gmt":"2025-10-25T18:59:41","slug":"best-things-to-do-in-cusco","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/en\/best-things-to-do-in-cusco\/","title":{"rendered":"Best things to do in Cusco you can&#8217;t miss: Culture, food, and adventure"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The Inca city offers you an experience capable of awakening all your senses. <strong>You&#8217;ll walk through cobblestone streets loaded with history, savor intense dishes, hear the murmur of plazas, and contemplate landscapes where past and present meet. If you&#8217;re thinking about visiting the imperial city, in this guide we tell you the top things to do in Cusco<\/strong>, from its main attractions to unique experiences and useful tips for your visit.<\/p>\n<h2>Main Attractions in Cusco: Must See Places<\/h2>\n<h3>Plaza de Armas<\/h3>\n<p><strong>During the Inca Empire, this plaza was the administrative, religious, and cultural center of their civilization. Various ceremonies and celebrations took place there.<\/strong> With the arrival of the Spanish, the main plaza changed: Inca buildings were destroyed and, in their place, churches and colonial buildings were constructed.<\/p>\n<p>Today, when you walk through the Plaza de Armas, you&#8217;ll be surrounded by historic buildings that reflect the richness of Cusco traditions. <strong>At the same time, these buildings demonstrate colonial power and the imposition of the Catholic religion over indigenous peoples.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27088\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27088\" class=\"wp-image-27088 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Visiting-the-Plaza-de-Armas-is-one-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Tourists sitting around Cusco\u2019s Plaza de Armas at sunset, surrounded by colonial arcades, cathedrals, and Andean mountains glowing under the golden light.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Visiting-the-Plaza-de-Armas-is-one-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Visiting-the-Plaza-de-Armas-is-one-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Visiting-the-Plaza-de-Armas-is-one-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27088\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">You can observe sunsets at the Main Square.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>An example of this is the Church of the Society of Jesus, which was built over Amarucancha, the former palace of Inca Huayna C\u00e1pac.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Cusco historic center.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recommended time:<\/strong> you can go in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere, or at sunset to enjoy an illuminated ambiance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> free access<\/li>\n<li><strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> it&#8217;s the heart of the city, ideal for starting your tour and locating restaurants, agencies, and tour departure points.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d9465.911756619147!2d-71.98832005262375!3d-13.516777559433669!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd6739cd7f175%3A0x27c9a9082fc6343!2sPlaza%20Mayor%20de%20Cusco!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752591694208!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3>Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)<\/h3>\n<p>It&#8217;s known as the Temple of the Sun, and was an important archaeological center in Inca times. <strong>Built by Pachac\u00fatec, this fortress was dedicated to the god Inti (Sun), which symbolized spiritual and political power.<\/strong> Its carved stone walls were covered with gold sheets, giving it a unique shine.<\/p>\n<p>On top of the foundations, the Santo Domingo convent was built to impose the Catholic religion over indigenous beliefs. Throughout the centuries it has suffered several earthquakes, with colonial structures sustaining damage; however, the Inca walls remained intact. In this way, the advanced engineering of this culture could be appreciated.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27093\" style=\"width: 830px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27093\" class=\"wp-image-27093 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Qoricancha-is-a-place-of-sun-worship.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Visitor standing in front of Qorikancha Temple in Cusco, surrounded by Inca stone walls and colonial buildings, under a bright Andean sky during the dry season.\" width=\"820\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Qoricancha-is-a-place-of-sun-worship.-Waman-Adventures.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Qoricancha-is-a-place-of-sun-worship.-Waman-Adventures-768x468.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Qoricancha-is-a-place-of-sun-worship.-Waman-Adventures-560x341.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27093\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Qorikancha is a place of sun worship.<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Av. El Sol, 10 minutes walking from Plaza de Armas.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recommended hours:<\/strong> 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> General admission $4 (S\/15).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> take the tour with a guide to better understand the architectural and religious details.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d4732.887287804368!2d-71.97780882405516!3d-13.520231271084791!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd60accf73e25%3A0x699118adc425673d!2sQorikancha!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752591752671!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3>Sacsayhuam\u00e1n<\/h3>\n<p>Its name means \u00absatiated falcon\u00bb and it&#8217;s located at 12,139 feet (3,700 m.a.s.l.). Its main function was religious worship. <strong>This area stands out for its large stone blocks, some of which weigh up to 125 tons. These constructions attract attention for having been assembled with millimetric precision, without needing to use sophisticated tools.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>The stone walls have a zigzag shape, alluding to lightning<\/strong>, and extend along 984 feet (300 meters). Today, if you visit this place, you&#8217;ll see it as the main stage for Inti Raymi, a celebration in honor of the Sun god. Likewise, the Warachikuy also takes place here, a tradition where young people demonstrate their physical prowess.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> 15 minutes by car from Cusco.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recommended time:<\/strong> in the morning to avoid crowds, from 8 a.m.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> general admission $19 (S\/70).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> visit in June for Inti Raymi, the greatest Sun festival.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d5628.634650334608!2d-71.98471337784672!3d-13.509583320507465!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd66e7c08a8fd%3A0x9e3cb8b1e4c3803c!2sSaqsaywaman!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752591809665!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3>Cusco Cathedral<\/h3>\n<p>Built between 1560 and 1664 over the ancient Inca palace of Huiracocha, this cathedral combines Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles, and houses a valuable collection of sacred art. <strong>In the paintings it preserves from the 17th century, European techniques were fused with Andean iconography.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27089\" style=\"width: 830px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27089\" class=\"wp-image-27089 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-Cathedral-is-a-marvel-in-the-city-of-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"The Cathedral of Cusco standing in the Plaza de Armas, with baroque architecture, stone fa\u00e7ades, and visitors admiring the historic center under a clear blue sky.\" width=\"820\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-Cathedral-is-a-marvel-in-the-city-of-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-Cathedral-is-a-marvel-in-the-city-of-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures-768x468.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-Cathedral-is-a-marvel-in-the-city-of-Cusco.-Waman-Adventures-560x341.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27089\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Cathedral is a marvel in the city of Cusco.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Among the most notable works you&#8217;ll find a version of the Last Supper, where Jesus and his apostles share a cuy, a traditional Andean dish.<\/strong> On the other hand, the cathedral possesses an impressive main altar made in embossed silver, considered one of the masterpieces of colonial goldsmithing.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Plaza de Armas.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recommended hours:<\/strong> 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> $6 (S\/25)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> don&#8217;t miss the main altar in embossed silver, a jewel of colonial art.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d4732.967659251277!2d-71.98044772405532!3d-13.51618427099981!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd6736d9ad797%3A0xf5950f9da0b14369!2sCoro%20Matrimonios%20Catedral%20del%20Cusco!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752591920698!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>Unique Experiences: Beyond the Traditional<\/h2>\n<h3>San Blas<\/h3>\n<p>In Inca times it was known as T&#8217;oqocachi, which in Quechua means \u00absalt cave.\u00bb <strong>This place housed important families dedicated to architecture and crafts.<\/strong> When the Spanish arrived, they gave it the name San Blas.<\/p>\n<p>This neighborhood is one of the most traditional and has been highlighted by Cusco artisans, whose works have passed from generation to generation. <strong>The most pleasant thing is that the neighborhood stands out for its cobblestone streets and colonial houses with carved wooden balconies.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27096\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27096\" class=\"wp-image-27096 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-tourist-walks-through-one-of-the-most-iconic-neighborhoods.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Female traveler walking through the colorful streets of San Blas in Cusco, surrounded by colonial houses, stone steps, and bright blue balconies under the Andean sun.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-tourist-walks-through-one-of-the-most-iconic-neighborhoods.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-tourist-walks-through-one-of-the-most-iconic-neighborhoods.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-tourist-walks-through-one-of-the-most-iconic-neighborhoods.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27096\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The tourist walks through one of Cusco\u2019s most iconic neighborhoods.<\/p><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> 10 minutes walking from Plaza de Armas.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> climb up to San Blas plaza to hear local musicians and take panoramic photos.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d4732.98745953107!2d-71.97728392405523!3d-13.515187070978925!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd60cc28413e7%3A0xc809c9cafe42b95d!2sPlazoleta%20de%20San%20Blas%2C%20Cusco%2008003!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752591986288!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3>San Pedro Market<\/h3>\n<p><strong>The San Pedro Market was designed by French engineer Gustave Eiffel, recognized for the construction of the Eiffel Tower located in Paris.<\/strong> Thanks to its metal structure, the high corrugated iron roofs, and the neoclassical design of the market, it becomes a true architectural work.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27106\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27106\" class=\"wp-image-27106 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/San-Pedro-Market-is-one-of-the-most-visited-by-tourists.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Tourists walking through San Pedro Market in Cusco, surrounded by colorful stalls selling fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, and souvenirs under the market\u2019s metal roof designed by Gustave Eiffel.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/San-Pedro-Market-is-one-of-the-most-visited-by-tourists.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/San-Pedro-Market-is-one-of-the-most-visited-by-tourists.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/San-Pedro-Market-is-one-of-the-most-visited-by-tourists.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27106\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This market invites you to explore countless souvenirs.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>This place houses more than 1,180 sales stalls. If you visit, you&#8217;ll find a wide variety of products such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and traditional breads, like chuta bread.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Typical foods:<\/strong> dishes like lamb broth, lomo saltado, and green noodles, served at the various food stalls.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Handicrafts:<\/strong> textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs made by local artisans.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Traditional products:<\/strong> medicinal herbs, coca leaves, and esoteric items used in Andean rituals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Av. Cascaparo s\/n, 10 minutes walking from Plaza de Armas.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recommended time:<\/strong> in the morning, when products are freshest.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> free entrance; a traditional lunch costs between $3\u20134 (S\/10\u201315).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> bring cash and try the artisan cheeses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d4732.872962645061!2d-71.98524252405518!3d-13.520952471099864!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd67664356669%3A0x66d1176e24a485a0!2sMercado%20Central%20de%20San%20Pedro!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752592134792!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3>ChocoMuseo<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Its specialty is promoting local artisan chocolate production<\/strong>, making the public aware of the cultural and economic importance of cacao in the Andean regions.<\/p>\n<p>One of the main attractions of ChocoMuseo is the \u00abBean to Bar\u00bb workshop, a live experience where, in approximately two hours, you can learn to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Select and roast cacao beans.<\/li>\n<li>Grind and refine cacao paste.<\/li>\n<li>Customize chocolate bars with ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, and spices.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare cacao based beverages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_27107\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27107\" class=\"wp-image-27107 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Choco-Museo-is-one-of-the-best-experiences.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Visitors at ChocoMuseo in Cusco participating in a chocolate-making workshop, learning to roast cacao beans and create handmade bars inside a bright, cozy artisan kitchen.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Choco-Museo-is-one-of-the-best-experiences.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Choco-Museo-is-one-of-the-best-experiences.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Choco-Museo-is-one-of-the-best-experiences.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27107\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Immerse yourself in this experience that teaches you about chocolate.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> Garcilaso Street 210, near the Inka Museum.<br \/>\n<strong>Useful tip:<\/strong> book your \u00abBean to Bar\u00bb workshop in advance.<\/p>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2366.478858363312!2d-71.98245272040366!3d-13.516684978401141!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x916dd673f5cfc191%3A0x2f9797c884894ed0!2sChocoMuseo!5e1!3m2!1ses!2spe!4v1752592193543!5m2!1ses!2spe\" width=\"100%\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>Flavors of Cusco: Local Culinary Delights<\/h2>\n<h3>Traditional Dishes<\/h3>\n<p>Cusco offers rich gastronomy with dishes like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Baked guinea pig<\/strong>: it&#8217;s one of the most representative dishes of Cusco cuisine. The guinea pig is seasoned with different spices, then baked in the oven and accompanied with golden potatoes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Chiri Uchu<\/strong>: it&#8217;s a dish widely consumed in June. It&#8217;s made with roasted guinea pig, boiled chicken, charqui (dried meat), cheese, toasted corn, fish roe, seaweed (cochayuyo), and rocoto pepper.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cusco adobo<\/strong>: a traditional broth prepared with pork marinated in chicha de jora, aj\u00ed panca, garlic, and local spices.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Quinoa soup<\/strong>: it&#8217;s a nutritious and comforting preparation, ideal for cold days in Cusco.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_27110\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27110\" class=\"wp-image-27110 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Baked-guinea-pig-and-Cusquenan-adobo-are-delicious.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Traditional Peruvian dishes from Cusco, featuring baked guinea pig and Cusque\u00f1an adobo served with potatoes and chili sauce, highlighting Andean culinary heritage.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Baked-guinea-pig-and-Cusquenan-adobo-are-delicious.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Baked-guinea-pig-and-Cusquenan-adobo-are-delicious.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Baked-guinea-pig-and-Cusquenan-adobo-are-delicious.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27110\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">You can\u2019t miss trying two of Cusco\u2019s most traditional dishes.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3>Pisco Sour<\/h3>\n<p><strong>It was created in Lima in the 1920s by Victor Vaughen Morris, using Peruvian pisco, lemon juice, and sugar.<\/strong> Over time, Peruvian bartenders perfected the drink by adding egg white and angostura bitters.<\/p>\n<p>The Pisco Sour is not only a drink but also an emblem of Peruvian culture. Its recognition as National Cultural Heritage in 2007 highlights its value in the country&#8217;s gastronomic identity.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27112\" style=\"width: 830px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27112\" class=\"wp-image-27112 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/It-is-a-traditional-Peruvian-drink-made-with-pisco-and-lime-juice.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Traditional Pisco Sour with Peruvian pisco, lime juice, and egg white, served in a clear glass with a touch of angostura bitters on top.\" width=\"820\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/It-is-a-traditional-Peruvian-drink-made-with-pisco-and-lime-juice.-Waman-Adventures.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/It-is-a-traditional-Peruvian-drink-made-with-pisco-and-lime-juice.-Waman-Adventures-768x468.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/It-is-a-traditional-Peruvian-drink-made-with-pisco-and-lime-juice.-Waman-Adventures-560x341.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27112\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tasting a Pisco Sour is immersing yourself in history.<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Vegetarian Options<\/h2>\n<p>The city of Cusco has adopted many contemporary dietary preferences. Today, there are many restaurants offering vegetarian options, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Green Point Restaurants: located in the picturesque San Blas neighborhood.<\/li>\n<li>Vida Vegan Bistro: situated near the Belmond Monasterio Hotel.<\/li>\n<li>El Encuentro: it&#8217;s an economical option offering vegetarian menus.<\/li>\n<li>Organika: specializes in organic and sustainable food, using fresh products.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Adventure in Cusco: Must Do Excursions<\/h2>\n<h3>Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)<\/h3>\n<div id=\"attachment_27113\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27113\" class=\"wp-image-27113 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Rainbow-Mountain-is-one-of-the-most-impressive-destinations-in-Peru.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Tourists hiking along Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, surrounded by colorful mineral layers of red, yellow, and green under clear blue Andean skies at 16,400 feet.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Rainbow-Mountain-is-one-of-the-most-impressive-destinations-in-Peru.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Rainbow-Mountain-is-one-of-the-most-impressive-destinations-in-Peru.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Rainbow-Mountain-is-one-of-the-most-impressive-destinations-in-Peru.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27113\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Visit this unique geological formation in the world.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Also known as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain, <strong>it&#8217;s a geological formation located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range. Its altitude borders 16,404 feet (5,000 m.a.s.l.).<\/strong> The colored stripes, caused by minerals, create red, green, yellow, and purple tones.<\/p>\n<p>The difficulty of this place is due to the altitude and terrain, so it&#8217;s recommended that you acclimatize beforehand to avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy your experience. The ideal months to visit are from May to September, as you can better appreciate the colors.<\/p>\n<h3>Humantay Lake<\/h3>\n<p><strong>It&#8217;s a glacial lake with turquoise waters, located at 13,779 feet (4,200 m.a.s.l.)<\/strong>, at the foothills of the mountain range. The difficulty is moderate to high due to altitude and the steep path. Ideally you should bring appropriate clothing and, if you wish, you can rent horses to minimize fatigue.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_27114\" style=\"width: 820px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27114\" class=\"wp-image-27114 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/This-body-of-water-is-located-at-the-foot-of-the-Humantay-snow-capped-mountain.-Waman-Adventures.webp\" alt=\"Turquoise Humantay Lake in Cusco surrounded by snow-capped peaks and Andean vegetation, with travelers admiring reflections of mountains in calm glacial waters.\" width=\"810\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/This-body-of-water-is-located-at-the-foot-of-the-Humantay-snow-capped-mountain.-Waman-Adventures.webp 810w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/This-body-of-water-is-located-at-the-foot-of-the-Humantay-snow-capped-mountain.-Waman-Adventures-768x472.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/This-body-of-water-is-located-at-the-foot-of-the-Humantay-snow-capped-mountain.-Waman-Adventures-560x344.webp 560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-27114\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace of nature<\/p><\/div>\n<h3>Sacred Valley<\/h3>\n<p>The Sacred Valley is a region that extends along the Vilcanota River. <strong>It had great relevance for Inca civilization, as its climate is favorable and it has agricultural lands.<\/strong> The archaeological sites you&#8217;ll find are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Pisac<\/li>\n<li>Ollantaytambo<\/li>\n<li>Moray<\/li>\n<li>Chinchero<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Practical Tips: Plan Your Stay<\/h2>\n<h3>Acclimatization<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Altitude sickness affects the body when oxygen decreases at high elevations. Symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and dizziness.<\/strong> These symptoms can appear between 6 and 24 hours after your arrival at altitude.<\/p>\n<p>To combat altitude sickness, it&#8217;s advisable that you drink between 2 and 3 liters of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and consume light meals. Some Andean infusions, like mu\u00f1a tea and mate de coca, are very useful for relieving symptoms. In some cases, you can carry oxygen as a supplementary element.<\/p>\n<h3>Best Time to Visit<\/h3>\n<p>The dry season, from May to September, offers clear skies and is ideal for you to enjoy outdoor activities. However, it&#8217;s also the busiest time.<\/p>\n<h3>Local Transportation<\/h3>\n<p><strong>More than 10,000 taxis operate in Cusco, most without meters. It&#8217;s common to agree on the fare before starting the trip. You can also board buses and combis on various routes<\/strong>. In the case of agencies like Transporte Tur\u00edstico Cusco, they offer personalized services with modern vehicles and experienced drivers.<\/p>\n<p>Exploring what to do in Cusco is much more than visiting a city: it&#8217;s entering the living history of Peru, enjoying its culture, and connecting with the majesty of the Andes. Make your trip unforgettable with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/es\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">Waman Adventures<\/a><\/strong>, a certified local operator with years of experience and thousands of satisfied travelers. Contact us and let us plan the perfect adventure for you.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Cusco<\/h2>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>What unique activities can be done in Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>You can enjoy various activities, such as exploring the San Blas Neighborhood, participating in chocolate workshops, and visiting ChocoMuseo. Additionally, Cusco offers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/centroqosqodeartenativo.com\/es\/\" rel=\"noopener nofollow external noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo<\/a>:<\/strong> enjoy daily presentations of music and folk dances from Cusco.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inkariy Museum:<\/strong> located in the Sacred Valley, this museum offers a journey through the main civilizations.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arzobispadodelcusco.org\/contenidos\/noticia\/arquidiocesis-conferencia--santurantikuy--actualidad-y-perspectivas.html\" rel=\"noopener nofollow external noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Santurantikuy<\/a>:<\/strong> a traditional Christmas fair celebrated on December 24th at the Plaza de Armas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>Are there fun activities for families in Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Yes, you can visit the Cusco Planetarium and enjoy other activities such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Peruvian cooking classes:<\/strong> workshops where the whole family can learn to prepare traditional dishes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Natural History Museum:<\/strong> displays a collection of fauna and flora from the region.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>How can I prevent altitude sickness in Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Ascend gradually: if possible, you should consider the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Hydration: drink plenty of water.<\/li>\n<li>Avoid intense physical efforts.<\/li>\n<li>Consumption of mate de coca.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>What&#8217;s the best time of year to visit Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>From May to September, during the dry season, the weather is more stable and rainfall is scarce. During these months you can enjoy various festivities, such as Inti Raymi, Corpus Christi, and others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>Is it safe to travel to Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>You should hire official tourist services from registered companies. It&#8217;s also advisable to opt for formal taxis or transportation apps.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>Can I combine my visit to Cusco with other destinations?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Yes, many travelers combine Cusco with visits to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Machu Picchu.<\/li>\n<li>Sacred Valley: includes sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray.<\/li>\n<li>Lake Titicaca: located in Puno.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>Are there vegetarian or vegan food options in Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Yes, in Cusco you&#8217;ll find many establishments and restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan food. Some recommended places are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Green Point: offers a variety of vegan and organic dishes.<\/li>\n<li>Mauka: combines local ingredients with modern techniques in its vegetarian menu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n<h3>What souvenirs can I buy in Cusco?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Cusco is famous for its handicrafts, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Handmade textiles: ponchos, scarves, gloves, and alpaca blankets.<\/li>\n<li>Silver and precious stone jewelry: with designs inspired by Inca symbols.<\/li>\n<li>Traditional ceramics: figures like the Pucar\u00e1 bull and replicas of Inca art.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Inca city offers you an experience capable of awakening all your senses. You&#8217;ll walk through cobblestone streets loaded with history, savor intense dishes, hear the murmur of plazas, and contemplate landscapes where past and present meet. If you&#8217;re thinking about visiting the imperial city, in this guide we tell you the top things to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25018,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"no","footnotes":""},"categories":[231,227,205],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[476],"class_list":["post-27085","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cusco-en","category-peru-en","category-travel-guides","author-leandramb-en"],"acf":[],"modified_by":"Waman Adventures","views":1221,"authors":[{"term_id":476,"user_id":0,"is_guest":1,"slug":"leandramb-en","display_name":"Leandra","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Leandra.webp","url2x":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Leandra.webp"},"author_category":"1","first_name":"Leandra","last_name":"","user_url":"","job_title":"","description":"I'm passionate about singing and dancing, and I love exploring new places, especially around my beloved Cusco, a place I know well. I enjoy staying active with sports like swimming and volleyball. Salsa is my favorite music genre, and there's nothing like a sunny day surrounded by beautiful landscapes. I love sharing real experiences and inspiring journeys."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27085","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27085"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27085\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27118,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27085\/revisions\/27118"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25018"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27085"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27085"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27085"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wamanadventures.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=27085"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}