14 Things to do in Cusco and where to stay [for all travelers]

Some of our links are affiliated, we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product. This will have no extra cost for you. For further info please refer to our Privacy Policy

Are you ready to discover the best things to do in Cusco, Peru, and why you should visit asap?

Cusco was the capital of the mighty Inca Empire that stretched from Ecuador all the way down south as far as Santiago, Chile. For it to be the heart of such a huge empire, Cusco must’ve been founded at a perfect location.

This perfect location is surrounded by a beautiful landscape that remained unspoiled even today. This powerful beauty and history are what attract thousands of travelers to Peru every year, and it’s easy to understand why there are so many things to do in Cusco that any type of tourist will enjoy a trip there.

There are many things to do in Cusco, Peru. Some attractions are in Cusco city other a one day trip away.
Cusco is out of this world.

With adventure, culture, history and delicious food, Cusco and the whole country offer incredible attractions all year round. It’s worth saying that Peru is one of the safest countries in South America to visit, so don’t think twice and start planning your trip to Cusco and other destinations in Peru right now. 

Planning a trip to Peru in advance is essential, you need to think about the weather, the tours you want to do, the day trips from Cusco, how you gonna get from Cusco to Machu Picchu and other places around. You can find more info about traveling to Peru and places to visit here.

When is the best time to travel to Cusco, Peru?

You can travel to Peru during the whole year, but the best time to visit Cusco and also the best time to go to Machu Picchu is during the winter [cold temperatures, but sunny days], from June to August.

This period is also the high season when most of the travelers flock to Peru looking for the best things to do in Cusco and around. Pay extra attention to the holidays that happen in July and also de Inti Raymi, the Sun Festival that happens on June 24 in Cusco. It’s one of the biggest attractions in Cusco, but also a busy time to visit Peru.

The rainy season starts from December all the way to April, it’s not the best time to travel to Cusco especially if you are looking for outdoor activities and trekking, but it’s totally doable. Just be prepared for muddy tracks and pouring rain.

We would say that the best time to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco would be between seasons, like May, September, and October, the weather will probably be good and the places to visit in Cusco and around won’t be packed with people.

If you are coming from Lima or going there after Cusco, here is a comprehensive guide on how to travel between Lima to Cusco by bus, train, or flight. And here is a guide to where to stay in Lima.

Book your bus, train, ferry or plane with Bookaway!

Where to stay in Cusco, Peru

Before we dive into the list of what to do in Cusco and around you need to think about where to stay in Cusco. There are plenty of hotels in Cusco, from 5-star to hostels and guesthouses. Here is our list of the best places to stay in Cusco, you can choose the one that suits your travel style and budget.

Top things to do in Cusco for all types of travelers

Cusco has activities for everyone, and today we’ll look at how each traveler type can enjoy the beauty, the history and the culture of the Inca Empire. Pick your favorite ones or pack all of them in an ultimate travel itinerary to Cusco, Machu Picchu and around.

Travel Advice:

Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.

There are many insurances in the market, our picks are HeyMondo and SafetyWing. We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.

Things to do in Cusco for the history buffs

1 – Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the most famous attraction in Peru and the main reason most travelers visit Cusco. Built in the 1400s, Machu Picchu escaped the Spanish conquest and remained hidden from the outside world until 1911. It served as the religious and political capital of the Incas and is regarded to be one of the most sacred sites of the Inca empire. Machu Picchu receives over 3000 visitors per day, but still exudes a mystical feeling to its visitors. You can take a luxurious train ride or do a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu. There are many options for Machu Picchu tours from Cusco [click here] and maybe choose one of them.

Choquequirao and Machu Picchu are the top places to visit in Cusco, top attractions that a world famous.
A sneak peek in history.

If you prefer to avoid the crowd, the Choquequirao site is a good alternative to Machu Picchu. Like her iconic sister, Choquequirao was a sacred site that was hidden from invaders and the first excavations were done only in the 1970s. Even now, only 30% of the archaeological site is excavated. It served as a ceremonial center and a spiritual site, although guides will be quick to admit: not much is known about the place. Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao only receives around 30 visitors a day – partly due to its isolated location. To get there, travelers must hike across a challenging canyon. It takes 4 days to get there and back, it’s definitely a unique experience to have in Peru.

3 – Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a combination of history and beauty across a series of towns, valleys, and historical sites. The most famous are the terraced ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, the alien-like agricultural laboratory at Moray, the photogenic salt mines of Maras, and the colorful village of Chinchero. You can rent a car to go from Cusco to Sacred Valley by yourself or you join a day trip from Cusco, check the possibilities at one of the many tour agencies lined along the main square. A guide will explain how the Incas built their fortresses high up the mountains, experimented with different crops and harvested natural resources with technologies way more advanced than in its time!

Things to do in Cusco for the nature lover

Lakes, mountains, trekking, there are many things to do in Cusco that will keep you busy, specially if you like outdoor activities.
There’s a natural mystic blowing through the air…

4 – Ausangate

Ausangate is the name of a sacred Apu [mountain in the native language]. The 5-6 days Ausangate trek is touted as one of the toughest but most beautiful in the Cusco region. You’ll trek for long hours in high altitudes and sleep in freezing temperatures. But you’ll also walk under towering snow-capped mountains and camp near mesmerizing blue lakes. You’ll interact with indigenous communities and get up close with playful llamas. You’ll see some of the most incredible landscapes and feel that the challenge is all worth it.

5 – Humantay Lake

If you do not have time for a multi-day trek, the Humantay Lake is a great day trip from Cusco. This glacier lake blew me away the first time I saw it. The lake lies at the feet of the majestic Apu Humantay and its crystal blue water sparkles when the sun shines on it. You can even climb up to a narrow ridge above the lake for a beautiful view of the surroundings. Most tour agencies in Cusco offer day trips to Humantay Lake and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Cusco.

The Rainbow Mountain is a one day trip from Cusco and it worth the time and the energy to get there. This is one of the top places to visit in Cusco, Peru.
Vinicunca, also called Montaña de Siete Colores.

6 – Rainbow Mountain

The Rainbow Mountain is another great day trip from Cusco. It was discovered less than 10 years ago and recently exploded in popularity. The 2-hours hike up the 5200 mountain is extremely challenging but when you finally reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an unbelievable view of the 7-color mountain, possibly the most Instagrammable mountain in Peru! Do note that at over 5000m, the main difficulty is the altitude. Horses are available for rent the whole way up the mountain.

Things to do in Cusco for the adventure seeker

7 – Slingshot

If adrenaline is what excites you, then the Slingshot is for you. The Slingshot is like a reverse bungee where you blast off into the air like a human catapult to over 120m in 3s. This intense experience lets you live off your Superman fantasy – even if just for a few seconds. Book in advance to save time.

8 – Bungee Jump

Among the fun things to do in Cusco is the highest bungee jump in South America. Jump off from a platform 120m high and free-fall into the beautiful Inca region of Cusco. Conquer your fears and strike off an item on your adventure bucket list.

Things to do in Cusco for the Foodie

9 – Cuy

Cuy, or guinea pig, is a popular dish in Peru. Guinea pig meat is high in protein and low in fats and was a staple diet of the Inca empire. Some people cringed at the sight of this rodent, some love it. Be warned though, this novelty food does not come cheap but should be on an adventurous foodie’s must-try list.

If you feel adventurous you can try some of the local food in Cusco, it's not beautiful but people say it is tasty.
Want a bite?

10 – Ceviche

Ceviche is the [unofficial] national food of Peru, made up of raw fish slices ‘cooked’ with citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers. It tastes a little sour, a little spicy and very, very fresh. Try it at a fancy restaurant or have it alongside locals at the San Pedro market. If you’re a seafood lover, you’d love ceviche very much.

11- Pisco Sour

Peru’s national drink is the Pisco Sour, an alcoholic cocktail that is considered a South American classic. The drink is a mix of Pisco – the base liquor – and lime juice, syrup, egg white and a little Angostura for a slightly bitter taste. Order it at a bar, try it for free on a walking tour in Cusco or learn how to make it in a cooking class.

Things to do in Cusco for the culture geek

12 – Museums

There is a whole range of museums in Cusco that will satisfy any culture, history and art lover. Learn about Inca history at the Inka Museum, or appreciate art at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Discover the benefits of Coca leaves at the Coca Museum or indulge in some chocolate at the Choco Museum. Visit the Machu Picchu Museum to learn more about the wondrous ruins or know more about the region at the Cusco Regional History Museum. If the weather is not so good and you are wondering what to do in Cusco, the answer is museums.

There many attraction in Cusco city, so leave at least 2 or 3 days to visit them and enjoy the local markets in Cusco.
☀️ Temple of the Sun?

13 – Qorikancha

The Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun, was perhaps the most sacred and most important building in the Inca empire. During the Inca period, this building was covered in sheets of gold and decorated with gold statues. Presently, it acts as a church, museum, and convent under one roof. You can clearly see the architecture from three distinct eras: pre-Inca, Inca and Colonial, a must-see in Cusco. The entrance fee to Qorikancha is PEN $10. Guides can be hired for a more detailed explanation of the historical significance of this building.

Things to do in Cusco for the Shopaholic

14 – Artisan Markets

I’m sure you can’t miss out the bright, colorful artisan markets in Cusco. They are all over the Andean region! You can buy all sorts of souvenirs like wool sweaters, shoes, jewelry, paintings, accessories, notebooks etc. Most of the textiles are hand-knitted, vibrant and extremely detailed. They will remind you of your awesome time in Cusco. They are relatively cheap, but don’t forget to bargain!

Now that you know what to do in Cusco and around it’s time to pack your bags and go! Search for the best flights to Cusco on Skyscanner or Kiwi.com and have fun in Peru.

Love this guide about what to do in Cusco, Peru?! Pin it for later!!

Cusco in Peru is packed with attractions and places to visit. From the mysterious Machu Picchu to the stunning Sacred Valley, there are many things to in Cusco that will keep any traveler busy and happy. We listed the best places to stay in Cusco, what to do, what to eat and travel tips. #Cusco #Peru #Cuscothingstodo #Cuscotraveltips

Author Owen Ter, who writes at My Turn to Travel blog.

AuthorOwen Ter

Owen Ter is a travel blogger from Singapore. After graduating from university, he bought a one-way ticket to South America, backpacked for one year and visited all countries on the continent. Oh, and he brought along an inflatable graduation hat. His favorite city is Cusco. He writes at My Turn to Travel. You can also follow him on Instagram.

2 thoughts on “14 Things to do in Cusco and where to stay [for all travelers]”

  1. Good article! Cusco is my favorite destination in Peru and Latin America! It has so much history and cultural value! Beside Machu Picchu, I specially liked the Rainbow mountain, the trekking was hard but it worth it because the landscape was amazing! Also I tried cuy and Pachamanca and it was delicious! I hope I can return soon to continue exploring Cusco. I recomment to travel by bus from Lima to Cusco because it is cheaper, I bought my bus ticket here

    Reply

Leave a Comment