Cusco is one of the best cities to visit in the world, and it's easy to see why. There are so many activities and things to experience that it is difficult to do everything in one trip. Peru has some of the most beautiful people, landscapes and history in the Western Hemisphere.
There's nothing better than exploring all this country has to offer, going on some great hikes, and then relaxing with a fresh pisco sour. I've been traveling all over Peru for several months, and Cusco is one of my favorite places. Grab a coffee, sit back and relax while we explain the best things to do in Cusco!
Best things to do in Cusco
![What to do in Cusco, Peru](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-city-square.jpg)
![What to do in Cusco, Peru](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-city-square.jpg)
Is Cusco worth a visit?
Peru is a land of adventure, Cusco It's one of the best places in the country. It is also the capital of the Inca Empire and has a lot of history. This is why it is the most popular place to visit in the country and can sometimes feel like a tourist trap. However, visiting Machu Picchu alone is well worth the visit. Read more: 42 Amazing Ancient Ruins Around the World
If you love history, mountains, and exposure to local culture, Cusco is a must-add to your Peru travel itinerary!
1. Machu Picchu
![Best things to do in Cusco and Machu Picchu](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-machu-pichu-640x960.jpg)
![Best things to do in Cusco and Machu Picchu](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-machu-pichu-640x960.jpg)
Most people, especially those who love to travel, have probably heard of the sacred site of Machu Picchu. that UNESCO World Heritage Site It was selected in 1983, and in 2007 it was named one of the Seven Wonders of the New World. Machu Picchu It is known as a religious site for Inca leaders and as a private residence for the royal family.
A trip to Machu Picchu is not the cheapest activity in Cusco. First you need to reach the village of Aguas Calientes, a 4-hour journey.
Cusco is often used as a base when visiting Machu Picchu, but Aguas Calientes is where you'll spend a day or two.
It's worth it to actually go to the site and see its beauty for yourself. It is truly one of the most amazing things you will ever see. Plan your trip to Machu Picchu with this guide: How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu
2. Hike to Laguna Humantay
![What to do in Cusco Laguna Humantai](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-laguna-humantay.jpg)
![What to do in Cusco Laguna Humantai](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-laguna-humantay.jpg)
Umantai Lagoon This is one of the most beautiful lake hikes in the area, and even the country! It is part of the Salkantay Trek, which showcases the beauty of the area around Cusco.
You can do this hike yourself to save money, or you can book one of the many tours available.
Doing this hike independently may seem too complicated to some, but it is also an adventure. Here's how to get to the trailhead independently:
- Get a Colectivo from Cusco to Molepata for about 20 soles. You can find it in the Mapsme app, or you can also ask around to find this collectivo.
- Take a taxi from Mollepata to Soryapampa. This is where you start your hike to Laguna Humantay. If you want to use offline maps when hiking, we recommend downloading Mapsme.
- You will pay an entrance fee to Molepata of approximately 10 soles (prices may vary slightly).
If this is too complicated, you can visit the lake with a tour group for about $25-$30 USD. The hike is simple but may be difficult for some. Read the full guide here.
Laguna Humantay is located at approximately 4200m and some may experience altitude sickness. So go at your own pace!
- distance: This hike is a loop hike of approximately 2.6 miles. This will vary slightly depending on the trail you initially take.
- continue: On average, it takes people 2 hours to complete. This will depend on your fitness level and time in Laguna.
- difficulty: I would rate this hike as moderate to difficult due to the altitude and elevation gain.
- slope: The elevation of this hike is approximately 1302 feet or 396 meters.
- Hiking guide: This hike does not require a guide and is easily accessible to the public.
3. Explore the city center and take a free walking tour
![Things to do in Cusco Free Walking Tour](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-cathedral.jpg)
![Things to do in Cusco Free Walking Tour](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-cathedral.jpg)
It's hard to miss Cusco city center when visiting Cusco. You will always be full of energy. There is always something to see and do, even at night.
Free walking tours are a popular activity for those who want to experience Cusco's history while being guided by a local. You can book a time by checking out Free Walking Tours Cusco.
Some of the things you will see are:
- Arms Square
- Cathedral
- jesus company
- The last street – Loreto, the Inca street
- Coricancha or Temple of the Sun
- Pachacutec Palace
- Still Roca Palace
- 12 angle stone
- Near San Blas
Remember, just because a “free” walking tour doesn’t mean it’s free. Tip your guide!
4. Have a beer and look at Cusco
![What to do with a view of Cusco city?](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-cat-640x960.jpg)
![What to do with a view of Cusco city?](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-cat-640x960.jpg)
One of my favorite things to do anywhere, especially when I first arrive, is find a good bar overlooking the city. It's no different in Cusco.
What we did was hike up to Cristo Blanco and then visit a bar. There are many to choose from, and you may even discover something by chance.
Popular ones include: Ibin Inca Beer and Santo Resto Lounge. You can even hang out with cats! Learn more about dining in Cusco. 5 authentic Cusco restaurants where you can eat like a local
5. Rainbow Mountain Tour
![Things to do in Cusco Rainbow Mountain](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-rainbow-mountain-640x960.jpg)
![Things to do in Cusco Rainbow Mountain](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-rainbow-mountain-640x960.jpg)
One of the fastest growing activities in Cusco over the past decade is visiting the beautiful Rainbow Mountain. Be careful as there will be many people doing this activity with different tour operators.
You'll reach an altitude of about 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), so be prepared! To get to Rainbow Mountain you need to take a tour.
A tour here costs about $30, including breakfast and lunch. This is a full-day tour that takes approximately 12 hours to complete. Plan your trip to Rainbow Mountain here. What to Expect When Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru
Alternative to Rainbow Mountain – Palcoyo Mountain
![Best Things to Do in Cusco Palcoyo Mountain of Color](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-palcoyo.jpg)
![Best Things to Do in Cusco Palcoyo Mountain of Color](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-palcoyo.jpg)
If you're like me and don't like large crowds, especially while hiking, there are similar activities with fewer people. Palccoyo is in the same area as Rainbow Mountain, but doesn't have nearly the same number of hikers. Check out this trek to get away from the crowds and see something a little different! This highly rated tour takes you on a full-day trek up colorful Palcoyo Mountain.
6. Visit Cristo Blanco Viewpoint
![Things to do in Cusco](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-christ.jpg)
![Things to do in Cusco](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-christ.jpg)
Wherever I go, seeing a new city from a great perspective is a staple of my travel itinerary. This helps give perspective on new destinations and is a lot of fun!
The Cristo Blanco statue is one of the easiest and best viewing points in the city. This gigantic statue becomes visible from afar as you get closer. It’s also a fantastic place to watch the sunset! After visiting Cristo Blanco, you can walk east along the stairs. Tjere has many bars and hostels with amazing views of Cusco! Have a drink and relax.
7. Explore San Blas District
![Best things to do in San Blas District, Cusco](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-street-scene.jpg)
![Best things to do in San Blas District, Cusco](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-street-scene.jpg)
The San Blas district is a bit far from the city center and has lots of shops and restaurants!
Here you can enjoy a variety of shopping and purchase souvenirs including the famous alpaca sweater.
Take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee at a cute cafe! There is so much to do here that you may lose track of time.
8. Hike with Salkantay Trek
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-trekking-640x960.jpg)
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-trekking-640x960.jpg)
If you want to enjoy a unique adventure while reaching Machu Picchu, I highly recommend the Salkantay trek!
The Salkantay Trek is a five-day hike through the mountains with the goal of reaching Machu Picchu. It was by far the best activity I did in Peru!
The 5-day itinerary is as follows:
- You will be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to Soryapampa to begin your hike to Laguna Humantay. Afterwards, spend the night here!
- Hike Salkantay Pass and spend the night in the village of Colpapampa
- Wake up and hike through canyons and coffee plantations to the village of Rukmabamba.
- Day 4 involves arriving at the village of Aguas Calientes, home to Machu Picchu. On this day, you will reach an observation deck where you can see Machu Picchu from afar.
- On the last day, wake up early to visit Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
Salkantay Trek Details
- distance: This hike to reach Machu Picchu is a 46-mile loop. Salkantay Pass alone is 12.3 miles from point to point.
- continue: On average, it takes 5 days to complete. This will depend on your fitness level and time in Laguna.
- difficulty: I rate this hike as difficult because of the elevation, elevation gain, and length.
- slope: The maximum altitude for the Salkantay trek is 4,630 meters or 15,190 feet.
- Hiking guide: This hike does not require a guide but is accessible to the public.
9. Visit Sacsayhuaman
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-street-scene-1423x1067.jpg)
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-street-scene-1423x1067.jpg)
Sacsayhuaman or Saqsaywaman is one of the most popular things to do in Cusco and is located right inside the city!
This is an old Inca ruin made of large stones. This ancient civilization joined these stones together without using mortar.
You must purchase a ticket to access this site. Tickets are expensive but worth it! A regular tourist ticket costs around 130 soles and allows entry to 16 different venues.
There is so much to see and the price is too good for the historical landmark.
10. Explore the markets and taste street food
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-street-food-640x960.jpg)
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-street-food-640x960.jpg)
Cusco is famous for its amazing markets, such as the San Pedro Market. You can buy fruits, vegetables, meat, and even a variety of souvenirs here!
Plus, you can't visit Peru without trying the local cuisine! Try the alpaca burger, and if you want to eat it, try the guinea pig! Check out Peruvian Food: 20 Traditional Peruvian Dishes You Must Try
If these options aren't your thing, there are plenty of other options at restaurants throughout the city and near the city center. If you want to save money on food, head further away from the city center for better prices and a more authentic atmosphere! Try street food. Delicious and cheap!
What you need to know before visiting Cusco
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-things-to-know-1423x1067.jpg)
![](https://theplanetd.com/images/things-to-do-in-cusco-things-to-know-1423x1067.jpg)
How to get from Lima to Cusco
Most people will find getting from Lima to Cusco very simple. The most efficient way is to fly, but this is not the cheapest option.
If you have time and want to save money, taking a bus from Lima to Cusco is a viable option. However, the bus ride can take more than 20 hours overnight.
Flights cost around $40 USD, but that's without bags. Carry-on baggage costs almost twice this price, and checked baggage costs even more.
If you want to take the bus, do this:
- If you don't want to go to the bus terminal, order a ticket. red bus. How to buy online bus tickets in Peru.
- Julio Ceasar is one of the most highly rated bus companies, but they are all pretty good.
- It is recommended to pay for VIP or first class tickets. It won't cost much, but it will make you much more comfortable. I've done this for every bus I've ridden in South America for more than 5 hours (where possible).
- Terminal Plaza Norte and La Victoria are good stations. The website and/or ticket will indicate which bus terminal you need to visit.
- Take a taxi/Uber to the indicated bus terminal.
Best Cusco Restaurants Peru
How many days do you spend in Cusco?
The number of days you should spend in Cusco varies from person to person. If you're short on time, I recommend staying in the city for three days.
This does not include the time you spend visiting Machu Picchu or the multi-day trek you may wish to do. Check out: 3 Little Known Hiking Day Trips in Cusco, Peru
If time is not a big issue, I would suggest about a week. There are plenty of things to do in and around the city, including day trips.
Remember, Cusco was one of the most important cities in the entire Western Hemisphere. There is endless things to see and do.
Final thoughts on Cusco
Peru is a magical country where adventure and history meet, and Cusco is at the heart of it all. There is so much to see and do here that you can't do it all in one trip. Accept everything as it is and be present. I love this city so much that I plan to return sometime soon. There are many more hikes and adventures to come!