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Sights and Attractions

Quick Reference

• Where: Approximately three to seven miles away from Cusco City.
• Altitude: 12,000 feet above sea level.
• How to Get Here: Bus and car accessible. Walking tours available in between sites.
• Entrance Fee: Included in Cusco City’s Boleto Turístico.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, water, poncho (during rainy season).
• Handicap Accessible: No.

As you might imagine, the Cusco region is a wonder and wealth of historical and archeological attractions. Though there are many and varied things to see, there are a few ruins that are especially poignant examples of the culture and civilizations that came before. Among these are Qengo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay. Admission to all of them is included in the Boleto Turistico and they are often combined with tours of Sacsayhuaman.

Qorikancha – The Andean Temple of the Sun

The Temple of the Sun has been known by various names, including Qurikancha, Koricancha, and Coricancha, throughout its history. Temples within Cusco vary from humble to magnificent and Qorikancha was destined to be the most majestic of them all. What remains can be found at the intersection of Calle Santo Domingo and Avenida Sol within the city’s historic center.

Astronomy is just one of the myriad of Inca talents and evidence can be found in the observatories they raised. Huacas, or sacred places such as caves, mountains, and rivers that were located directly on ceques (transcendental lines) were believed to be connections between the heavens and the earth.

Qorikancha was built to honor Inti, the sun god, and its location is not accidental. The Inca pinpointed the spot where ceques converged and raised the temple on a hill between the rivers of Shapy-Huatanay and Tullumayo. For those that may wonder at this specific location, a visit during the Andean New Year of Inti Raymai provides the answer. During the solstice, sunlight streams through its windows due to its specific alignment with astronomic entities.

The wonder of Inca architectural ability is never clearer than when one looks closely at examples such as Qorikancha. Its walls are shaped and fitted from stones that were relocated from quarries as far away as the towns of Waqoto and Rumicolca (20-30 kilometers/12-18 miles) and all of it was done without the use of mortar. Construction techniques include irregular stone shapes with rounded edges and slightly inclined trapezoidal walls. Why use such methods? Inca designs are known for their ability to withstand seismic movements and these mortar-free structures allow the stones to vibrate in place during seismic activities. Once the event is over, they settle back into position and keep the building a solidly in place as it was before.

Church of Santo Domingo

The Church of Santo Domingo marks a convergence of Western and Andean. Following the Spanish invasion, the land upon which it was built was given to Juan Pizarro, Francisco Pizarro’s younger brother, who then willed it to the Dominican Order. They retain ownership to this day.

The stonework of Qorikancha was dismantled and used in the building of the Santo Domingo Church. Given the information about Inca structures, it should be no surprise to learn that earthquakes that had leveled other Spanish construction did nearly no damage to Inca walls. Only man’s interference could undo such architectural marvels.

Baroque carvings and vaulted ceilings exhibits Santo Domingo’s grandeur and the wooden door of the church boasts the only place in Cusco where Moorish style carvings can be found. Within the Spanish walkway edged internal garden a pre-Columbian single stone fountain still stands.

The 1950 major earthquake in Cusco exposed original Inca walls beneath layers of old plaster and efforts are now underway to preserve both historical legacies of this religious structure. It is, and ever will be, a captivating example of the merging of Inca and Spanish architecture.

Sacsayhuaman

On a hill high above Cusco city, the Inca built terraces using massive stones weighing hundreds of tons. These were cut and polished to form what was once a truly awe inspiring architectural delight. Only a small portion remains but even that captures the imagination at the skill and scale of the Inca builders. It has survived centuries of history and the passing of one culture into another and still it stands proudly.

Sacsayhuaman covers about 12 square miles, sits at an altitude of over 12,000 feet above sea level and was used to keep watch for external attacks on the city. Its size and grandeur also serve well as a place to hold rituals and other functions. Today, Cusco’s Inti Raymi festival is held there.

Though only a small percentage of the original buildings and structures remain, there is plenty to see that speaks to the history and detail of this massive site. The site’s primary defensive feature, baluartes, are comprised of staggered walls that had been built using the enormous stones mentioned earlier.

Throughout the complex, sets of stones resembling a lion’s paw can be found. Add to these, and located directly above the main walkway of Sacsayhuaman, is the K’usilluc Jink’ian (the “throne”). This area sports a view of the entire fortress, the city of Cusco, and neighboring hills. It is believed that this is where the Inca presided over important ceremonies.

Three tall towers once existed and faint outlines found on the highest parts of the ruins bear witness to their locations. The Muyucmarca tower was the political core though it is sometimes mistaken for a solar calendar because of its circular nature. It served not only for defense but also housed food, water, an arms depot, and a temple. Its siblings, the Paucamarca and Sallamarca towers, were devoted to religious and logistics respectively.

Various gates mark the areas and layers of the compound but few of these still survive. Most are now gone as they were dismantled in the periods following the conquest. Garcilaso de la Vega is our sole accounting for these gates: Tio Puncu, Acahuana Puncu, and Huiracocha Puncu. Puma Punchu (Gate of the Puma) is a smaller example and is one of remaining examples.

June is the most popular time to visit because many celebrations take place during this time. Sacsayhuaman is a wonder to visit at any time, however, as it is one of the most impressive examples of Inca archeology and military architecture.

Qengo

The original name for Qengo is lost to history and its reason for being still remains a mystery. Qengo is a Quechua word for labyrinth and it was named such due to the twisting channels and steps that are carved on the outer rock surfaces.

The site is located on hill above Cusco city and consists of two main areas. The Qengo Grande and Qengo Chico sit some hundred yards apart and evidence indicates that the area was a temple that was used during rites surrounding fertility and harvest. One of the largest huacas (a sacred natural place) it represents a manifested spiritual being, pre-Columbian deities that were linked to how these places came to be.

“The Mortuary”, an underground room is one of Qengo Grande’s famous features. It is an interior chamber made up of polished walls, ceilings, an altar, niches, and steps all of which were carved from the stone itself. Access to the chamber is via man-made tunnels that work inward.

Pucapucara

Located 4.5 miles from Cusco city and sitting over 12,000 feet above sea level, Pucapucara is comprised of walls, internal plazas, a multitude of small rooms, and aqueducts. Defensive walls among rooms of various sizes indicate that the site was both military and administrative in nature. It may well have been a military base and its name suggests it as well. “Puca” means red and “Pucara” means fortress making this the Red Fortress.

A walk up the hill leads to Tambomachay which leads us to believe that this fortress may also have regulated transit to the hydraulic site.

Tambomachay

Tambomachay is a primary example of Inca achievements in hydraulic advancements. This site is located about half a mile from Pucapucara and is above a stream of the same name. It covers over 5000 square feet and is known by the locals as “The Bath of the Inca”.

Tambomachay is a series of aqueducts and canals that channel thermal water that then spills out over four walls that form a set of terraces. Unlike many other sites, the terraces were decorative and ritualistic in nature versus agricultural.

It is thought that the site was either a military post or used by Inca elites for cleansing rituals. Whatever the purpose, it is a classic example of Inca artistic and architectural mastery over the elements of earth and water.

Travelling from Cusco to Machu Picchu

There are a number of options to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. One is, of course, to hike the Inca Trail. If this is not something you wish to do then your only other direct option is to make the trip via train. Fortunately, there are a number of rail options available to you.

If you wish to depart from Cucso, a fifteen minute car ride to PeruRail’s primary train station in Poroy is in order. A second option is to depart from the town of Ollantaytambo instead. The Aguas Calientes station is the arrival destination for both routes. Be sure to purchase train tickets well in advance of your trip in order to guarantee availability. This is especially true during the busy season of May through September. Be aware, also, that the train ride from Ollantaytambo averages around two hours vs the four hours it takes from Cusco.

Another deciding factor in rail choice may be the scenery. It has been said that the panorama between Ollantaytambo and Aquas Calientes is vibrantly stunning. This route shadows the course of the Urubamba River as it flows through the Andean cloud forest. Alternatively, PeruRail’s Vistadome Train offers a spectacular view of the mountains that hover over the valley.

Regardless which option is chosen, schedule at least one leg of your journey during the daylight hours. You won’t regret it the beauty you’ll experience.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes is, however, only one portion of the entire trip. To get to Machu Picchu, a shuttle bus must be taken. Tickets may be purchased from the office upon arrival or in advance from the Consettur office in Cusco. Expect buses to run at approximately fifteen minute intervals and don’t expect assigned seating. Time of day will effect waiting time to board the bus so be sure to take that into account.

Travelling In and Out of Cusco

What you need to know: By Air

There are a number of flight based options for travelers finding their way into Cusco. Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (airport code: CUZ) is located roughly fifteen minutes from the city’s historic center but is not able to handle large aircraft. Because of this, most travelling from abroad fly into the airport in Lima, spend a night there, and depart for Cusco in the morning. This is the norm since most international flights arrive in Lima at night and flights departing for Cusco do so in the mornings. Limited afternoon connections are available via airlines, such as LAN, that own more modernized fleets. You can expect around an hour of travel time regardless of connection used to arrive into Cusco.

What you need to know: By Long Distance Bus or Car

Flight access isn’t the only option, however. For travelers who aren’t pressed for time, have flexibility in their itineraries, or are on a tighter budget, long distance bus trips are available. Be aware that these trips can take anywhere from ten hours (Cusco/Puno or Cusco/Arequipa) to over twenty hours (Cusco/Lima). The longest trips are not recommended, however, because the trip covers dangerous and very windy mountain routes.

For those that wish to drive themselves, car rentals are also available but are very expensive and the routes are fraught with risks in the form of narrow highways edged by steep mountainous cliffs and drops.

Though these options may seem less expensive than air travel, when you take into account the risks and travel times, the flight choice may well be the better bargain.

What you need to know: By Train

A third, and popular choice, is to board the Andean Explorer and trip it by train from Puno/Lake Titicaca to Cusco. The ride is longer (just under ten hours) but is relaxing and the scenic route is reminiscent of early 20th century rail. Amenities include dining cars and a bar-car where travelers can enjoy the open-air observation deck.

Staying Safe

Caution, common sense, and discretion are your friends! With the exception of admission to Machu Picchu or major credit and purchases, you’ll rarely need your important travel documents on your person. The safest choice here is to leave them in a safe deposit box at your hotel. For those times when you do need them, make sure you carry them concealed and secured close to your person. One good choice is to purchase a money belt.

The savvy traveler keeps any personal belongings tucked close and never lets these items out of their sight. Thieves watch for the unwary and a bag hanging on the back of a chair is an easy snatch and grab.

Being aware of your surroundings and the people around you is key to staying safe. Travel in groups and trust your instincts. Anything that sparks your suspicion should be avoided and you should never consider it foolish to evade becoming a petty theft target. Be sure to carry with you a fully changed and functional cell phone.

Last, but not least, talk to those who live in the area. When you do so you, not only immerse yourself into the culture, you also make friends and help ensure a greater measure of safety for yourself and your belongings.

Cusco Transportation and Safety

Cusco Walk-About

You won’t want to miss a thing in Cusco and when you strike out on foot in historic Cusco, you won’t have to. Walking gives you time to linger and appreciate the finely crafted Inca stonework, sculptural colonial architecture, vibrantly colored balconies, and the eccentric shops that line the streets of the city’s historic center.

Naturally, the Inca didn’t create their streets and alleys with vehicles in mind and so access to the narrow walkways can only be made by pedestrians, well, and the occasional lama. The narrow street of Hatun Rumiyoc, host of the Stone of Twelve Angles, is but one of many examples of places you won’t be able to see in Cusco unless you set out on foot.

Within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas can be found most of Cusco’s main attractions. The structure of the city, however, is such that the some streets are very steep and can pose quite a challenge to many who visit. For those that can’t, or don’t want, to endure the heart racing effort it takes to climb some sets of stairs, there are many other options for travelling around the historic center and the city itself.

Taxis in Cusco

As pointed out earlier in this guide, high elevation can sometimes be problematic. Fortunately, one transportation option in Cusco is taxi service. Fares within the city can range between S/.5 and S/.10 (US$2-3). Travelers should be aware that taxis are not metered and, therefore, prior to climbing in the destination and fare should be settled. Should there be a language barrier, presenting the driver with a business card or a handwritten address can be the answer. Small change in the local currency is the best form of payment.

Unfortunately, travelers are at risk to be scammed so get an idea of the standard prices for local services prior to agreeing to them. If possible, arrange official registered taxi services through your hotel or restaurant. Should you be out and need taxi service, look for taxis with a visible placard displayed on the vehicle.

Because the area around the historic center, and the Plaza de Armas especially, is comprised of one-way streets vehicles will often need to find convoluted routes to get from one place to another. This can often mean that it will take more time to drive somewhere than it would have taken had you walked instead.

Travelers should also be aware that, during some holidays (such as Inti Raymi and Semana Santa), the streets near an around the Plaze de Armas will be closed to automotive traffic. This may mean that, despite the driver dropping you as close as possible, you’ll find yourself on foot with your luggage should your hotel be close to the festival areas.

Combis and buses

Other travel options include combis, which are minivans that have been modified to be used as a shared taxi, mini-buses, and full sized buses. While combis generally provide access to neighborhoods and areas just outside the historic center of the city, mini-buses and full sized buses are often used to offer service between Cusco and surrounding towns. Unlike what you may be used to in other countries, routes and schedules are likely to be haphazard. You may well be in for an unanticipated adventure when you make use of buses!

The Boleto Turistico del Cusco

What is it?

There is so much to see and do in Cusco and the surrounding area and, while much of it is accessible on an individual basis, some attractions are not. Access to these is obtained by purchasing a full or partial Boleto Turistico del Cusco (Cusco Tourist Ticket).

The full Boleto Turistico provides entry to 16 different areas of interest and is valid for ten days. For those that wish to visit only some of these, there are three other options:

Circuit I – One day access to the following four Inca ruins:

• Sacsayhuaman
• Qenqo
• Pucapucara
• Tambomachay

Circuit II – Two day access to the following eight museums:

• Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo (native art and folkloric dance)
• Monumento a Pachacuteq (Pachacuteq Statue)
• Museo de Arte Contemporaneo
• Museo de Arte Popular
• Museo Historico Regional
• Museo de Sitio del Qorikancha (museum only, not the Qorikancha site)
• Pikillacta
• Tipon

Circuit III – Two day access to four Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley:

• Chinchero
• Ollantaytambo
• Pisac
• Moray

Some important sites are not included in the Boleto Turistico. These include:

• Machu Picchu
• The Maras salt mines in the Sacred Valley
• The Qorikancha
• The Cathedral in the city’s main plaza
• The Inca Museum in Cusco

Boleto Turistico Need-To-Know

The Boeto Turistico only grants access to attractions and does not include transportation or guides. This means you’ll have to book your tours of Cusco or the Sacred Valley, so when you do, be sure to ask if the price includes the cost of your Boleto Turistico choice.

There are several purchase location options for your Cusco Tourist Ticket.

• The entrance of the principal archeological sites
• The government and tourist building on Avenida Sol 103 in Cusco offers advanced ticket purchase
• Selected tourist offices
• Authorized travel agencies.

Because U.S. dollars and bank cards are not accepted, be sure to bring Peruvian Soles to pay for your ticket. Each ticket is stamped with its dates of validity at the time of your purchase and authorization. Note that tickets are not refundable or extendable and that each attraction can only be visited once within the allotted time frame.

You will need to carry identification (ID or a copy of your passport) along with your ticket to be allowed entrance to the various attractions.

Where is Cusco?

One couldn’t ask for a more scenic location in which to discover this fascinating city. Snuggled into the wings of the Andes in southeastern Peru, Cusco can be found south and west of Machu Picchu and the beginnings of the Amazon jungle. Lake Titicaca can be found to the south of the city and some 586 kilometers (364 miles) by air the capital city of Lima awaits.

Along with their scenic valley and high altitude plains companions, the snow-capped peaks of the Salkantay and Ausangate mountains welcome those who fly into Cusco. These giants reach above 6,200 meters (20,000 feet) and, on clear days, Ausangate is visible from the city. Both the airport and the bus terminal are located within 20 minutes from the historic area of the city.

Spanning from the curves of the river basin, where the oldest sections of the city are found, Cusco stretches into the valley and meanders into the surrounding hills. Indeed, the historic center is just a small section of the present-day city but it is the heart and soul of the region. Locals and travelers alike gather together to participate in the years’ most important cultural events.

Thirty minutes via the road to Pisac will take visitors to the Sacred Valley. The ever growing popularity of the valley, due to its historical attractions and lower elevation, can also be reached via the higher altitude town of Chinchero to Urubamba and Ollantaytambo though this trek will need closer to an hour.

If nothing else, the diverse geography of the region surrounding Cusco make it a unique visiting experience. Its proximity to both the Amazon and the Andes mean that a record-breaking range of climactic types and biological species can be encountered. Protected by the Peruvian state, the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary houses both Machu Picchu and Mt. Salkantay.

The reserve itself is home to some 200 orchid, 400 butterfly, and hundreds of other plant and bird species. Those who visit the Cochahuasui Animal Sanctuary, an animal rehabilitation center within the Sacred Valley, are treated to the region’s faunal diversity consisting of endangered condors, parrots and macaws, pumas, and other Andean creatures including llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos.

What you need to know: Altitude Sickness:

While most Cusco visitors will experience few ill effects due to altitude sickness, the best preparation is to be well informed of the symptoms and potential complications. Adjustment to the higher altitude can include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Decreased appetite
• Insomnia
• Mild shortness of breath

More serious symptoms should not be ignored and medical help sought immediately as some complications, including pulmonary and cerebral edema, can be fatal if not treated. Watch out for extreme lethargy and trouble breathing even while at rest.

Plan on enjoying a slow and easy first day in Cusco to allow yourself time to become acclimatized.

Planning the trip: What to pack

Because the weather in Cusco is unpredictable and there can be enormous temperature differences throughout the course of the day, the wise traveler makes it a habit to keep an eye on the forecast. Plan to wear layers that can be removed or added as needed throughout the day.

In general, lightweight short sleeves are sufficient for the warmer parts of the day and longer sleeves or a warm fleece or sweater come in handy when the sun goes down. Rain and windproof jackets are an essential wardrobe accessory for the rainy season’s torrential downpours. Another essential is some kind of UV protection for both skin and lips regardless of the season.

Don’t neglect your feet! Comfortable walking shoes are fine for most day tours while proper hiking boots are best for the more serious trekking. Even so, shoes with thicker soles work just fine for trails where the footing is minimally rocky.

What you need to know: Packing Light

It is tempting to pack everything you think you might need but packing lighter has advantages. Fitting what you’ll need into a single carry-on means you won’t have to worry about missing flight connections or lost or damaged luggage. In addition you can forgo waiting time at the baggage carousel and you’ll save money for checked luggage. You’ll also be far more mobile during your journeys from the airport, hotel, and between all the destinations you’ll want to visit.

There are a few keys to this trick! Make a list of all the items you’ll actually need and use and don’t forget that you can easily buy items you may have forgotten or may find you need or want. You’ll certainly want to indulge is the local fashions and it’s easy to purchase an extra bag or two for such things while you’re there.

What you need to know: Cusco Dining Code

Don’t worry! Due to the high populous of backpacking and adventure travelers, the dress codes in the area are not strict. In fact, “Trekker Chic” is the fashion of choice! It is helpful to know, however that there are a smaller number of 5-star Cusco hotels, restaurants, and bars that are classy enough to warrant a more formal dress-up.

Cusco Seasons and Weather

Rainy and dry, South America’s summer and winter respectively, are the two seasons Peru’s highland regions can boast. From November to March, visitors can expect steady rain with January and February being the wettest months. While cloudy skies (which provide insulation and more temperate evening weather) are the norm, sunshine peeks through occasionally. Rainy season temperatures range from 16°C (60°F) during the day to 8°C (46°F) at night.

From May to October, the dry season reigns. During this time temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night due to a lack of cloud cover though snowfall in Cusco is rare. Be prepared for ranges of warmer 18-19°C (64-67°F) during the day and more frosty nights around 1°C (33°F).

For those wishing to experience a wider variety of climates, the mountainous regions around Cusco provide everything from warm and humid valleys to frigid plains in the higher altitudes.

Cusco Hotels

You won’t find a dearth of places to stay when you visit Cusco. Hotels range anywhere from 5-star luxury to serene and private to comfy Bed and Breakfasts. The choices are outstanding and you may wish to consult with your travel advisor at GOTOPERU for help in deciding what will work best for you.

Here we’ll list a few to get you started.

Casa Andina San Blas

The Casa Andina San Blas is just a short walk away from the main plaza in Cusco’s San Blas area. It features vaulted ceilings and dark woodwork that gives it an alpine-cottage feel. Décor is completed with Andean rugs, broad glass windows, and a stone crafted fountain in the central courtyard.

Rooms are large and well-appointed with bathtubs, hair dryers, and reliable hot water. The view from any room is superb and reasonable pricing make this hotel a perfect choice for those wishing to splurge on any of the sites and attractions that abound.

Casa Andina Private Collection

Guests who wish to stay closer to the main plaza in Cusco without the noise of the night life may wish to choose this hotel. Patterned after an 18th century mansion and located in the quieter corner of Qorikancha in historic Cusco, the hotel boasts four open courtyards and a gurgling stone fountain. The lounge features a large stone fireplace and a relaxing atmosphere.

Rooms in this hotel are all non-smoking and offer free wifi. Guests may choose between one king size bed or two full beds and each room comes equipped with a desk, safety box, a flat screen television, and coffee kits. The hotel also offers ATM and same-day laundry service.

Aranwa Cusco Boutique

This hotel’s 16th century architecture exudes luxury and is appointed by a vast collection of colonial-era Cusco School style paintings and sculptures. The Arwana is a 5-star hotel that caters to their guests’ need for higher altitude acclimation. Each elegant room is equipped with a smart oxygen system that feeds O2 directly into the rooms.

Organic baths, heated floor tiles, Scottish showers, and gracefully detailed marble are just some of the luxuries travelers can expect while staying here. Other amenities available include currency exchange, laundry service, spa, sauna, and a hair salon.

Andean Wings

The Andean Wings is located only a couple blocks from the Plaza de Armas which means it is close to a slew of restaurant, bar, and shopping options. Each room in this 4-star hotel is unique and each is inspired from various Peruvian influences.

Amenities featured include wireless internet, laundry service, and room service. The Six Pumas Holistic Spa offers guests a variety of massage options, Zen Shiatsu, and other therapies. Their on-site restaurant serves up Peruvian specialties such as lomo saltado and grilled trout.

Casa San Blas Boutique

Tucked in the cozy San Blas area, the Casa San Blas Boutique is a comfortable choice in historic Cusco. Not far away is the Plaza de Armas as well as one of Cusco’s most famous streets, Hatun Rumiyoc. This hotel’s architecture was inspired from Andean textile-weaving and each room is named after an animal or design that are often featured in Quechua textiles.

The hotel’s on-site restaurant, the Tika Gourmet Bistro, serves lunch and dinner as well as offering room-service.

Hotel Pakaritampu

Located at Avenida Ferrocarril in the Sacred Valley. This is a charming hotel found a short distance from the train station in Ollantaytambo. It offers scenic views of the mountains and beautiful gardens.

El Albergue

Located at Avenida Estacion (next to the train platform) in the Sacred Valley If you’re looking for an alternative that isn’t as fancy as some, El Alberque is the answer to your desires. It is a small and homey inn that offers spacious and rustic rooms with free WiFi and an in-house café – the Café Mayu.

Cusco Places to Eat

Restaurants

Along with its bevy of hotels, Cusco and the surrounding areas treat travelers to a wide choice of dining experiences. Listed here are just a few of these wonderful places to eat.

Dress tends toward casual and major credit cards are accepted at most of the upscale restaurants. To ensure eating at your choice of restaurants, reservations are highly recommended. For help, please speak with your travel advisor at GOTOPERU.

Limo

The Limo overlooks the central plaza of Cusco and features modern décor and dishes served with Cusquenan flare.

MAP Café

This café can be found within the Museo de Arte Precolumbino. Its crystal cube décor makes dining here a unique artistic experience.

Organic baths, heated floor tiles, Scottish showers, and gracefully detailed marble are just some of the luxuries travelers can expect while staying here. Other amenities available include currency exchange, laundry service, spa, sauna, and a hair salon.

Cicciolina

Cicciolina, a Mediterranean/International bakery and Tapas bar, can be found on the second floor of a restored colonial home just around the corner from the Cusco Cathedral. By day the bakery fare tempts passersby and by evening visitors can enjoy a cozy dinner and scrumptious desert.

Greens Organic

Greens Organic makes eating healthy a decadent delight. The restaurant makes use of Andean protein-rich grains and legumes as well as local produce to create a menu that tastes as rich as the items it features.

Chicha

Located in both Arequipa and Cusco, Chicha offers multiple chances to feast on a combination of Andean and Peruvian specialties. Gaston Acurio, Peru’s most celebrated chef, is responsible for culinary discoveries here as well as his flagship restaurant in Lima, Astrid & Gaston.

Pachapapa

Pachapapa features traditional Peruvian cuisine and is best known for two dishes: Cuy Horneado con Huacatay y Ají Panca (a whole guinea pig roasted with special Peruvian herbs and hot yellow pepper), and Pachamanca which consists of various tubers, corn, and meats all baked in a traditional ground oven.

Cafes

Jack’s Café

Located at the crossroads between the Plaza de Armas and the San Blas neighborhood, Jack’s Café satisfies palates yearning for a taste of home. The serve everything from any style eggs to pancakes, to burgers, and chicken soup.

La Bodega 138

Proving that pizza is popular the world over, La Bodega 138 stands out from all the others by serving pizzas made with the freshest, locally grown ingredients. Each pie is made to order so you’re certain to be satisfied.

Fallen Angel

The Fallen Angel is one of Cusco’s hidden surprises. This original dining experience serves an array of taste treats including Mediterranean, Andean, Steak, and vegetarian options.

Choco Museo

If you are a chocolate lover, then you’re going to adore Choco Museo. This café/museum/workshop is an expert in all things chocolate and serves a delicious list of items from chocolate treats to coffee to cocoa tea.

The Sacred Valley Eateries

Blue Puppy Lounge and Restaurant

(Peruvian fusion cuisine) – Located in the Plaza de Armas, Calle del Horno

Mayupata

(Peruvian fusion cuisine) – Located at Jr. Convencion (Opposite of the Templo de Santiago Apostol)

Pachamama (Pizzeria)

Located in the Plaza de Armas

Puka Rumi (Mexican fusion cuisine)

Located in the Calle Ventiderio

Cafe Mayu (Cafe)

Located at the Estacion de Tren Ollantaytambo

Hearts Café (Café)

Located at Avenida Ventiderio

Night Life Fun

Eating, drinking, and making merry are easy to find in Cusco and we’ve listed here a number of places you might want to visit.

Here we’ll list a few to get you started.

Bars, Lounges & Cocktails

The Casa Andina San Blas is just a short walk away from the main plaza in Cusco’s San Blas area. It features vaulted ceilings and dark woodwork that gives it an alpine-cottage feel. Décor is completed with Andean rugs, broad glass windows, and a stone crafted fountain in the central courtyard.

• Museo del Pisco
• Limo’s Pisco Bar
• Fallen Angel
• Paddy’s Irish Pub
• Norton Rat’s Tavern

Folklore, Performing Arts & Theater

• Kusikay Theater Company
• Centro Q'osqo de Arte Nativo
• Teatro Municipal
• Restaurants featuring dinner shows
  • La Retama
  • El Truco
  • Tayta Inti
  • Tunupa

Cinema and Live Music

• 8-theater cinema located in the Real Plaza Cusco
• El Garabato Video Pub
• The Film Lounge & Danish Café
• Ukukus Bar Cultural
• Le Nomade
• The Muse

Dance Clubs and Discotecas

• Mama Africa/Mushrooms
• Mythology
• Kamikaze

Casa San Blas Boutique

Tucked in the cozy San Blas area, the Casa San Blas Boutique is a comfortable choice in historic Cusco. Not far away is the Plaza de Armas as well as one of Cusco’s most famous streets, Hatun Rumiyoc. This hotel’s architecture was inspired from Andean textile-weaving and each room is named after an animal or design that are often featured in Quechua textiles.

The hotel’s on-site restaurant, the Tika Gourmet Bistro, serves lunch and dinner as well as offering room-service.

Hotel Pakaritampu

Located at Avenida Ferrocarril in the Sacred Valley. This is a charming hotel found a short distance from the train station in Ollantaytambo. It offers scenic views of the mountains and beautiful gardens.

El Albergue

Located at Avenida Estacion (next to the train platform) in the Sacred Valley If you’re looking for an alternative that isn’t as fancy as some, El Alberque is the answer to your desires. It is a small and homey inn that offers spacious and rustic rooms with free WiFi and an in-house café – the Café Mayu.