Visiting Cusco, Peru – Full Travel Guide

Nestled in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is a city full of surprises. Historically serving as the capital of the Inca Empire, today this city attracts thousands of tourists every year, who are excited to explore its ancient remains and breathtaking architecture. If fascinating history and vibrant culture are something that you look for in your holidays, keep on reading because Cusco will undoubtedly blow your mind!

Popular Attractions in Cusco

Cusco and Peru, in general, are brimming with amazing tourist attractions. However, here are some of the absolute must-visits in Cusco:

Sacsayhuamán

History enthusiasts, buckle up, as Sacsayhuamán is one of the best examples of architectural brilliance in history. This majestic Incan fortress, overlooking Cucso city from 230 meters above, features stone walls that have been carved and fitted together with incredible precision. The archaeological site was originally used as a ceremonial center for the community and as the main water supply channel for the entire city. It showcases the engineering and building capabilities of this ancient civilization perfectly.

Qorikancha

Once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, Qorikancha is also known as the Temple of the Sun or the Golden Temple. Similarly to Sacsayhuamán, this site is a pinnacle of Incan architectural achievements, characterized by hand-cut stones. The masterfulness of the Incan Civilisation is truly evident here since no broken or imperfect stone was used during its construction. Today, this jaw-dropping site is used as a museum, where visitors can learn all about its significance in ancient times.

San Blas Neighbourhood

Taking a break from the historical attractions, visitors should not miss a visit to the San Blas neighbourhood in Cusco.

This charming district with narrow cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture is absolutely buzzing with activity. San Blas is known as the place to be for artisan workshops and boutique galleries, providing not only a glimpse into the Peruvian lifestyle but also opportunities to bring a piece of it back home.

Sacred Valley

Just a short drive away from Cusco, you will reach the Sacred Valley – a stunning attraction spot surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes and even more significant ancient ruins. This fertile valley is often referred to as the breadbasket of the Incan Empire, as its rich soil brought many agricultural goods to the city. Not just that, Sacred Valley is the main gateway point to one of the most popular tourist attractions and one of the New 7 Wonders of the Modern World – the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Guided Tours in Cusco

Most people visiting Cusco opt for guided tours as opposed to independent exploring.  Here are some of the main reasons why:

Local Expertise

Having a professional guide with you in Cusco will guarantee a much more authentic experience. The region has so much history and culture to offer, but knowing where to go can be challenging, particularly with the language barriers. However, most local guides are bilingual and know the attractions very well.

Avoiding Crowds

Professional guides in Cusco know how to navigate highly popular sites in a way that avoids huge crowds. They will also ensure that you visit the attractions that are truly fascinating and important, skipping the overly touristy places that might be overrated.

Handling The Logistics

Opting for a tour means you don’t have to worry about things like airport transfers or site entries – all you have to do is show up and have an unforgettable experience! These services are here to make your journey as convenient and stress-free as possible.

Responsible Tourism

Many of the tour companies in Cusco are committed to sustainable practices and community development, but certainly not all of them. If you pre-book your tour online, you will be able to choose an operator that works closely with the local communities.

After all, your tourism should benefit the region, not damage it.

Recommended Tour Operators

With so many tour operators to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones are truly reliable. So, here are some of the best tours organizers in Cusco:

Guru Explorers

Guru Explorers is a leading tour operator in Cusco, specializing in both customized private experiences and group tours. Their trustworthiness can be seen in their excellent reviews and certified local guides, who work hard to ensure the highest quality services possible.

SAM Travel Peru

SAM Travel Peru is another adventure trekking company in Cusco, aiming to provide informative tours to curious visitors. The agency offers both day-trip and longer tour options and is committed to sustainable tourism practices, too.

Salkantay Trekking

Highly regarded for its diverse range of trekking options and great customer service, Salkantay Trekking is particularly known for its Machu Picchu routes.

Conclusion

Senior or young, history lover or not, a visit to Cusco will not fail to amaze you! So, pick the best tour operator for your unique needs and get packing – the adventure of a lifetime awaits.