Welcome to the heart of the Andes, where ancient history and vibrant culture come together in a colorful harmony of experiences. We invite you to explore the enchanting city of Cusco and its surrounding attractions. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the historic city center at Plaza de Armas or scale the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu. We’ve curated a selection of activities that guarantees you an unforgettable journey. Cusco is a rich cultural tapestry blending tradition, history, and warm Peruvian hospitality. So, please, immerse yourself in the magic and mystery that is Cusco.
Many of the activities we’ve listed here can be done solo or incorporated in a tour or trek. There are a multitude of combinations on how to experience and enjoy Cusco.
Visit Historical & Specialty Museums
Step back into the past and trace the unique history of Cusco through its specialty museums such as the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art showcasing pre-Inca and Inca artifacts. Walk through the Inka Museum to unravel the mystery behind ancient Peruvian culture. For a more contemporary Andean vibe, visit the the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTT).
Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP or Museum of Pre-Columbian Art)
Housed in the historic Casona Cabrera, just a few blocks from Plaza de Armas, this museum showcases over 400 artifacts crafted by Andean women and men more than 3,000 years ago up to the 16th century. This collection originated from the famous Larco Museum (ranked among the world’s top 20 museums) and offers a mesmirizng journey down ancient Peruvian history and aesthetics. MAP features ten rooms with audio guides in Spanish, English, and French, providing insightful narratives that unveil the beliefs of ancient Peruvians. The museum also boasts of a cafe where you can enjoy the magical and peaceful ambiance over a cup of Peruvian coffee.
Museo Maximo Laura (MML)
The Museo Maximo Laura, Cusco was founded in 2013 by award-winning Peruvian artist, Maximo Laura whom UNESCO has designated as Peru’s “Living Human Treasure.” The museum is situated in the historic San Blas neighborhood–an area that is part of Cusco’s UNESCO-declared “Cultural Patrimony of Humanity” owing to its collection of antiquities and legacy.
Museo Inka (The Inca Museum)
The museum is housed in an old 17th century building called Casa del Almirante, the former home of Spanish Admiral Francisco Alderete Moldonado. On showcase here is a wide collection of carved wooden ceremonial vessels, solid gold and silver idols, weapons, tools, textiles, ceramics, and even mummies. This museum is now owned and managed by the Universidad Nacional San Antonio Abad of Cusco. Spanish and English guided tours are available.
Museo de Vida Monástica – Monasterio de Santa Catalina del Cusco
Take a peak at the everyday lives of the Dominican Sisters of Saint Catherine in this early 17th-century convent turned museum. Observe their spiritual practices, daily duties, training of novices, and listen to their teachings as you appreciate a collection of extraordinary paintings, sculpture, and decorative artworks created during the viceroyalty and Republican periods. The museum also houses a famous collection of 19th century paintings as well as other religious folkart and exquisite liturgical vestments embroidered by the nuns.
Museo Historico Regional
Formerly the home of 16th century Spanish poet and writer, Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, this museum houses a chronologically arranged collection of arrowheads from the Preceramic Period including ceramics and jewelry of the Wari, Pukara and Inca cultures. Also showcased are Incan art, excavated finds, colonial paintings and Jesuit sculptures.
ChocoMuseo Cusco
It’s the perfect wandering place for all chocoholics out there who happen to be in Cusco. Entrance to the museum is free with English and Spanish explanations on the history of cacao and chocolate. The museum also offers all kinds of chocolate-related workshops and trips. Visitors can sign up for a chocolate-making workshop or simply chill at the museum’s cafe.
Museo De La Coca
This museum might be small and quirky compared to the usual concept of a museum but Museo de la Coca comprehensively explores the uses of the coca leaf (tagged as the Sacred Leaf of the Incas), from the sacred ceremonial to its darker forms. On display are pictures, artworks, artifacts, and information that showcase the plant’s importance to the Andean people from past to present, providing an excellent introduction to Andean culture. Spanish and English labels are available on the exhibits and there’s a gift shop where you can purchase something made from coca. Tips are highly recommended when visitors opt for a guided visit of the place.
Museo de Arte Religioso
For the traveler with an interest in religious art, this museum houses a religious art collection that accurately details the religious theme of the 17th and 18th centuries and includes masterpieces created by Juan Zapata and other Andean painting masters. This collection of viceregal religious art provides the visitor with a sensory experience of how indigenous art merged with Spanish artistic traditions at that time. The building itself was once the palace of the sixth Inca Emperor then later became the archbishop’s palace–truly a place filled with much history.
Since most of these specialty museums are not usually included in a tour package, you may visit and explore them on your own during your free time or in between tours.
Explore Nearby Ruins and Other Historic Sites
Embark on a journey through time as you explore the ancient ruins surrounding Cusco or stroll along historic sites.
Uncover the layers of history within the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santo Domingo on the Plaza de Armas, a masterpiece of colonial architecture. Stroll through the Qorikancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, where the past seamlessly blends with the present. Discover the mystical allure of Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress with massive stone walls overlooking the city. Wander through the archaeological complex of Q’enqo or marvel at the intricate stone carvings of Pukapukara and Tambomachay.
You may explore these sites on your own or book a tour that includes all these places such as a classic Cusco City Tour.
Plaza de Armas
As Cusco’s Main Square, Plaza de Armas used to serve as one of the Incan empire’s most important gathering place back when Cusco was the empire’s capital city. It used to occupy a land area that was twice its present-day size and was called The Great Inca Square. Inca nobility regularly performed meditation ceremonies here that curiously “ended in tears” hence the ancient name of the original square was Huacaypata (“place of crying”) in Quechua language.
Q’orikancha
Translated as “Golden Courtyard” from the Quechua language, Qorikancha was literally covered in gold during Inca times. Within its enclosure was the Temple of the Sun. Now, think solid gold walls and altars, as well as life-sized gold and silver replicas of corn. Sadly, all the incredible beauty and wealth of the place was looted melted down within months of the arrival of the first conquistadores. Within the grand courtyard’s ruins now stands the Church and Convent of Sto. Domingo.
Sto. Domingo Church and Convent
The colonial architechture of the Sto. Domingo Church and Convent stands out in stark contrast to the remaining traces of Inca architecture on which the church and convent were built–the foundations of the Temple of the Sun in Qorikancha. The present church has a facade with plateresque characteristics while its tower is of Baroque characteristic. This historic site is a sure feast for the eyes of ancient architecture enthusiasts.
Sacsayhuaman
One of the most famous attractions around Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is also called or spelled out Saksaywaman or Saqsawaman, the native word for “Royal Eagle”. These ruins are located at the northern edge of Cusco and used to be a massive fortress that was the largest structure built by the Incas, showcasing the Incan architects’ skills in harmoniously blending monumental structures with the natural landscape. Today, Sacsayhuaman is not only one of Peru’s popular tourist destinations but it is still used as a venue for re-enacting Inca-inspired activities and ceremonies.
Museo Historico Regional
Formerly the home of 16th century Spanish poet and writer, Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, this museum houses a chronologically arranged collection of arrowheads from the Preceramic Period including ceramics and jewelry of the Wari, Pukara and Inca cultures. Also showcased are Incan art, excavated finds, colonial paintings and Jesuit sculptures.
Q’enqo
The Q’enqo Archaeological Complex comprises carved rocks that survived the destruction caused by the Spaniards. Little is left of what used to be Inca enclosures such as trails, aqueducts, deposits, and liturgical baths. Sections of the complex that are worth noting are the Hall of Sacrifice, Intiwatana and the Astronomical Observatory, the zigzagging Canaleta, and El Anfiteatro (The Ampitheater).
Puka Pukara
The name translates to the “Red Fortress” and these Incan ruins are located just 5-6 miles north of Cusco, a 20-minute drive up from the city’s center. But you can either hike to it (2 hours) or simply take the public buses that pass by the ruins. Although there’s very little physical evidence to show how it was once a fortress, the main attraction of the ruins is its advantageous height gives you a spectacular view of the mountains and the valley below.
Tambomachay
According to chroniclers, the name Tambomachay combines two Quechua words: Tampu (collective accommodation) and Mach’ay (resting place or caverns). The whole Tambomachay complex of ruins is also known as the “Baños de Inca”. These stone structures were naturally formed by the waterways coming from nearby wells and thermal springs. Located 7 kilometers northeast of Cusco, these ruins are close to Sacsayhuaman and can be reached by bus, a two-hour walk, or a tour arranged by a travel agency. Tambomachay is a fascinating destinationa especially when these natural rock formationas were believed to be objects of veneration or magical practices.
Cusco City Tour
This half-day trip covers the nearby ruins such as Q’orikancha with its Temple of the Sun, Sacsayhuaman and its 200-ton monoliths, Q’enqo with its Incan altars, Puca Pucara, and finally, Tambomachay’s water temple.
Cusco City Tour Half-Day
This is a perfect half-day tour if you want to explore the best of Cusco City. Highlights of the trip include the 12-Angled Stone Street, Loreto street showcasing the finest Inca architecture, Q’oricancha, the famous four ruins of Sacsayhauman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, as well as the Cristo Blanco.
City Tour 4 Ruins
You will fall in love with the 4 Ruins City Tour as it takes you to the most important pre-Inca sites in the city including ruins of the Sacsayhuaman fortress, the Qenqo archeological complex, ruins of Puka Pukara military fortress with its baths, aqueducts and towers, and the ruins of the Tambomachay water channels.
Cultural & Historical Tour in Pisac-Cusco
Learn about village of Pisac, one of the most authentic Inca villages and learn a little about its history and culture. Then visit the Artisan Market for authentic textiles and souvenirs. Also, discover the most important pre-Columbian cultures at the Inkariy Museum.
Tipon South Valley Tour 1D
It’s a full-day tour covering Inca and pre-Inca ruins at Tipon, Pikillacta, and Raqchi, including the “Sistine Chapel of the South” in Andahuaylillas. This South Valley tour is ideal for adventurers who are into in Huari (Wari), Inca and Colonial Peruvian history.
South Valley Circuit Cultural Tour 1D
This one day Cusco tour takes you to Oropesa, Cusco’s bread-making for a chance to sample their famous pan chuta. From here, head on to Tipon for some hands-on activities like baking tanta wawa bread, ceramics-making, or learning about traditional medicinal herbs. Last stop is the mystical town of Huasao, famous for its brujos and shamans who will read your fortune in coca leaves.
Experience Cultural Immersion in a Quechua Village
Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Quechua people with a cultural immersion in a traditional village. Connect with locals, participate in traditional ceremonies, and gain insight into the daily lives of this vibrant community.
Cusco Cultural Tours
Take your pick from a variety of cultural activities that include Cusqueñan and Contemporary Art appreciation, Salsa and Latin dance lessons, leather making workshops, rooftop cooking, chocolate making and so much more!
4 Days / 3 Nights Quechua Cultural Immersion
Experience authentic Quechua traditional language, their cooking, and weaving customs.
Overnight Huilloc Community Tourism 2D
Spend some quality time in Huilloc, a lovely Quechua community, located about 30 minutes away from Ollantaytambo, where its people still wear the traditional Quechua clothes.
Rural Community Tourism In The Potato Park – Full Day
Probably the shortest immersion experience, this full-day rural tour allows you to meet the local farmers of the Andes at the Potato Park Cusco where they will share with you their ancient customs and traditions.
Sign up for Cultural Workshops
Engage your senses in Peruvian culture through hands-on workshops. Learn the art of Peruvian cuisine with cooking classes, master the craft of cocktail mixing, indulge in the sweet world of chocolate making, or explore the ancient traditions of weaving and dyeing with local artisans.
Chocolate Course In Peru 2D/1N
Dive into a one-of-a-kind chocolatey experience as we visit a cacao farm to observe how they harvest cacao—the main ingredient of chocolates, have lunch in the fields then head to the ChocoMuseo where you end the course by creating your very own chocolate.
Peruvian Cocktail Class
Two options on where you can take your classes: San Blas or Calle Tigre. Either way, you get to mix your own original Peruvian cocktail, enjoy local and international music while enjoying the views.
Natural Dyeing & Weaving Experience
It’s an enchanting traditional textiles workshop for that unique experience of dyeing with plants and weaving from a waist loom under the guidance of the master weavers of Peru recognized by UNESCO.
Ceramics Workshop
Learn the history of Inca pottery and craft your own ceramic souvenir with the help of the master craftsman at this half-day workshop.
Cooking Classes Cusco
Learn about Peruvian Cuisine, take culinary lessons from an authentic local master chef, and finally whip up your very own mouth-watering Peruvian dish.
Join City Tours and Street Food Tasting
Embark on city tours that take you through the bustling streets of Cusco. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of San Pedro Market, a sensory delight offering local produce, crafts, and street food. Taste the flavors of Peru with a street food tour, sampling delicacies that define the region.
Cusco City Tour – Cusco’S Best Walking Excursion
This is the best walking excursion of the city as it takes you on a historical walk along ancient Inca architecture through traditional neighborhoods that are home to well-known local artists plus a meal in an authentic Andean restaurant.
Cusco City Tour Half Day
The classic city that lasts for half a day and takes you around the city’s historic places and four Inca archeological sites with a knowledgeable guide who is fluent in both Spanish and English.
Free Walking Tour Cusco
Explore the city on foot with a guide who will take you to through an itinerary beginning with the famous San Pedro market, the beautiful Regocijo square, the spectacular viewpoints of the San Cristóbal and San Blas neighborhoods and the wonderful Plaza de Armas of Cusco. Plus it’s free!
Cusco Street Food Tour
This is a 3-hour, gastronomically delightful excursion starting with a history of Peru’s street foods as you make our way through a series of places to taste and savor the different flavors of within the city limits of Cusco.
Tours to Attractions
No visit to Cusco is complete without exploring iconic attractions. Journey to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, uncover the mysteries of the Sacred Valley, and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes that tell tales of ancient civilizations. Visit our TOURS section for more information on various combinations of tours offered.
Treks to Natural Wonders
For the adventurous soul, trek through the legendary Inca Trail, Lares Valley, Salkantay, or Rainbow Mountain. Each trail promises not only a physical challenge but an opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andean landscapes. Visit our TREKS section for more information on different adrenaline-filled treks.
Discover the magic of Cusco with us – where every moment is a step back in time and a leap into the vibrant Peruvian culture.
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