From Machu Picchu to Qorikancha and beyond, there are countless things to do in Cusco and the surrounding countryside, making this Andean city uniquely special. Capital of the Inca empire, Cusco is a vibrant city deeply rooted in Inca culture. At an altitude of 3,399m (11,152 ft), it also happens to be one of the highest cities in the world.
Marvel at ancient ruins and learn about pre-Columbian civilization. Explore centuries-old churches filled with Andean art, Baroque craftsmanship, and Inca mysteries buried beneath their foundations. Enjoy some of the best coffee in South America, or try Cusco’s famous street food. However you decide to spend your time, these 15 memorable ideas are a great place to start.
1. Take the train to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu was built and abandoned over 500 years ago. Having been unearthed by Hiram Bingham and his team in 1911, it’s been inspiring visitors ever since.
To get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, take a scenic 3.5-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes — a town known for its hot springs. From there, a winding bus ride brings you right to the entrance of this legendary Inca site. Or, join a multi-day hike like the Inca Trail or the quieter Lares Trek. For a dramatic first encounter, go in the morning to watch The Lost City of the Incas reveal itself one piece at a time from behind the clouds.
Between its popularity and strict rules, obtaining tickets for Machu Picchu can be challenging. For that reason, joining a tour group is an excellent choice. Doing so ensures entry, helps take the pressure off logistics, and leaves you worry-free in preparation for the big day!
2. Visit Rainbow Mountain
Formed by the erosion of minerals and sediment, the swirls and stripes of Rainbow Mountain appear in vibrant shades of red, blue, gold, green, and purple. One could say it’s an artistic masterpiece millions of years in the making. But did you know there’s more than one multicoloured mountain in Peru? To date, there are four known sites: Vinicunca, Palccoyo, Wilkakunca, and Pallay Puncho — all within a few hours from Cusco.
The most visited by far is Vinicunca, which stands at 5,200m (17,060 ft). Famous for bands of colour that cascade across its perfect peak, it’s also known as the Mountain of Seven Colours. To see it, be prepared for a semi-challenging 3-hour hike.
3. Explore Saqsaywaman
You can’t say you’ve seen Cusco until you’ve encountered the mysterious Saqsaywaman (yes, it’s pronounced Sexy Woman). A mere 30-minute walk from Cusco, Saqsaywaman (or Sacsayhuaman) is an Incan fortress overlooking the city.
Once an important stronghold, Saqsaywaman was all but forgotten about in the aftermath of the Spanish invasion of the Inca empire in the 1530s. Buried under centuries of overgrowth, its rediscovery in 1934 was an exciting find that made headlines. It’s now deemed one of the most significant sites in the region.
4. Join a trek to Humantay Lake
If you’re looking for a day trip from Cusco, consider visiting Humantay Lake located 3.5 hours from the city’s centre. It’s an Andean lagoon found 4,200m (​​13,780 ft) above sea level and the views are astounding. Tucked within a rugged Andean glen surrounded by mountains, the Alpine waters of Humantay Lake reflect shades of impossible blue and green.
Because of its remoteness, the best way to reach the lake is to join a group hike from the town of Soraypampa. The trek, which takes about two hours, is mainly uphill and taked some work if you’re not used to hiking. That said, the scenery along the way is well worth the pain in your rear (and legs and everything else!).
5. Marvel at the ruins of Qorikancha
Walk ten minutes southeast of the Plaza Mayor de Cusco and encounter one of the most intriguing places in the city: The Santo Domingo monastery. Hidden within the walls of this beautiful 16th-century church, you’ll discover the museum and ruins of Qorikancha, a pre-Columbian Temple of the Sun dedicated to the sun god Inti.
Said to have been nearly entirely covered in gold, this extraordinary temple was sadly ransacked during colonization and replaced with the church you see today. Exploring the church grounds including a pretty courtyard surrounded by cloisters, you’ll discover several exhibits dedicated to Qorikancha and its fascinating cosmic history. You’ll also see well-preserved foundations, artefacts, and the sun altar.
6. Uncover the mystery of the Moray Ruins
Only 40km (24.85 mi) from Cusco, a visit to the Moray Ruins is a must. Upon first glance, you might think you’re looking at ancient dugout amphitheatres, but their true purpose is far more fascinating (and possibly why Peru has so many potato varieties). Believed to be a 500-year-old agricultural research hub, the Inca used this space to test different growing climates and expand their food options. But how did it all work?
According to modern studies, the creators of the terraces at Moray Ruins strategically recreated growing conditions to mimic different sea levels, including managing sun exposure and moisture. Research even suggests that Incan scientists brought soil from other regions to ensure accurate results. Talk about ancient ingenuity!
7. Sample chocolate at the Chocomuseo
Behind Cusco’s Plaza Mayor, the Chocomuseo (Chocolate Museum) offers one of the best free things to do in Cusco and gives visitors a chance to learn everything there is to know about chocolate. A highly-interactive experience, this small but fabulous museum and shop makes its own creations on-site using locally grown cacao. Check out the museum, attend a chocolate-making workshop, or join a two-day cacao farm adventure at a nearby plantation.
8. See the ancient baths at Tambomachay
Take a short bus ride to the city limits and visit Tambomachay, the Baths of the Inca. This curious site, nestled on the side of a hill, consists of several stepped walls made of large stones featuring ceremonial niches. Because Tambomachay has received such little research, its purpose is still a mystery. Was it a temple dedicated to water? Perhaps. A military structure? Maybe. Most, however, agree it was a place of relaxation for Inca royalty.
Fuelled by a 15th-century hydraulic system, spring water from the surrounding landscape travels long distances through canals before cascading through stone aqueducts into small pools. When you pause to realize this system has run smoothly for over 500 years, it’s hard not to be impressed.
9. Admire art in the Cusco Cathedral
Atop the once revered Incan palace of Kiswarkancha, and built of stone stolen from nearby temples, including Saqsaywaman, the Cusco Cathedral offers a fascinating glimpse into this city’s layered and complex past. A beautiful building and national landmark, the church also stands as a reminder of how colonization impacted Incan culture.
The Cusco Cathedral is also known as a founding spot for an artistic expression called Cusco School, which blends European religious art forms with Andean influences. Step inside and admire a massive collection of Cusco School paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries. As you explore, don’t forget to visit the most famous painting onsite — The Last Supper by local artist Marcos Zapata. Notice the centrepiece? It’s a roasted guinea pig!
10. See the Q’enco Archaeological Complex
Half an hour from the city centre, Q’enco Archaeological Complex was an important religious site for the Inca. Q’enco, which means ‘labyrinth’, is well-known for its carved stones and is thought to have once possessed an elaborate network of underground channels, aqueducts, and tunnels.
Though much of the structure was plundered by Spanish conquistadors, exploring the nooks and crannies of this complex is still a fascinating experience. See the ancient amphitheatre, travel along stone trenches, peer into a subterranean sacrifice room, and marvel at the Intihuatana — a ritual stone associated with the sun and astronomical calendars.
11. Savour Mercado Central de San Pedro
Bring all your senses to life at the Mercado Central de San Pedro, Cusco’s largest market. Meander the market’s footpaths and spot vendors selling everything from dried frogs and roasted guinea pigs to fresh eggs, ham sandwiches, and handicrafts. Marvel at the endless selection of fruits, herbs, and vegetables — many likely unfamilar.
Here, you’ll see pink, purple, and blue potatoes, scaly green Chirimoya (custard apples), and Cocona, a fruit that tastes like a citrusy tomato but looks like a persimmon. A great place for a budget-friendly meal, San Pedro Market also has refreshing fruit smoothies. Head to one of the many lunch stalls and try some Cusco street food (you may just find a new favourite).
12. People watch at Plaza Mayor de Cusco
The Plaza Mayor de Cusco (Plaza de Armas) is the heart and soul of this Andean city — and carving out time to take in the many sights and sounds of the square should be at the top of your list of things to do in Cusco. Whether you snag a bench or perch on the stone steps of the adjacent cathedral, this busy square is the perfect place for watching the world go by.
Hugged by an arcade of balconied shops and restaurants alongside Andean Baroque buildings like the famous cathedral, the square is always a lively spot. Stop by for lunch overlooking the historic centre or visit after dark to experience Cusco’s nightlife.
13. Tour San Francisco Convent catacombs
Head west of Cusco’s main square to find the much smaller Plaza San Francisco and the Convent and Museum of San Francisco. Although obscure compared to the nearby Cusco Cathedral, in many ways, it’s a more intriguing experience. Drop by for a tour of the catacombs, where the carefully arranged bones of Renaissance-era monks remain.
Climb the bell tower for exclusive views of Cusco, and enjoy a serene walk in the cloisters and courtyard. Housing a library of manuscripts bound with centuries of knowledge, Cusco’s Church of San Francisco is also home to one of the largest paintings in South America: The Genealogical Tree of the Franciscan Order.
14. Meander San Blas District
Amble uphill through the cobbled streets behind Cusco Cathedral and find yourself in San Blas — Cusco’s official cool cat neighbourhood. An area known for its artistic vibe, you’ll be delighted by its friendly ambiance and small artisan shops. Spend a morning sipping Peruvian coffee at one of the many cafes, followed by an afternoon of exploring the shops.
Strike up a conversation with the creative entrepreneurs who sell everything from art and jewellery to woodcrafts and textiles before ducking off for a meal at a nearby restaurant. San Blas is known for having some of Cusco’s best nightlife, so it’s worth sticking around for a drink at one of the neighbourhood’s popular bars.
15. Visit divine San Cristóbal viewpoint
For unobstructed views of Cusco, travel uphill from the main square to San Cristóbal church and viewpoint. A short 10-minute walk, you’ll pass stucco houses, bodegas, and small inns along the way, giving you a glimpse into Cusco’s everyday life. At the top of the hill, the modest San Cristóbal church and adjacent square gaze over the city and provide excellent views of Cusco. Grab a bench, admire the sea of terracotta roofs below, spot the ornate steeples of Cusco Cathedral, and the mountainscape beyond.
Another great option is Cristo Blanco — an 8-metre-tall statue of Christ overlooking the city with open arms (and divine views). To get there, head 20 minutes northeast of San Cristóbal.
