As the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Cusco is usually found at the top of any Peru travel itinerary. Once the capital of the Incan Empire, it is now the oldest inhabited city of the Americas. Sitting at 10,500 feet above sea level, we spent several days in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, acclimating to the altitude, drinking delicious coffee, exploring Incan ruins, and researching indigenous textiles and crafts

Travel Guide: Cusco, Peru

Tambo del Arriero - $$

We opted to stay in this cute boutique hotel in Cusco during our time there. When it was first built, this colonial property was a wayside inn for weary muleteers to find rest for themselves and their mules during their long treks between towns; Tambo del arriero translates to “muleteer inn”. While it no longer houses animals, the property has been lovingly restored to pay tribute to its history and original architecture.

FOR EVERY BUDGET AND STYLE:

• Belmond Hotel Monasterio // $$$ - Known as an international leader in luxury travel, Belmond’s portfolio boasts some of the most beautiful accommodations in the world, and its historical Cusco location is no different. Located within a restored monastery steps from the Plaza de Armas, you can experience culture, history and luxury together.

• El Retablo // $$ - Self described as an “art boutique bed & breakfast”, El Retablo celebrates the spirit of Peruvian craft in each of its rooms. Retablo is a traditional folk art style found throughout Latin America. The guest house partnered with artisan painters from the Cusco School to paint each room with its own unique style.

• Ecopackers Hostel // $ - For those on a smaller budget, the Ecopackers Hostel is ranked one of the top hostels in Cusco. While many hostels in the area are known for their party scene, Ecopackers provides all the amenities and community of a hostel but with a more laid back atmosphere.

SAVOR THE LOCAL FLAVOR OF CUSCO:

Morena // This Peruvian kitchen ended up being a favorite, so we ate here a couple of times! I love their modern twist on Peruvian cuisine, along with their table side bar carts and cool atmosphere. Peruvians are known for eating late meals; so I recommend planning for an early dinner, as the intimate space fills up quickly later in the evening. If you stay at Tambo del Arriero, the restaurant is within easy walking distance.

L’Atelier Café Concept // Located in the San Blas neighborhood in Cusco, this intimate little spot is a great place to relax with a cup of coffee and rest your feet. The boutique and coffee shop are tucked away at the end of Calle Carmen Alto; be sure to grab a spot on the second floor for great views of the pretty cobblestone streets below! The San Blas neighborhood, or barrio de los artesanos (artist’s quarter), is known for its art galleries and workshops. The streets are steep in this neighborhood, but the picturesque street scenes and views overlooking the city are worth the trek to explore this area.

Pachapapa // This restaurant is also tucked into the San Blas neighborhood. The courtyard setting and open fire barbecue made for a great afternoon meal.

Qura Bowl Bar // If you’re looking for a break from Peruvian cuisine, Qura is serving up fresh and healthy bowls. They’re also known for a great cup of coffee and good wifi.

San Pedro Market // Explore this local market and grab a smoothie at one of the many stalls.

Plaza de armas

The lively central square of Cusco, Plaza de Armas is always bustling with activity. Once the main square for the Incan Empire, the space is now surrounded by colonial style buildings and flanked by two churches. Climb to the upper levels of the Cusco Cathedral and take in the views of the plaza below. This area is a great meeting place for friends. You can easily find shops and restaurants around every corner.

Qorikancha (or Coricancha)

Qorikancha was once the site of the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It’s reported that the walls were once covered in gold that was later used to pay the ransom to the Spanish when they captured the Inca Emperor. When the Spanish conquered the area, they destroyed the temple and constructed the existing Santo Domingo Church and Convent using the temple’s ashlar masonry as the foundation. The ashlar masonry technique can be seen throughout Cusco and the surrounding area. Simply walk the streets and keep your eyes open for the large stone masonry walls; you’re most likely walking along an ancient Inca road.

Iglesia De Santo Domingo

The Catholic church and convent was built by the Spanish on the site of Qorikancha. Designed in the Spanish Colonial style, the courtyard and surrounding grounds are beautiful and offer pretty views of Cusco. The compound also houses traditional and contemporary art galleries that are interesting to explore.

Explore Saqsaywaman and the surrounding Incan Ruins

In the area surrounding Cusco, you can explore many sets of Incan ruins. Saqsaywaman is the fortified area that is located directly above Cusco. It’s terraced levels and maze like paths are covered with walls constructed in the ashlar masonry style. Stand next to one of the large corner pieces to appreciate their immense size and the technique that was used to construct the fortress without any mortar. Take the day to hike and explore through the other ruins in the surrounding area. They offer incredible views of the mountains and valleys that Peru is so famous for.

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