Things to Do in Cusco
Cusco, Peru is the capital of the southernmost region in South America and is home to Machu Picchu. The city itself has a rich history that dates back to pre-hispanic times.
This article will highlight some of the best things to do in Cusco, Peru, and help you plan out your next trip. You’ll find places like Sacsayhuaman and Pukapukara ruins in addition to some lesser-known attractions. Here, are some things you should go see while you’re visiting this beautiful city.
Highlights of Cusco, Peru
The best things to do in Cusco, Peru include visiting Sacsayhuaman, Pukapukara, and the Plaza de Armas. These are just a few of the most popular attractions in Cusco. To get a better idea of what else you should check out when you’re in town, read on.
If you’re looking for a good place to stay while visiting Cusco, there are plenty of accommodations available. One example is the Centro Turistico Internacional Villa El Salvador which has everything from luxury suites with views of the city to standard rooms with shared bathrooms. Hotel Arqueologico Huaranga may be worth checking out as well for its affordable rates and relaxed atmosphere.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the most famous attraction in Cusco. It’s one of the seven wonders of the world, and not to be missed by anyone visiting. This ancient site is a great place to get a snapshot into Andean culture and pre-hispanic history.
It’s often called the “Lost City of the Incas” because it was inhabited by them until the 15th century when they were conquered by the Spaniards. It is located on top of a mountain named Huayna Picchu and it can be reached via either hiking or taking a train up to Aguas Calientes, which is about six kilometers away from Machu Picchu.
The site itself has many temples, which were dedicated to worshiping different deities. There are also terraces that were built for agricultural purposes, and an astronomical observatory for tracking eclipses. You can also see some ruins that you might not otherwise find, like those of Pukapukara, which was an Inca fortification surrounding Machu Picchu during its occupation by the Inca Empire.
Sacred Valle
The Sacred Valley is a region in Peru that stretches from the city of Cusco to the town of Pisac. The valley is one of the most important religious, cultural, and agricultural regions in Peru and has been inhabited by Peruvians for centuries.
There are many places to visit in the Sacred Valley such as Sacsayhuaman and Pumapunku ruins. In addition, there are several Inca ruins including Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Moray, and Machu Picchu. For those who want to spend a bit more time exploring this area, you can also visit Chinchero or take the train up Mount Mantaro.
Sacsayhuaman Ruins
Sacsayhuaman is a major archeological site that was built at the end of the Wari Empire. The site consists of three main terraces, each representing different stages of the Quechua and Aymara cultures. In addition to the Pukapukara ruins, this site also includes Patio de Refugio, a ceremonial area with an underground passage.
Pukapukara Ruins
Pukapukara was constructed in the sixteenth century and is made up of a series of terraces and temples. The site is also known for its stunning views of the valley, river, and surrounding mountains.
Pukapukara is located in Surquillpa, approximately two hours outside of Cusco. It’s a good option for those who want to avoid the crowds that come with visiting Machu Picchu.
Museums and cathedrals.
Cusco is a historical city and it has some of the best museums in Peru. The Museo Nacional de Arqueología is a must-see for any archaeology enthusiast. You can also visit the Museo Regional de Cusco and the Cathedral Basilica of Santa Clara.
There are several cathedrals in Cusco, but one of the most famous is the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, which was meant to be built on top of an ancient Inca citadel.
Also notable is the Convent of Santo Domingo with its beautiful interior and richly decorated walls that are filled with frescos all around. This convent hosts art exhibitions every year and has a museum inside as well.
Finally, go see Sacsayhuaman ruins, which is considered to be one of the most important archeological sites in Peru. There’s a lot to see here such as tombs, terraces, and temples built by different cultures over time.
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