Choose from 39 Fun Things to Do in Cusco
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Machu Picchu
The lost city of Machu Picchu is the most famous archaeological site in Peru and all of South America. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed collection of temples, terraced hills, and plazas was once the mountaintop citadel of the ancient Inca empire under Pachacutec and Tupac Yupanqui. It may now be world famous, but Machu Picchu still hasn't revealed the mysteries behind construction, function, and eventual demise. The spectacular remains are thought to date from around 1450.
The Basics
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu sits at the top of many bucket lists. Visitors are required to enter with an official tour guide in small groups of up to 16 people. Entry is permitted in either a morning or afternoon time slot and is limited to four hours. To stay a full day, travelers must purchase two entrance tickets.
Those pressed for time often visit the ancient ruins on a day trip by train from Cusco, but the four-day trek along the legendary Inca Trail is another popular option. Some multi-day tour options also visit other regional highlights, such as Lake Titicaca and the Amazon rain forest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a must-visit site for history buffs and adventure travelers.
- Entry tickets sell out early, especially in the Peruvian winter (MayâÂÂSeptember). Book well ahead of time.
- All travelers must visit with a licensed guide.
- Selfie sticks, tripods, and strollers are not allowed at Machu Picchu.
- The Incan ruins offer little shade, so remember to bring sunscreen and a hat.
- One of the most iconic views of Machu Picchu is seen from the top of Huayna Picchu.
- Expect a full day tour from Cusco to last upwards of 13 hours.
How to Get There
The quickest way to Machu Picchu is by train (PeruRail or IncaRail) from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, followed by a short bus ride or steep hike from the town of Aguas Calientes. For some, hiking the Inca Trail is as much a part of the Machu Picchu experience as the ruins themselves. This busy trail isnâÂÂt the only trekking route; others such as the Salkantay trek or Lares route provide off-the-beaten-path alternatives.
When to Get There
In high season between late May and early September, the Lost City of the Inca allows a maximum of 2,500 people to visit each day. June, July, and August are the busiest and driest months, while January is the wettest and February sees the closure of the Inca Trail. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds.
Tips for the Inca Trail Hike
If your dream Machu Picchu experience includes hiking the Inca Trail through the Sacred Valley, book well ahead of time, as the number of hikers is limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters). This difficult trail requires a fair amount of physical fitness, particularly given the high altitude in the Andes mountains. Give yourself at least two days in Cusco to acclimatize, and buy some coca leaves to help with any altitude sickness. Pick up a pair of walking sticksâÂÂyouâÂÂll be glad you did.
Address: Peru
Hours: Varies
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Maras Salt Pools
Nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas is the remote town of Maras, known throughout Peru for its thousands of worked salt pans.
Salt has been collected here since before the time of the Inca, rising to the surface from a subterranean stream and evaporating in the Andean sunshine.
You can gather your own handful of salt or buy some packaged to take home from Maras’ gift store.
The terraced saltwork pools dotting the Andean hillsides look quite stunning, glittering like bright white snow in the sunshine, so bring your camera.
The town of Maras was quite important in colonial times, and you’ll see some out-of-place ornate Spanish homes and the mud-brick colonial church.
Salt has been collected here since before the time of the Inca, rising to the surface from a subterranean stream and evaporating in the Andean sunshine.
You can gather your own handful of salt or buy some packaged to take home from Maras’ gift store.
The terraced saltwork pools dotting the Andean hillsides look quite stunning, glittering like bright white snow in the sunshine, so bring your camera.
The town of Maras was quite important in colonial times, and you’ll see some out-of-place ornate Spanish homes and the mud-brick colonial church.
Practical Info
The town of Maras lies off the 28B Highway, between Cusco and Ollantaytambo in Urabamba province. Cusco is 40km (25 miles) away. The saltworks are northwest of Maras along a dusty road.
Address: Maras, Peru
Admission: Adults: 5 Nuevos Soles
From $ 25
Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles
From boldly patterned, knitted ponchos to bright, intricately woven textiles or chullo hats made from baby-soft alpaca wool; few visitors leave Peru without buying some of the country’s colorful handicrafts. The Andean region in particular is world-renowned for its dazzling textiles, incorporating unique indigenous designs with traditional weaving techniques and locally sourced materials like sheep, alpaca and llama wool. It’s possible to buy the products all around Peru, but for those looking to learn more about the region’s rich craftmaking heritage, the Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles in Cusco is a must.
As well as admiring the elaborate designs and purchasing handcrafted clothing and gifts, visitors to the Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles can learn the origins and traditions of the age-old weaving techniques, used by local craftsmen for more than 2,000 years. Demonstrations of the wool preparation, dying and weaving techniques by skilled local weavers offers a unique insight into how the complex designs are created and the ladies are happy to share their inspirations behind the various patterns and color combinations, explaining how each Andean village has developed their own distinctive designs.
Practical Info
The Interpretation Center of Andean Textiles is located in the San Blas district in Cusco and is open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm and Sat 8am-6pm. There is no admission fee.
Address: Av El Sol 603, Cusco, Peru
From $ 110
Aguas Calientes
If you're visiting Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there’s a good chance you'll pass through the small pueblo of Aguas Calientes en route. This gateway town to Peru’s famous Incan ruins sits nestled in a valley of cloud forest, where a series of natural hot springs gives the town its name.
The Basics
The majority of travelers to Peru come to see the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, and almost all of them will spend at least a little time in the town of Aguas Calientes. The train taking passengers from Cusco to Machu Picchu stops at Aguas Calientes, where day-trippers then board a bus to the ruins. Visitors on overnight itineraries, including those hiking the Inca Trail, often spend the night in the village before rising early to catch the sunrise at Machu Picchu.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s a good idea to book your stay and Machu Picchu entrance tickets well in advance, particularly during high season.
- Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Dress in layers, as conditions can change quickly between town and the ruins.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Aguas Calientes is by train, several of which depart Cusco daily for the journey of one hour and 45 minutes. A bus runs from town up to Machu Picchu.
When to Get There
Aguas Calientes enjoys the best weather from June to August, the busiest season for vacationers. While things are quieter from October to April, this is the rainy season, so expect regular downpours.
Attractions in Aguas Calientes
Aside from the thermal baths, Aguas Calientes highlights include a hike to the summit of Putucusi Mountain, which offers stellar views of Machu Picchu on a clear day. You can also visit the Butterfly House, Machu Picchu Museum (Museo de Sitio Manuel Chávez Ballón) and nearby botanical gardens, or the Gardens of Mandor (Los Jardines de Mandor) with its waterfalls.
Address: Aguas Calientes, Peru
From $ 351
Moray
Of all the surviving Inca ruins which surround the Sacred Valley, most are known for their size, their age, or their complex level of construction. The Moray, however, located 31 miles northwest of Cuzco, stands out from many of the other ruins for its fascinating level of genius.
At the height of the empire, the Inca were regarded as some of the most successful farmers in all of the Western Hemisphere. Crops such as maize, quinoa, and various potatoes trace their roots to Andes, and the yield on crops which were farmed by the Inca regularly trumped those of their neighbors.
Although the Moray might just look like a big hole in the ground, historians theorize that this multi-terraced depression explains the reason for the agricultural prowess. With concentric circles spiraling down into the Earth, the Moray is comprised of numerous terraces linked by zig-zagging steps. While it could almost even be classified as art, the Moray is instead a wonder of science.
For inexplicable reasons, the temperature difference between all of the terraces can sometimes be as much as 27°F. Consequently, each terrace has a unique microclimate which subsequently experiences its own temperature. Without even having to leave the valley, the Inca had created an agricultural laboratory which mimicked the temperature throughout the empire. Crops would be rotated from terrace to terrace, and when it was found that a microclimate maximized yield, the knowledge would be spread throughout the empire so that farmers could grow crops which were best for their climate. Through trial and error at the Incan Moray, the Inca slowly became masters of agriculture.
Today, the Moray can be visited with tours which depart from the city of Cuzco. It is often combined with a visit to the Salineras salt mine, a massive quarry of terraced mines where laborers harvest bags of salt. When combined with the markets and surrounding ruins, the Moray is just one of the fascinating sights which recall the wonders of the Inca.
Practical Info
The Moray is located 30 miles northwest of Cuzco, and it is accessible by tour in conjunction with the Maras salt mines.
Address: Cusco, Peru
Admission: $4
From $ 46
Chincheros Indian Market
The colorful Sunday market in the traditional Andean town of Chincheros attracts stallholders and browsers from near and far. Known as the 'birthplace of the rainbow,' Chincheros has the full range of photogenic attractions: Inca ruins, Andean village houses, an elaborate colonial church built on Inca foundations, and, of course, the lively weekly market.
Visit to buy vegetables from the local traders and Andean handicrafts from the Quechua stallholders. The handwoven textiles are a particular highlight and a proudly preserved Inca tradition. The highlanders trade their woven crafts for the fruit and vegetables grown at lower altitudes. Travelers will also find jewelry, pottery, toys, rugs and musical pipes for sale at the market.
Practical Info
Chincheros is between Cusco and Urubamba, a several hours’ drive west of Machu Picchu. You can catch a bus to Chincheros from Cusco, or join a guided tour.
Address: Chinchero, Peru
Hours: Sundays
From $ 99
Inca Museum
Built on an authentic Inca foundation, this humble museum in the heart of Cusco houses an impressive collection of Incan artifacts. Hundreds of examples of handmade goldwork, pottery, textiles and queros line the halls of this truly memorable spot and offer travelers a rare look into the nation’s ancient past.
Visitors will find plenty to explore inside the Inca Museum, but its outdoor courtyard, where Andean weavers showcase their skills, is also worth checking out. Travelers can purchase handmade items directly from the artists, who provide demonstrations of old-school techniques and answer questions while they work. It’s a chance to experience ancient artistry in real time and take home a piece of the tradition, too.
Practical Info
The museum is located on Tucuman near Ataud, northeast of Plaza de Armas. It is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Both Spanish and English speaking guides are available for a small fee.
Address: Cuesta del Almirante, Cusco, Peru
Admission: Adults S / 10.00
From $ 59
Mercado Central de San Pedro
There is a certain irony that one of the best sites in Cusco really isn’t a site at all. Rather, the Mercado Central de San Pedro (San Pedro Market) is simply the place in the center of Cusco where most of the locals go for their groceries.
The difference, however, is that grocery shopping in Cusco is a little bit different than shopping at the local market back back home. At the Mercado Central de San Pedro, all of the items are on vibrant display and are fascinatingly set right out in the open. You can wander the stalls past towers of fruit and be greeted by a pig’s head on the very next corner. You can shop for a dozen varieties of potatoes and then watch someone purchase a bag of fried guinea pigs. It’s an authentic look at everyday culture which lies outside the circuit of regular sights.
There is also a food court that serves local dishes at a fraction of the cost of most local restaurants. While some of the food might be safer than others (the quinoa and vegetables being a safer bet than meat that is served with visible hair), dining at the market is a unique experience where you can share in the flavors of Cusco with the locals.
In addition to shopping for produce and meat, there are also sections devoted to selling crafts such as textiles and Andean art. Haggling over prices is readily expected, although be sure to keep an eye on your wallet and valuables since pickpockets have been known to troll through the aisles.
All in all, however, the Mercado Central de San Pedro is one of the best stops in Cusco for experiencing everyday Andean life.
Address: Plaza de San Francisco, Cusco, Peru
Hours: Daily until 5pm
From $ 36
Ollantaytambo Fortress
Inca street and town planning at its finest is preserved in the village of Ollantaytambo, surrounded by neatly terraced hills.
Soaring above the town’s cobbled streets, which have been lived in since the 13th century, is the massive Inca fortress and the monolithic stones of the Temple of the Sun. Built by Pachacuti in the 1400s, the huge complex features fine stonework and a ceremonial temple hill area topping the stepped, fortified terrace.
Climb more than 200 steps to the top for fabulous views and an up-close look at the impressively hewn masonry. You’ll also see the remains of several temples and ceremonial fountains.
To see where the huge blocks of stone were quarried from the mountainside, follow the 6km (3.5 mile) trail to the quarry on the other side of the river - the water was diverted to flush the stones down to the construction site.
Ollantaytambo was the site of a rare Inca victory over the conquistador forces in 1536, led by Manco Inca, the leader of Inca resistance. The museum here will tell you more about the incident and the eventual repercussions.
Soaring above the town’s cobbled streets, which have been lived in since the 13th century, is the massive Inca fortress and the monolithic stones of the Temple of the Sun. Built by Pachacuti in the 1400s, the huge complex features fine stonework and a ceremonial temple hill area topping the stepped, fortified terrace.
Climb more than 200 steps to the top for fabulous views and an up-close look at the impressively hewn masonry. You’ll also see the remains of several temples and ceremonial fountains.
To see where the huge blocks of stone were quarried from the mountainside, follow the 6km (3.5 mile) trail to the quarry on the other side of the river - the water was diverted to flush the stones down to the construction site.
Ollantaytambo was the site of a rare Inca victory over the conquistador forces in 1536, led by Manco Inca, the leader of Inca resistance. The museum here will tell you more about the incident and the eventual repercussions.
Practical Info
Ollantaytambo is in the Sacred Valley, 25 minutes from Urubamba by road. Cusco is 60km (37 miles) away, 2.5 hours by road.
Trains running between Cusco and Aguas Calientes (for Machu Picchu) stop at Ollantaytambo, the halfway mark along the route. The town is a starting point for the four-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
Trains running between Cusco and Aguas Calientes (for Machu Picchu) stop at Ollantaytambo, the halfway mark along the route. The town is a starting point for the four-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
Address: Ollantaytambo, Peru
Hours: 7am - 6pm
From $ 39
Piquillacta
At 3,250 meters above sea level, and just 30 km (18 miles) from the highland Peruvian city of Cuzco, best known for being the jumping-off point for visiting Machu Picchu, Piquillacta makes a great day trip. It is a mainly adobe pre-Incan ruin that was in use by the Wari people as an administrative center from 550 to 1100 AD. The site is extensive, spread out over 13 square miles, and is part of an archaeological park that also includes the Rumicolca Ruins. The center of the area is the remains of a lake, the Laguna de Huacarpay, where birdwatching is popular, though everyone, birdwatcher and non- will enjoy the expansive views over the valley below.
The ruins are interesting in that they are multi-storied, and in many areas there are remains of the plaster used to cover the walls. There are many areas where human remains were found, possibly as offerings, though many items have been removed from the area. The civilization surrounding Piquillacta was agrarian in nature, and there are remains of maize and beans, and it is believed that the Wari ate llama and cuy (guinea pig) as part of their diet. The remains of aqueducts and irrigation ditches can also be seen.
Practical Info
An hour or two guided tour is probably enough time for the average visitor, and travelers can easily combine this tour with one that visits the areas of Tipon, Pisac and Andahuaylillas for a full-day excursion.
Address: Piquillacta, Peru
From $ 31
ChocoMuseo Cusco
Cusco’s ChocoMuseo allows travelers to immerse themselves in everything cacao. The interactive museum covers the history of cocoa beans in Peru as well as the chocolate-making process, from bean to the chocolate bar.
In partnership with local Peruvian farmers, the ChocoMuseo produces organic, high-quality chocolate with its guests, who get the opportunity to create their own handmade treats with custom ingredients in the workshop. From roasting the cocoa beans and removing the husk to grinding the cocoa nibs on a metate, chocolate lovers can eat their creations on the spot or save them to indulge in later. Specialized workshop tours also include hot chocolate tastings.
Practical Info
The ChocoMuseo is centrally located just two blocks from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Many tours include transport to and from Cusco hotels. The museum features its own chocolate shop, plus a cafe that serves brownies, fondues and Mayan-style hot chocolate.
Did You Know? It’s estimated that the cocoa bean has been cultivated in South America for three millennia.
Address: Calle Garcilaso 210, Cusco, Peru
Hours: 9am–7pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Ausangate
The Inca Trail might be the most popular trek in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, but an arguably equally impressive (and certainly less crowded) trail leads visitors to Ausangate. Nevado Ausangate, the highest mountain in southern Peru, peaks at 20,945 feet (6,384 meters) above sea level. On a clear day, the snow-topped peak can be seen from Cusco.
The Ausangate Trail, named after the peak, takes five to six days, plus travel time to and from Cusco from the trail head. The trail begins in the brown grasslands of the Andean plateau and crosses four high-altitude passes, covering some of the most stunning terrain in the Cusco region. The trail, much of it at altitudes of more than 13,100 feet (4,000 meters) passes high alpine lakes, glacial valleys and small villages where alpacas graze freely and residents still dress in their traditional attire.
Practical Info
The Ausangate Trail starts and ends in the village of Tinqui, about three hours east of Cusco.
Address: Peru
From $ 50
La Raya Pass
Adventurers planning to voyage to well-known Lake Titicaca from the town of Cusco will likely find themselves traveling along the famed La Raya Pass. Nestled atop the Andres Mountains, the rugged terrain of La Raya is known for its picturesque sloping hillsides, purple peaks and calm fresh water pools. Popular passenger trains designated for tourists make a quick stop at 4,000 feet, where travelers can snap impressive photos of epic panoramic views that are certain to capture this rare natural beauty.
Practical Info
Travelers who opt for the famed train ride will embark on the third largest railroad line in the world. Be sure to check out the old school chapel that stands by itself at the top of the Andean plateau.
Address: Puno, Peru
From $ 86
Cusco Cathedral (Catedral del Cuzco)
Cusco’s Cathedral of Santo Domingo is a colonial gem, boasting an altar of silver and a magnificently carved choir.
The building stands on the site of an Inca palace, and was built from stone blocks removed from the nearby Inca city of Sacsayhuaman by the triumphant conquistadors.
The elaborately decorated cathedral was built from 1559 to 1654 on the city’s main square, Plaza de Armas, and is filled with colonial artworks, artifacts and richly decorated chapels.
The most famous artwork is a Last Supper painting by Marcos Zapata featuring a meal of local guinea pig served with an Inca corn beverage.
The highly ornamental facade features two domes flanking the chapels and nave, built in a Gothic-Renaissance hybrid style.
The building stands on the site of an Inca palace, and was built from stone blocks removed from the nearby Inca city of Sacsayhuaman by the triumphant conquistadors.
The elaborately decorated cathedral was built from 1559 to 1654 on the city’s main square, Plaza de Armas, and is filled with colonial artworks, artifacts and richly decorated chapels.
The most famous artwork is a Last Supper painting by Marcos Zapata featuring a meal of local guinea pig served with an Inca corn beverage.
The highly ornamental facade features two domes flanking the chapels and nave, built in a Gothic-Renaissance hybrid style.
Practical Info
Cusco’s La Catedral is on the central Plaza de Armas, flanked by two similarly ornate churches.
Address: Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Lares Trek
Travelers who want an alternative route to the famed Inca Trail can find the same scenic Peruvian landscapes, challenging paths and epic views on the popular Lares Trek. This well-known route is a bit shorter, but offers a more challenging climb for outdoor enthusiasts looking a less traditional route to Machu Picchu.
In addition to incredible landscapes and lush hillside vegetation, Lares Trek hikers will likely cross paths with traditionally dressed Andean farmers and local villagers along this scenic trek. Old-school settlements offer overnight shelter and mountainside markets showcase handicrafts and handmade items in an environment that allows travelers a chance to interact with locals.
Practical Info
The trek kicks off in the village of Lares, about 40 miles north of Cusco and 35 miles east of Machu Picchu. Travelers will need to transportation to start of the trail, which is about a five-hour trip from Lares.
Address: Lares, Peru
From $ 325
Inca Trail
South America's most famous trek is an unforgettable way to reach the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu. Along the way, the four-day trek takes hikers past three Andean mountain passes, Inca ruins, and views of the snow-capped Andes, culminating in a stellar sunrise over Machu Picchu—a UNESCO World Heritage site—from the Sun Gate.
The Basics
For many travelers to Machu Picchu, hiking the Inca Trail through the Sacred Valley is as much a part of the bucket list experience as seeing the ruins themselves. It typically takes four days to cover the distance between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, with overnights at Huayllabamba, Pacamayo, and Huinay Huayna on the way. Shorter one- or two-day treks are also possible for more inexperienced walkers. To walk the trail, you need to join a group of fellow hikers led by a licensed guide. Trail permits are limited, with only 500 hikers permitted on the trail at any given time (including tour guides and porters), so you'll need to book ahead.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The trail is a must-see for adventure travelers.
- Inca Trail permits are limited, so it's important to book ahead.
- Everyone on the trail must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.
- Dress comfortably and in layers. Don't forget sturdy hiking shoes.
- Bring a pair of trekking poles, even if you don't think you'll need them.
- Before your hike, give yourself a couple of days in Cusco to get used to the high altitude levels.
How to Get There
The city of Cusco serves as a base for trekkers heading out on the Inca Trail and is serviced by Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Most tours include pickup from Cusco hotels and the bus ride to Km82 along the railway between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, where the hike begins.
When to Get There
The dry season (June to October) brings the best weather and the biggest crowds to the Inca Trail; if you plan to hike during this time, be sure to book months in advance. The spring and fall shoulder seasons—May in particular—see fewer tourists and occasional rain. The winter months are prohibitively wet for most trekkers, and the trail closes for maintenance during February.
Alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail Trek
With the growing popularity of the Inca Trail (and the permit limits placed on it), visitors are considering alternative treks to Machu Picchu. These include the Lares trek, beginning in the town of Lares and finishing at the ruins of Ollantaytambo (a short train ride from Machu Picchu), and the Salkantay route, famous for its diverse scenery.
Address: Peru
Hours: Open March - January
Admission: Adults: trek permit US$50
From $ 450
Cusco Historic Center
Once the shimmering capital of the entire Inca Empire, Cusco is the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the ruins of Machu Picchu. Bearing its original Inca name, meaning “Navel of the Earth,” Cusco pulsates with a unique and magical energy rivaled by few other South American cities, most notably in its historic center.
The Basics
Begin a visit to the historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage SIte since 1983—at the Plaza de Armas, also known as Plaza Mayor. Festooned with fountains, this magnetic square is lined with gorgeous charming colonial buildings and churches that live alongside—and at times atop—ancient Inca walls and foundations.
There are many options for exploring Cusco’s historic center; private or group tours run day and night. Multi-day tours may incorporate visits to Lake Humantay, Machu Picchu, and other key attractions inside the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas. Cyclists may opt to explore Cusco as part of a multi-day mountain bike trek.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many attractions in the historic center have small entrance fees, which would be included if you are visiting as part of a larger tour.
- Though the center is safe, it’s always recommended to be careful with your possessions and avoid wearing eye-catching jewelry and accessories.
- Remember sun protection.
- Because of the high altitude, be sure to stay hydrated and take it slow. Chewing on coca leaves or drinking coca tea helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
How to Get There
The historic center of Cusco is walkable from most hotels. If you’re staying farther away, book a tour that includes round-trip transportation, as public transit is scant.
When to Get There
As the center of life in Cusco, the historic center is popular with all travelers in the region, and it’s great any time of day. At night, the illuminated Plaza de Armas and its grand cathedral create one of the most enchanting sights in Peru.
Attention: Painting Buffs
Pay a visit to Santo Domingo Church, just off the main plaza, a colonial church built atop an Inca temple. Dedicated to the worship of the sun, the sacred structure was at one point flush with statues and altars made of solid gold. Though Spanish conquistadors violently looted the temple, much of the original site, with its masterful masonry, remains, and stands in stark contrast to the baroque church above.
Address: Centro Historico, Cusco, Peru
From $ 36
Awana Kancha
The textile mill at Awana Kancha is an entertaining and culturally-rich stop on the journey between Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Set 30 minutes outside of the Cusco city center, this popular artisan outpost is a budget-friendly place to experience alpacas and Andean culture.
With no entry fee, visitors to Awana Kancha can marvel at traditionally-dressed women and the colorful textiles they spin before your eyes. Using the wool of alpacas, llamas, guanacos, and vicunyas, the women create patterns using natural dyes that have existed in the Andes since the time of the Inca. What’s more, in addition to the textiles, visitors have the chance to hand-feed llamas or nurse baby alpacas with milk from a bottle.
The name Awana Kancha literally translates as the Palace of Weaving, and the fine works of handicraft which are on sale at the co-op are arguably nicer than you’ll find in larger markets. Everything from scarves to sweaters and alpaca wool hats can be purchased directly from the women who wove them, and the wool comes directly from the same alpacas you just finished feeding alfalfa in the yard. An intriguing and authentic outpost, a stop at Awana Kancha should be on any itinerary between Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Practical Info:
Awana Kancha is located 30 minutes outside of Cusco en route to the town of Pisac.
Address: Km. 23 Pista Cusco, Cusco, Peru
Hours: Daily 8am-5pm
From $ 100
Choquequirao
Sometimes referred to as “the other Machu Picchu”, Choquequirao is an Incan ruin in the mountains outside of Cuzco. Unlike Machu Picchu, however, Choquequirao sees only a handful of visitors due to the difficult two-day hike.
That could potentially change, however, as plans are in the works to shorten the access to a 15-minute ride on a tram. Many believe that this will greatly-reduce the sense of tranquility which is found at the outpost, although others argue it will open the ruin for a greater amount of visitors. Like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is an Incan city with ornately-carved terraces and structures, and historians believe that this city in the clouds was once the retreat of royalty. Only about a third of the site has been completely excavated, however, and much of the city continues to remain hidden within the cloudy, sweaty jungle.
Historically, there is much more to Choquequirao than simply another city of the Inca. It’s believed by historians that this was the final outpost of warriors who laid siege on the Spanish at Cuzco, who upon staging a revolt to take the capital retreated back into the mountains. For the next 400 years, the city remained largely forgotten and isolated in the cloud forest until excavations began in 1970.
While only the hardiest of trekkers can currently visit the city, enduring the trek to Choquequirao is more than worth the effort. It’s a quiet, mysterious, and forgotten escape where you stroll through a ruin located away from crowds. It’s fascinating window into an ancient culture, and for the time being, it’s a sliver of history and a corner of Peru which you can largely have all to yourself.
Practical Info
Choquequirao is located 100km from Cusco, and it is accessible via a 2-day hike from the town of Cachora. Guides can be arranged in Cusco, and the overall trip length is typically 3-4 days.
Address: Santa Teresa, Cusco, Peru
From $ 417
Pisac Indian Market
The Pisac Indian Market is one of the most popular and picturesque of the indigenous markets in the Cusco region. Travelers from all over the world make the pilgrimage to this mountain town to purchase all manner of textiles, ceramics, jewelry, ponchos, rugs, hats, gloves, Andean instruments, ceramics, alpaca and llama woven clothing, and a host of lovely souvenirs.
The Basics
This atmospheric village, snug inside the Sacred Valley of the Incas, was once a lofty citadel protecting the Inca Empire from invaders. These days, the only invaders are friendly ones—shoppers looking for beautiful handicrafts and housewares from talented local artisans.
Travelers have many options: you can explore the Pisac Indian Market as part of private or group half-day, full-day or multi-day tours that incorporate other attractions inside the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including the archeological sites on the way to Machu Picchu.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bargaining for prices is expected; feel free to offer what you feel is a fair price, while considering the skill and time that goes into making the wares.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven stone pathways.
- Because of the high altitude, be sure to stay hydrated and take it slow. Chewing on coca leaves or drinking coca tea helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Many tours include ground transportation, transfers, entrance fees, camping and hotel accommodations, and guides. Check individual tours for precise arrangements.
- Tours operate in all weather conditions, so remember to dress appropriately. Bring sweaters for colder months and a rain poncho for rainy season, generally January through April.
How to Get There
The Pisac Indian Market is in the mountain town of Pisac, which is about 20 miles (32 kilometers) northeast of Cusco in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Minibuses run from Cusco and take about an hour; hire a cab or join a market tour. Tours include round-trip transport from your hotel.
When to Get There
The Pisac Indian Market is open Tuesdays and Thursdays, but nothing compares to Sundays when the market expands exponentially. Arrive in the morning so you can catch a mass (conducted in both Quechua and Spanish) attended by artisans in vibrant garb; Sunday hours are 9 am to 5pm.
Visit the Pisac Ruins
Combine a market visit with a tour of the nearby Ollantaytambo ruins, the Inca Temple of the Sun, and a fortress made of gigantic 12-foot (3.5-meter) stones, mysteriously placed to perfection. Hike about an hour from Pisac to the ruins, which are perched dramatically on a magnificent mountain top.
Address: Pisac, Peru
From $ 32