Organize your trip to Tambopata or Machu Picchu from Cusco
Cusco is more than just a place to visit; it's a city that must be experienced. Travellers often arrive in search of the perfect image of Machu Picchu, but they leave feeling inspired by the lively atmosphere that fills the stone streets of the ancient capital of Tahuantinsuyo. When you visit Cusco, you will experience a unique mix of Inca and colonial influences that create a very special atmosphere that you cannot find anywhere else in South America.
If you want to know more about what makes this place special, check out the information on this page.
A Living Museum Where Stones Speak
Cusco is different from other tourist destinations because of its special and amazing architecture. When you walk through the Old City, you don't just see buildings; you feel a connection to the past. The famous 12-Angle Stone, on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, is very impressive, but it's even more impressive to see how the huge Inca walls of green diorite were used as the foundations for colonial mansions and Spanish convents.
The Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) is a great example of this. What was once covered in gold leaf now supports the Convent of Santo Domingo, creating an interesting visual contrast that eloquently tells the story of the conquest.
San Blas: The Bohemian and Artisanal Soul
To get away from the noise and crowds of the Plaza de Armas, experienced travellers climb the steep Cuesta de San Blas. This neighbourhood is the city's artistic centre. The San Blas neighbourhood is known for its narrow streets, blue balconies, and artisan workshops, where skills are passed down from one generation to the next. It is a great place to find a café with views of the red clay rooftops, enjoy a delicious latte, and purchase authentic souvenirs, away from the conventional tourist attractions.
The Fortress of the Giants: Sacsayhuamán
Sacsayhuamán is a fortress that is a short distance from the city centre. It doesn't make sense to many people. This is not just about thinking about old buildings; it is a real-life example of engineering that pushes the current abilities and knowledge of engineers. Limestone blocks weighing over 100 tons fit together perfectly, without the use of mortar. This site is the main stage for the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) and offers a great view of the city that shows how it was built in the shape of a puma. It is a place of great power and energy, which you have to experience for yourself.
Cusco Cuisine: A Journey of Flavors
The Peruvian food revolution has a special chapter in the Andean region. The food in Cusco has changed a lot, with traditional ingredients being combined with modern techniques. You have to try the fried trout and pork crackling, or, if you're feeling adventurous, the oven-roasted guinea pig. Local markets, such as San Pedro, are a must-visit to see the wide range of colours of local fruits, Andean cheeses, and giant corn from the Sacred Valley.
The Antechamber to the Wonder of the World
Finally, Cusco is the guardian of the crown jewel: Machu Picchu. But the journey to the citadel itself is a major attraction. Travelling through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and visiting the lively towns of Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero, gets you ready to experience the beauty of the world. Each archaeological site in the valley tells a part of its history, and the best one is the lost city among the clouds.
Conclusion
Cusco is a place that should be explored on foot, experienced fully, and enjoyed to the fullest. Its rich history, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-see destination for any traveller. This trip is a great opportunity to really get to know the Andean way of life, more than you would on a typical vacation.