20+ BEST Things to Do in Cusco, Peru + Day Trips From Cusco You Won’t Want to Miss
This collection of highlights showcases the rich history and stunning natural beauty surrounding Cusco, Peru. From the ancient Inca ruins like Sacsayhuamán and Machu Picchu to vibrant local markets and breathtaking natural landscapes like Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake, this itinerary offers a deep dive into the heart of the Andes. Explore colonial architecture, learn about traditional crafts, and savor the local cuisine for an unforgettable Peruvian adventure.
Plaza de Armas
This historic main square in Cusco is a vibrant hub for exploring the city's heart and serves as a starting point for many adventures.
Cusco Cathedral
A magnificent Renaissance-style cathedral built on the site of an Inca palace, housing a significant collection of Cusqueñan art.
12-Angled Stone
A famous stone with twelve angles, showcasing the precise and sophisticated Inca stonework, located on a street in Cusco.
Cristo Blanco
A towering white Christ statue offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cusco city and the surrounding Andes mountains.
Sacsayhuamán
An impressive Inca archaeological site featuring massive stone walls, ceremonial spaces, and incredible views overlooking Cusco.
Qorikancha
The ancient Inca Temple of the Sun, later overlaid with a Spanish convent, showcasing a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
San Pedro Market
A bustling local market in Cusco where you can find everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to handicrafts and textiles.
Chocolate Museum
A museum dedicated to chocolate, where you can learn about its history, participate in workshops, and sample various chocolate products.
Rainbow Mountain
A stunning natural wonder in the Andes known for its multi-colored striped slopes, offering a challenging but rewarding hike.
Humantay Lake
A breathtaking glacial lake with vibrant turquoise waters set against the backdrop of the majestic Humantay mountain.
Pisac Ruins
An important Inca archeological site perched high above the Sacred Valley, known for its impressive agricultural terraces and ceremonial center.
Maras Salt Mines
A unique and visually striking site featuring thousands of salt pans cascading down a hillside, used for salt extraction since Inca times.
Moray Archeological Site
An intriguing Inca site featuring a series of concentric circular terraces carved into the earth, believed to be an agricultural research center.
Ollantaytambo
A remarkably preserved Inca town and fortress complex in the Sacred Valley, featuring impressive stonework and terracing.
Chinchero
A picturesque Andean village known for its traditional weaving, colonial church built on Inca foundations, and stunning valley views.
Machu Picchu
The world-renowned Inca citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains, famous for its sophisticated dry-stone construction and breathtaking vistas.
Hotel Antigua Casona San Blas
A charming hotel located in the bohemian San Blas neighborhood, offering a comfortable stay in a historically significant building.