THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cusco
Things to Do in Cusco
Machu Picchu tops the must-see list. Hike the Inca Trail or take the Inca Rail. Don't miss Sacsayhuaman for Inca ruins and the Festival of the Sun in June. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Cusco.
Rail Toursfromper adultC$490
Day TripsfromC$37per adult (price varies by group size)C$35
Full-day Toursfromper adultC$58
Cooking Classesfromper adultC$81
Rail Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)C$671
Private and Luxuryfromper adultC$59- fromper adultC$72
Horseback Ridingfromper adultC$88
Rail Toursfromper adultC$805
Private and Luxuryfromper adultC$131
Historic Sites
Admission tickets from C$106
Historic site featuring impressive Inca stonework and panoramic views. Provides a moderate hike with many steps and an educational journey into ancient architecture.
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Hiking Trails
Inca Trail trek reveals stunning scenery and archaeological wonders, culminating in the iconic Sun Gate view of Machu Picchu. A rewarding challenge for the moderately fit, steeped in history.
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Bodies of Water
Alpine trek to a serene lagoon with vivid turquoise waters, flanked by snow-capped peaks and possible condor sightings. Provides a rewarding adventure amid stunning Andean landscapes.
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Ancient Ruins
Historic center featuring a mix of Inca foundations and colonial architecture, with vibrant plazas, dining, and local art scenes. Highlights include cathedrals and cultural museums.
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Historic Sites
Historic square with a blend of Inca and colonial architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and central location for cultural events, crafts, and city exploration.
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Flea & Street Markets
Bustling local market brimming with high-quality fresh produce, unique fruits, and traditional foods. Enjoy authentic meals and discover handcrafted souvenirs amid the vibrant atmosphere.
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Neighbourhoods
Historic Sites
Churches & Cathedrals
Admission tickets from C$23
Historically significant cathedral adorned with unique artwork, gold and silver altars, and a notable Last Supper painting incorporating local cuisine.
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Speciality Museums
Observatories & Planetariums
Admission tickets from C$35
Planetarium nestled in a historic area, blending astronomy with cultural lore through live presentations and stargazing with telescopes, complete with cozy blankets for chilly evenings.
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Nature & Wildlife Areas
Admission tickets from C$14
Other Top Attractions around Cusco
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travellers are saying
- Hiago Stephano H2 contributionsSacsayhuaman was absolutely amazing! The massive stones left me in awe—it's incredible how they were placed so perfectly. Walking around solo, I could truly take in the beauty of the site and the stunning views of Cusco. The history, the energy, and the sheer scale of the ruins made it an unforgettable experience. A must-visit!Written March 15, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Dennis De'voreaux1 contributionTraveling with Terra Quechua Peru was an extraordinary experience, I went with a group of friends and the level of professionalism of the agency impressed us. The first day was quite gentle, which allowed us to acclimatize before the longer hikes of the following days. The scenery was out of this world, and each day seemed better than the last. Most exciting was camping in the mountains with incredible views and sharing stories around the campfire.
The activities included stops at various archaeological sites, and the guide explained the importance of each. We loved the food, which was surprisingly varied and tasty for being in the middle of nature. On the fourth day, arriving at Machu Picchu was a magical moment. Feeling the effort of the previous days and finally seeing the citadel was an unforgettable experience.Written February 13, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Ryan Ed1 contributionI went with my wife and some friends to Laguna Humantay and the experience with Terra Quechua Peru was exceptional. From the organization of the tour to the service during the hike, everything was impeccable. The hike up to the lagoon was demanding, but the views were breathtaking, and the effort was well worth it when we arrived at the beautiful turquoise lagoon. The guide was very friendly and explained every detail of the tour.
At the end of the hike, we enjoyed a typical lunch which was a perfect reward. We also had the option to do part of the journey on horseback, which was an excellent alternative for some of us.Written March 14, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Gareth CLos Angeles, CA514 contributionsThe Plaza de Armas is a great central location of Cuzco's historic center. The streets that fan out from there are host to quaint back alleys, cool eateries, colonial-styled hotels, and a lot of tour agencies.
On sunny days, the plaza is an awesome spot to sit and watch people walk by. Yet, be mindful of the legion of kids selling souvenirs. As adorable as they may seem, their marketing skills are keen, they're beyond persistent, and some of them even know a few words in other languages--like Japanese, French, and German.Written March 16, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Diego P1 contributionThe Plaza de Armas in Cusco is simply magical. During the day, the sun lights up the colonial churches, and the energy is incredible. At night, the lights create an amazing atmosphere.
It’s the heart of Cusco, surrounded by history, great restaurants, and friendly people. Perfect for grabbing a coffee with a view, taking epic photos, or just sitting and enjoying the vibe.
If you visit Cusco and don’t stop by here, did you really go to Cusco?Written February 26, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Ted S2 contributionsFairly well organized and secure for a Latin American open air market. Lots of tourist trinkets but they were usually over priced. The vegetables were OK, the meat and cheese were good, fresh and decently priced.
The "restaurants" were a bit dirty and crude.Written February 24, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Judy BHouston, TX20 contributionsEasily reached from the center of Cusco by walking. the artisans market in the Plaza San Blas is less crowded than the central market and some of those who displayed their wares had stores near by.Written May 25, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- happykoabugHonolulu, HI704 contributionsAn interesting place to visit. I love the diorama of how the Inca temple would have looked like before being altered. The Temple of the Sun is impressive.Written December 5, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BarbaraIrving, TX11 contributionsThis was a very important time in my life. I’m glad I saw all wonders of Cuzco and the accomplishments of the Incas. It was a good lesson about culture and history.Written March 10, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Louis CecileLondon, UK622 contributionsThis small local museum provides a quick stopover to learn and shop about chocolate. There are chocolate sculptures and information on the history in English/Spanish on the walls. The staff are helpful and allow you to navigate as you wish. There is an array of products and items to purchase. There are many chocolate items you will have never seen or purchased before. A good small local museum/shop that provides many interesting insights into chocolate.Written August 15, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- libelle622Stroud, UK155 contributionsPick up on time. Short ride to the Plentarium. A talk about the animals the Inca saw in the Milky Way. Out to look through telescopes at stars, constellations and a planet that was visible. All well sorted by very enthusiastic staff.Written October 12, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- EkkkkLincoln, UK191 contributionsWe had a free day so looked on trip adviser and found this place not too far away. We booked a private taxi and wanted to please ourselves with timings etc. When we arrived, we asked about the VIP experience as wanted to feed the animals if possible. The owner/manage took us round the whole place explaining the awful stories behind many of the animals here, and how humans had exploited and not looked after them properly. As with any zoo/sanctuary you always feel they could be bigger etc but I did feel that they genuinely care for the animals and are trying to give them better lives. We enjoyed every bit, especially being able to feed the animals such as tortoise, deer, parrots, llamas. Would recommend a private tour and private transfer so you can spend as much/little time as you wish here.Written February 2, 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
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