Cuzco

Cuzco was the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved colonial architecture built atop Inca walls. It is the main gateway for trips to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, and offers a rich indigenous Quechua culture, vibrant nightlife, and numerous ruins like Sacsayhuamán. At 3,400 m, altitude sickness is a concern, but the city is one of Peru's most visited.

The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is 5 km east of the city center, serving domestic and limited international flights. The main bus terminal, Terminal Terrestre, is on Av. de la Cultura. Trains to Machu Picchu depart from San Pedro and Poroy stations. Buses from Lima and other cities arrive at various terminals.

The historic center is walkable, but buses and taxis are needed for Sacsayhuamán, the bus station, or the airport. Beware of robberies at night. Shared combis cost around S/1 for short trips.

Cuzco has two seasons: dry (April–October) with abundant sunshine, and wet (November–March). The Inca Trail is closed in February. The best times are May–September for clear skies.

Many budget options are available, especially in San Blas neighborhood, a few blocks uphill from Plaza de Armas. Dorm beds start around S/15–35, private rooms from S/30–75. Most hostels offer hot water, wifi, and breakfast. Loki Cusco is a popular party hostel, while quieter options like Hospedaje Amanecer offer twins for S/40.

Local specialties include alpaca steak, cuy (guinea pig, S/60–70), lomo saltado, aji de gallina, and soups like sopa de zapallo. Vegetarian options are available. Markets like San Pedro sell cheap juices (S/3). Street food and chifa (Peruvian Chinese) are also common. For drinks, try Inca Kola and chicha morada.

Must-see sights include the Cathedral (S/40), Qoricancha (S/20), Sacsayhuamán (covered by boleto turistico), and the nearby ruins of Qenko, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay. The Museo Inka (S/20) and Machu Picchu Museum (S/20) are excellent. For activities, hike Rainbow Mountain (from US$25), visit the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, or take a salsa lesson. The Plaza de Armas is a central gathering spot.

Cuzco is relatively safe but muggings and pickpocketing occur. Avoid walking alone late at night away from the main square. Be wary of distractions and aggressive vendors. Drug laws are severe with long prison sentences. Feral dogs may roam at night but are generally harmless if you project confidence.

A backpacker can get by on around S/60–100 per day including dorm accommodation (S/15–35), cheap meals (S/10–20), local transport (S/1–5), and entry to sites. Budget for the boleto turistico (S/130 for 10 days) if visiting multiple ruins.

Popular day trips include the Sacred Valley towns of Pisac (market and ruins), Ollantaytambo (fortress), and Chinchero. Also visit the ruins of Tipón and Pikillacta. Machu Picchu requires at least a full day; trains from Poroy or bus to Hidroeléctrica + walk.

From Cuzco, travel to Machu Picchu via train or trek, continue to Lake Titicaca (Puno) by bus or train, or explore the Sacred Valley further. The town of Ccaccaccollo offers traditional fabric making.

Altitude sickness (soroche) is common; take it easy the first day, drink coca tea or water, and consider acetazolamide. Sun protection is critical as Cuzco has the highest UV levels in the world. Avoid uncooked vegetables and unpeeled fruit; drink bottled water. A clinic called Clinica San Josè is available for serious issues.