Things To Know Before Visiting Cusco Peru

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco stands as a living testament to the ancient Inca civilization, making it an undeniable jewel in Peru’s cultural crown. As South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco boasts a rich history, mesmerizing architecture, and a captivating blend of indigenous and colonial influences. Before embarking on your journey to this historical gem often referred to as the “navel of the world,” there are a few essential things you need to know. From mastering the art of photo etiquette to acclimatizing to the high altitude, this guide will ensure that your exploration of Cusco is nothing short of extraordinary.
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Prepare for the altitude

At 10,954 feet (3,339 meters), Cusco is already higher than most European ski resorts. While some people are lucky to not suffer from any symptoms, many travelers report feelings of sickness, headaches, dizziness and restless sleep for the first few days. The best way to avoid this is by acclimatizing to the elevation slowly. You can do this by traveling to Cusco by land over a couple of days and stopping off in a few towns at a lower elevation, but higher than sea level. If you have to fly directly into Cusco, be sure to drink lots of coca tea when you land, and take it easy for the first two days. If you know you suffer badly from altitude sickness, it may be worth to see your doctor for prescription pills.

The high altitude Inca Trail to Machu Picchu should probably wait till after you’re acclimatized

Give yourself at least two days before hiking the Inca Trail

The city is best explored by foot

We did just tell you to take it easy, but walking is a must in Cusco. While there are plenty of taxis and buses around, the city center is relatively compact and easily explored on foot. Just remember to bring comfortable footwear; those steep cobblestones weren’t made for cute high heels.

The weather is changeable

If you’re arriving between October and April, be sure to bring a rain jacket, as this is Peru’s rainy season. If you’re here from May to September, you’ll most likely have clear, dry and sometimes hot days, but temperatures can drop well below freezing at night. Either way, when at this altitude, the weather can change rapidly no matter what time of year. As gear shops in Cusco can be extremely pricey, come prepared with your own layers, waterproof items and decent footwear.

Photos of locals are rarely free

You won’t have had to be in Cusco long before spotting traditionally dressed women walking around with their pom-pom decorated llamas and alpacas. These Andean women make a living from posing for tourist photos. If you photograph them, it’s a basic expectation to tip them, and many people can get quite upset if you refuse. Either way, be sure to ask any local’s permission – whether they’re in the business of tourist photos or not – before taking a photo.

Locals unknowingly strike beautifully authentic poses, bu make sure to ask for permission first before taking a photo

Get your haggling game on

Cusco is a great place to buy artisan jewelry, textiles and art, but, to get the right price, you’re going to have to haggle hard. Shopkeepers here have had tons of practice, so they’re pretty good at holding their ground. The trick? Scout around, get a feel for the going rate, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the sale isn’t going your way – you’ll soon know if your bid was way too low if they chase you out of the shop.

You’ll need longer than you think

With much of the focus on Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, many visitors pass through Cusco far too quickly. If you’ve only given yourself one or two days here, chances are you’ll miss out on all the quirks that make Cusco special. With tons of bars, restaurants, markets and cafés to explore, as well as plenty of museums, colonial buildings, Inca ruins and adventurous day trips in the nearby mountains, you can easily fill a week of fun here.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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