2024 Cusco Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Peru Cusco | Mysterious Belmond Hotel Monasterio

🌈Brand: belmond 🌈Cusco Belmond Monastery Hotel Belmond Hotel Monasterio 🚗Location: Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel · Located in the center of Cusco, Peru, the two Belmond hotels are just a street apart. This Belmond Hotel Monasterio is more quaint. Its predecessor was a monastery, and the displays in the store are all art treasures from the 16th to 18th centuries, as if in a large museum · The magic of it is that from the outside, the whitewashed stone walls of the Belmond Monastery Hotel hardly hint at the gorgeous interior, but when you enter the cool, quiet forbidden area of the hotel, you will see elegant stone arches, cobblestones and original oil paintings · It is a brilliant representative of the Renaissance style during the colonial period. The most exciting part is the central courtyard decorated with fountains and 300-year-old cedars, which is surrounded by gardens and well-known stone cloisters. The hotel has become a historical landmark in Peru and is protected by the National Institute of Cultural Studies ·

🌈 Rainbow Mountain

#localescapes The Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, as known by the locals, is one of the best tourist destinations in Peru today. Nestled majestically in the remote landscapes of the Andean Mountain range, the 7 Color Mountain Peru is a geological wonder that has become a destination that sparks curiosity and admiration among adventurers and nature lovers alike. The indescribable beauty of this mountain has captured the hearts of thousands of visitors and ignited curiosity among those wondering: Why is Rainbow Mountain, Peru colorful? How was the 7 Color Mountain formed? What mysteries hide behind its impressive color palette? How did this earthly canvas taken from a dream come to be? In this blog, we will unveil the best-kept secrets about the origin of the vibrant colors that adorn the Rainbow Mountain of Peru, from the geological forces that shaped it to Mother Nature’s artistic intervention. Get ready to be amazed and fascinated with every detail as we unravel the mysteries of this natural gem in the Peruvian Andes! seven-colored mountain), is an absolute must for all those who love stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. Nestled in a remote region of the Andes Mountains, Rainbow Mountain was once a spectacle only to be admired by trekkers along the Ausangate Trek, but now you can witness this display of natural beauty in all its glory on a shorter 1- or 2-day hike as part of your Peru vacation #freehotelstay. #fallingseason. #placetosee #stunningbeach #londontrip #beachparty #boracaytrip #bangkoktrip #beijingtrip #tokyotrip #shenzhentrip #sanyatrip #newyortrip #hangzhoutrip #beachlovers #topbeach #placetovisit #bestbeach #travel #perfectbeach #localescapes #singaporetrip #helloautumn #triptravelguide #triptravel #beachvacation #hotelstaycation ¹

Cusco - City in the Mountains 3400m

Cusco, a beautiful colonial style city in Peruvian Andes Mountains. It's old style Spanish houses and cobblestone roads. Locals such a cholas walk around and bask in the street corners. It's a city where you should be ready to be acclimatised to. It was a trouble for me, as the air being thin. But definitely a place to visit and walk around to see the sights and city scape

Machupicchu - the mysterious city in the mountains

This was an adventure of a lifetime. To get here was a real trek. Flying to Cusco which is 3400m above sea level. Adjusting to the altitude and then taking a bus to a town called Ollanytambo, then a train ride along the river through the mountains to the town at the foot of Machupicchu called Agua Calientes. A good tour for about 3 hrs to understand the history of the city. Definitely a place to visit and cross of your bucket list. #machupicchu ##cusco

Trip of a Lifetime | Cusco, Peru!

#wecreate A visit to cusco is a lifetime trip. ❤️ Cusco is the capital of the Inca Empire and is a city that never fails to impress me! Its vibrant culture and history, stunning architecture, and landscapes are breathtaking. It is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. What I love the most are the narrow streets, lined with colonial-era buildings and Inca ruins! The city's central square, the Plaza de Armas, is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by. And, of course, no visit to Cusco is complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and quinoa soup. If you are adventurous enough, they even have alpaca meat. #cusco

Red Valley - not just Red but Breathtaking!!

Red Valley, also known as Valle Rojo, is a STRIKING natural wonder located in the Cusco region of Peru. It is a few hours away from Cusco, and is at a hiking distance away from The Rainbow Mountain. The valley is named for its red rock formations, which create a stunning contrast against the blue sky. You can hike through the valley then marvel at the unique geological formations, including towering cliffs, canyons, and rock formations! There are a few villages and to get to some viewpoints, you may need to pay the locals. But still, it is a good way to interact with indigenous locals! With its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, Red Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Cusco region. #Redvalley #peru

Humantay Lake - Glacial and Turquoise 💚

The lakes in Peru are just another level! Humantay Lake is a stunning glacial lake located in the Peruvian Andes. The lake is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, the turquoise waters of the lake make for a breathtaking sight! You can take a day trip from Cusco and hike to the lake, which is situated at an elevation of 4,200 meters. I personally joined the Salkantay trek, and this lake is the first thing we see on the trek! The trek offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for most fitness levels. It's a great destination for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape from the city. #peru

Breathtaking panoramic views on Perurail

#wecreate My journey to Machu Picchu aboard Perurail was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped onto the train, I knew I was in for a treat. The breathtaking views during the train ride, combined with the unique features of the train itself, made this experience truly unforgettable. The train ride to Machu Picchu offered some of the most awe-inspiring views I have ever encountered. As we chugged along the tracks, the rugged landscapes, majestic mountains, and lush valleys unfolded before my eyes. The panoramic windows allowed me to immerse myself in the stunning beauty of the Peruvian countryside. However, what truly set Perurail apart was the ingenious addition of glass on the ceiling. This innovative design feature provided a 180-degree view of the surroundings, allowing me to marvel at the towering peaks and scenic vistas from all angles. It was an experience that brought me closer to nature and made me appreciate the wonders of the journey as much as the destination itself. Perurail also went above and beyond to keep their passengers entertained throughout the ride. The onboard entertainment was a delightful surprise. From cultural performances to a fashion show showcasing traditional Peruvian attire, every moment was filled with excitement and cultural immersion. The fashion show, in particular, was a unique touch that added a touch of local flavor to the journey. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn about the vibrant traditions and colorful heritage of Peru while enjoying the scenic beauty outside the train. Time flew by as I soaked in the breathtaking scenery and enjoyed the onboard entertainment. The combination of the ever-changing landscape, the comfortable seating, and the engaging entertainment made the hours pass by effortlessly. It felt as if the journey to Machu Picchu was over in the blink of an eye, leaving me eager for more. In conclusion, Perurail provided an exceptional experience on my journey to Machu Picchu. The mind-blowing views offered by the panoramic windows and the added glass on the ceiling were simply breathtaking, allowing me to savor every moment of the picturesque Peruvian landscape. The onboard entertainment, including the fashion show, added a cultural touch that enhanced the overall experience. Time flew by as I immersed myself in the journey, leaving me with memories that will last a lifetime. If you're planning a trip to Machu Picchu, I highly recommend Perurail for an unforgettable and awe-inspiring adventure.

Hilton Garden Inn Cusco

Hilton Garden Inn Cusco is a wonderful hotel that offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and luxury. The staff are warm, welcoming, and always ready to help with anything you need. The rooms are spacious, tastefully decorated, and equipped with all modern amenities. The beds are extremely comfortable, and the bathrooms are clean and well-maintained. The hotel's location is excellent, just a few minutes' walk from the historic center of Cusco. The on-site restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine, and the breakfast buffet is outstanding. The hotel also has a gym and a beautiful rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city. Overall, Hilton Garden Inn Cusco is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and memorable stay in Cusco. #cusco

Rainbow Mountains in Peru

The Rainbow Mountains in Peru offer an incredible natural spectacle that is not to be missed. The challenging hike to the summit is rewarded with breathtaking views of the multi-colored hillsides. The vibrant shades of pink, yellow, green, and blue are truly awe-inspiring. It is advisable to come prepared for the high altitude and the ever-changing weather conditions. This destination is highly recommended for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers seeking an unforgettable adventure.#rainbowmountain

Humantay Lake - Peru

#passionpassport One of the most beautiful place I have visited. Humantay Lake in Peru is absolutely beautiful and mesmerizing. It’s high altitude Lake and short hike to lake was tough. Ot took 1-2 hours hike from base camp. There is option to take horse ride up to the lake. To reach Himantay Lake it’s best to book a tour from Cisco Cultural Center as there is no public transport available or if available it’s uncertain. One can book cab as well but that’s costs high. It gets cold up near the lake so wear accordingly. It can be complete in one day but there option to do camping near base camp. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travel Inspiration

Humedal De Huasao - Cusco

#passionpassport Since its opening Huasao Wetland has become a very popular tourist attraction site. This popularity is thanks to the presence of the movie characters that are admired and loved by children and adults. When you get there you will see the following movie characters carved in wood. We can see Towering statues of Ents that are trees that walk and talk in the “Lord of the Rings” movies. A smaller reproduction of Groot from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” series. Many verities of birds and other fun activities. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travel Inspiration #traveladdict

Peru 🇵🇪❤️

#mountainview

Humanty Lake- Heaven on Earth

Humanty lake is beautiful pristine Blue lake located near Cusco, Peru. Once you are in Peru you can go to Humanty Lake. In Cusco there are many Travel agencies which arrange Tours to Lake and include Transportation, Pickup, and meals. Pickup will be in early morning 4-5 am. There will be a stoppage for Breakfast. Then there will hike for another 2-3 hours to reach Lake from the Village, which is starting point. Hike is steep but if you into hiking it’s not that difficult. There are option to hire Horse which will take you to the lake. Lake is absolutely beautiful, Stunning. It is also considered sacred in Peruvian culture. So if lucky you can also see people worshiping. You can also hire private taxi, but that comes with high price. But you will get your time and you can plan your trip accordingly. As of 2020 there is no public transport to reach there. #summervacation#hikingtrails

Peruvian Rainbow mountain, 5200 meters above sea level, less oxygen, it's literaly breathtaking yeah it's hard to breath when you have to reach to the top of the mountain by some kilometers walk with less oxygen on the air, then the scenery is also "breathtaking". But when you reach the top, it paid off. You will not regret. #mynovgetaway #thanksgiving #awesomepic #mynovgetaway#awesomepic#couplestrip#instagramworthydestinations

Visiting my last ancient world wonder was no cheap feat. Of course, there are less expensive ways to arrive to the citadel but I prefer speed and efficiency so I can maximize my trip. Here's the breakdown of how I did it and what it costed me in USD. ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀ I flew into Cusco airport and took a $30 Uber to Ollantaytambo so I could use that as a base. The town itself has some Inca sites to explore but I opted not to. I just wanted to be close enough to the @qhispikay.glamping site and the train station. ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀ Everything about your visit is pretty much time stamped. I suggest you book online in advance so you can choose the best train times for you before they get sold out (because they will). There are two trains you can take; PeruRail and Inca Rail. They offer slightly different times so it gives you a bit more options which is good. My train ride there was $104 (higher class) and coming back was $81 (slightly lower class). You ABSOLUTELY MUST have your passport on hand to board the train. Don't forget this! ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀ After the 1.5-2h train ride, you'll arrive at the base of Machu Picchu in a town called Aguas Calientes. From here, I met my English speaking guide ($70 for groups up to 8 people) and he led me to where I needed to catch the bus ($32 round trip) for a very twisty but epic ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Once there, the only restrooms are outside of the entrance. There are no in and out privileges on a basic ticket ($65) so refresh yourself before you go inside. I recommend purchasing a ticket to have lunch at the buffet once you're done exploring ($26). The food was very good! ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀ Lastly, you have to be VERY mindful of the time you leave Machu Picchu because the line up to catch the bus to go back down can be like a mile long. I waited just over an hour just to get onto the bus to ultimately catch my train back. Total cost with the train can easily be $350-$400. I hope you found this helpful! #machupicchu #peru #visitperu

Peru was filled with the most beautiful markets! So I had to use out a yoga pose right in the center

One of my most memorable experiences to date from my all time favourite country! Per left me absolutely speechless!

"The inheritance of the Inca civilization, the incredible military fortress" Some people say that Cuzco City is seen from the air, it is like a cougar, Sasavaman is his head, and the ancient city of Cusco is his middle The nobles home is his tail. In the first chapter of today, let's take a look at the head of the "cougar" - Sasavaman (also known as "Sax Sewaman"). Sasawaman is a Stonehenge. It is built on the mountain. It is a golden soup that guards the safety of the ancient city of Cusco. After several major earthquakes, many buildings collapsed, but it still stands proudly. Proud of the Quartet. Into the scenic area, I saw a row of megaliths displayed there, these boulder seem to silently tell the glory of the Inca civilization. Entering the Stone Array, the first thing you see is an open area surrounded by small hills and terraces. Standing on a high hill overlooking the distance, you can see the densely populated houses on the hillsides. It is the ancient city of Cusco. Some Indian women in the ancient city took pictures with alpaca and tourists. Going along the walls of the stone array, fingers touched every stone in the stone wall. Stone walls vary in size and shape. Like other Inca stone buildings, how to build it is still a mystery. It is difficult to insert a piece of paper in the middle of many stones. It's hard to imagine how to make this piece of stone spliced so many years ago without any adhesive. What's even more amazing is that a whole stone slab is built with stone. There are more than 300,000 pieces of stone, big and small, and there are many boulders weighing hundreds of tons. How to transport them and put them together? A piece of pieced together into a stone array. After walking through the stone wall and going up through a stone door, it is a neat step. When you walk up, you can see the original foundation and shape. The center of the ancient building is a circular platform that extends towards the surrounding layers. It is said to have been a round tower-shaped building with a specially constructed platform inside, and the platform is connected to a labyrinthine passage. One or more of them lead to the tunnel. We have not been able to interpret how huge stones are transported, nor can we detect what process is used to polish stones. If the Spanish colonists did not destroy the Inca civilization, then we might be able to explore the secrets of this civilization from other aspects, and solve many of the mysteries of the present, but history is history, and its value lies in its inability to replicate. ! Address: Sacsayhuaman. Transportation: 1 From the Arms Square in Cusco, it takes less than half an hour to get to the foot of the mountain. 2 2 km from the ancient Peruvian city of Cusco, can be chartered to go. Tickets: 90 Sol, but you can buy scenic spots in the mountains, just 180 Sol. Opening time: Monday to Sunday 7

"Too Temple": Inca civilization that never falls, two styles of art intertwined" Inca era, Cusco is the capital of the Inca Empire, considered to be the center of the world, this sun temple is supreme. In the agricultural era, people pray that the sun god can never disappear. At the Machu Picchu site there are also stone inscriptions that are intended to hold the sun. The sun temple in the Quechua language is the original "golden courtyard", the current temple is a two-story Spanish courtyard with a veranda, flowers bloom, the majestic bell tower leaves visitors with endless delusions. The most amazing thing about the Temple of the Sun is the ingenious combination of Western architecture and Inca ruins. We entered from the gate of the "Domingo Monastery", and there are two lines of black on the white wall on the left side of the gate, "Domingo Monastery". There is a room in the temple with a large stone, an anvil used to kill when the sacrifice is made. The windows of the temple are unique in shape, narrow and wide. Looking down from a specific location, you can always look to the end. The stone in the wall is snapped between the stones, no adhesive is used, and no gap is visible. Its awesome! Its amazing. The Temple of the Sun can see some replicas of the year, a large number of religious paintings, sculptures, artifacts, etc. The garden outside the temple building is full of mystery, and it is a fascination and admiration for the Inca culture. Looking from the wall of the shrine to the distance, the blue sky and white clouds, the rolling hills and the houses scattered in the mountains. History records, the Temple of the Sun built in the Inca era, the megalithic building, the outer gold foil wrapped, in addition to the worship of the sun god, as well as the moon, stars, rainbow and thunder and lightning, known as the Golden Temple or the Golden Garden. The Spanish colonists invaded and the gold foil was plundered. The temple of the sun was transformed into a monastery. After the Spanish colonists invaded Cusco, the gold foil was torn off, leaving only the broken temple. Then, in the old site of the temple, Santo Domingo was built. Two buildings of different styles were close together, each with its own splendour, but it was embarrassing. History will be the past, we can't change anything, we can only touch the splendid civilization hundreds of years ago in the Temple of the Sun. Address: Santo Domingo s/n

Traveling in Peru||Rainbow Mountain at an altitude of 5,000 One-way drive from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain is 3 hours, you can drive by yourself, but in the end, considering the high-reverse problem, you will follow the tour of the 1-day tour. Rainbow Mountain at an altitude of 5000+, it is hard to breathe and can't breathe. Every step of walking is very difficult. I really feel that I can't walk, I ride a lazy ride, and the last part must go on my own. When I walked to the viewing platform, I was really fulfilled. Although I couldnt go to the other side to take a photo of the ID, it was the highest altitude I had ever walked. When you go down the mountain, it will be better than going up the mountain. The price of riding up the mountain is 80 sol, the downhill is 60 sol, and the price of a day trip is about 400 RMB, including breakfast and lunch. Tips: 1. High altitude! High anti-drugs should be prepared 2. The weather in the high altitude area is unstable. When there is no sun, it is very cold. I wore a windbreaker and shivered in the wind of 3° 3. I got the door around five o'clock. You must sleep enough in the evening 4. The route of Honggu is better, but if you are not good, dont be forced to walk on foot.

Salkantay Trek, Peru

Visiting the Salkantay Trek in Peru was a unique and unforgettable experience. Walking along this magnificent trail, one can see a variety of landscapes from lush valleys to majestic mountain views. The route was dotted with breathtaking scenery of mountains, rivers, and lakes, making the surroundings splendid.💧 We enjoyed a rich cultural experience by interacting with locals and exploring their unique region 🏞️. The challenges we faced during the journey added to the enjoyment of the experience, making it a unique and rewarding adventure in the heart of Peru's nature.

We hiked Lake Humantay 4,200m!

Getting There - from Cusco, join a tour to hike up with a tour guide Attractions - amazing scenery on way up to gorgeous lake. Needs moderate fitness level to hike up otherwise there’s horses you can hire at the start or even half way up if you have difficulty completing the hike on foot Hotels - Closest town is Cusco, a lovely town worth staying 3-5 nights to acclimatise before the hike and to see Machu Picchu too. Cusco itself is a beautiful town to explore and experience delicious Peruvian dining.

Humantay Lake

Visiting Humantay Lake was a magical experience filled with the beauty of nature 🌿. The lake is nestled between mountains and boasts clear, picturesque blue waters 🌊🏔️. I enjoyed walking along the trail leading to the lake; the atmosphere was refreshing and the scenery was incredibly beautiful 🍃. Upon arrival, I felt a sense of calm and tranquility in front of the lake's beauty 😊. I took many souvenir photos of this stunning place 📸. The weather was pleasant, giving me the opportunity to meditate and relax.

Peru rainbow mountains!

#peru #llamas #localguides #rainbow #familytrip

Inca trail - Peru

From the city of Cusco, it is possible to a golden Inca Trail where you can get to see the different buildings and artefacts from many years ago. In the city, there are lots of tour guides that drive you to different places and explain what the sites were used for and why they have been discovered/preserved. There are interesting museums at most of the sites as well as small shops selling gifts and food

Salkantay Trek: A Challenging yet Breathtaking Adventure

#gohiking I tackled the Salkantay Trek, a 24km journey through Peru's majestic mountains. The pre-dawn start was chilly, but the promise of sunrise over the Andes kept me going. The ascent to Salkantay Pass (4650m) was grueling, but the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes left me awestruck. The downhill hike to Collpapampa was a welcome respite, with lush forests and scenic valleys. This trek was a test of endurance, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning scenery made it an unforgettable adventure. Salkantay, you have left an indelible mark on my heart!

🌟 Luxe Peruvian Escape: JW Marriott Cusco 🦙✨

🛌 Dive into the heart of Cusco with a stay at JW Marriott El Convento, where luxury meets local charm. Imagine sprawling rooms that sparkle with cleanliness and room service that caters to your every whim, any time of day. 🌙 🌄 Feeling woozy from the altitude? Their swift oxygen service is your knight in shining armor. Step outside and you're in the thick of Cusco's colorful bustle, a perfect blend of convenience and culture. 🏙️ 🍳 Mornings here mean indulging in a delectable breakfast that's sure to prep you for exploring. And when it's time to relax, the spa's divine touch will transport you to cloud nine. 💆‍♀️ 🦙 Plus, who can resist the charm of a surprise courtyard alpaca sighting? Keep your cameras at the ready for this adorable encounter! 📸 📍Set your compass to Esquina De La, Ruinas 432, Cusco, Peru for an unforgettable retreat where every detail weaves together to craft your perfect Peruvian narrative. 🗺️ #Cusco #CuscoHotel #CuscoTravel

🌟✈️ Cusco's Finest: Palacio Nazarenas 🏨🇵🇪

Nestled in the heart of Cusco at Nazarenas 223, the Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel, is a gem that's hard to overlook. 🌄 This place isn't just a hotel—it's a slice of paradise that's scored top marks globally! 🏆 First off, the location is unbeatable, a serene sanctuary just a stone's throw away from vibrant local culture. 🚶‍♂️🎉 Imagine stepping out and being embraced by history and tradition, with modern comforts waiting when you return. The surroundings? Picture-perfect postcard material, with views that'll make your heart skip a beat. 😍 Now, let's talk about the rooms. They're not just clean; they're immaculate—a blissful retreat after a day of adventure. 🛌✨ Each room is a blend of colonial charm and contemporary luxury, all equipped with top-notch amenities. Think plush beds, crisp linens, and all the mod-cons for a pampered stay. And the service? Impeccable! The staff goes above and beyond to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. 🌟 Plus, with an array of hotel facilities at your fingertips, you might just find yourself extending your stay. 🏊‍♂️🍽️ #Cusco #CuscoHotel #CuscoTravel

Cusco | The Pinnacle City of the Inca Civilization

Cusco, the capital city of the Cusco Province, was also the capital of the ancient Inca Empire. It serves as the gateway to various Inca ruins such as Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuamán, and the Temple of the Sun. Cusco is built on hillsides and by rivers, with its architecture varying in elevation, earning it the title 'Jewel of the Andes Mountains'. The city center is home to important sites like the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sun, and the entire old city is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. Due to the narrow and sloped streets within the city area and the relatively concentrated attractions, exploring the city by CITY WALK is the most appropriate. Wandering through the streets and alleys, admiring the distinct yet harmonious Inca and Spanish-style architecture, passing by stalls run by Inca women, and checking in at charming guesthouses and cafes will leave unforgettable memories of your trip to Cusco. 🏞【Destination Guide】 🧳Pre-trip Preparation: Altitude sickness medication 🚗Transportation Tips: There are multiple flights daily between Lima and Cusco. It is recommended to hire a car within the city and walk within the old town. 🌟Local Must-Visits: Sacsayhuamán ruins, Temple of the Sun, Plaza de Armas, and its surroundings 📌Little Tips: The altitude is high, so move slowly. The UV radiation is strong, remember to wear sunscreen.