Peru
Cusco travel guide
Plan a trip to Cusco: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Cusco
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CuyWhole roasted guinea pig, served on special plates during festivals and at Plaza de Armas restaurants.
Alpaca steakGrilled alpaca fillet, often found in upscale eateries and tourist‑friendly menus.
Lomo saltadoBeef strips with tomatoes, onions, fries and rice, a common lunch dish in chifa and local cafés.
Aji de gallinaShredded chicken in a yellow pepper sauce with olives and boiled egg, served for dinner.
Where to stay in Cusco
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first‑time visitors
Close to Plaza de Armas, museums and tours; easy walking access.
budget travelers
Artistic hill with hostels, narrow lanes and views of the city.
business travelers
Modern hotels near the airport and bus terminal, good connectivity.
adventure seekers
Near the fortress, offers boutique lodgings and easy access to hiking routes.
Day trips from Cusco
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Maras Salt Mines
31 km
Ancient salt pans near Maras, still worked by locals, offering striking terraces and insight into pre‑Inca industry.
Tipón Archaeological Park
22 km
Tipón features impressive Inca water channels and terraces, a well‑preserved agricultural site with scenic views.
Huchuy Qosqo Ruins
17 km
Huchuy Qosqo is a modest Inca ruin above the Sacred Valley, reachable by a short hike and rewarding with panoramic outlooks.
Laguna Humantay
67 km
Laguna Humantay is a turquoise high‑altitude lake at 4,800 m, ideal for a day trek and stunning mountain reflections.
Best time to visit
Best time to go: June – July
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 5 days in Cusco
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Cusco
Questions about Cusco
When is the best time to try cuy?
Cuy is served year‑round but is most common during festivals and on weekends in restaurants around the Plaza de Armas.
Do I need to tip in Cusco restaurants?
Yes, a 10 % tip is customary if service charge is not already included on the bill.
Is it safe to walk at night in the historic centre?
The area is generally safe during daylight; at night stay on well‑lit streets and avoid isolated alleys.
Can I find vegetarian options?
Many chifa and international places offer veggie dishes; ask for “sin carne” or look for quinoa salads and soups.