The beautiful city of Cusco is situated at 11,000 ft above sea level and was once the center of the Inca Empire. Every year when tourists make their way to the Lost City of the Incas, better known as Machu Picchu Stopping in Cusco tourists can enjoy city tours and surrounding ruins such as the Sacsayhuaman fortress, Puka Pukara, and Q’enko. Not only does Cusco have a rich history, but also some top restaurants like Chicha, by renowned chef Gaston Acurio.
WHAT YOU MAY ALSO SEE
The Sacred Valley:
As tourists each day make their way through Cusco and to Machu Picchu they go through the Sacred Valley and visit some important sites such as these: Awana Cancha is where you can get first-hand knowledge about the different camelids that Peru has and see examples of different weaving techniques. About 28 km. from Cusco is where you can find the ruins of Pisac, these ancient ruins are located on top of a steep hill and its famous market can be found at the foot of the entrance where locals bring their goods every day. Passing through the Sacred Valley you can also visit Urubamba, stop through the main square and visit the Urubamba River. Very much like Awana Cancha, the town of Chinchero is a great stopping point to learn about different weaving techniques and enjoy a demonstration on dying processes, here you will also be able to see the town’s famous colonial church. Walk through the hypnotizing salt flats of Maras where you can also purchase salt that comes straight from the salt ponds. Circular terraces that were used for agricultural purposes is what you can find at Moray before heading to the town of Ollantaytambo where you can visit their ruins that were used as important agricultural and religious center.
Recommend Restaurants in Cusco:
Limo ($$$$) Nikkei- Portal de Carnes 236
Chicha ($$$$): Peruvian Fusion- Plaza Regocijo 2nd floor
MAP Café ($$$$) Peruvian Contemporary- Plaza Nazarenas 231
Greens Organic ($$ – $$$) Vegetarian- Santa Catalina Angosta 135
Pachapapa ($$ – $$$) Peruvian- Plazoleta San Blas 120
Jack’s Cafe ($$ – $$$) American/Peruvian- Choquechaka 509, San Blas
Best time to visit: June to mid September as it is winter in Peru and it’s dry season.
