Highlights from Cusco, Peru
- seeing Machu Picchu for the first time
- participating in Carnivales celebrations in the main square
- walking around the San Blas neighborhood
- going to Augas Caliente for a week
Top Things to Do in Cusco
Visit Machu Picchu
You can't skip visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World while you're in Cusco. This incredible Incan site will transport you back in time. You'll learn all about the history, culture, and significance of this site.
While I don't love rain, I visited Machu Picchu during the rainy season, and during the rainiest month. When I was in the archeological zone, it poured for a while. It was very neat to see how water flowed through the sanctuary (all due to the way they set up waterways).
Want to learn more?
Read about the top advantages of visiting Machu Picchu during the rainy season and how to prepare for your first visit.
Hike Rainbow Mountain
Located outside Cusco is the "Instagram-famous" Rainbow Mountain. This truly beautiful mountain was only discovered in recent years. Be prepared for a challenging hike where the altitude will likely kick your butt. But don't worry, you can also choose to take a horse or ATV up to the top.
When my tour group arrived to Rainbow Mountain, it was snowing and all the surrounding mountains were covered in snow. As we approached the summit, I learned that we were looking at Rainbow Mountain the whole time. I had no idea because it was covered in snow.
My tour guide let us stay longer at the top to allow the snow to melt and the fog to clear. So I was able to see the beautiful colors of the mountain. Because it was wet from snow melt, you couldn't see all the colors like you do on social media.
Want more? Read why Rainbow Mountain should be on your Cusco itinerary and the mistakes I made so you don't have to (including the worst sunburn of my life).
Hike Seven Lakes of Ausangate
Get ready for breathtaking views in every direction on this hike. From stunning lakes to tall, jagged mountains, this hike is a can't miss when in Cusco
Visit the Sacred Valley
Spend a day, or several days, getting outside of Cusco into the surrounding villages. They have so much to offer!
Walk around the San Blas neighborhood
You'll find all kinds of neat sights, like Mirador de San Blas, Calle Siete Borreguitos (pictured here), Sapantiana Aqueduct, and much more
Visit Saqsaywaman
This archeological site is incredible to see. I highly recommend taking a tour to hear about how the stones were laid and how the people used this site in the past.
Walk around at Plaza de Armas de Cusco
The main square is always filled with people walking around and taking in the city. Check out shops, restaurants, and more in this lovely plaza and its surrounding streets.