So, you're planning to travel to Cusco? Excellent choice. Whether you’re hiking to Machu Picchu, museum-hopping through Inca history, or exploring bustling markets in Cusco, this high-altitude city deserves more than a rushed itinerary.

But here’s the thing — Cusco sits at over 3,400 m (11,150 ft), with steep hills, changing weather, and a mix of ancient ruins and chaotic charm. To make the most of your time here, you’ll need more than just a good pair of hiking boots.

This guide is built to help you travel smart. We’ve rounded up the best Cusco travel tips to keep you feeling great, spending wisely, and moving confidently through the Sacred Valley. Let’s start with the basics: altitude, timing, and safety.

Understanding preparation, acclimation & safety

Tip 1. Respect the altitude — your body will thank you

Altitude sickness isn’t just for the unprepared. Cusco is one of the highest cities many travellers will ever visit and altitude affects nearly everyone.

Symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, and fatigue are common, especially if you fly straight in without taking time to acclimate. The key is to go slow and give your body the adjustment time it needs.

Before diving into full-day hikes or tours, here’s what will help:

• Spend your first 2–3 days taking it easy in Cusco or the lower-altitude Sacred Valley.
• Drink plenty of water — staying hydrated is your best defence.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals in the first 48 hours.
• Try coca tea, a traditional remedy widely used in Peru to help with altitude symptoms.
• Check if your hotel offers oxygen support — some provide enriched oxygen rooms or on-demand tanks.
• Consider talking to your doctor about altitude medicine like acetazolamide before your trip.

These small steps can make a huge difference in how your first few days unfold — and whether you’re exploring or recovering in your room.

Tip 2. Time your visit around the seasons

Knowing when to go is one of the most underrated parts of a successful Cusco travel itinerary. The climate here swings sharply between wet and dry seasons, and each has its pros and cons. Most travellers plan around this breakdown:

• Dry season (May to September) means clear skies, ideal hiking weather, and peak conditions for Cusco day trips like Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake. But it’s also the busiest (and most expensive) time to visit.
• Wet season (November to April) brings fewer tourists, greener valleys, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Just be ready for heavy rains, muddy trails, and occasional transportation hiccups.

If you're booking hikes or visiting more remote sites, build a buffer day or two into your schedule to account for delays, especially if you're traveling during the rainy season. It could save your entire trip. For more insight on how to make sure your adventure is the best it can be, consider reading about our 15 Tips for travelling in Peru.

Packing essentials & currency know-how

Tip 3. Pack layers — Cusco’s weather changes fast

Forget packing for one climate. You’ll likely experience spring, summer, and winter all in a single day while visiting Cusco, Peru.

The weather during the day averages a pleasant 18–20 °C (65–70 °F), but nights can drop below freezing, even during the dry season. And if you're planning any early-morning excursions, especially to higher elevations, you'll want to be prepared.

Here’s what to include in your day-to-day Cusco travel wardrobe:

• Breathable layers: Start with T-shirts, add a fleece, and finish with a windproof jacket.
• Sun protection: Bring SPF 50+, polarised sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat — the sun hits harder at high altitudes.
• Footwear: Choose sturdy, non-slip walking shoes or hiking boots. Streets are often cobbled, uneven, and slick after rain.
• Other essentials: Reusable water bottle, hydration salts, lip balm, and any altitude meds prescribed by your doctor.

Having the right gear not only keeps you comfortable but saves you from scrambling to find overpriced items in tourist shops. We recommend finding these items at trusted retailers like REI, Amazon, and Backcountry.

Tip 4. Know your money — and how to use it

Understanding how to pay in Cusco can save you time, money, and stress, especially when navigating local shops, taxis, and markets in Cusco.

The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (S/), and most places won’t accept USD or other foreign cash. You can use your card in restaurants and hotels, but small businesses and markets are still mostly cash based.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Withdraw cash from reputable ATMs in central areas like Plaza de Armas. Have a backup card in case of ATM issues.
• Credit cards are accepted in mid- to high-end spots but expect a 3–5% surcharge.
• Street vendors, taxis, and artisan stalls are cash only, so carry small bills.
• Don’t rely on finding cash machines in rural areas — stock up in the city.

Currency awareness is especially useful if you're planning to explore off the beaten path or do some spontaneous shopping at local markets. Learn more by reading our guide to “What to know about money when travelling in Peru.”

Top experiences, cultural finds & where to eat

Tip 6. Use local transport strategically

Getting around Cusco can be part of the adventure — if you know what to expect. Some areas are walkable and picturesque, while others call for a little more planning. Navigating transport options smartly is key to staying safe, saving time, and avoiding unnecessary stress during your travel in Cusco.

Here’s how to move efficiently through the city and beyond:

• Walking is ideal in the historic centre — but be ready for steep inclines, uneven cobblestones, and the occasional street dog.
• Taxis and Ubers are easy to find and usually affordable. If you're flying in, book an official taxi from the prepaid booth inside the airport to avoid scams.
• Colectivos (shared vans) offer cheap rides to nearby towns like Pisac or Urubamba. Just know that departure times can be vague, and routes aren’t always posted or announced.
• Organised tours are the best option for more complex Cusco day trips — think Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, or Sacred Valley ruins. You’ll avoid the stress of arranging permits, transfers, and guides.

Understanding how to travel in Cusco can save you time and keep your energy focused on the actual experience, not figuring out how to get there.

Tip 7. Dive into the best things to do in Cusco

Cusco is packed with history, art, and culture — but not everything’s worth your time. To make the most of your Cusco travel itinerary, focus on a mix of top landmarks, local neighbourhoods, and immersive stops.

These highlights are consistently ranked among the most memorable things to do in Cusco:

• Sacsayhuamán: A massive stone fortress on the edge of town, known for its mind-blowing construction — stones so perfectly cut, they lock together without mortar.
• Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): Once covered in gold, this sacred Incan site now houses a church built by Spanish colonisers — a living symbol of Peru’s layered history.
• Cusco Cathedral: Located on Plaza de Armas, the cathedral is both a spiritual and architectural landmark filled with colonial artwork and cultural treasures.

And don’t skip San Blas — Cusco’s coolest neighbourhood.

• San Blas sits above the city and offers a mix of art studios, boutique galleries, artisan workshops, and cafés.
• The walk up is steep (very steep), but it rewards you with some of the best views of the city.
• The neighbourhood's whitewashed buildings and narrow alleys feel like a storybook scene — if that story included llamas and street murals.

Whether you’re chasing history or handwoven textiles, this part of town brings a more relaxed, authentic feel to your time visiting Cusco, Peru.

Tip 8. Mix in cultural experiences and adventure activities

If you want your travel in Cusco to go beyond the typical photo ops, you’ll need to get involved — whether that’s through local traditions or adrenaline-filled adventure activities in Cusco.

Start with festivals — they’re loud, proud, and unforgettable.

• Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in June is the biggest event of the year, with actors in full Inca regalia performing ancient rituals.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Corpus Christi offer a powerful look at the region’s blend of Catholic and Andean traditions, with colourful parades and ornate processions.
• Timing your visit to align with these events can add a whole new dimension to your trip.

Prefer getting out into nature? There’s no shortage of epic trekking routes — all of them with serious altitude.

• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is visually stunning but physically demanding. At 5,200 meters, it's not a casual walk — acclimatisation is non-negotiable.
• Humantay Lake is a good middle ground: less crowded, slightly easier, and framed by dramatic glacial peaks.
• Salkantay Trek is a multi-day alternative to the Inca Trail, ideal if permits are sold out but you still want a bucket-list journey to Machu Picchu.
• For something easier, try a short hiking in Cusco route to Tambomachay or Qenqo, where you’ll find fewer tourists and breathtaking views.

And if you’re into food — and you should be — there’s no better way to connect with the culture than cooking it yourself.

• Most Cusco cooking classes start with a guided tour through local markets in Cusco, where you’ll shop for ingredients with a chef.
• You’ll learn how to make Peruvian staples like ají de gallina, lomo saltado, or ceviche, and shake up a proper pisco sour.
• These classes are hands-on, fun, and give you a real taste of life in the Andes.

Adventure, food, and culture collide in Cusco — you just have to step in and say yes to it.

Where (and how) to eat in Cusco

Tip 9: Know where (and how) to eat in Cusco

Peru is one of the world’s top culinary destinations, and Cusco holds its own with flavour, creativity, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re dining in a tucked-away courtyard or grabbing snacks between hikes, the food is part of the adventure when you travel in Cusco.

If you're wondering where to eat in Cusco, these are some of the most talked-about spots that actually live up to the hype:

• Cicciolina – A Mediterranean–Andean fusion restaurant in San Blas with a cosy, upscale feel. The tapas are perfect for sharing and full of flavour.
• Chicha by Gastón Acurio – Founded by Peru’s most famous chef, this is the place to go if you want to splurge. Think high-altitude fine dining with native ingredients.
• Green Point – A plant-based paradise for vegetarians and vegans. It’s tucked in San Blas and serves beautifully plated dishes that are 100% meat-free.
• Morena Peruvian Kitchen – Large portions, bold local flavours, and a stylish atmosphere. Right near Plaza de Armas, it’s an easy win for lunch or dinner.

If you’re visiting between May and September, make a reservation in advance—especially for dinner. Most of the best restaurants in Cusco book up quickly, and walk-ins often get turned away.

Cusco isn’t just about sit-down restaurants, though. Try these traditional foods and drinks when you’re feeling a little more adventurous:

• Cuy (guinea pig) – It’s an Andean delicacy with centuries of history. Expect it roasted whole, often with herbs and potatoes.
• Alpaca steak – Leaner than beef and full of flavour, it’s a sustainable option you’ll find on many menus.
• Choclo con queso – Giant white corn with slices of salty Andean cheese. It’s a popular street snack and pairs well with chicha morada.
• Chicha morada – A purple corn drink flavoured with cinnamon and fruit. It’s non-alcoholic, unless you go for the fermented chicha de jora, which locals often sip during festivals.

If you're not used to high altitudes, ease into new foods slowly. Save the cuy for after you've had a few days to acclimate.

To wrap it up, here are some quick Cusco travel tips for dining smart:

• Tipping is customary—leave 10% at restaurants but check the bill to see if it's already included.
• Locals tend to eat their biggest meal at lunch (almuerzo), so restaurants can be busy midday.
• Don’t drink the tap water and only accept ice if you’re sure it’s from filtered sources.

Shop the markets like a local

Tip 10: Shop the markets like a local

If you want a real sense of local life when visiting Cusco, Peru, skip the glossy souvenir shops and head straight for the markets. You’ll find everything from traditional textiles to exotic fruits, and it’s one of the best ways to support small vendors.

Start with the most famous:

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a buzzing maze near the historic centre where locals go for their daily shopping, and visitors come for the atmosphere.

• You’ll see piles of fresh produce, blocks of handmade cheese, coca leaves, and everything from dried alpaca meat to herbal teas.
• It’s a great place for a cheap, authentic meal. Grab an avocado sandwich, hot tamales, or a mystery stew from a local food stall for under S/10.
• Wander toward the back and you’ll hit the artisan stalls—blankets, ponchos, and sweaters labelled “100% alpaca.”

Bring small bills (soles), inspect items carefully, and don’t be afraid to negotiate—politely. Shopping here is part transaction, part cultural experience, and fully worth it.

For more curated finds, try these markets in Cusco focused on handmade crafts and fair trade:

Artisan markets worth exploring

• Centro Artesanal Cusco – Located along Av. El Sol, it’s organised, easy to navigate, and a great one-stop shop for souvenirs.
• Mercado de San Blas – Quieter and more intimate, this market is packed with handcrafted jewellery, woven goods, and embroidered bags.
• Look for vendor stalls labelled Q’ente or Sumaq Qara—they often represent women’s collectives from remote Andean communities.

If you’re hunting for authentic alpaca clothing, remember real quality isn’t cheap. Expect to pay S/200–400 for a genuine alpaca sweater. If it feels too soft and the price seems suspiciously low, it’s likely a blend or synthetic.

Explore day trips from Cusco worth the detour

When you’ve maxed out the city itself, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the Sacred Valley and beyond. Some of Peru’s most spectacular natural and historical sites are just a few hours from Cusco.

Sacred Valley

Think of this as Cusco’s quieter, greener cousin.

• Stop at Pisac for ancient terraces and a buzzing Sunday market.
• Swing by Ollantaytambo, a preserved Incan town with awe-inducing ruins.
• Visit Moray, a series of circular agricultural terraces believed to be an ancient crop lab.
• Don’t miss the Maras Salt Mines—stunning, geometric salt pans still in use today.

Most Sacred Valley tours run as full-day trips, with private or shared options. The scenery along the drive alone is worth it.

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

You’ve seen the photos, but seeing it in person? Different league.

• Leave early (4 a.m.).
• Hike is short but intense—2–3 hours round trip at 5,200m.
• Weather is fickle—rain, snow, sun, and wind can all happen on the same day.
• Consider Palccoyo Mountain as a less-crowded, easier alternative with multiple colourful peaks.

Machu Picchu

The big one.

• If you’re hiking the Inca Trail or going for a Machu Picchu trek, book 6+ months ahead—it sells out fast.
• Not hiking? Take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, then a shuttle up the mountain.
• Choose between a guided tour or solo visit, but entry times are staggered, and passports are checked at the gate.

Get your Machu Picchu entry ticket online well in advance—there are daily caps, and they do sell out, especially for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain add-ons.

Cusco travel safety tips for peace of mind

Cusco is generally safe, especially in tourist areas, but common-sense precautions go a long way.

General safety

• Petty theft is your main concern, especially in busy areas and markets.
• Use crossbody bags with zippers. Keep valuables in your hotel safe.
• Don’t flash cash, cameras, or phones. Be discreet.
• At night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid wandering alleys alone.

Read more here: Is Peru safe for tourists? Top safety tips you should know

Health & altitude

• Avoid drinking tap water—go for bottled or filtered only.
• Be cautious with street food until your stomach adjusts.
• Know the signs of altitude sickness (headache, fatigue, nausea). If symptoms get worse, descend and seek medical help.

Emergency info

• Emergency number: 105 (police), 106 (ambulance), 116 (fire).
• Closest hospital for tourists: Clinica San Jose or Clinica Peruano Suiza.
• English-speaking pharmacies are easy to find near Plaza de Armas. Ask for “botica” or “farmacia.”

Final Tip Recap

Now you’re ready to master travel in Cusco

You’re officially equipped with 10 smart, field-tested tips to travel Cusco like a seasoned explorer—not a confused, breathless tourist Googling “how to breathe at 3,400m.”

Is Peru worth visiting? Absolutely. Whether you’re staying three days or three weeks, your time in Cusco and Peru can be unforgettable, with the right planning. So, pace yourself, keep your wits (and soles) about you, and lean into the culture. This isn’t just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu—it’s a destination in its own right.

Now go crush that itinerary. ¡Buen viaje!