Things to Do in Cusco Peru: Top 8 Experiences You’ll Love
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, offers you an incredible blend of history, culture, and adventure that will leave you breathless (and not just because of the altitude!). Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, the things to do in Cusco Peru are as diverse as they are unforgettable. From mystical mountain lakes to ancient ruins, here are the top 8 experiences that should be on your Cusco bucket list.
1. Marvel at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
Your journey to Vinicunca, known as Rainbow Mountain, will be one of the most rewarding things to do in Cusco Peru. This natural wonder sits at 5,200 meters above sea level and showcases stunning mineral deposits that paint the mountainside in vibrant stripes of red, yellow, green, and turquoise.
The trek to Rainbow Mountain typically takes 3-4 hours each way, but the breathtaking views make every step worthwhile. Along the way, you’ll also discover the Red Valley, a lesser-known gem with equally spectacular crimson-colored landscapes. The contrast between the rainbow-striped peaks and the rust-red valley floor creates a photographer’s paradise.
Pro tip: Start early to avoid crowds and bring warm layers – mountain weather can change quickly at this altitude.
2. Explore Sacred Valley & Maras Salt Mines Tour
The Sacred Valley tour ranks among the most popular things to do in Cusco Peru, and for good reason. This full-day adventure takes you through the heart of ancient Inca civilization, where you’ll visit the impressive ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
The highlight of this experience is the otherworldly Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of terraced salt pools have been harvested since Inca times. These geometric salt pans create a mesmerizing white mosaic against the Andean landscape. You’ll learn about traditional salt extraction methods that have remained unchanged for centuries.
The Sacred Valley also offers you the chance to interact with local communities and witness traditional Andean life that continues to thrive in this historic region.
3. Discover the Turquoise Beauty of Humantay Lake Tour
Humantay Lake represents one of the most scenic things to do in Cusco Peru for nature lovers. This glacial lake, nestled at 4,200 meters altitude, showcases an incredible turquoise color that seems almost too perfect to be real.
The moderate 2-hour hike to reach Humantay Lake rewards you with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks reflecting in the pristine waters. Many visitors consider this sacred lake to be one of Peru’s most photogenic spots. The surrounding Salkantay mountain range creates a dramatic backdrop that will leave you in awe.
This day trip works perfectly if you’re looking for a less strenuous alternative to some of the more challenging treks in the region, while still experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
4. Experience Moray & Chinchero Weavers Tour
Combining archaeological wonders with living culture, the Moray and Chinchero tour offers you unique things to do in Cusco Peru that showcase both ancient innovation and traditional craftsmanship.
Moray features remarkable circular terraces that the Incas used as an agricultural laboratory to test crops at different altitudes. These concentric circles create microclimates that allowed ancient farmers to experiment with various plants – a testament to Inca ingenuity.
In Chinchero, you’ll witness master weavers creating intricate textiles using techniques passed down through generations. You can participate in hands-on workshops where you’ll learn to spin alpaca wool, create natural dyes from local plants, and even try your hand at traditional weaving patterns. This immersive cultural experience connects you directly with Peru’s rich textile heritage.
5. Journey to the Wonder of Machu Picchu
No list of things to do in Cusco Peru would be complete without mentioning Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient citadel, perched dramatically on a mountain ridge, represents the pinnacle of Inca architecture and engineering.
Your journey to Machu Picchu can take various forms – from the scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley to multi-day trekking adventures. Once there, you’ll explore remarkably preserved temples, terraces, and residential areas that showcase the sophisticated urban planning of the Inca civilization.
The sunrise over Machu Picchu creates magical moments that will stay with you forever. Whether you choose to hike Huayna Picchu for aerial views or simply wander through the citadel’s ancient streets, this UNESCO World Heritage site delivers an experience that exceeds all expectations.
6. Savor Peruvian Cooking Class, Cocktails & Local Market Tour
One of the most delicious things to do in Cusco Peru involves diving deep into the country’s renowned culinary scene. Your culinary adventure begins at San Pedro Market, where you’ll discover exotic fruits, colorful spices, and unique ingredients that form the foundation of Peruvian cuisine.
During your hands-on cooking class, you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, or papa rellena using authentic techniques and local ingredients. The experience typically includes learning about Peru’s diverse potato varieties, quinoa preparation methods, and the art of balancing flavors in Peruvian cooking.
The adventure concludes with cocktail preparation, where you’ll master the perfect pisco sour and other traditional Peruvian drinks. This immersive food experience connects you with local culture through your taste buds and provides skills you can recreate at home.
7. The 7 Lakes Ausangate Trek
For serious adventurers, the 7 Lakes Ausangate Trek represents one of the most challenging yet rewarding things to do in Cusco Peru. This multi-day trek takes you around Ausangate, the highest mountain in the Cusco region, through landscapes that seem borrowed from another planet.
The trek showcases seven stunning alpine lakes, each with its own character and color palette ranging from deep blue to emerald green. You’ll traverse high mountain passes, encounter vicuñas and alpacas in their natural habitat, and visit remote communities that maintain traditional Andean lifestyles.
This demanding trek requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization, but the rewards include some of the most pristine and untouched wilderness in the Peruvian Andes. The changing landscapes, from glacier-fed lakes to colorful mineral mountains, create an unforgettable adventure for experienced trekkers.
8. Indulge at ChocoMuseo’s Chocolate Workshop
End your Cusco adventure on a sweet note with one of the most unique things to do in Cusco Peru – a chocolate workshop at ChocoMuseo. This hands-on experience takes you through the complete journey from cacao bean to finished chocolate bar.
You’ll learn about Peru’s role as the birthplace of cacao and discover why Peruvian chocolate is considered among the world’s finest. The workshop includes roasting cacao beans, grinding them into paste, and creating your own personalized chocolate bars with various toppings and flavors.
This delicious educational experience provides the perfect blend of learning and indulgence, offering you insights into sustainable cacao farming while creating tasty souvenirs to take home. It’s an ideal activity for families or anyone looking to discover Peru’s sweet side.
Planning Your Cusco Adventure
These eight experiences represent just the beginning of what awaits you in Cusco. Each activity offers a different perspective on this remarkable region, from ancient history and natural wonders to culinary traditions and adventure sports.
When planning your visit, consider spending at least 5-7 days to properly acclimatize to the altitude and fully enjoy these incredible things to do in Cusco Peru. Remember that Cusco sits at 3,400 meters above sea level, so take time to adjust before embarking on high-altitude adventures.
Your journey through Cusco will create memories that last a lifetime, connecting you with Peru’s rich cultural heritage while challenging you with unforgettable adventures in one of South America’s most captivating destinations.
