Cusco holds hidden gems that few travelers know about. Here’s a selection of these magical spots, that invites you to discover the most authentic Cusco.
Nature and Amazing Landscapes
- Palcoyo Mountain: A less crowded alternative to Rainbow Mountain. The hike is only 20 minutes and 3.5 hours from Cusco. General admission S/ 15.
- Huasao Wetlands: A natural area 30 minutes from Cusco where you can spot Andean birds and see curious sculptures of fictional characters.
- Huaypo Lagoon: Perfect for relaxing or kayaking and fishing surrounded by mountains, 30 km from Cusco.
- Turquoise Pools of Muñapata: Natural pools of turquoise water near the town of Urcos. 🏛️ Off-the-Broadway Adventure and Archaeology
- Waqrapukara: A fortress and ceremonial center perched atop a canyon, known for its horn-shaped rock formations. It requires a moderately difficult hike at an altitude of 4,300 meters.
- Choquequirao: Machu Picchu’s «sacred sister,» difficult to access (only 20 visitors per day), making it perfect for getting away from it all.
- Huchuy Qosqo: An Inca administrative center with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley; the hike from Tambomachay takes up to 6 hours.
- Inkilltambo (Inca Prison): An Inca sanctuary carved into a large rock with water systems. Entrance is free, and access by bus costs S/ 1. 🌿 History, Mysticism, and Living Culture
- Pikillaqta: A pre-Inca archaeological site of the Wari culture with adobe architecture, showcasing advanced urban planning.
- Tipón: Known as the «City of Aqueducts,» this complex is famous for its still-functional water channels, demonstrating the Inca mastery of hydraulic engineering.
- Raqchi (Temple of Wiracocha): Home to an imposing central adobe structure with a single wall. Hiring a local guide is recommended.
- Q’eswachaka Bridge: The last Inca suspension bridge still in use. Every June, local communities renew it in an ancestral ceremony, keeping the tradition alive.
🏙️ Unique Experiences in the City
- Temple of the Moon: A ceremonial sanctuary in a cave, an hour’s walk from the Plaza de Armas (free admission).
- Temple of the Moon: A ceremonial sanctuary in a cave, an hour’s walk from the Plaza de Armas (free admission). • Catacombs of San Francisco: A network of underground tunnels used as a colonial cemetery in the heart of the city.
- Andahuaylillas: A rural town famous for its Baroque church, known as the «Sistine Chapel of the Andes.»
- Moray: Famous for its impressive circular agricultural terraces.
- The Last Supper with Guinea Pig: A painting in the Cathedral depicting Jesus and the apostles eating guinea pig and other Andean dishes, a testament to cultural syncretism.
