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Cusco Food Tour

Experience the wonders of Cusco with a local private guide

Cusco

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a city that embodies the rich culture, history, and beauty of Peru. All the following highlights will be explored with a Beyond Andes private guide at your side.

Overview

Cusco Private Tours with Local Guides

Cusco is a fascinating destination located in the highlands of Peru that offers a unique mix of ancient history, current vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Known as the “Historical Capital of Peru,” Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire and it was denominated as the “navel of the world” by the Incan civilization, and today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts.

One of the highlights of Cusco is the incredible architecture in the historic center, which reflects its rich history and cultural heritage. The city has countless beautiful churches (from the Spanish times), squares, and colonial-era buildings that date back to the Spaniard conquest. A perfect city to spend hours wandering the streets of the historic center, marveling at the intricate stonework, ancient alleyways, and ornate facades.

Cusco characterizes by having a very vibrant culture, which is celebrated through colorful festivals (especially in June), lively markets, and traditional music and dance performances. Get immersed yourself in the local culture by trying traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and rocoto relleno; mingling with the locals in the local festivals, or shopping local handicrafts at the bustling San Pedro market, it’s a lovely destination that will allure you with all of its enchanting.

As well, any visit to Cusco would be incomplete without a trip to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Inca city is perched high atop a mountain, surrounded by breathtaking Andes mountains and the Urubamba River (Sacred River). A journey to Machu Picchu is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Highlights

  • The Plaza de Armas: This beautiful main square is the heart of Cusco, which is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and filled with lively markets, street performers, and local vendors.
  • Sacsayhuaman: This impressive Inca religious site overlooking the city is a must-see for its massive stone walls, impressive masonry, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Qorikancha: This former main Inca temple, which was taken over by Santo Domingo church, is a fascinating example of the blending of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture and culture.
  • San Blas Neighborhood: This bohemian neighborhood is full of charming art galleries and shops, it is a great place to wander while exploring its typical alleys.
  • Museums: Cusco has a variety of museums showcasing the region’s rich history and culture, including the Machu Picchu Museum,  Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, the Inca Museum, and the Museum of Religious Art.
  • Cusco is a city that will capture your heart with its vibrant energy, stunning architecture, and fascinating history.

Tours

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NEW ITINERARY
Activity Type
Physical Level
Easy to Moderate
1 day FROM
$ USD 130.00 /pp
5.0 (31 Reviews)
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BESTSELLER TOUR
Activity Type
Physical Level
Easy to Moderate
1 day FROM
$ USD 80.00 /pp
5.0 (26 Reviews)
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BESTSELLER TOUR
Activity Type
Physical Level
Easy to Moderate
1 day FROM
$ USD 60.00 /pp
5.0 (38 Reviews)
...
BESTSELLER TOUR
Activity Type
Physical Level
Easy to Moderate
1 day FROM
$ USD 80.00 /pp
5.0 (39 Reviews)

Why travel with us

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THE BEST TEAM

When you venture into the uncrowded spots of Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, you need a great team around you. And we have the greatest. You’ll join professional licensed guides who surpass every standard imaginable for safety and preparedness in the Cusco and other regions of Peru...

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WE ARE FLEXIBLE

At our company, we understand that plans can be subject to change. Whether you need to add more travelers to your party or wish to extend your trip during your stay, we are well-equipped to accommodate a wide range of requests, from the expected to the unexpected. Our experienced team has...

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TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES

Unlike many travel companies that offer standardized packages and experiences, we pride ourselves on providing a unique, customized travel experience for each and every one of our clients. Our website serves as a starting point, offering inspiration and ideas, but we believe that each trip should...

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BEST VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY

We acknowledge that your leisure time is valuable and must be utilized to its fullest potential. Entrusting us with the responsibility of planning your trip to Machu Picchu Peru is a significant display of confidence in our services. Therefore, we assure you that we will provide personalized...

Reviews

Faqs about Cusco

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season from May to September when there is less rain and the weather is generally mild and sunny (although nights could be very cold). However, this is also the busiest time for tourism, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Most visitors to Peru, including those traveling to Cusco to other regions of Peru, do not need a visa for stays of up to 183 days. However, you will need a valid passport and may need to show proof of onward travel.

Cusco is located at an altitude of over 11,000 feet above sea level (3,400 meters), so altitude sickness can be a concern for some travelers. It’s a good idea to acclimate for a few days before undertaking any strenuous activities and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

The must-visit attractions in Cusco include the Plaza de Armas (main square), Sacsayhuaman, Coricancha (temple of the sun), San Blas neighborhood, Tamboamachay, Pukapukara, and various museums. The nearby Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are also popular destinations.

Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing for warmer days and layers for cold nights. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan to trek, make sure to bring appropriate gear (footwear and clothing).

Cusco is a relatively safe destination in Peru for travelers but it’s always a good idea to take caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you and use reputable taxis or transportation services.

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