Cusco
The erstwhile capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is also the cradle of the Quechua culture, which sinks its roots in the formative period of the Andean civilization. As the center of the empire, Cusco received tribute from its provinces in the form of the finest foodstuffs they could produce. This formed the base of a solid culinary tradition that grew richer with the addition of Spanish, African, and Asian elements in more recent history.
At once quaint and cosmopolitan, walking through this city’s narrow streets can challenge your perception of time and reality. In Cusco, you learn to accept that not everything must be deciphered or understood, but contemplated and loved surrendering in amazement.
Gastronomic experiences that you can include in your personalized journey
- Savor the roots of the Andean culture with a Pachamanca
- Harvest produce from an organic garden and use it to prepare lunch, all with a view of the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo.
- Explore markets to know our local “Superfoods”, exotic fruits, a great variety of tubers, herbs, etc.
- Visit distilleries, craft breweries, and coffee roasters.
Other fantastic activities to do in Cusco
- Witness one of the wonders of the world: Machu Picchu, not only an archaeological wonder but also a nature reserve.
- Get to know the salt mines of Maras and the circular terraces of Moray riding an electric bicycle.
- Share a day with the Melo family from the Patacancha community. Learn about their textile art and gastronomic traditions, passed from generation to generation.
- Go whitewater rafting down the Urubamba river.
Important information about Cusco
- Altitude
Cusco City: 3,400 m.a.s.l. / 11,155 f.a.s.l.
Sacred Valley: 2,800 m.a.s.l. / 9,190 f.a.s.l.
Machu Picchu: 2,430 m.a.s.l. / 7,970 f.a.s.l.
- Average climate
The temperature in Cusco is mild year-round. Summer is the rainy season, from December to March, though temperatures rarely exceed 20 C / 70 F. Winters are dry and chilly, very infrequently dipping below freezing point early in the morning.
- Health & Precautions
We recommend eating lightly before arriving in Cusco, and once there until your body gets used to the high altitude. Remember to stay hydrated; herbal teas such as mint or coca can be very beneficial when dealing with altitude sickness. Try not to physically exert yourself or indulge in alcohol.
It is essential to wear sunscreen as solar radiation can be very intense in the Andes. When visiting Machu Picchu, which has a warmer, more humid climate, we highly recommend wearing insect repellent, especially if you are allergic to insect bites.
- Gastronomy
Cusco’s regional cuisine is rich, hearty, and traditional. Local ingredients such as potatoes, quinoa, and various types of meat are the base for famous dishes like Cuy Chactado, Pachamanca, and Chairo soup.