High up in the Peruvian Andes lies Cusco, former center of the Inca Empire. While travelers are likely to use the city as a launching point for Machu Picchu – Peru’s largest tourist attraction – Cusco is well-worth a visit in itself. Take time to acclimate and experience the mix of Incan and Spanish influences that define the now tourist-centric city. Backpackers flock to Cusco year round, making it a welcome refuge.
* Plaza de ArmasCusco’s Plaza de Armas is the cultural center of the city. Lining the plaza are restaurants, bars, and coffee shops – many with a great view of the city – perfect for spending an afternoon people-watching and acclimating to Cusco’s elevation. At the center of the plaza lies a manicured garden and intricate statue of Incan ruler Pachacuti. Those willing to venture from the sun-soaked benches will appreciate a tour of Cusco’s massive cathedral, complete with a trip into the crypts. The cathedral, a symbol of the Spanish conquest, contains a unique Peruvian touch in the replica of Da Vinci’s ‘Last Supper’: a guinea pig (cuy) appears on one of the plates.
* San Pedro MarketThe San Pedro Market is truly a spectacle to behold, filled with fruit, vegetable and meat stands, as well as 30 freshly-squeezed juice stalls. The lack of refrigeration means that products are displayed open-air, and that the freshest items are sold in the morning, meaning that those intending to buy anything should arrive early. For lunch, the market hosts a number of empanada and tamale vendors, as well as food stalls that serve menú – a two-course meal – for around S/.5. Those struggling with the altitude will want to pick up a bag of coca leaves to suck on.
* Dare To Try Cuy
Although diners may be squeamish at the site of guinea pig at their table, cuy is a Peruvian delicacy that carries historical and regional importance. The dish appears in the aforementioned Last Supper copy hanging in the cathedral, and has provided a cheap livestock alternative for centuries. The Cusco variety of cuy is typically roasted, meaning that the guinea pig is particularly palatable and carries a similarity to duck or rabbit meat. Although home to several cuyerías – restaurants specializing in cuy – the best option is Pachapappa, an open-air restaurant that cooks the dish in a wood-fired clay oven. For the faint of heart, try alpaca steak, another delicacy served throughout the city.
* NightlifeCusco is the party capital of Peru and supports one of the liveliest nightlifes in South America. Cheap hostels near the plaza encourage masses of backpackers to descend upon the many bars and clubs surrounding the square. Cusco’s most popular club, Mama Africa, blasts electronic, hip-hop, and dance music until 5:00am or 6:00am. Ukukus, another favorite spot, includes live bands and local acts, in addition to DJs. After partying until dawn, enjoy pizza at Ukuku’s late-night pizza bar, or order food from Cusco’s many street vendors that stay out to cater to the post-bar crowd. For a more comprehensive guide to the nightlife venues of Plaza de Armas, check out our guide.
* Planetarium
For the Inca, astronomy played a huge role in day-to-day life, influencing planting and harvesting of crops, religious ceremonies and architecture. The Inca calendar was detailed and accurate, evident from the position of buildings to coincide with solstices. The wonders of such phenomena are explored at the Cusco Planetarium, where visitors learn about Inca astronomy and conduct star-gazing of their own. Family-owned and operated, the planetarium is located near Sacsayhuaman, offering stunning views of the stars from Cusco’s high elevation. For a proper introduction into a vital part of the Andean world, the planetarium is unmissable.