Cusco is known far and wide as the former Incan capital high in the Peruvian Andes and of course, the starting point for visiting the renowned ruins of Machu Picchu. However, Cusco offers many more unique excursions that shouldn’t be missed while visiting this beguiling South American city. Instagram has probably already introduced you to Cusco’s newest attraction the Rainbow Mountain but you probably haven’t heard of the Ollantaytambo and Saqsaywaman ruins that give Machu Picchu a run for its money. Bring things back to the present with a visit to a local market or by river rafting through Peru’s Sacred Valley. Doubtless, there’s a lot to explore around Cusco and with our guide you’ll be able to make the most out of your visit!
1. Rainbow Mountain
After Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain is the most visited attraction in Cusco. It has many names but is most commonly referred to as Vinicunca or “La Montaña de Siete Colores’ (meaning the mountain of seven colors). Its stunning colors come from many bright minerals bleeding through the sandstone and are best seen on sunny days. At the incredible altitude of 5200 meters above sea level make sure, it’s wise to acclimatize a few days in Cusco before attempting the 7 km trek. Driving past the traditional Peruvian villagers herding llamas and alpine valleys bordered by snow capped peaks, it’ll come as no surprise that this gorgeous region has been a spiritual site for centuries. It’s worth mentioning that the area is not just known for Rainbow Mountain but for breathtaking glaciers and turquoise lakes. If you have extra time consider exploring the Red Valley or for more serious trekkers consider the Ausangate Trek. We offer Rainbow Mountain as an extra side trip on all of our Machu Picchu Packages.
2. Urubamba River’s White Water Rafting
If you are ready to get your heart pumping and test your physical strength, white water rafting down the Urubamba might be the right excursion for you. While you cruise the swells of Peru’s sacred river, parrots fly overhead and Incan ruins appear along the picturesque hills on either side. Considered to be the best place to river raft in Peru, the thrilling ride starts high in the Andes down through the Sacred Valley, through jungles and past Machu Picchu. Other than dramatic scenery, expect Class lll rapids depending on the weather and the season. What better way to spend an afternoon in Peru?
3. Saqsaywaman
Two kilometers North of Cusco lies a hilltop citadel, the historic and impressive capital of the Inca Empire, Saqsaywaman or the House of the Sun. At an altitude of 3,701 m, with parts as old as 900 CE, this archaeological site was a place for ancient people to study the stars and approach the heavens. The immense fortress like walls fortify this ceremonial ritual site with immaculate stonework and architectural feats of engineering. With stone blocks fitting together with impossible precision and weighing up to 360 tons, the question on the lips of every visitor is an awestruck “How?”. Combined with sweeping valley views of Cusco below, a visit to Saqsaywaman is worth every Peruvian sol.
4. Ollantayambo Town in The Sacred Valley
Containing many beautiful ruins, the Sacred Valley should be high on your list while visiting Cusco. Ollantayambo, known as the “Living Incan City”, is the only Incan town that is still inhabited and practices aspects of the ancient culture. The magic of the temples, terraces and cobblestone streets only intensifies when you learn this town has been continuously inhabited for over 700 years. While in ‘Ollanta’ take a hike to the grain storehouses high above the town or visit the weaving communities at Patacancha if you fancy quality handwoven textiles. This town is conveniently located near the beginning of the Inca trail and is the best way to inaugurate your journey of a lifetime.
5. Pisac Market
The most popular market in the Cusco area by far is the Pisac market. Set in an atmospheric village, this is where the indigenous Quechua communities gather to sell their wares and buy produce for the week to come. Wander through a maze of vibrant ceramic plates, soft alpaca blankets and watercolors all sold by colorfully dressed locals. After perusing the wares of top notch craftsmanship, settle in with a fresh juice and absorb the lively energy of the market . The highlight of this visit for many is admiring the proud display of Andean traditional clothes and distinctive hats. The photo opportunities are endless.
Exploring one of Peru’s oldest and most popular cities can be tiring work. Here are Adventurehero we do our best to help in any way we can. We have many customizable packages to help you see everything on your bucket list and some you didn’t know you were missing. Check out Machu Picchu packages here and hit us up with any questions or comments about this blog post! We love to hear your feedback.
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