Cuzco or Cusco (in southern Quechua: Qusqu or Qosqo, pronounced [ˈqo̝s.qɔ]) is a city in southeastern Peru located on the eastern slope of the Andes mountain range, in the Huatanay river basin, a tributary of the Vilcanota. It is the capital of the department of Cusco and, in addition, as stated in the Peruvian constitution, it is the “historical capital” of the country.

The city, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics, is the seventh most populous in Peru, and housed in 2017, a population of 437,538 inhabitants.

Formerly it was the capital of the Inca Empire and one of the most important cities of the Viceroyalty of Peru. During the colonial period, under the sovereignty of the Spanish crown, various churches, palaces and baroque and neoclassical squares were built. These buildings are the attractions that make the city the main tourist destination in the country. It was declared a National Historic Monument in 1972 and a World Heritage Site in 1983 by UNESCO and is often called, due to the large number of monuments it has, the “Rome of America”.

Geography and climate

Cuzco is located at an altitude of 3400 meters above sea level, it expands through the valley formed by the Huatanay river and the surrounding hills. Its climate is generally dry and temperate. It has two defined seasons: a dry one between April and October, with sunny days, cold nights with frosts and an average temperature of 13 ° C; and another rainy, from November to March, average temperature 12 ° C. On sunny days, the temperature reaches 20 ° C, although the light mountain wind is usually cold.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO VISIT CUSCO

1. Hydration is important

In Cusco it is very important to be hydrated, you can drink water or coca tea that will help you counteract altitude sickness. You may feel that you are lacking oxygen and your digestion will probably be a little slower but this is normal due to height. If you prefer prevention rather than regret, you can have pills like Sorojchi Pills or Gravol at your fingertips.

2. Always carry cash

Most restaurants and hotels in the city accept payments in US dollars and cards such as Visa or Mastercard. However, for activities to be carried out outside the city, it is preferable to use cash and preferably in soles. 

3. Rest is the key

If it is your first day in Cusco, it is very important that you rest for at least 2 hours upon arrival. This will help your body adapt to the height, but if you are one of those who do not want to waste a minute of the trip or have a few days to stay, take advantage of visiting places near the city such as: The Plaza de Armas, San Blas , the stone of the twelve angles, the white christ and much more. 

4. The kit that can not miss in your backpack

What can’t you stop wearing? In the sun you will feel hot, but if you go into the shade you will feel the cold wind. This in Cusco is very normal, at some time of the day it will be cold so it is very important to wear a good coat. In addition, it is convenient to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, good walking shoes and a lip balm.

5. Great diversity of lodgings

If you still do not know where to stay, we tell you that in Cusco you can get accommodation of all prices and for all tastes. It is important to find the balance between price and quality according to your budget. You can contact Titikaka Real Travel to help you find the best rate according to your travel date for stays, tours and much more. 

6. The best plans and for all tastes

In Cusco there are many things to do but here apart from the “conventional” tours you can dare to do other activities such as:

Rainbow moutain: remember that you must have a good acclimatization and a good physical condition.

Via Ferrata: it is a route to climb mountains with a permanent security system installed, which provides security and facilitates the experience for people who have never done this activity.

Rafting: Canoeing on the Urubamba River is super exciting!

7. Get ready to visit Machu Picchu

The most recommended is to travel in the dry season, from April to October, because from November to March is the rainy season and you will not have the landscape so clear to enjoy the beautiful view. Of course, it will depend a lot on the climate that you like the most, but you always have to travel prepared, since there can be rain at any time of the year.

8. You can’t miss the nightlife

Going out to dance or have a few drinks is something that many do and if you feel in perfect physical condition, go ahead and enjoy it! They say that the nightlife in Cusco is one of the most varied because you find everything with different musical styles.

9. Important to take into account

In each guide / tour you take, you only have what is necessary. Try not to carry objects that prevent you from enjoying your journey. Don’t forget to dress according to what you plan to do.

10. Souvenirs of all kinds

You cannot leave this beautiful city without taking a memory souvenirs. Something that shows the local culture and reminds you that you use in one of the main tourist attractions in Peru.

11. Attitude to everything

You must go with the best attitude in the world, in order to recharge yourself with energy. This is the perfect destination to disconnect from routine, work and any stress. Trust us after your first visit, you’ll want to come back again and again!

Remember that if you do not have it, not even the best agency in the world can make you enjoy this experience!