Travel around Cusco with Bobby
Day 1Arriving in the Heart of the Inca Empire
Upon touching down in Cusco, I immediately felt the effect of the altitude—it was a little challenging to catch my breath at first, but I reminded myself that this was all part of the adventure. Embracing the new experience, I made my way to my accommodation, the Antigua Casona San Blas. Nestled in the artistic San Blas neighborhood, this cozy boutique hotel had a unique charm that made it easy to settle in and relax. After a bit of rest, I felt ready to explore the city and take in its rich culture and history.
My first destination was the iconic Plaza de Armas, the vibrant heart and soul of Cusco. The square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, each with its own story to tell. I spent time wandering around, admiring the Cusco Cathedral and La Compañía de Jesús Church, both of which are incredible examples of Spanish architecture. The blend of Inca foundations with grand Spanish colonial structures is truly something to witness; it creates a fascinating harmony that reflects Cusco’s complex history and heritage.
As evening approached, I chose to dine at Morena Peruvian Kitchen, a popular spot for traditional Peruvian cuisine. I tried Lomo Saltado, a savory dish featuring stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, and found it to be a perfect introduction to the rich flavors of Peruvian dishes. After dinner, I took a leisurely walk back to my hotel, feeling content and excited for the adventures awaiting me the next day.
Take it easy on your first day—Cusco’s altitude can be challenging. Drink plenty of water and try some coca tea to help with acclimatization.
Day 2Saqsaywaman and a Step Back in Time
Today was all about diving into the rich history of Cusco, and I began with a visit to the Saqsaywaman ruins, located just a brief taxi ride from my hotel. This incredible Inca fortress sits on a hill overlooking the city, providing panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. The sheer scale of the stones used in its construction is astonishing, with some of these massive rocks weighing over 100 tons. As I walked among the ruins, I was captivated by the impressive engineering and ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
After spending time at Saqsaywaman, I made my way to another important historical site, the Qorikancha. Once the most revered temple of the Inca Empire, the temple has now been partially integrated into the Santo Domingo Convent, blending two worlds into one structure. The contrast between the sturdy, skillfully crafted Inca stonework and the later Spanish colonial architecture is a fascinating representation of Cusco’s layered history, showing the transition from Inca to Spanish influence.
When it was time for lunch, I headed to Pachapapa, a restaurant in the charming San Blas area. There, I decided to try Cuy Asado, or roast guinea pig, a traditional delicacy in Cusco. The texture was certainly different from any other dish I’d had before, but it was a unique culinary adventure and a must-try for anyone visiting. With each bite, I felt like I was truly experiencing the local culture.
Lunch at Pachapapa in San Blas was a culinary adventure. I tried Cuy Asado (roast guinea pig), a traditional Andean delicacy, which was an interesting and memorable experience. The setting, in a cozy courtyard, added to the local feel of the meal.
Food
Returning to Antigua Casona San Blas after a day of exploring was a comfort. The serene garden area and clean, stylish rooms made it a peaceful retreat. The hotel’s personalized touches made me feel right at home.
Accomodation
Visiting Saqsaywaman and Qorikancha was like stepping back in time. Both sites offered stunning views of the city and insight into the incredible architecture of the Inca Empire. Saqsaywaman, in particular, left me in awe of how the Incas moved such massive stones.
Activity
Saqsaywaman is best visited in the morning when it’s less crowded. Don’t rush—take time to absorb the history and enjoy the stunning views over the city.
Day 3The Journey to Machu Picchu
No trip to Cusco would be complete without the iconic visit to Machu Picchu, and today was the day I had been eagerly anticipating. I boarded the early PeruRail Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes, the quaint village situated at the base of the legendary mountain. The train journey itself was an unforgettable experience, with the Vistadome’s panoramic windows offering stunning views of the lush Andes mountains and the powerful flow of the Urubamba River rushing alongside us.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, I joined other eager travelers on the shuttle bus, which zigzags its way up a winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Walking through the stone gates and taking in the sight of the ancient city stretching out before me was breathtaking—a moment that will forever be etched in my memory. I wandered through the terraces and explored the temples, each corner offering new perspectives and views of the awe-inspiring mountains surrounding the site.
On the return journey, I decided to relax and enjoy a hearty meal at Indio Feliz, a popular spot in Aguas Calientes known for its welcoming ambiance. I chose the trout, which was fresh, perfectly cooked, and accompanied by a quirky and fun atmosphere that made it a delightful end to my visit. The meal was the perfect way to wind down after a day filled with adventure and unforgettable sights.
In Aguas Calientes, I enjoyed a delightful meal at Indio Feliz. The trout was fresh and flavorful, served with an artistic presentation. The quirky décor and lively atmosphere made the dining experience even more enjoyable after a long day of exploring.
Food
The day trip meant I didn’t need accommodation in Aguas Calientes, but the train ride on PeruRail Vistadome was incredibly comfortable. The panoramic windows offered beautiful views of the Andes, and the service onboard was excellent.
Accomodation
Visiting Machu Picchu was an unforgettable experience. The sheer majesty of the ancient city, surrounded by towering mountains, made it one of the most awe-inspiring sites I’ve ever visited. I could easily have spent hours exploring every corner of the ruins.
Activity
Book your Machu Picchu tickets well in advance, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water! The weather can change quickly, so pack a light rain jacket just in case.
Day 4 Exploring San Blas: The Artisan’s Quarter
After the intensity and excitement of exploring Machu Picchu, today was dedicated to a more leisurely stroll through Cusco’s charming San Blas neighborhood. Known as the bohemian heart of the city, San Blas is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant art galleries, and quaint local craft shops. My morning started at L’atelier Café, where I enjoyed a peaceful coffee while taking in a stunning view over the city—a perfect way to ease into the day. From there, I wandered through the neighborhood’s shops, picking up some beautifully handwoven textiles from the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales.
For lunch, I chose to dine at Green’s Organic, a cozy spot known for its fresh, farm-to-table offerings. I opted for the quinoa salad, which was both light and delicious, packed with fresh, energizing flavors that provided a delightful break in the day. Afterward, I took a short stroll to see the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, an impressive example of Inca stonework carefully tucked away in the streets of San Blas.
In the evening, I made my way to Limbus Restobar, a popular rooftop bar boasting one of the best panoramic views of Cusco. Watching the sun set over the city with a refreshing Pisco Sour in hand felt like the perfect way to wrap up a relaxed day of exploration, capturing the essence and charm of San Blas.
Lunch at Green’s Organic was a fresh and healthy break from heavier traditional dishes. The quinoa salad was refreshing, with locally sourced ingredients, and perfect for recharging after a morning in San Blas.
Food
Antigua Casona San Blas continued to impress, with its tranquil courtyard and excellent service. After a relaxing day in the San Blas neighborhood, the hotel’s comfort was the perfect end to the day.
Accomodation
Exploring the San Blas neighborhood was a highlight, with its narrow streets, art galleries, and local shops. The relaxed pace allowed me to take in the creative energy of the area while shopping for unique souvenirs.
Activity
San Blas is perfect for slow exploration—take time to browse the art and textiles, and don’t forget to haggle (respectfully) at the local shops.
Summary of My Trip
On my first day in Cusco, I dove into the city’s rich history by visiting sites like Saqsaywaman. The impressive stonework of the Inca civilization and stunning views of the city left me in awe. Then, I made my way to Qorikancha, where I could see the fascinating contrast between Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Curious about local cuisine, I tried Cuy Asado at Pachapapa—a unique and memorable taste experience. The next day, I journeyed to the legendary Machu Picchu. Exploring the vast terraces and ancient temples of this mystical site was a dream come true, capped off by a delicious trout meal at Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes.
In my last couple of days in Cusco, I slowed down the pace with a relaxing exploration of the San Blas neighborhood. Known as the bohemian heart of the city, this area’s narrow streets, art galleries, and local craft shops captivated me. I started my day with coffee at L’atelier Café, enjoying a lovely view of the city, then had a healthy quinoa salad at Green’s Organic for lunch. To end the day, I watched the sunset over Cusco from the rooftop of Limbus Restobar, sipping a Pisco Sour—a perfect farewell to an incredible few days in this unforgettable city.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Cusco absolutely captivated me. Every corner of the city is steeped in history and culture, and I truly felt enriched by walking these ancient streets. Exploring the former capital of the Inca Empire, seeing incredible ruins like Saqsaywaman up close, and getting lost in the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu was unforgettable. Wandering through the narrow streets, especially in bohemian neighborhoods like San Blas, gave me a glimpse of Cusco’s artistic soul. Despite the challenges of the high altitude, the warmth of the people and the delicious local food made everything more enjoyable.
I had dinner at Morena Peruvian Kitchen, where I tried Lomo Saltado, a traditional dish that was flavorful and filling. The restaurant had a great atmosphere, and the service was friendly and efficient. It was a perfect introduction to Cusco’s culinary scene.
Food
Staying at Antigua Casona San Blas was a delight, as the boutique hotel had a cozy atmosphere with charming Andean décor. The rooms were spacious, and the staff was welcoming and helpful throughout my stay. Its location in San Blas was also ideal for exploring the city.
Accomodation
Exploring Plaza de Armas and visiting Cusco Cathedral and La Compañía de Jesús was a fantastic start to the trip. The architecture was stunning, and the historical significance of the square made it a must-see. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Activity