Travel around Cusco with Bobby
Day 1Arriving in the Heart of the Inca Empire
Touching down in Cusco, I immediately felt the altitude—it was a bit tough to catch my breath, but I knew this was just part of the adventure. I checked into Antigua Casona San Blas, a cozy boutique hotel tucked away in the artistic San Blas neighborhood. After settling in, I ventured out to the iconic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco. The square is surrounded by stunning colonial buildings, and I spent some time visiting Cusco Cathedral and La Compañía de Jesús Church, both incredible examples of Spanish architecture. The blend of Inca foundations with Spanish colonial structures is truly something to behold.
For dinner, I chose Morena Peruvian Kitchen, where I tried Lomo Saltado, a savory dish of stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries. It was a perfect introduction to Peruvian cuisine. Ending the night with a short walk back to the hotel, I was excited for what lay ahead.
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 history, and my first stop was the Saqsaywaman ruins, just a short taxi ride from my hotel. This incredible Inca fortress sits high above the city, offering breathtaking views of Cusco below. The massive stones used in the construction are mind-blowing, with some weighing over 100 tons. As I wandered through the site, I couldn’t help but feel amazed by the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
After exploring Saqsaywaman, I made my way to the Qorikancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, now partly integrated into the Santo Domingo Convent. The contrast between the Inca stonework and the Spanish colonial architecture was striking.
For lunch, I stopped at Pachapapa in the San Blas area. I couldn’t resist trying Cuy Asado (roast guinea pig), a local delicacy that was quite the adventure for my taste buds! While the texture was different from anything I had before, it’s a must-try when in Cusco.
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 a visit to Machu Picchu. I boarded the early PeruRail Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes, the village at the base of the mountain. The journey itself was spectacular, with panoramic windows providing stunning views of the Andes and the rushing Urubamba River.
After arriving in Aguas Calientes, I hopped on the shuttle bus that zigzags its way up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Walking through the stone gates and seeing the ancient city unfold before me was a moment I’ll never forget. I spent hours exploring the terraces, temples, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
On the return journey, I treated myself to a hearty meal at Indio Feliz, a popular restaurant in Aguas Calientes. The trout was fresh and perfectly cooked, and the restaurant had a quirky, fun atmosphere.
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 of Machu Picchu, today was a more relaxed exploration of the San Blas neighborhood. Known as the bohemian heart of Cusco, San Blas is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, art galleries, and local craft shops. I spent the morning visiting L’atelier Café for a relaxing coffee with a view over the city, then wandered through the local shops, picking up some beautiful handwoven textiles from the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales.
For lunch, I ate at Green’s Organic, a charming spot offering organic, farm-to-table meals. I went for the quinoa salad and was not disappointed—it was fresh, flavorful, and energizing. Afterward, I took a short walk to the Twelve-Angled Stone, one of the best examples of Inca stonework, hidden in the streets of San Blas.
That evening, I headed to Limbus Restobar, a rooftop bar offering one of the best views in Cusco. Watching the sunset over the city with a Pisco Sour in hand was the perfect end to the day.
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
Bobby’s 4-day trip to Cusco was a mix of culture, history, and adventure. On day one, he explored Plaza de Armas, visited the Cusco Cathedral, and stayed at the charming Antigua Casona San Blas, ending the day with a delicious meal at Morena Peruvian Kitchen.
The second day focused on history with visits to Saqsaywaman and Qorikancha, and Bobby tried Cuy Asado at Pachapapa. Day three was the highlight—a breathtaking visit to Machu Picchu via the PeruRail Vistadome, with a tasty meal at Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes.On the final day, Bobby explored San Blas and visited San Pedro Market before a last dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse.
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. The culinary experience was fantastic as well; trying local dishes like Lomo Saltado and Cuy Asado was exciting. I was also fortunate with my accommodation choices, particularly at boutique hotels like Antigua Casona San Blas, which added a peaceful touch to the trip. Overall, Cusco is a perfect balance of history and nature, and it’s a city every traveler should experience. For those coming here to explore both the past and the stunning landscapes, my advice is to be prepared because this city will leave you both physically and emotionally mesmerized.
Attractions
Value for Money
Cuisine
People and Culture
Accommodation
Cleanliness and Environment
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Overall Experience
Travel around Cusco with Bobby with More Details
I shared my personal experiences and impressions of Cusco on my blog page. If you want to explore the city in a more in-depth and comprehensive way, you can check out my other content full of detailed information and special tips.
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.
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