Are you ready to visit the best spots in Cusco? A trek to Machu Picchu and to any other high altitude place starts with preparation. Acclimatizing to the altitude is essential. A good trip should be comfortable, not daunting.
And for acclimatization you don’t even have to sacrifice visitation time. Visiting scenic spots in Cusco can help you adjust gently and enjoyably. Let’s talk about it!
Each site in Cusco offers unique vistas and a peek into local culture. You can also learn about the history that created Cusco. Exploring these areas enhances acclimation, but they are great on their own.
We’ll guide you through the best spots in Cusco. These locations are perfect for pre-hike preparations. If you need to plan your itinerary before a big tour, this is your post.
Preparing for a trek to Machu Picchu demands careful preparation. But the same is applicable for other hikes or high altitude tours. And when it comes to adjusting to high altitudes, you need to plan carefully.
Cusco sits around 11,000 feet above sea level, or even higher. This not only means it is near to the mountains. But most of the attractions nearby are at least 8,300 feet, Most of the tourism spots in Cusco are higher. Which can be a worry, but at the same time an opportunity.
Cusco is the perfect setting for acclimatization. It is a city full of modern commodities, with quick access to medical attention. Spending a few days in Cusco is the best you can do for acclimatization. Some other spots in cusco region may work also, as Urubamba in the Sacred Valley
And you have to consider acclimatization anyways. No matter if you’ll tackle the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or the short Inca trail.
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness, is a concern. For many travelers, it can ruin a trek. But further front the annoyances. It can be detrimental for your health. And in the worst case scenario, it puts your life at risk.
This condition results from sudden low oxygen levels at high elevations. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. This condition is treatable, and manageable. But an episode in a remote mountain is something nobody wants.
Cusco provides a place for the gradual introduction to high elevations. You not only can manage the symptoms in a comfortable environment. You also can take the time to rest and acclimate to the altitude.
By spending time in this city, your body adjusts to the thinner air. This process reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Despite Machu Picchu not being higher than Cusco, the trek to Machu Picchu has some pretty high passes.
The regular medical recommendation for getting used to altitude, is to do few physical activities. But when you travel to visit another country you may not want to rest. But it is ok. You don’t need to be bedbound. You only have to take it easy.
Visiting the top attractions in Cusco is an alternative. Probably not as exciting as conquering the Humantay Lake trail. But it gives you an opportunity for discovery. There are a ton of spots in Cusco for every taste.
Begin at the historic Plaza de Armas Cusco. This bustling square is surrounded by significant historical churches like the Cusco Cathedral and La Compañía de Jesús.
Next, you can explore the Church of Santo Domingo, built atop the Inca Temple of the Sun. This is one of the most significant spots in Cusco. It offers a blend of colonial architecture and ancient Inca legacy. Also it is perfect for light walking tours. The complex has a site museum and an art gallery with rotating exhibitions.
Don’t miss the San Blas neighborhood. Known for its artisanal shops. But consider that its streets are infamous for being steep and narrow. Maybe a solid option for day 2 of the acclimatization process.
Consider day trips to nearby locations. Better suited for day 2 of the process. But don’t think of a Humantay Lake day trip, or the Rainbow Mountain.
Go for more relaxed excursions where the walking will be light. You need to be at rest most of the time. You don’t want to change to a higher altitude.
Such trips are a practical approach to acclimatizing. You can get to know some highlights.
Prepare with calm before your trek. You have to be the best you can physically and mentally. Your visit can wait for the acclimatization process. Meanwhile, there are spots in Cusco ready to entertain you.
Exploring Cusco on a city tour is a great prelude to any high-altitude adventure. Before your dream hike, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Cusco. This introduction can be an adventure by itself. Some spots in Cusco have amazing views and more.
A city tour in Cusco is perfect for acclimatization purposes. You get a little light exercise and the bases for Cusco exploration.
Walking through the stoned streets of Cusco is an adventure on its own. As you explore, you’ll stretch your muscles. A city tour is not only site sightings from a bus. You walk in the sites, you engage with what is around you. Everyone of the spots in Cusco demands for you to be active.
The tour includes numerous historic spots in Cusco. Many visitors come for those sites alone. The guided tours provide a comprehensive overview of the history.
From the Cusco Cathedral to the Santo Domingo church. You’ll learn about the colonial times. But the history of Cusco goes further. Many Inca ruins, including the ones on the historical streets, are an opportunity to learn about the Inca empire.
There are some spots in Cusco where you can see pre-columbian art. We are talking about pieces that date back to 1250 BC or even older. The history of the Inca empire is not the beginning of Cusco.
Cusco is a city that requires more than a rapid visit to reveal all its sites. A city tour is a good starting point. But that is just the beginning.
Visiting museums is an amazing way to spend your acclimatization days. You have a lot of options for museum spots in Cusco.
The “Museo de Arte Pre-Columbiano” Is a prime site to witness original artifacts. It introduces you to pieces from different periods. Its location near Plaza de Armas is really convenient.
This museum showcases a vast collection of pre-Columbian art. You’ll gain insights into the artistic life of ancient South America. This is a great place to start.
Churches like La Compañía de Jesús present examples of religious art from colonial times. Most of the historical churches were under the influence of the baroque. Every one of those churches have heavy decor.
But for a closer look at these artifacts, you can go to the Temple of La Merced, for a tour of the museum of the site. You’ll not only see art pieces. You’ll have the chance to see the ancient jewelry that the church keeps.
For every history period or interest, you will encounter a museum. Most of these spots in Cusco are small compared to international museums, but the collections make it worthy.
For travelers with limited time don’t worry. Most city tours only take half-day. Even if the tours do not include everything you want to visit, you can use the rest of the day for. Just look for the schedule of the attractions you want to visit and plan around.
These tours allow you to visit top attractions and still have time to relax or explore. The city tours are really convenient in this situation.
You can incorporate spots in Cusco like the San Blas neighborhood. You can also go to explore restaurants. Maybe go to a local event.
Because the process of acclimatization requires that you don’t drink alcohol, we don’t recommend going to bars. But the night scene in Cusco has variety. You may go to listen to local bands if you want. San Blas neighborhood is perfect for that, also.
Engaging with local guides is the first step to gain insights. You can get recommendations for prime spots in Cusco. But further from that, you can not really engage with culture unless you engage with the people.
These interactions provide the local perspective. They also can forge new friendships. Some tours include spaces for interactions with natives. But you can also initiate these interactions if you want.
Locals know more about spots in Cusco than any guide. Just take in mind they also do not have all the answers, they are locals, and they can have interests that do not relate to the visitor’s experience.
By the end of your city tour and other explorations, rest well. You can have light exercise but you also have to sleep well and drink a lot of water.
These steps ensure you acclimate and prepare for your upcoming trip. But remember that there is much more to enjoy in various spots in Cusco.
Preparing for a trek in the high Andes requires careful acclimatization. One day is not enough. You need at least a couple of days.
The area around Cusco, rich in serene spots. From observation points you can arrive by car, to full on tours. These day trips are perfect for gently adjusting to the altitude. A tranquil journey can satisfy any curious explorer that is waiting for the andean hike.
Here we have some recommendations.
A tour around the Sacred Valley is perfect for this. The Sacred Valley is rich in Inca history and stunning landscapes. It offers a milder altitude than Cusco. The lower altitude can alleviate some altitude sickness symptoms. Definitely it is an excellent location for gradual acclimatization.
You can arrive at many important spots in Cusco’s Sacred Valley by car. Like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Visiting involves minimal walking but you’ll get exploration, views and adventure.
The drive through the valley itself is relaxing. Many spots in Cusco’s Inca Valleys offer panoramic views. You’ll never be too far from medical assistance. Along the way there are many villages. This experience is a recommendation for every one.
Visiting the Sacred Valley is an unmissable experience. Not only if you want to go hike higger.
Similar to the Sacred Valley, in the other direction. We have Cusco’s South Vallley.
Another less demanding excursion is a tour of the South Valley. This area includes spots like Tipón and Pikillacta. You’ll visit inca ruins and pre inca ruins.
Walking on these sites is light exercise. But as a precaution, you’ll have to walk up stairs. And the altitude is similar or slightly higher than Cusco. A 3 day acclimation with the south valley on day 3 would be perfect.
Tipón boasts elaborate Inca agricultural terraces and water channels. The environment is peaceful. Pikillacta presents a Wari empire site. You can stroll around the ruins and enjoy the scenic views.
These tours also include visits to cultural places, like the San Pedro Church. SO there is variety.
These tranquil day trips aid in acclimatization. By themself, these tous are key experiences. Enjoy each one of them, and what they offer.
Every site has a history. And if you are not into history, you still can find amazing vistas. Cusco is a diverse place with a lot of experiences for everyone. Don’t let the more famous ones eclipse the rest.
By engaging in these gentle journeys, you also reduce the risk of overexertion. We explained most of the things to take into account. We hope this ensures you a safe trip.
