Ultimate Cusco Travel Guide: Insider Tips on Budget, Food, Safety & Must-Sees

Welcome to the Around the World Interview series on Ordinary Traveler! We feature guests who have lived or spent extended time in captivating destinations, sharing expert insights and practical tips.

This week, Flip Flops Abroad offers her comprehensive Cusco travel tips, drawn from firsthand experience.

Budget Tips for Cusco

Cusco ranks among Peru's pricier cities, serving as the gateway to iconic sites like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Sacsayhuaman. Most visitors cluster near the city center or Plaza de Armas.

To save money, opt for neighborhoods like San Cristobal, San Blas, or San Pedro. You'll walk farther to the main square but enjoy a more authentic local vibe.

Favorite Place or Experience in Cusco

The pinnacle of my Cusco—and South America—adventure was hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This demanding 4-day trek crosses high passes and valleys along ancient Inca stairways.

Visiting Cusco without Machu Picchu is unthinkable, and skipping the Inca Trail hike misses stunning scenery and lesser-known Inca ruins nearly as impressive.

What’s the Food Like in Cusco?

As a tourist hub, Cusco offers global cuisines from Thai and Chinese to pizza and McDonald’s—plus authentic Peruvian fare. Try ceviche, Peru's national dish, for a standout meal.

Alpaca meat, prepared in various styles, tastes sweetly like pork tenderloin—delicious! The local delicacy, cuy (guinea pig), divides opinions. I tried it; it tasted like overpriced chicken.

Dos and Don’ts: Local Customs in Cusco

A key courtesy: always ask permission before photographing locals, who are especially sensitive here.

Favorite Hotels, Hostels, or Campgrounds in Cusco

For backpackers, EcoPackers Hostel is ideal—steps from the main square with excellent food.

For budget-conscious travelers, couples, or groups, Amaru Hostel I in San Blas boasts Plaza de Armas views and a superb breakfast with fresh fruit and eggs.

Must-Do Activities and Must-See Sites in Cusco

Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress overlooking Cusco, is perfect for altitude acclimation. Walk there from the city center for panoramic views. Explore the back for natural rock slides—fun for all ages!

Safety Tips and Warnings for Cusco

Cusco feels very safe; I walked alone at night in most areas amid lively crowds and low crime reports. Note: vendors strictly inspect foreign currency like U.S. dollars—rejecting any tears, marks, or damage—forcing extra ATM visits.

Best and Cheapest Times to Visit Cusco

November hits the sweet spot: post-peak season for lower prices, pre-full rainy season for mostly good weather.

Packing Tips for Cusco

From November to March, pack rain gear. Layer clothes—days are warm, nights chilly, especially in rain.

Or travel light and buy alpaca wool souvenirs: hats, gloves, scarves, sweaters—warm and authentic!