Tourism in Cusco

Cusco as main attraction in Peru

Cusco is considered the tourist heart of Peru and the historical capital of America. Its archaeological, cultural and spiritual richness makes it an unmissable destination for travelers from all over the world. From Machu Picchu to its colonial neighborhoods, Cusco offers a unique experience that combines living history, Andean landscapes and ancestral traditions.

Only in the first two months of 2025, more than 191,351 visitors arrived in Cusco. Between national and foreign tourists. This data is information provided by Mincetur. Of course, the main influx of tourists is because they want to visit Machu Picchu. Another attraction with the most visitors is Rainbow Mountain.

On the other hand, thanks to the fact that the Inka culture developed in Cusco, it was linked to strong spirituality. That is why thousands of national and international tourists arrived and continue to arrive seeking a connection with the spiritual world of the Incas. However, now, the possibilities have opened up and thousands of tourists can do more activities. Now let's learn more.

What are the best dates to arrive in Cusco?

The best time to visit Cusco is between May and October, during the dry season. The months of June and July are especially recommended for their festivities such as Inti Raymi and the anniversary of Cusco, although they are also the most crowded.

However, you can also visit during the rainy season. That is, during the months of November to February. February being the month with the most rain and tourists continue to arrive. In fact, many travel in this season because mysticism takes over Cusco thanks to the rains and more than one seeks this type of connection.

When does the rainy season begin?

The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, with January and February being the rainiest months. During this period, some routes such as the Inca Trail may be closed for tourist safety. Likewise, it is advisable to take other trekking routes to Machu Picchu, but yes, taking into account the rain factor.

In case you can't find what to do because of the rain, a tour of the streets of Cusco, visiting museums and even restaurants can be a good alternative. Likewise, you can take spiritual trips with the help of a shaman through attractions near the center of Cusco such as Sacsayhuamán or Qenqo.

Is it safe to travel to Cusco?

Yes, Cusco is a safe destination for tourists. However, it is recommended to take basic precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, using official taxis and protecting personal belongings in crowded places. Most travelers enjoy their stay without any problems.

Another detail to take into account is to have information about weather conditions, directions, transportation costs and food costs. Only by having this information in advance, you can have a safe and pleasant stay. It is for this reason that many tourists contact travel agencies, who take care of everything necessary to make the trips.

What type of tourism can be done in Cusco?

Cusco offers a wide variety of experiences:

• Archaeological tourism: Inca ruins such as Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo and Tambomachay.
• Cultural tourism: museums, festivities, popular art and gastronomy.
• Adventure tourism: trekking, cycling, rafting and paragliding.
• Mystical tourism: ancestral rituals, spiritual retreats and sacred walks.
• Gastronomic and wellness tourism: Andean cuisine, yoga and natural therapies.

What is mystical tourism like in Cusco?

Mystical tourism in Cusco connects the traveler with Andean spirituality, the Inca worldview and ancestral practices that promote self-knowledge and healing.

How can I do mystical tourism in Cusco?

Mystical tourism in Cusco is a transformative experience that combines spirituality, ancestral culture and connection with nature. Unlike traditional tourism, this modality invites the traveler to explore their inner world while touring sacred places and participating in ancient rituals.

You can participate in ceremonies guided by shamans, visit sacred places and take spiritual walks. There are options for all budgets and experience levels.

What activities can help me do it?

• Payment to Pachamama
• Ceremonies with Ayahuasca or Wachuma
• Energy cleansing
• Meditation and yoga in the Sacred Valley
• Andean astrology and family constellations

Recommended activities

• Ancestral ceremonies: Include the Payment to the Earth (offering to Pachamama), rituals with sacred plants such as ayahuasca and wachuma (San Pedro), all guided by Andean shamans in energetic places such as Ñaupa Iglesia, the Temple of the Moon or the Sacred Valley.
• Healing rituals: Energy cleansing, flowering baths and spiritual harmonization sessions with herbs, chants and natural elements are performed.
• Yoga and meditation: Many spiritual retreats offer sunrise yoga practices and guided meditations at sites such as Sacsayhuamán, Humantay Lagoon or Machu Picchu.
• Andean astrology and constellation observation: The links between the cosmos and the Inca worldview are explored, with workshops and sessions in places like Moray or Qorikancha.
• Sacred walks: Routes such as the Inca Trail, Ausangate Trek or the climb to Inti Punku (Gate of the Sun) are considered spiritual pilgrimages, where each step is an opportunity for introspection and connection with the Apus (spirits of the mountains).

Is it necessary to contact an expert?

Yes, to guarantee a safe and authentic experience, it is recommended to hire specialized local guides or agencies with experience in spiritual tourism such as Waskar Expedition. Only in this way can you have a true experience and not waste time or money with false shamans.

Remember that the main benefits of mystical tourism:

• Personal and spiritual growth.
• Emotional and energetic healing.
• Reconnection with nature and the cosmos.
• Stress reduction and improved mental well-being.

What is cultural tourism like in Cusco?

Cultural tourism in Cusco is a deep immersion into the living history of the Inca Empire, Spanish colonization and contemporary Andean identity. In its streets you can appreciate the vestiges of a civilization deeply linked to nature and in harmony with spiritual energy as a connection with the cosmos.

The vast majority of activities you can do in Cusco are linked to the culture that developed in this place. So you will only have to pay attention to the indications and information given by tour guides. Remember that if you want to know more about the culture and history of the main attractions of Cusco, you must take the tour with a tour guide.

How can I do cultural tourism in Cusco?

You can tour museums, temples, traditional neighborhoods and participate in local festivities. You can also visit rural communities that offer experiential tourism.

What activities can help me do it?

• Visit Coricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Cusco Cathedral
• Tour the San Blas neighborhood and its artisan workshops
• Attend fairs, dances and traditional celebrations

Recommended activities

• Weaving, ceramics and Andean cooking workshops.
• Guided visits to museums such as the Inka Museum or Casa Garcilaso.
• Participation in festivities such as Inti Raymi or Pachamama Day.
• Inti Raymi is celebrated every June 24.
• Pachamama Day is celebrated personally or with family during the month of August.

Is it necessary to contact an expert?

It is not mandatory, but having a tour guide or cultural guide can enrich the experience and provide historical and symbolic context.

On some occasions and if you decide to do experiential tourism, remember to make contact with a tour guide who speaks Quechua. Only in this way can you further enrich your contact with some natives who only speak Quechua or Spanish.

What is adventure tourism like in Cusco?

Cusco is a paradise for adrenaline lovers, with mountainous landscapes, mighty rivers and challenging routes. This is mainly due to the geographical variety it has. In Cusco you can find destinations such as the high jungle, where Machu Picchu is located, and spaces full of snow and high altitude, such as Rainbow Mountain.

Both destinations are quite visited and tourism agencies offer countless adventure activities to complete the tour. Of course, you can also do this type of activity on your own or with a trusted expert.

How can I do adventure tourism in Cusco?

You can hire specialized tours in trekking, cycling, rafting, climbing or paragliding. It is important to acclimatize before doing demanding activities.

What activities can help me do it?

• Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Huchuy Qosqo.
• Cycling in the Sacred Valley.
• Rafting on the Urubamba or Apurímac river.
• Paragliding in the Lamay Valley.

Recommended activities if you have little time

• Trekking to Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lagoon
• ATV tour through Maras and Moray
• Rock climbing and canopy in rural areas

Is it necessary to contact an expert?

Yes. For safety and logistics, it is recommended to hire certified agencies and guides with experience in adventure sports.

What else to do in Cusco?

In addition to museums and archaeological routes, you can:

• Walk through the Plaza de Armas and the San Blas neighborhood.
• Visit markets such as San Pedro and Wanchaq.
• Enjoy local gastronomy and learn to prepare typical dishes.
• Take classes in salsa, photography or Andean astronomy.
• Experience community tourism in Sacred Valley communities.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the best time to travel to Cusco?

The dry season, between May and October, is ideal for visiting Cusco. The months of June and July stand out for their festivities and good weather.

2. When does the rainy season begin in Cusco?

The rainy season begins in November and extends until March, with January and February being the rainiest months.

3. Is it safe to travel to Cusco as a tourist?

Yes, Cusco is a safe tourist destination. It is recommended to take basic precautions such as hiring certified guides and avoiding poorly traveled areas at night.

4. What types of tourism can be done in Cusco?

Cusco offers cultural, archaeological, mystical, adventure, gastronomic and experiential tourism, adapted to different interests and experience levels.

5. What activities does mystical tourism in Cusco include?

It includes rituals such as payment to Pachamama, ceremonies with Ayahuasca or Wachuma, sacred walks, meditation and visits to energetic places such as Ñaupa Iglesia.

6. Is it necessary to hire a guide for mystical tourism?

Yes, it is recommended to have local experts or certified shamans to guarantee a safe and authentic experience.

7. What cultural activities can be done in Cusco?

You can visit museums, temples, traditional neighborhoods, participate in festivities such as Inti Raymi and take art, cooking or Andean weaving workshops.

8. What adventure tourism options are there in Cusco?

Cusco offers trekking (Inca Trail, Salkantay), cycling, rafting, paragliding and ATV tours through natural and archaeological landscapes.

9. Is it necessary to hire a guide for adventure tourism?

Yes, for safety and logistics, it is advisable to hire certified agencies and guides specialized in adventure sports.

10. What other activities can be done in Cusco besides visiting museums?

You can tour traditional markets, enjoy local gastronomy, take dance or photography classes, and experience community tourism in rural communities.