The Hidden Gems of Cusco You Need to See

If you have been planning to visit Cusco for some time, you probably already know alot about this amazing place. You certainly mus of heard about the spectacular Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and other Cusco top attractions, but did you knoe theres planty of other sites and experiences less popular you can explore once you get to the imperial city? Ancient Incan ruins, vibrant markets, hikes and trekkings, Cusco offers a unique mix of history, culture, and adventure. In this article, I will share some of the top attractions and lesser-known things to do in Cusco.

Top Attractions

These are the most popular tours in Cusco and you should definitely book them so you don't miss out on anything important on your visit to the Inca land .

1. Machu Picchu: No trip to Cusco is complete without a visit to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic landmarks in South America. You can reach Machu Picchu by hiking the Inca Trail or taking a train from Cusco.
2. Sacred Valley: The Sacred Valley is a picturesque region surrounding Cusco that was once the heart of the Inca Empire. It's home to many archaeological sites, including the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisac. The valley is also famous for its traditional markets where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
3. Plaza de Armas: The Plaza de Armas is the main square in Cusco and is the perfect place to start your exploration of the city. It's surrounded by impressive colonial buildings, including the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of La Compania de Jesus. You can also find many restaurants and shops around the plaza.
4. Sacsayhuaman: Sacsayhuaman is an Inca fortress located just outside of Cusco. The massive stone walls were built without the use of mortar and are a testament to the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. You can climb to the top of the fortress for a breathtaking view of Cusco.
5. San Pedro Market: San Pedro Market is a bustling market in the heart of Cusco where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample traditional Peruvian cuisine.
6. Moray: Moray is an archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley that's often overlooked by tourists. The site features a series of circular terraces that were used by the Inca to experiment with different crops. The terraces create a unique microclimate that allowed the Inca to grow a wide variety of crops in one location.
7. Rainbow Mountain: Rainbow Mountain is a stunning natural wonder located just outside of Cusco. The mountain gets its name from the colorful stripes that run down its side. The hike to the summit is challenging but the views are well worth the effort.
8. Laguna Humantay: Laguna Humantay is a stunning turquoise lake located in the high Andes. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular spot for hiking and camping. Visitors can take a day trip from Cusco to the lake, which involves a challenging but rewarding hike.

Less popular attractions

If you want to know in depth the heart of Cusco, these are the places you should also visit during your trip:

1. Choquequirao: Choquequirao is an Inca site that's often referred to as "Machu Picchu's little sister." It's located in a remote part of the Andes and requires a multi-day trek to reach. However, the journey is worth it as the site is virtually untouched by tourists and offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Inca.
2. Pumamarca: Pumamarca is a small Inca site located near Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. The site features impressive terraces and a complex system of aqueducts that allowed the Inca to irrigate their crops.
3. Chinchero: Chinchero is a small village located in the Sacred Valley that's famous for its traditional weaving techniques. You can visit local weavers and learn about the process of creating beautiful textiles using natural dyes.
4. Tipon Archaeological Park: Located just outside of Cusco, Tipon Archaeological Park is a hidden gem that's often overlooked by tourists. The park features a series of terraces and water channels that were used by the Inca for irrigation purposes. The site is particularly impressive for its hydraulic engineering, and visitors can explore the intricate system of canals and fountains.
5. Q'enqo: Q'enqo is an archaeological site located just a few kilometers outside of Cusco. The site features a series of underground chambers and tunnels, as well as a large rock that was used for sacrificial purposes by the Inca. Q'enqo is particularly interesting for its unique rock formations, which have been carved into the shape of animals and other figures.
6. Cusco Planetarium: For stargazing enthusiasts, the Cusco Planetarium is a must-visit attraction. The planetarium offers tours of the night sky using high-powered telescopes and state-of-the-art equipment. Visitors can learn about the constellations, planets, and other celestial objects while enjoying the beautiful Andean night sky.
7. Inca Trail to Vilcabamba: The Inca Trail to Vilcabamba is a lesser-known alternative to the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trail winds through the beautiful Andean mountains and features several Inca ruins, including the impressive Choquequirao. The trail is less crowded than the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, making it a great option for those looking for a more remote and adventurous trek.
8. Huayna Ccara: Huayna Ccara is an impressive Inca site located just outside of Cusco. The site features a series of terraces and buildings that were used for agricultural and religious purposes by the Inca. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the Inca's advanced agricultural techniques.
9. ChocoMuseo: For chocolate lovers, the ChocoMuseo is a must-visit attraction in Cusco. The museum offers tours and workshops on the history and production of chocolate, as well as tastings of delicious chocolate treats.
10. Huchuy Qosqo is an impressive Inca site located just outside of Cusco, Peru. The site features a series of terraces, buildings, and ceremonial plazas that were used by the Inca for religious and administrative purposes. Huchuy Qosqo is particularly interesting for its unique architectural style, which combines elements of both Inca and Spanish colonial design. Visitors can reach the site by taking a challenging hike through the beautiful Andean mountains, and can explore the site to learn about the Inca's engineering and agricultural techniques.

As you can see, there is a lot to do in Cusco, no matter if it is the main attractions or special hidden places to visit, there are plenty of great options to make your trip a fantastic experience. Cusco offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture or adventure. While the main attractions are certainly worth visiting, don't overlook the lesser-known sites that offer a more intimate and in-depth way to learn about the Inca civilization. So when planning your next trip to Cusco, remember that beyond the popular tourist attractions there is a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by curious travelers like you.