3-Day Family Adventure in Cusco: Nightlife and Shopping Extravaganza

Cusco, Peru

3 days

Nightlife

Shopping

Family

Tourist

Turquoise lagoon in Quispicanchi with the snowy Ausangate

About Cusco, Peru

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cusco, Peru. This ancient city, once the heart of the Inca Empire, is a gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. Explore the cobblestone streets, marvel at the Spanish colonial architecture, and visit the Sacred Valley with its traditional markets and Inca ruins. Cusco's bustling San Pedro Market offers a taste of local life with its array of fresh produce and local crafts. Don't miss the chance to sample traditional Peruvian cuisine, like ceviche and alpaca steak. With its blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, Cusco promises an unforgettable travel experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Cusco

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco. This square is surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture and is a great place to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in a local restaurant. Try dishes like ceviche or lomo saltado, both staples of Peruvian cuisine.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a guided tour of the Qorikancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The site now houses a fascinating museum showcasing Inca artifacts.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a fusion of traditional Peruvian and international cuisines. Don't miss out on trying a Pisco Sour, Peru's national cocktail.

Evening

Spend the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife of Cusco. Visit a local bar for live music and dance performances.

Day 2

Historical Sites and Artisan Shopping

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site offers stunning views of the city below.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Andean dish like guinea pig or alpaca.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the San Blas neighborhood, known for its narrow, steep streets and artisan shops. This is a great place to buy souvenirs.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like anticuchos or causa.

Evening

Experience Cusco's nightlife with a visit to a local club. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and dance to Latin music.

Day 3

Market Visit and Sacred Valley Exploration

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the Pisac Market, a bustling market where you can buy traditional Peruvian crafts, textiles, and jewelry.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like rocoto relleno or chupe de camarones.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Sacred Valley, a region rich in Inca history and stunning landscapes. Visit the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray agricultural terraces.

Dinner

Enjoy your final dinner in Cusco at a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dessert like picarones or suspiro a la limeña.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a local bar or club. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and reflect on your amazing trip to Cusco.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

1
Plaza de Armas

The main square in Cusco, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Attractions

Landmarks

2
Qorikancha

Once the richest temple in the Inca empire, now a Catholic church and museum.

Attractions

Religious Sites

Architecture

3
Sacsayhuaman

A historic Inca fortress with panoramic views of Cusco.

Attractions

Monuments

Landmarks

4
San Blas

A bohemian neighborhood known for its artisans, galleries, and stunning views.

Neighborhoods

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

5
Pisac Market

A bustling market where you can buy traditional Peruvian crafts, textiles, jewelry, and more.

Shopping

Cultural Experiences

6
Sacred Valley

A lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city of Cusco with much of its produce. Known for its stunning scenic beauty and archaeological sites.

Attractions

Tours

Cultural Experiences

7
Maras Salt Mines

A stunning landscape of salt pans used since Inca times.

Attractions

Landmarks

Tours

8
Moray agricultural terraces

Moray is an archaeological site in Peru approximately 50 km northwest of Cuzco on a high plateau at about 3,500 m and just west of the village of Maras. The site contains unusual Inca ruins, mostly consisting of several enormous terraced circular depressions, the largest of which is approximately 30 m deep.

Attractions

Landmarks

Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cuy al Horno

A traditional Peruvian dish, Cuy al Horno is a roasted guinea pig, often served with potatoes and salad. It's a must-try for adventurous eaters visiting Cusco.

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada is a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn, a staple in Peruvian cuisine. It's a popular drink in Cusco and throughout Peru.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a Peruvian stir-fry dish, combining marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes, french fries, and served with rice. It's a popular dish in Cusco and showcases the fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine.

Causa Rellena

Causa Rellena is a layered potato dish, typically filled with avocado and chicken or tuna. It's a common appetizer in Cusco and is a testament to the importance of potatoes in Peruvian cuisine.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos are skewers of marinated, grilled meat, typically beef heart. They're a popular street food in Cusco and offer a taste of traditional Peruvian flavors.

Rocoto Relleno

Rocoto Relleno is a stuffed spicy pepper dish, typically filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. It's a common dish in Cusco and showcases the use of spicy peppers in Peruvian cuisine.

Alpaca Steak

Alpaca Steak is a lean, tender meat with a mild flavor. It's a popular dish in Cusco, offering tourists a chance to try a unique Peruvian protein.

Chicha de Jora

Chicha de Jora is a traditional Peruvian corn beer. It's a popular drink in Cusco and offers a taste of ancient Peruvian brewing traditions.

Quinoa Soup

Quinoa Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish often made with vegetables and sometimes meat. It's a common dish in Cusco, showcasing the use of quinoa, a grain native to Peru.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is a famous Peruvian cocktail made from Pisco, a type of brandy, mixed with lime juice, syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters. It's a must-try drink for tourists visiting Cusco.

Ceviche

Ceviche is a seafood dish popular in the coastal areas of Peru. It's made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro. While Cusco is not coastal, many restaurants offer this national dish.

Picarones

Picarones are Peruvian doughnuts made from sweet potato and squash, then deep-fried and served with a sweet syrup. They're a popular dessert in Cusco and offer a sweet end to a Peruvian meal.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cusco, Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and rain is rare, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is also the best time to visit if you're planning to hike the Inca Trail or visit Machu Picchu. However, this is also the busiest tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of April and October can also offer good weather with fewer tourists.

How to get around

Taxi

Taxis are a common way to get around in Cusco. They are not metered, so it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. Taxis can be hailed from the street or ordered from your hotel.

Bus

Local buses are a cheap way to get around Cusco. They cover most areas of the city and surrounding suburbs. However, they can be crowded and routes can be confusing for tourists.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Cusco. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the city.

Train

Trains are not a common mode of transport within Cusco itself, but they are the primary way to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco. The train ride offers stunning views of the Andean landscape.

Foot

Cusco's city center is compact and walkable. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas and the Qorikancha, are within walking distance of each other.

Rental Car

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Cusco and the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, be aware that driving in Peru can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain and different driving customs.

Bicycle

Bicycles can be rented from various locations in Cusco. They provide a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. However, the hilly terrain and high altitude can make cycling challenging for some.

Collectivo

Collectivos are shared taxis or minibuses that run fixed routes around Cusco. They are a cheap and efficient way to get around, but can be crowded and may not offer much comfort.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency PEN

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone011, 5114

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Cusco, Peru as a first time visitor

1

Cusco is located at a high altitude (11,152 feet or 3,399 meters), so you may experience altitude sickness. It's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.

2

The local currency is the Peruvian Sol. It's advisable to carry some local currency for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted.

3

Spanish is the official language in Peru. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can be helpful.

4

The weather in Cusco is divided into a wet season (November to March) and a dry season (April to October). The average temperature ranges from 32°F to 66°F (0°C to 19°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Peru. A 10% tip is generally expected in restaurants.

6

Public transportation in Cusco includes buses and taxis. Always negotiate the taxi fare before starting your journey.

7

Peru operates on Peru Standard Time (PET), which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

8

Peru uses type A and C electrical plugs, so you may need a travel adapter.

9

It's important to stay hydrated, especially due to the high altitude. However, avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is widely available.

10

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.

11

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

12

Peru has a rich cultural heritage. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites.

13

Healthcare facilities in Cusco are adequate, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

14

The sun can be intense due to the high altitude. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself.

15

Pack layers as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day. Also, pack a rain jacket if you're visiting during the wet season.

16

Peru's emergency number is 105 for police, 117 for ambulance, and 116 for fire.

17

Internet access is widely available in Cusco, with many hotels, restaurants, and cafes offering free Wi-Fi.

18

Peru has strict regulations about exporting antiquities. Avoid buying items that look like they could be cultural artifacts.

19

Cusco has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs. However, be cautious of your alcohol intake due to the high altitude.

20

Peru has a 18% General Sales Tax (IGV) which is usually included in the price of goods and services.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hola	O-la	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Adiós	A-dee-os	Leaving or saying goodbye to someone
Please	Por favor	Por fa-vor	When asking for something
Thank you	Gracias	Gra-see-as	After receiving something or someone's help
Yes	Sí	See	Agreeing with someone or something
No	No	No	Disagreeing with someone or something
Excuse me	Perdón	Per-don	Getting someone's attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Lo siento	Lo see-en-to	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	¿Hablas inglés?	Ab-las in-gles	When you need to communicate in English
I don't understand	No entiendo	No en-tee-en-do	When you don't understand what is being said
Where is the bathroom?	¿Dónde está el baño?	Don-de es-ta el ban-yo	When you need to use the bathroom
How much does it cost?	¿Cuánto cuesta?	Kwan-to kwes-ta	When you want to know the price of something
I would like...	Me gustaría...	Me gus-ta-ree-a	When ordering food or asking for something
Help!	¡Ayuda!	A-yu-da	In case of emergency
Can I have the menu, please?	¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?	Pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor	When you want to see the menu at a restaurant
Water	Agua	A-gwa	When you want to order water
Beer	Cerveza	Ser-ve-za	When you want to order beer
Wine	Vino	Vee-no	When you want to order wine
Check, please	La cuenta, por favor	La kwen-ta, por fa-vor	When you want to ask for the bill at a restaurant
Good night	Buenas noches	Bwe-nas no-ches	When you are saying goodbye late in the evening or before going to bed

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing for daytime
Warm clothing for nighttime (jackets, sweaters)
Rain jacket or umbrella
Comfortable walking shoes
Extra socks and underwear
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Swimwear (if planning to visit hot springs)

Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes
Prescription medications
Hand sanitizer

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver’s license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Peruvian Soles)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and tour reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and important addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and power bank
Camera
Headphones
Travel adapter for Peru
Flashlight

Miscellaneous items
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel guidebook for Peru
Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook
Daypack for daily excursions

Weather Conditions

Cusco, Peru, is located in the Andes Mountains and experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. During the wet season, you can expect frequent rain showers, so it's advisable to pack waterproof clothing, umbrellas, and sturdy shoes. Despite the rain, temperatures remain relatively mild, averaging between 45°F (7°C) and 66°F (19°C). The dry season, on the other hand, is characterized by clear, sunny days and cooler nights. Daytime temperatures typically range from 66°F (19°C) to 77°F (25°C), while at night, it can drop to as low as 32°F (0°C). Therefore, it's recommended to bring layered clothing to adjust to the temperature changes throughout the day. Regardless of the season, Cusco's high altitude can result in intense sun exposure. Always wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin. Also, remember to stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few days to acclimate to the altitude. Lastly, due to its location in the mountains, Cusco's weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful city!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	18° / 7°	January is the start of the rainy season in Cusco, with moderate temperatures. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history.
February	18° / 7°	February is the wettest month in Cusco, with frequent rain showers. Despite the rain, the city's vibrant festivals and cultural events continue.
March	18° / 6°	March sees the end of the rainy season, with temperatures remaining moderate. The city starts to dry out, making it a good time to explore the surrounding landscapes.
April	20° / 3°	April marks the beginning of the dry season in Cusco, with temperatures starting to rise. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.
May	22° / 0°	May is a dry month with clear skies and cool temperatures. It's a great time to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
June	22° / -3°	June is the coldest month in Cusco, but also one of the driest. The famous Inti Raymi festival takes place this month, attracting many tourists.
July	22° / -3°	July is a peak tourist month in Cusco, with cold nights and warm, dry days. It's an ideal time for hiking and exploring the Inca ruins.
August	23° / -2°	August continues the trend of cold nights and warm days, with little rainfall. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's vibrant markets.
September	23° / 2°	September sees a slight increase in temperature and the start of the spring season. The city is less crowded, making it a good time to visit.
October	22° / 4°	October brings more rainfall and cooler temperatures. However, the city's cultural events and beautiful landscapes continue to attract tourists.
November	20° / 5°	November is a transition month in Cusco, with a mix of rain and sunshine. It's a good time to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds.
December	19° / 6°	December is the start of the summer season in Cusco, with moderate temperatures and increased rainfall. Despite the rain, the city's Christmas celebrations are a major attraction.