Our first full day in Cusco was packed with exploration, culture, and, of course, delicious food. After adjusting to the altitude and diving into the city’s historic heart, we experienced Cusco’s bustling markets, toured significant Inca sites, and tasted the unique blend of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine. Here’s a detailed look at how we spent a full day discovering Cusco.
Morning: Altitude Adjustment and Breakfast at Corazón
After waking up with a bit of altitude fatigue, we started the day with a short Uber ride to Corazón, a breakfast spot with abundant gluten-free options and smoothies. Here, we enjoyed scrambled eggs, black beans, smashed avocado, and Peruvian specialties like fried cheese and corn arepas. The light, fresh ingredients were a perfect way to fuel up for a day of walking.
Mid-Morning Exploration: Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral
Our first stop was the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco. The main square is bordered by the Church of the Society of Jesus and the impressive Cusco Cathedral, both dating back to the 16th century. We admired the exterior of these historic buildings, noting the extensive Inca and Spanish influences in their design. Although we skipped entering the cathedral this time, the view from outside was beautiful against Cusco’s blue skies.
A Hike to the San Blas District
From the Plaza de Armas, we embarked on a short but steep hike to the San Blas District, known for its narrow, picturesque streets and artisanal shops. The climb took about 15 minutes, with stops along the way to catch our breath due to the altitude. Once at the top, we were rewarded with stunning views of Cusco’s red rooftops and scenic mountain backdrop. San Blas Plaza itself is a charming area where locals sell handcrafted jewelry and textiles, offering a taste of Cusco’s rich artisan culture.
Afternoon Visit to the Inca Museum
In the afternoon, we visited the Inca Museum, located just off the main square. For a modest entry fee, we spent about 45 minutes exploring displays of Inca artifacts, pottery, and textiles. Although some exhibits lacked English translations, the museum provided a valuable overview of Inca history and culture, deepening our understanding of the sites we would visit on our upcoming trek.
Shopping and Snacking at San Pedro Market
Next, we headed to the bustling San Pedro Market, where stalls overflowed with vibrant textiles, fresh produce, meats, and juices. The market is organized, with food and artisan goods separated into different areas, making it easy to navigate. We sampled some local snacks and admired the colorful handicrafts, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Evening: Peruvian-Chinese Fusion at Kion
For dinner, we indulged in Cusco’s famous “chifa” cuisine, a fusion of Peruvian and Chinese flavors, at Kion. We shared chicken chaufa, a Peruvian take on fried rice, and a flavorful lomo saltado-inspired dish. The flavors combined Chinese spices with Peruvian ingredients, making for a satisfying and unique culinary experience.
Final Stop: Orientation at Alpaca Expeditions
Our last stop was the Alpaca Expeditions office for an orientation for our upcoming Inca Trail trek. We received detailed instructions on packing and got to meet our guide, further building our excitement for the trek ahead.
Reflecting on a Day in Cusco
Cusco’s high-altitude charm, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene make it a city worth lingering in. As we prepared for the journey to Machu Picchu, our day in Cusco provided the perfect mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and restful acclimation. From exploring the Plaza de Armas to experiencing local markets, we savored each moment.
Stay tuned as we dive into our next adventure with a tour of the Sacred Valley and, eventually, the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!
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