Explore the Best of Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa: Travel Tips

From the ancient wonders of Cusco to the beauty of mystical Lake Titicaca and the colonial charm of Arequipa, Peru offers numerous unique places to explore for enriching adventures. Let’s dive into the heart of Peru for top travel tips that you need to know to make the most out of your trip.

About Cusco

Cusco stands out as a premier destination in Peru, drawing in countless visitors each year. Notably, it serves as the closest city to Machu Picchu equipped with an airport, positioning itself as the primary hub for travelers embarking on the journey to Machu Picchu and other captivating destinations like the Sacred Valley.

When Spanish conquered the region, they destroyed most of the Inca buildings, and built numerous churches and palaces over the ruins and foundations of some Inca buildings.

Cusco, revered as the capital city of the ancient Inca civilization, holds the distinguished title of being the cultural capital of Peru. Its origins trace back to the 13th century when the Incas, under the rule of Pachacutec, began the construction of temples, royal residences, and administrative structures. Spanish conquest led to the destruction of Inca architecture. Churches and palaces were then built, blending with the remaining Inca structures.

Where is Cusco Located in Peru?

Cusco, located in the southeastern region of Peru, is nestled in the Andes mountains near the Sacred Valley and Urubamba River. Positioned in a fertile valley, it serves as the capital of Cusco Province. The city sits at a high elevation of 11,155 feet above sea level, surpassing even the elevation of Machu Picchu.

Upon landing in Cusco, you may experience altitude sickness, also known as “soroche,” given its location in the Andes mountains. To acclimate to the high altitude, consider spending a day or two in Cusco before proceeding to Machu Picchu and other locations with higher elevations.

How to Get to Cusco From Lima

By Plane

The quickest way to reach Cusco is by taking a flight from Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) to Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ). The flights typically last around 1 hour and 35 minutes, and various airlines like Avianca, Latam, Jetsmart, and Sky operate on this route.

By Bus

Traveling by bus from Lima to Cusco is a more economical option, but due to the rugged mountainous terrain of the country, it can be an almost full-day journey.

Beyond Cusco, if you’re looking to explore other must-see destinations in southern Peru, consider taking a bus trip from Lima through the Nazca-Arequipa/Abancay-Cusco route. This journey may take approximately 23 hours with two buses to reach Cusco. Alternatively, for a more comprehensive experience and time to visit other sites, the recommended route is Lima-Nazca (Nazca Lines)-Arequipa-Puno (Lake Titicaca stop)-Cusco. This allows you to make stops at each location and explore the remarkable cities and sites along the way.

Various bus companies offer comfortable trips with amenities like reclining seats, AC, toilets, and USB ports for charging your devices. Some even provide small food bags with snacks, a sandwich, and a beverage. Reputable options include Peru Hop, Cruz de Sur, and Transzela.

By Train

While there is no direct train from Lima to Cusco, you can indulge in a luxurious experience by taking a bus from Lima to Arequipa and then boarding the Belmond Andean Explorer train to Cusco. Alternatively, you can opt for the Peru Rail Lake Titicaca train from Puno Station to Wanchaq Cusco train station.

The Belmond Andean Explorer train, the sole option between Arequipa and Cusco, offers upscale amenities such as sleeping cabins, ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, dining cars, an observation bar car, and a lounge with a piano bar. For those on a limited budget, taking a bus from Arequipa to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, may be a more economical choice.

From Puno to Cusco

By Train

The Peru Rail Lake Titicaca train operates three times a week, with a journey time of 10 hours and 30 minutes. Ticket costs and other details can be checked on the official site. Although the tickets are somewhat pricey, the experience is well worth it! Enjoy a 3-course gourmet lunch, live traditional music and dances, afternoon tea, and an observation car for panoramic views of Peru. If you plan to visit Lake Titicaca or other destinations in the South of Peru from Cusco, or vice versa, don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

From Machu Picchu to Cusco

Often, Cusco is the initial or final destination for many travelers visiting Machu Picchu. The quickest way to make this journey is by train, taking approximately 3 hours. For details on Machu Picchu and how to get from Machu Picchu to Cusco, please check my post Journey to Machu Picchu and Short Inca Trail: The Ultimate Guide

What to See and Do in Cusco?

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is Cusco’s main public square, historically used for Inca ceremonies. Following the Spanish conquest, the area underwent a transformation. Several churches and mansions were constructed atop the ruins of ancient Inca structures.

Catholic churches were built in this area, including the Cusco Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus ( Iglesia del Triunfo), and the Santa Domingo Church.

The Cusco Cathedral is the primary Catholic cathedral in Cusco. Constructed over the course of more than 100 years, it involved the efforts of several architects.

The Twelve Angled Stone

The Twelve Angled Stone of Hatunrumiyoc, crafted from green diorite rock, was originally a part of the Inca Palace known as Palacio Inca Roca. It is situated on Hatunrumiyoc street in the San Blas district of Cusco, a few blocks away from Plaza de Armas.

San Blas Neighborhood

The San Blas neighborhood is known for its unique whitewashed stone buildings and diverse artisan, vintage, and boutique shops. Alongside these, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore during your visit.

You can find various Mendivil folk art shops selling long-necked art figurines in the San Blas neighborhood.

Coricancha/ Church & Convent of Santo Domingo

Built in the 12th century by Manco Capac, Coricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, was dedicated to worship the Sun God, Inti. According to historians, it was the largest Inca temple in all of South America, adorned with gold, silver, and other precious stones.

After the Spanish conquest, the baroque style Santo Domingo Church was constructed on the foundations of this temple. The Spaniards melted the discovered abundant gold into bars and sent it to Spain.

Today, you can still admire the well-crafted remains of Inca walls from the Temple of the Sun.

Inca Museum (Museo Inka)

The Inca Museum is situated in the historic colonial residence of Admiral Francisco Aldrete Maldonado. It features a collection of pre-Inca and Inca artifacts, mummies, ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. Additionally, its location is conveniently just one block from Plaza de Armas, on Ataud street. You can distinguish the museum’s building by its distinctive door and external décor. It is open seven days a week from 9 am to 4 pm.

San Pedro Market (Mercado)

Established in 1925, San Pedro Market is Cusco’s primary market, located just a few blocks away from Plaza de Armas. The market facility was overseen by Gustav Eiffel, the French civil engineer famous for constructing the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.

The market offers local food eateries, souvenirs, fresh fruits, juice, dried fruits, nuts, grains, and more. It’s a popular spot for locals to enjoy traditional meals.

Explore a variety of new fruits you might not have encountered before. Taste local Peruvian fruits such as lucuma, granadilla, and pacay (also known as guaba or vanilla ice cream bean).

St. Peter’s Church (Iglesia de San Pedro)

St. Peter’s Church (Iglesia de San Pedro) is a Baroque-style Catholic church. It is just a few blocks away from both the San Pedro Market and Cusco’s San Pedro train station.

Santa Clara Arch

The Santa Clara Arch is located on the way to the San Pedro Market. The monument was built to represent the short-lived Peru-Bolivia Confederation, which lasted only three years.

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is thought to have been constructed as the military fortress of the Incas in the 15th century under the leadership of Inca Pachachuti. Built on a steep hill, the citadel overlooks the city of Cusco, approximately 1.2 miles away. It’s easily accessible on foot from the center of Cusco. Both Cusco and Sacsayhuaman have been recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1983.

Resembling the Inca stonework masterpieces in Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman features massive stone walls constructed without mortar. The stone walls reach heights of over 50 feet. Notable sites within Sacsayhuaman include the temple, the towers of Sacsayhuaman, and the throne of the Incas.

Savor Authentic Peruvian Delicacies

Numerous authentic restaurants and cafes offer a variety of local dishes, fruits, and delicacies to savor in Cusco.

Where to Eat in Cusco?

Pachapapa Restaurant

Pachapapa, situated in the San Blas neighborhood of Cusco, is an excellent choice to savor a variety of local dishes.

What to eat and drink ?

• Causa Rellena: A popular dish featuring layers of mashed potatoes, chicken, or tuna, typically topped with hard-boiled eggs
• Lomo Saltado: A stir fry beef dish with onions, peppers
• Alpaca Skewers: A popular dish with alpaca meat
• Cuy al Horno/Roasted Guinea Pig: A highly popular delicacy among the local population. In the Andes mountains, locals have raised guinea pigs for centuries for consumption, dating back to the time of the Incas.
• Iced coca tea: An excellent authentic iced coca tea

Cicciolina

Cicciolina, situated at Calle Palacio, is another highly recommended restaurant near the Cusco Cathedral, offering a delightful selection of Italian Peruvian fusion dishes, drinks, and tapas.

What to drink and eat?

• Tapas such as Alpaca carpaccio or prawns
• White fish or trout tiraditos
• Quinoa Salad
• Desserts

Organika Restaurant

Organika restaurant, next to the Inca Museum, serves farm-to-table dishes with local fresh ingredients, including specialties like trout ceviche.

What to eat and drink?

• Sweet potato ravioli
• Trout ceviche
• Grilled alpaca

Morena Peruvian Kitchen

Morena Peruvian Kitchen, located across from La Plaza de Armas, showcases modern Peruvian dishes.

What to eat and drink?

• Lomo Saltado
• Ceviche
• Grilled Trout
• Arroz con Mariscos
• Pisco Sour

Kuskykay Peruvian Craft Food

Kuskykay Peruvian Craft Food, located in the vicinity of Plaza de Armas, offers healthy Peruvian dishes with vegetarian options.

What to eat and drink?

• Aji de Gallina : A Peruvian chicken dish with yellow chili pepper, typically served with potatoes
• Quinoa Soup/ La sopa de quinoa: Quinoa soup with vegetables
• Lomo Rossini Kusykay is a grilled beef tenderloin dish
• Ceviche: A must try dish when in Peru. It is typically prepared with raw fish, such as trout or sea bass.

• Mate de Coca (Coca Leaf Tea): Native Andean people commonly use coca leaves to help alleviate altitude sickness. It is very common to have complimentary coca tea in many hotels and some restaurants in Cusco. Coca leaves are legal for consumption in Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Colombia, and Ecuador. However, it is illegal to bring any coca leaves to the United States, and many other countries.

• Andes Mint (Muna)Tea: is a popular Andean mint tea known for addressing altitude sickness and aiding digestion.

Where to Stay in Cusco

• Hotel Rumi Punku: If you seek an affordable hotel with excellent amenities, Hotel Rumi Punku could be the perfect choice. This 3-star hotel features authentic decor and a charming garden. Complimentary airport transportation is provided, and breakfast is included.

Only 5 minutes from Plaza de Armas, the hotel provides extra luggage storage for Inca Trail travelers.

• Casa Andina Premium Cusco is a 5-star hotel with 93 rooms, about 4 blocks away from Plaza de Armas. It is located in a 17th century colonial style room. The hotel amenities include a luggage storage, restaurants, free breakfast, and free wifi.

The 3-star Royal Inka II Hotel, located in the historical center of Cusco, is just a few blocks away from the Cusco Cathedral. The hotel amenities include free breakfast, baggage storage, airport transportation, and free-wifi.

Casa San Blas is Peru’s first 3-star boutique hotel. The hotel is also a few blocks away from Plaza de San Blas and about 6 minutes from Plaza de Armas. The hotel offers free-wifi and breakfast.

Trips Beyond Cusco- Lake Titicaca

If you have additional time after exploring Cusco, you might consider venturing further south to discover Lake Titicaca and Arequipa. Both are must-see destinations when in Peru! Puno, the nearest town to Lake Titicaca, offers various transportation options from Cusco.

Lake Titicaca, situated in the Andes mountains between the borders of Peru and Bolivia, holds the title of the world’s highest freshwater lake. The Lake Titicaca is at 12,507 ft (3,812 m) above sea level, slightly at a higher elevation than Cusco.

The World’s Mystical Highest Lake

With a surface elevation of 12,507 ft, Lake Titicaca holds the distinction of being Earth’s highest large freshwater lake. Titicaca and the nearby region, including Machu Picchu are believed to be the location of Earth’s sacral (second) chakra, associated with the element of water, much like the lake itself. This energy center is linked to the creativity of ideas and human creation. Intriguingly, Lake Titicaca bears mythical significance in Incan culture. According to Inca mythology, the lake is the birthplace of Inca’s God Viracocha, as well as the sun, the moon, and its people.

Furthermore, the remains of a city have been found under the lake, including a temple, a paved road, agricultural terraces, and several artifacts. The underwater city of Lake Titicaca is on the Bolivian side of the lake. Currently, the sunken city is not accessible for viewing through diving or snorkeling.

How to get to Lake Titicaca from Cusco

By Car

The journey from Cusco to Puno takes approximately 7 hours.

By Plane

The nearest airport to Lake Titicaca is Inca Manco Capac Airport in the city of Juliaca. A taxi ride from the airport to Puno/Lake Titicaca takes approximately 1 hour to 75 minutes. Latam Airlines operates direct flights from Lima and Cusco to Juliaca, with flight durations of 1 hour and 40 minutes from Lima and 1 hour from Cusco.

By Train

While it may be a pricier option compared to others, the PeruRail Lake Titicaca Expedition offers one of the most scenic train journeys, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural landscapes.

The PeruRail Lake Titicaca train runs from Cusco to Puno three times a week, with a journey time of 10 hours and 30 minutes. Operating on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, you can check ticket costs and additional details on the official site.

The Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers a luxurious service between Cusco and Puno, with tickets starting at a premium price in the $5500s.

By Bus

This is the most economical and efficient way to travel from Cusco to Puno. Bus operators such as Cruz del Sur and Ormeno offer luxury bus services on this route. Inka Express also provides daily buses. Buses from Cusco to Puno operate every day of the week, with travel durations varying from 5 to 10 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the bus service.

The Torito de Pucara is a cultural tradition, originated in Pucara, widely observed in the South Andean region. On many rooftops from Ollantaytambo, Cusco, to Pucara, one can spot pairs of ceramic bulls in various colors and designs. These bulls symbolize protection, happiness, prosperity, and fertility for families.

Lake Titicaca Destinations

Lake Titicaca is home to 42 islands, including the Uros Floating Islands, Amantani, Taquile, Isla del Sol, and Isla de la Luna. Besides the numerous islands to explore in Lake Titicaca, there are also other attractions near the lake, such as Puma Punku at the Tiwanaku site, located near the border of Bolivia.

The Uros Floating Islands are artificial islands crafted from reeds and inhabited by the Uros people. They use reeds to build the island, boats, and roofs. Boats depart from Puno’s pier every morning to the Uros Floating Islands. The closest Uros island is about 30 minutes away from Puno.

Beyond the Uros Islands, approximately 28 miles from Puno, you have the opportunity to explore Taquile Island and Amantani Island. Taquile Island features pre-Inca ruins, including agricultural terraces. Numerous half-day to two-day tours are offered for the islands in Lake Titicaca. For various tour options, you can check Viator.

Where to Stay in Puno?

GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca, a five-star establishment formerly known as Hotel Libertador, stands as the best accommodation in Puno. Situated on the private island of Esteves along the shores of Lake Titicaca, it offers breathtaking views of the lake. The hotel is conveniently connected to Puno via Sesquicentenario Street.

The hotel is approximately a 6-minute drive from Puno’s port. Its amenities comprise complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast, a spa with a sauna and hot tub, and an on-site restaurant. Additionally, Inca Manco Capac Airport in Juliaca is approximately 1 hour away from the hotel, with convenient taxi services available upon request at the hotel reception.

While staying there, you have the opportunity to hike on the island and witness the presence of massive rocks. Although there is limited information on the origin of these rocks, their ancient appearance adds to the intrigue.

Moreover, along the road connecting the island of Esteves and near the hotel, you can observe alpacas and llamas grazing along the shores of Lake Titicaca.

How many days should you stay in Puno, Peru?

2-3 days would be sufficient to explore the islands within the borders of Peru. However, if you wish to visit La Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca, you may consider crossing the border and allocating an additional 2-3 days to visit the islands and Puma Punko in Copacabana.

It’s important to note that United States citizens require a visa for Bolivia. You can apply for a visa either at the Bolivian embassy or upon arrival at the Bolivian border.

The Last Stop, Arequipa

If you have more time to spare in Peru after exploring Lake Titicaca, consider traveling further south to discover Arequipa. As the second-largest city in Peru, Arequipa boasts numerous captivating sites.

How to get to Arequipa

By Plane

Direct flights connect Lima and Cusco to Arequipa Rodriguez Ballon International Airport. Both JetSmart and Latam Airlines offer direct flights from Cusco or Lima to Arequipa, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes from Cusco.

Sky Airlines also provides direct flights between Lima and Arequipa, with each flight lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

By Car or Bus

If you plan to travel to Arequipa after visiting Lake Titicaca, the most convenient options are driving or taking a bus. There is no direct flight from Juliaca, the nearest town to Lake Titicaca with an airport, to Arequipa. The drive from Puno to Arequipa takes approximately 5 hours, while the bus journey takes about 6 hours.

By Train

The Belmond Andean Explorer luxury train is the only available train service from Arequipa to Cusco and Puno (Lake Tititaca). Additionally, the train service is available only once a week.

Top Things to Do in Arequipa

• Explore Arequipa’s historical center:The Historical Center of Arequipa has received a recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this area, near the Plaza de Armas, you can find the 17th-century Cathedral of Arequipa, constructed from volcanic stone.The city square in the historical center features water fountains surrounded by lush gardens.
• Visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena in the historical center of Arequipa.
• Explore the Colca Canyon: Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon in the world to explore. It is about 3 hours away from Arequipa.