✈️ Traveling to Cusco for the First Time: Key Activities and Tips

Traveling to Cusco for the first time is exciting… but it can also be a bit challenging. The altitude, the number of places to see, and the cultural intensity make the first few days especially important to fully enjoy your trip.

If this is your first time in Cusco, this guide will help you know what to do when you arrive, which activities to prioritize, and which tips to follow so your experience is truly unforgettable.

🛬 First day in Cusco: take it easy (very important)

Cusco is located at over 3,300 meters (10,800 ft) above sea level, so the first priority is to acclimate to the altitude.

✅ What to do on your first day

Rest and walk slowly
Drink coca tea or plenty of water
Eat light meals
Avoid alcohol and heavy foods

👉 Don’t try demanding tours on your first day. Your body will thank you.

🚶‍♂️ Explore the historic center

Once you’re settled in, take a walk through the heart of the city. The historic center is perfect for a gentle first introduction to Cusco.

Must-see spots:

Cusco’s Plaza de Armas
Cusco Cathedral (inside or outside)
Stone streets and traditional neighborhoods
Local markets to try typical food

It’s best to explore this area without rushing and at your own pace.

🏛️ Nearby archaeological sites (half-day)

Cusco is surrounded by impressive Inca ruins that don’t require long trips.

Recommended places:

These sites are ideal for your second day, once you’re a bit more acclimated.

🌄 Sacred Valley: the next step

After one or two days in Cusco, the Sacred Valley is the perfect place to continue your adventure. It sits at a lower altitude and offers breathtaking landscapes.

What you can visit:

It’s also an excellent way to continue acclimatizing before visiting Machu Picchu.

🚆 Machu Picchu: plan ahead

The highlight of the trip requires advance planning. Entrance tickets, trains, and schedules sell out quickly.

👉 Key tip: buy your tickets weeks or even months in advance, especially during high season.

💡 Key tips for your first trip to Cusco

Bring clothing for changing weather (cold and sun on the same day)
Use sunscreen—the sun is strong at high altitude
Always carry some cash in Peruvian soles
Walk slowly and listen to your body
Book important tours and tickets in advance

✨ Cusco: an experience to enjoy step by step

Traveling to Cusco for the first time isn’t about rushing from one place to another—it’s about experiencing it calmly: adapting, observing, tasting new flavors, and connecting with history.

📌 Cusco isn’t just visited—it’s felt.
If you organize your days well and follow these tips, your first trip will be just the beginning of a lifelong connection with this magical city