How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Cusco, Cusco, Peru

1. Local Markets

Experience authentic Peruvian culture and avoid overpriced tourist traps by shopping at local markets like San Pedro or Wanchaq.

Authentic Goods: Find locally made crafts, textiles, and food items at fair prices
Avoid Mass-Marketed Items: Stay away from mass-produced trinkets and souvenirs often found in tourist shops
Haggle for Better Prices: Negotiate prices to ensure a better deal and support local vendors

Learn about Peruvian cuisine from local experts and discover hidden gems outside the touristy restaurants.

Authentic Cuisine: Taste traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients
Support Local Businesses: Help support family-run restaurants and food vendors
Cultural Experience: Gain insights into Peruvian culture, history, and cooking techniques

Escape the crowds at Machu Picchu and explore the ancient Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman for a unique and less touristy experience.

Historical Significance: Learn about the Incan history, culture, and architecture
Peaceful Atmosphere: Experience a tranquil setting with fewer tourists
Great Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photographs without the masses of people in the background

Learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with a local chef and shop for ingredients at local markets.

Hands-on Experience: Cook your own meal under the guidance of an expert
Cultural Exchange: Connect with Peruvian culture and learn about their culinary traditions
Unique Souvenir: Take home new cooking skills and recipes as souvenirs

Visit the Incan Sun Temple, Qorikancha, to learn about the ancient Incas and avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu.

Incan History: Discover the story of the Inca Empire and their religious beliefs
Architectural Marvel: Appreciate the intricate stonework and architecture
Fewer Tourists: Experience a less crowded site with fewer tourists

Explore Cusco's vibrant street art scene and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Artistic Expression: Appreciate the diverse styles, techniques, and messages in the street art
Off-the-beaten-path: Find lesser-known artistic hotspots away from the tourist crowds
Cultural Insights: Gain insights into Peruvian culture and social issues through street art

Escape the city center and hike up to Cristo Blanco for a stunning view of Cusco.

Nature and Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains
Off-the-beaten-path: Discover a less touristy hiking trail away from the crowds
Physical Challenge: Test your endurance and enjoy the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit

Experience Cusco's vibrant nightlife scene and discover local bars and clubs off the tourist trail.

Authentic Nightlife Experience: Immerse yourself in Cusco's local nightlife culture
Avoid Overpriced Tourist Spots: Find affordable drinks and a more authentic atmosphere
Meet Locals: Connect with Cusco's friendly locals and make new friends

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art to discover modern Peruvian art and avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu.

Modern Art Exhibits: Discover emerging Peruvian artists and their unique perspectives
Small Crowds: Enjoy a less crowded museum experience
Cultural Insights: Gain insights into contemporary Peruvian culture and society through art

Discover Cusco's craft beer scene and avoid the crowds at touristy bars.

Local Breweries: Visit local breweries and sample their unique beers
Craft Beer Lovers Community: Connect with other craft beer enthusiasts
Unique Brews: Taste unusual and creative brews made in Cusco's microbreweries

Escape the crowds at Machu Picchu and explore the Incan baths of Tambomachay.

Historical Significance: Learn about the Inca Empire's advanced water management systems
Fewer Tourists: Experience a less crowded site with fewer tourists
Nature and Scenery: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Incan baths surrounded by nature

Discover Cusco's wine scene and avoid the crowds at touristy wineries.

Local Wineries: Visit family-run vineyards for a more authentic experience
Unique Varietals: Taste unique wines made from local grape varietals
Cultural Exchange: Gain insights into Cusco's wine-making history and traditions

Learn about traditional Peruvian textiles by attending a workshop led by local artisans.

Authentic Experience: Gain hands-on experience in creating traditional textile designs
Support Local Artisans: Help support local artisans by purchasing their handmade textiles
Cultural Insights: Discover the history, symbolism, and techniques behind Peruvian textile-making

Learn about traditional Peruvian pottery by attending a workshop led by local artisans.

Authentic Experience: Gain hands-on experience in creating traditional pottery designs
Support Local Artisans: Help support local artisans by purchasing their handmade pottery
Cultural Insights: Discover the history, techniques, and symbols behind Peruvian pottery-making