Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Cusco, Cusco, Peru
1. Lake Humantay
Stunning turquoise lake nestled in the Andes, offering breathtaking views and challenging trek from Cusco.
- Natural Scenery: Ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
- Challenging Hike: Suitable for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
2. Lake Piuray
Quiet and serene lake surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for bird watching and tranquil moments.
- Bird Watching Opportunities: A haven for over 100 species of birds.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for relaxation and meditation.
- Easy Access: Accessible by private transport or guided tours from Cusco.
3. Lake Ollantaytambo
Historical lake located near the ancient Incan town of Ollantaytambo, perfect for a cultural and scenic experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan history and culture.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by picturesque mountains and vegetation.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
4. Rafq'a Hot Springs
Natural hot springs located near the archaeological site of Tipón, perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of sightseeing.
- Relaxation and Healing: Known for its therapeutic properties.
- Historical Context: Located near an Incan archaeological site.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
5. Urquillos Hot Springs
Situated along the Urubamba River, these hot springs offer a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation.
- Natural Scenery: Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and river views.
- Relaxation and Healing: Known for its therapeutic properties.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
6. Maras Salt Mines
An ancient salt extraction site with stunning landscapes and unique terraces.
- Historical Significance: A pre-Incan salt extraction site dating back to the Wari civilization.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers stunning landscapes for photography enthusiasts.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
7. Moray Archaeological Site
An Incan agricultural laboratory featuring unique circular terraces.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan agriculture and engineering.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers unique terraces for photography enthusiasts.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
8. Chinchero Market
Colorful market offering traditional Peruvian textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.
- Shopping Experience: Ideal for souvenir shopping and experiencing local culture.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into traditional Peruvian life.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
9. Ollantaytambo Ruins
An ancient Incan town with impressive ruins and a living Incan community.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan history and culture.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers stunning architectural and cultural photography opportunities.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
10. Sacsayhuaman Fortress
Impressive Incan fortress featuring massive stone walls and a strategic location overlooking Cusco.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan military strategy.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers stunning architectural and cultural photography opportunities.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
11. Qorikancha Temple
An ancient Incan temple dedicated to the Sun God, showcasing intricate stonework and religious significance.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan religion and architecture.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers stunning architectural and cultural photography opportunities.
- Accessible Day Trip: Can be reached as a day trip from Cusco.
12. Cusco City Tour
Guided tour of Cusco's historic center showcasing ancient Incan and colonial architecture.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into the history, culture, and architecture of Cusco.
- Accessibility: Ideal for those with mobility issues as it is a walking tour within the city center.
- Flexibility: Tours can be customized to suit traveler preferences and interests.
13. Sacred Valley of the Incas
A picturesque valley home to several Incan archaeological sites and traditional Peruvian communities.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan history, culture, and agriculture.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers stunning landscapes for photography enthusiasts.
- Accessible Multi-Day Trip: Can be explored as a multi-day trip from Cusco.
14. Inka Rail
Luxurious train ride through the Sacred Valley and into Machu Picchu, offering comfort and scenic views.
- Comfort and Luxury: Offers a comfortable and luxurious travel experience.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the Andes and the Sacred Valley.
- Time Efficient: Reduces travel time compared to trekking.
15. Inca Trail
Four-day trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu, passing through ancient Incan ruins and breathtaking landscapes.
- Adventure and Challenge: Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a challenge.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers insights into Incan history, culture, and architecture.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the Andes and the Sacred Valley.