If you frequent our blog, then you already know that we love to highlight the other awesome aspects of Peru beyond its most famous World Wonder. We craft our itineraries to include some of our very favorite spots in the compelling country, including the city of Cusco. The region is full of colorful history, as well as diverse landscapes ranging from beaches to mountains and rainforest.

Nearby the city of Cusco and the stone citadel, Machu Picchu, lies the heartland of the Inca Empire, the Sacred Valley. The fertile land below the Andes was used mostly for maize production, and is still responsible for a number of exports to nearby cities. Several villages are situated in the valley, each with their own historic ruins. Undoubtedly, if you travel to Peru, you will end up in Cusco, so here are some of our very favorite things to do in and around this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sacsayhuaman

This ancient military fortress of the Inca is built on a large plateau, offering beautiful views of the city below. Not only was it used as a fortress, but also as a series of temples. Among the ruins are Tambomachay, where it is believed that the Inca would take ritual baths, and the Muyuqmarka, or the Cusco Sundial. The site of Sacsayhuaman played an important role in the final defeat of the Inca Empire. But please, adjust to the altitude before taking this hike. Trust us!

Aguas Calientes

Considered to be the gateway to the ruins, Aguas Calientes is often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Although it is virtually cut off from the rest of the country, its large population and bustling tourist accommodations make it a “must-stop” place on your way to Machu Picchu.

Ollantaytambo

This quaint village in the Sacred Valley is a common stomping ground for tourists headed to Machu Picchu, but Ollantaytambo (Ollanta, to the locals) is charming in its own right. The town is also the site of two sets of ruins, the Ruins of Ollantaytambo, and Pinkullyuna, which both offer the opportunity for a great hike or bike ride.

Limbus Resto Bar of Cusco

If you’re looking for an interesting place to have dinner or a drink, we highly suggest Limbus Resto Bar as one of our favorites in the area. Its glass walls offer a 360 degree panorama of the city that simply can’t be beat. As a friendly reminder, Cusco’s altitude will have you feeling the effects of those vodka sodas a little sooner than other places in the world, so be sure to pace yourself. 🙂

Maras

Those salt ponds that look like big pop tarts with frosting on them. Or dipping sauces. Or eyeshadow pallets. We’ve heard it all. They are located in one of the more-frequently-visited areas of Maras, so it’s safe to say you can’t miss them. These pools are an ancient Inca creation, and are still harvested for salt to this day.Visit them yourself and get back to us with what you think they look like.

Moray

Much like Machu Picchu, there is a bit of mystery surrounding the concentric rings of Moray. In any case, this landscape showcases the agricultural techniques of the Incas. It is widely speculated that this site was the first agricultural research center in the world. The above photo is an aerial view of Moray, so the perspective is a bit skewed. You will be taken aback by the size of this site in person.

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