The 5 best restaurants in Cusco that you can’t miss

Peruvian cuisine has achieved international fame, which is why today we suggest the 5 best restaurants in Cusco that you cannot miss. In Cusco you will find different and varied restaurant options, which is why this article will be the first, recommending some good options.

 

Keep in mind that traveling to a destination is not just about seeing places, but about interacting with the local population, learning about their customs and stories, and getting involved in their day-to-day life. And the kitchen is one of the best tools.

 

A dish has passed through many hands, has traveled a long journey, is full of stories and anecdotes. That is why there is nothing better than visiting a restaurant where you find a good sample of the local cuisine.

 

The best restaurants in Cusco that you cannot miss (first part)

Le Soleil: It should not be thought that because it is an iconic destination in Peru, we will only find typical food restaurants. There are also very good international food options and we want to start by mentioning one of them. This restaurant is one of the most recognized because it offers traditional French food in a very romantic and elegant place. In fact, the 7-course menu is a good option if you want to taste several dishes in one visit. Are you surprised that there is such a good restaurant in such a typical and representative place in Peru?

 

Chicha: As perhaps you answered yes, we bring you an emblematic and very Peruvian restaurant as a suggestion. Chicha belongs to what is perhaps the greatest representative of Peruvian gastronomy, Gastón Acurio. The place is named after one of the most traditional drinks of Peruvian cuisine. It offers sophisticated dishes and very traditional Andean recipes with a “modern” touch that will pleasantly surprise you. The place is located 5 minutes from the Plaza de Armas.

Pirka: In the place where the convent of San Agustín stood, today is the Pirka restaurant. Its architecture of the colonial monastery of the 16th century is surprising. It is the restaurant of the prestigious JW Marriott hotel and offers Peruvian food nuanced with modern touches. For their dishes, ingredients from the region are used, such as native potatoes, quinoa or trout, among other ingredients. The elegance and renovations of the place make it very cozy, an ideal spot for a night with friends or with your partner.

 

Yaku Cocina de Altura: It is an ingenious culinary proposal that offers you innovative dishes from Peruvian cuisine. Many of them with ingredients as traditional as they are delicious. This place stands out for dishes as simple as they are elaborate, including quinoa salad, tender bacon or a delicious chocolate cake. Accompany them with fresh fruit juices and enjoy the excellent and warm atmosphere of the place.

Green Point: It is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a good vegetarian meal. And since Cusco is full of travelers from all over the world, it was necessary to have a culinary option like this. It is a vegan food restaurant, with very well prepared dishes in which the creativity of the recipes and the richness and quality of the ingredients used stand out. At Green Point, it is proven that food that does not include animal inputs is fun and delicious.

Now that you know some options about the best restaurants in Cusco that you cannot miss, do you dare to travel with Colibri Experience?

Cabalgata en Ollantaytambo, experiencia inolvidable

Definitivamente que experimentar una cabalgata en Ollantaytambo es una experiencia única y asombrosa. Hoy te presentamos una forma diferente de disfrutar del Cusco, el Ombligo del Mundo, cuna del Imperio Incaico.

Y es que el Cusco es uno de los mejores escenarios del Perú para disfrutar de diferentes actividades de aventura. Kayak, senderismo, canotaje, cuatrimotos, bicicleta, tirolesa… son algunas de ellas. Pero tal vez, una de las más hermosas y recomendables es la cabalgata.

Beneficios de montar a caballo
Mucho se ha escrito ya sobre los beneficios de montar a caballo. En general, existen numerosos estudios que resaltan lo beneficioso que es la interacción de los animales con los seres humanos. Y los caballos están en esa lista.

Solo el hecho de montar a caballo aumenta el equilibrio mejorando la postura y contribuye también a aumentar el tono muscular en todo el cuerpo, especialmente, alrededor de la pelvis y piernas. Esto lo puedes comprobar si eres primerizo y montas por varias horas: notarás la rigidez en las piernas. Sin embargo, iniciar con paseos cortos no te generará más que beneficios.

Montar también promueve una buena coordinación y equilibrio. De forma práctica e inadvertida ayuda a resolver problemas imprevistos. A esto podemos agregar que el depender de un ser vivo, captura totalmente tu atención por lo que te coloca en un estado “mindful”, es decir, de atención plena y consciente al momento de la cabalgata. Esto, como ya se ha investigado, ayuda a calmar la mente, lo que genera a su vez numerosos beneficios.

Al ser una actividad al aire libre promueve la conexión con la naturaleza. Si se practica en grupo, también favorece la interacción con otras personas. Y aunque muchos no lo podrán creer, el vínculo que se genera con un caballo es especial, aunque sea por un tiempo breve. La relación espiritual entre humanos y caballos ha sido tema de mucho análisis.

Por último, al estar en contacto con otro ser vivo se incrementa la serotonina que ayuda a sentirnos mejor. De modo tal que reduce los niveles de estrés y ansiedad. Es por esto que las cabalgatas y otras actividades con equinos forman parte ya de diferentes terapias.

Disfrutemos de una cabalgata en Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo es un pueblo del Valle Sagrado (de los Incas) en el cual también se encuentra un hermoso sitio arqueológico. Se encuentra ubicado al margen del río Patakancha afluente del río Urubamba, en la provincia cusqueña del mismo nombre.

El recorrerlo a caballo nos llevará a través de otros pueblos más así como de caminos carrozables a lo largo del valle. Durante el recorrido apreciaremos bellísimos paisajes naturales cercanos a la ciudad de Cusco.

Una experiencia como esta sin duda se reflejará en un día lleno de optimismo, diversión y alegrías. Pasear por el valle y la montaña es una de las experiencias únicas en Cusco que te recomendamos. Para disfrutarla al máximo es recomendable agendar la actividad con una agencia de turismo formal como lo es Colibri Experience, con muchos años de experiencia y miles de historias de viajeros satisfechos.

La opción puede ser disfrutada tanto por adultos como por niños, escríbenos al respecto y te orientaremos mejor. Una actividad como la cabalgata en Ollantaytambo es ideal para vivirla solo, en pareja o en grupo. El tour incluye todos los implementos necesarios. ¡Prepárate para tu próxima cabalgata a través de la tierra que alguna vez fue ocupada por los Incas!

Salkantay Trek: The best things to do in Cusco

We recommend the Salkantay Trek among the best things to do in Cusco. It is a longer and more picturesque route of walking that, although it is exhausting since Machu Picchu is accessed by a slightly more difficult path than the Inca Trail, it offers you a very different experience.

 

This route can be done in five days and the impressive thing is that it will take you from the jungle to snowy terrain. Although it can be done without a guide, it is best to do it with one or under the service of a formal tour operator such as Colibri Experience. You know, that it is better to be safe than regrett and have a helping hand in a new and unknown terrain , always recommended.

Salkantay Trek: The best things to do in Cusco

During the tour you will cross the highest point located at a height of 4,700 meters above sea level: passing close to the Salkantay peak covered by glaciers. The peak has a total height of 6,271 meters above sea level. Don’t worry, from that point you will no longer go up but will begin the descent through some surprising subtropical valleys.

 

We recommend the best things to do in Cusco

Definitely one of them is to visit the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu as well as touring different archaeological sites  and historical monuments. But the walks or trekkings are inevitable in our list.

 

This is because during the tours you will find amazing landscapes. You will learn about the immense biodiversity of Peru by interacting with travelers from all over the world. You will cross scenarios of unique natural beauty which will give you an experience that you will remember for life.

 

Without a doubt, the Inca Trail is the most famous trekking route to access Machu Picchu, but for that same reason, it is usually in high demand. This forces you to book the experience more in advance, running the risk that it does not coincide with your travel date. That is why we recommend the second most popular alternative to access Machu Picchu: the Salkantay trek.

 

This snowy is considered sacred. In the Andean culture it is known as an “apu” or protective entity of the walkers and inhabitants of the place. Depending on the time of year, some sections will be covered in snow. In other cases, you will observe very green territory or land wet from rain.

 

If we must recommend a better time to do the Salkantay trek as one of the best things to do in Cusco, it will be during the months of May to October, during the dry season. At this time of year the rains stop and the road is firm. During the day you will have a radiant sun and the nights will be starry.

 

Keep in mind that the height to travel can cause altitude sickness, to avoid it we suggest you read our article on how to avoid altitude sickness. It is also important that you prepare physically for this walk. An experience that we definitely recommend as one of the best things to do in Cusco. You dare? Leave us your comments

How to avoid altitude sickness during your trip to Peru

Before telling you how to avoid altitude sickness during your trip to Peru, let us explain what we mean. Altitude sickness, also known as soroche, occurs when a person travels to a place with a higher altitude than they are used to. Remember that at higher altitudes there is less oxygen. Precisely these low oxygen levels manifest as discomfort in the body.

 

Altitude sickness is caused by a lack of oxygen at high altitudes, as we have already said. And to recognize it here we mention some symptoms:

Headache

Fatigue

Fatigue and/or shortness of breath

dizziness

nausea and vomiting

loss of appetite

Irritability

 

As you may have noticed, these inconveniences will spoil your trip, so we have prepared some tips to avoid altitude sickness during your trip to Peru. Something that will also serve you when you travel to other high altitude territories.

 

Tips on how to avoid altitude sickness during your trip to Peru

The first big tip is to acclimate yourself. When you arrive in a high-altitude territory, for example, Cusco in Peru, it is recommended that you simply spend the first day in the hotel taking quiet walks and not very long in the surroundings, if you decide to go out. If your trip has been long and exhausting, take advantage of the day to rest.

 

Already when you are acclimatized, you should have control over the rate of ascent. So you should avoid that on the second day of your trip to Cusco (example destination), you select to visit a high-altitude mountain. The key is to increase the height little by little.

 

Avoiding excesses and strenuous activities during the first two days can make a difference in your favor. In addition, controlling the cold is also important. The key may be to keep your head warm, since the ears and temples can easily get very cold. This will quickly make your head ache and, if you add to that the lack of oxygen, the consequences will be immediate.

 

A quick option that we find at the top of the list of tips to avoid altitude sickness is to take oxygen with you. In fact there are products specially designed for this either in small or medium atomizers. If you are on a tour contracted with a formal travel agency, it is likely that they will carry small oxygen cylinders with them in case one of the travelers becomes unwell.

 

Hydration is also important, and of course, don’t skip meals. Water contains two oxygen molecules and helps transport nutrients throughout the body. On the other hand, a correct diet, not an excessive one that generates digestive problems, will be important. Especially if you include foods that give you energy in a healthy and natural way.

 

Needless to mention, avoid alcohol and tobacco. You know your body, learn to listen to it. And if you have any additional medical problems, you should consult your doctor before traveling. One final piece of advice is to consider a travel assistance card as you don’t know when you will need it.

 

We hope that these tips to avoid altitude sickness during your trip to Peru and other parts of the world will be of help to you. If you want to know the destination that we have set as an example, Cusco, we invite you to visit our website.

5 reasons why you should do the Inca Trail

Razones por las que debes hacer el Camino Inca

Today we share with you 5 reasons why you should do the Inca Trail to access Machu Picchu, the most famous pedestrian path in America. A journey along 43 km   starting in Piscacucho or km 82 . Stone steps, archaeological remains and unique landscapes will adorn the trek.

There are different roads that lead to Machu Picchu but none can compete with the Inca Trail. This section is part of the Inca road network (Qhapac Ñan in Quechua) which is considered one of the best engineering works of the Inca Empire.

What is Qhapac Ñan?

Literally Qhapac Ñan means “main road”, in this case, it is a sophisticated network of roads established by the Inca Empire (Tahuantinsuyo), which covers more than 30 thousand kilometers that today reaches different countries: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina.

In pre-Columbian and pre-Hispanic America, the Qhapac Ñan was part of a political, military, ideological and administrative project. Many sections have been the basis of modern roads while many others have been preserved as protected heritage by the different states (the Qhapac Ñan was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2014). Among all of them the most famous is the 43 km route that leads to Machu Picchu.

The route was mainly built using stone and is very versatile. It adapts to the different territories (coast, mountains, jungle) respecting nature and ecosystems admirably. In some points the Inca Trail joins in transversal sections and in others, they bifurcate. In those cases the Incas built bridges, tunnels, walls, sidewalks, stairways, deposits (colcas) and shelters (tambos).

Undoubtedly its main function was to communicate the city of Cusco – the center of the Inca’s power – with the rest of its domains. And having been built in a time of expansion of the empire, denoted its power and control.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

As we already indicated, the most famous section worldwide is the one that leads to Machu Picchu. At present, this route is under the protection of the Peruvian State, so to access it you must comply with certain rules

The “classic” Inca Trail lasts 4 days and 3 nights and as is evident, it is done on foot. It starts from km 82  to Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku), the entrance to the Inca city Machupicchu . Being under the supervision of the government, it is important that you remember to do this route with an official and formal travel agency such as Colibri Experience. Don’t worry, we take care of all of them: tickets, food, camping, transportation, guidance and much more.

Reasons why you should do the Inca Trail

If so far you have not dared to do the Inca Trail, here are some reasons why you should not miss this wonderful hiking experience.

 

  1. Surround yourself with a unique natural setting: Throughout the tour you will be able to appreciate beautiful natural landscapes. Also biodiversity in flora and fauna that will surprise you. Towering snow-capped mountains, cloud forests and tangled jungle are impressive instagrammable references.7
  2. Tour the Qhapac Ñan: As we have already explained, this important network of Inca trails are accessible to visitors of all nationalities. Dare to travel a route full of thousands of years of history and culture.
  3. Get to know different archaeological centers: During the tour you will have the opportunity to visit various ancient archaeological complexes and attractions such as Inti Punku, Llactapata, Qoriwayrachina, Paucarcancha, Warmiwañuska, Runkurakay, Sayaqmarka, Phuyupatamarka, Wiñaywayna, Intipata and more.
  4. Direct access to Machu Picchu: Through the most important path during the Inca times and today, currently being a valuable heritage of humanity.
  5. Connect with your inner being: The walks have many benefits for the body, both physically, mentally and spiritually. This great moment of disconnection with the daily routine will allow you a moment of peace to calm your mind and focus with your five senses on your surroundings. In addition, of course, the many benefits that Mother Nature grants when coming into contact with her.

5 reasons why you should do the Inca Trail -As you have read, there are many reasons why you should do the Inca Trail, whether you go alone, as a couple or with friends or family. On the route you will share adventures with other travelers who are passionate about the cultural and natural wealth of the wonderful Qhapac Ñan and Machu Picchu. Write to us to know the different options to do the Inca Trail that we have for you, such as the Amazon Route to Machu Picchu.

5 secrets of Cusco that do not appear in the guides

Every big city hides secrets that remain under the radar of mass tourism, and Cusco is no exception. From hidden temples just an hour’s walk from the Plaza de Armas, through a mysterious Haunted House, to a psychedelic dawn of three suns, these are the 5 secrets of Cusco that you will not find in the tourist guides.

1. Templo de la Luna

The Temple of the Moon is literally at the tip of the hill, away from the noise and movement of Cusco even if it is only an hour’s walk away. The temple contains a cave with a ceremonial altar, where the figures ofpumas, snakes and condors are carved. Its purpose is to revere fertility, so its caves were built to let in sunlight and moonlight on specific days, pointing to specific parts of the altars. The access to the temple is completely free. If you wish to visit this place, write us.

2. Last Supper with Cuy

The cultural appropriation of certain beliefs, especially when it comes to religious works, gives a special flavor to an already known history. This is the case of the canvas of the Last Supper in the Cathedral of Cusco. We have the classic elements of the Last Supper, but clearly it seems that the feast was given in Cusco. In the painting you can see chili peppers, fruits, corn and the most important thing: a guinea pig, the most desirable rodent of the premises since pre-Hispanic times. The painting is attributed to Peruvian painter Marcos Zapata, who used to incorporate secrets like these into his works.

Where to see it: In the Basilica of the Cathedral of Cusco, in the Plaza de Armas. if you want to visit the cathedral, write us.

3. Balcony of the Devil

Behind Sacsayhuamán, one of the most important Inca archeological centers in the sector and part of our Cusco City Tour, is the Balcón del Diablo. A natural architectural heritage that the Incas took advantage of as a point of entry to the city of Cusco. It is a giant rock, which in the middle has a kind of window (or balcony) with a spectacular view of the river that runs below. In addition, you can cross the rock through the tunnel that is at the river level.

How to get there: From Sacsayhuaman you walk 20 minutes to get to the place, on the side of the Chakan community. If you want to visit these mysterious places, write us.

 

4. Huchuy Qosqo

A perfect trek to do during the day, Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco in Quechua) is 3650 meters above sea level and offers incredible views of the Sacred Valley. In its time it was an important agricultural center for the production of corn, with perfect stone works called Collcas, to store and preserve food. There are no public roads that access it, but in Colibri Tour we have a trekking that connects Huchuy Qosco with Machu Picchu in two days. Write us.

5. Waqrapukara

Waqrapukara is so unknown that it is not yet known whether it was a fortress, a sanctuary or an astronomical observatory. This monument is located at 4,300 meters above sea level in the Apurimac canyon, south of the city of Cusco. Its landscape is overwhelming, because it is surrounded by impressive platforms, squares and a giant monolith that contemplates the mountain landscape.

How to get there: You must drive from Cusco to Saint Lucia on a two and a half hour trip. From Santa Lucia a 2 hour trek is made. Join us on this trip, write us.

Before You Go

We all descend when we are going to travel soon, we are in front of our empty luggage or luggage and we do not know where to start and what to pack. This could be even more complicated if we think that our destination has different temperatures or we are not aware of what we should bring and we do not want to carry extra weight in vain, right? Here we will explain what you should bring and what you should not bring for your next trip and when to travel to Peru.

RECOMMENDATIONS

  • You can choose where you want to go. Yes to the coast, the jungle and the highlands (Sierra). You will find different types of weather in each region. The jungle is warm and humid and in the Sierra the temperatures are cold. Cusco is the most visited department with a variety of micro climates that can have a bright sun during the day, but at night it can be very cold. So, what we suggest is to take with you is a good coat that you can wear whenever it is cold. In addition, long pants for the jungle as you want to avoid mosquitoes . But also, bring your shirts and shorts in case you take a morning tour and want to enjoy the sun in Cusco.
  • As you will be exposed to the sun at high altitude, we recommend you bring your sunscreen . Your skin will appreciate it!
  • If you are going to be in the main cities like Lima or Cusco, you may go to a good restaurant or like to enjoy the nightlife. Especially in Cusco, it is very common for you to go to a party at night if you still have energy and are in the mood. In that case, you can bring only one shirt or dress . But don’t bring many of these clothes, you’ll be in comfortable clothes most of the time.
  • You will visit some places that are not so easy to walk. The jungle, the countryside and even cities like Cusco that are paved, so it will not be useful to bring many shoes, high heels or uncomfortable. Just try to get your shoes (tennis) and some casual shoes from the city.
  • If you come during the rainy season (from mid-December to mid-April) you will really need a good rain coat . So don’t forget to have one of those if you are going to visit the jungle or the highlands. As you may have heard, it never rains in Lima. But he does it on the other sites!
  • To maintain your peace of mind, you can use one of the very practical Passport bags . This way, you can have your documents and money safe and at hand . You can wear it under your clothes and have it in a safe place in your hotel. It is a good idea to bring a copy of your passport to take with you when you are on tour.
  • The textile tradition in Peru is very long! This has been attracting many people who only come to Peru for this reason. So one of our best tips is to bring an empty suitcase. You will return home some beautiful hats, gloves, blankets, alpaca sweaters and others. You will find that the prices are not so high, so it is a good opportunity to buy something for yourself or to bring a nice gift for your loved ones.
  • Some places will not be clean enough, so always have a hand sanitizer with you . It will help you a lot and can prevent you from having a stomach virus. Having scarves with you will also be useful. Bring your lipstick and moisturizing hand , since in the highlands the environment is very dry and your lips and hands can feel it. For the jungle, a good insect repellent will be useful . Just take into consideration the use of an ecological one since we don’t want to contaminate the virgin jungle.
  • Have your camera always ready! Even if you’re just taking photos with your cell phone, keep in mind the beautiful details around you that you can photograph. It will be useful to have an external charger in case you run out of battery. You will bring beautiful memories of your trip to Peru with you.

The Temple of the Moon in Huayna Picchu

In a cave located in the mountain in Huayna Picchu, there is the so-called “Temple of the Moon”. The mountain of Huayna Picchu is located at the Machu Picchu site, on the other side of the Machu Picchu valley.

No one knows what was the reason why they built it, but it is believed to have been a place of worship or funerals. Some of the walls are finely carved in rocks. Although it is known as the Temple of the Moon, many scholars say it has nothing to do with the moon. Some simply call it “the Great Cavern” because of this and because it is not known if it was originally called the Temple of the Moon.

If you want to travel to the temple of the moon, it is possible to climb to the top of Huayna Picchu, from where you can see it. We are at your disposal to help you book tickets for the Huayna Picchu or for other attractions in this area.