Morning Rest

Adaptation to the Altitude (3,400 meters above sea level): Cusco is located at a significant altitude, which may require an adjustment period for some visitors. Use this morning to rest in your hotel and allow your body to adapt to the thinner air and change in climate. Acclimatization is crucial to fully enjoy your trip and avoid altitude sickness.

Afternoon Exploration

Relaxed Walk through the Historic Center: After resting, take a relaxed walk through the charming historic center of Cusco.

• Plaza de Armas: Begin your exploration at the Plaza de Armas, the vibrant heart of Cusco. This square is filled with history and life, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and a variety of restaurants and cafes.
• Cusco Cathedral: Admire the magnificent Cathedral, a jewel of colonial architecture built on the Inca palace of Viracocha. Its interior houses a valuable collection of religious art, including paintings and sculptures that narrate the history of evangelization in Peru.
• Colonial Streets: Explore the colonial streets surrounding the Plaza de Armas, such as Hatun Rumiyoc Street, famous for the stone of the twelve angles. These cobblestone streets are full of history and culture, with perfectly preserved Inca walls and shops selling local crafts.

Evening Delights

Dinner Recommendations by All Tours Peru: Peruvian cuisine is globally recognized for its diversity and flavor. For dinner, we recommend trying anything from a comforting chicken broth, perfect for acclimatizing to the altitude, to an exquisite ceviche, an iconic dish from the Peruvian coast. Other traditional dishes you can try include lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and causa rellena. Cusco cuisine also offers delights like cuy al horno and pachamanca. All Tours Peru recommends visiting the following restaurants:

• Kusykay: Specializing in traditional Peruvian food, Kusykay offers an authentic culinary experience that celebrates the flavors and ancestral recipes of Peru. Enjoy dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere that highlights Peru’s cultural richness.
• Ofrenda Organic Restaurant: Ideal for those seeking healthy and sustainable eating, Ofrenda Organic Restaurant prepares delicious dishes with organic and fresh ingredients. Their menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, showcasing creativity in the kitchen and a commitment to well-being.
• Los Toldos Chicken: If you want to enjoy a traditional Peruvian dish and savor delicious rotisserie chicken, this restaurant is an excellent choice. Recognized by Taste Atlas, El Toldo Chicken stands out for its unrivaled seasoning and quality of its rotisserie chicken, a true delicacy you must try.

Acclimatization Tips

• Stay Hydrated: It is essential to drink plenty of water to help your body adapt to the altitude. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
• Coca Tea: Drink coca tea, a traditional infusion made with coca leaves that helps alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue.
• Light Activity: Keep physical activity light on this first day to avoid overloading your body as it adapts.