Are you planning your trip to Cusco and want to discover the best of it without paying for tours or transportation?
Here’s how you can explore the city on foot—visiting viewpoints, markets, historic streets, and archaeological sites that are easily accessible on your own. Cusco is perfect for walking: distances are short, history is alive on every corner, and many of the top spots don’t require an entrance ticket.
Walking around Cusco isn’t just free—it’s a unique experience.
Cobblestone streets, Inca and colonial architecture, authentic markets, and spectacular views are waiting for you—if you know where to go.
Before You Start: Practical Tips
- Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level. It’s normal to feel tired or short of breath. Walk slowly and drink coca tea during your first days.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Cobblestone streets and steep inclines require good soles and support.
- Dress in layers. It can be sunny and warm one moment, then rainy or cold the next.
- Download offline maps like Google Maps or Maps.me.
- Cusco is safe to walk around during the day. At night, avoid dark or isolated streets.
1. Cusco’s Plaza de Armas
The heart of the historic center and an ideal starting point. Here you can visit the Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus, stroll around the colonial arcades, and sit on the benches to observe local life. It’s also a great spot to orient yourself and locate the other places you’ll be visiting.
2. Hatun Rumiyoc Street and the 12-Angle Stone
Just a few steps from the plaza, this pedestrian street leads you to one of the most famous examples of Inca architecture. The wall, once part of Inca Roca’s palace, features a perfectly fitted stone with 12 angles. It’s a short but essential stop. I recommend visiting early to avoid crowds.
3. San Blas Neighborhood
This neighborhood is known for its artistic and peaceful atmosphere. You can reach it by walking up Cuesta San Blas. You’ll find artisan workshops, design stores, small galleries, cafés, and viewpoints with unique views. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon and taking original photos.
4. Siete Borreguitos Street
A little-known street that looks like it came straight out of a postcard. It features hanging flowers, colorful doors, murals, and a very photogenic vibe. It’s located near San Blas, heading downhill toward Cuesta Tandapata. A great stop for those looking for unique corners.
5. San Cristóbal Viewpoint
From the Plaza de Armas, you can walk uphill for 10 to 15 minutes through quiet streets to reach this viewpoint. From here, you can see the whole city, with its orange rooftops and the main square in the distance. There are benches to rest, and it’s a highly recommended spot to watch the sunset.
6. Cristo Blanco
A bit farther uphill from San Cristóbal, the Cristo Blanco is a large statue visible from much of the city. From here, you get one of the best panoramic views of Cusco. The walk from the city center takes about 25 to 30 minutes uphill. It’s a highly recommended hike if you’re already acclimated to the altitude.
7. Sacsayhuamán
From Cristo Blanco, you can continue walking to this impressive Inca fortress. It’s one of the most remarkable archaeological sites near the city. You’ll need the Tourist Ticket to enter, but you can explore the surrounding areas for free and still enjoy the architecture and views.
8. Q’enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay
If you’re feeling energetic, you can keep walking from Sacsayhuamán to these three archaeological sites. The full route takes several hours and requires more effort, but it’s very rewarding. At the end, you can return to the city center by taxi or by local minivan (combi) from the main road.
9. San Pedro Market
Located about six blocks from the main square, this market is ideal for experiencing local cuisine and daily life. You can have breakfast for under 10 soles, try fresh juices, buy pan chuta or chicharrones, and wander through stalls of textiles, medicinal herbs, and handicrafts. It’s also a great place to buy souvenirs at reasonable prices.
10. Night Walk Through the Historic Center
When the sun goes down, Cusco glows with warm lights. The churches, colonial balconies, and cobblestone streets take on a magical atmosphere. You can walk around Plaza de Armas, along Triunfo and Choquechaka streets, and return via San Blas. It’s safe and peaceful as long as you stick to main routes.
11. Charming Streets: Choquechaka and Plazoleta Nazarenas
Choquechaka Street connects San Blas with the city center. It’s one of the most photogenic streets, lined with colonial houses and wooden balconies. Plazoleta de Nazarenas is one of the most elegant corners of Cusco, surrounded by boutique hotels, museums, and art galleries. It’s perfect for a peaceful and scenic walk.
12. Eucalyptus Forest
The Eucalyptus Forest of Qenqo—also known as Cusco’s Eucalyptus Forest—is a charming natural area located approximately 2.6 kilometers from Cusco’s historic center, near the Qenqo archaeological site and the Sacsayhuamán fortress.
This forest stands out for its tall eucalyptus trees that create a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and photography. Sunlight filtering through the branches creates a unique visual spectacle, especially in the early morning and at sunset.
And if you’re thinking of grabbing a bite while enjoying these spots, here are some street foods you’ll find all over Cusco.
Street food along your walk
As you explore, you can taste traditional flavors from small food stalls:
- Hot tamales (sweet or savory) near the Cathedral
- Corn with cheese (choclo con queso) near the Plaza de Armas
- Pan chuta with cheese in San Pedro
- Chicha morada or juices made from Andean fruits at the market
- Anticuchos (grilled meat skewers) in the evening near San Blas or downtown
Contact us if you have any questions, we’ll be happy to help you and show you how to discover Cusco in the easiest and most affordable way.
