Cusco As We Know

For many, Cusco is solely a jumping off point for trips into the mountains and marvelling at ancient ruins but stay a little longer and I’m sure you will fall in love with Cusco just like Tom and I have.

Here are a few different tips for a fun couple days in the cobbled city;

3 Monkeys Coffee

There’s no better way to get to know a city than by tasting a cup of its finest coffee and 3 Monkeys is the perfect place to do so. Hidden inside an old colonial courtyard you feel like you’ve discovered a local secret. Served straight from one of their unique coffee tricycles they are super knowledgeable about coffee and in true third wave coffee culture love talking about their roast profile and processing techniques. Their bio diverse harvesting in nearby fincas brings a new spiritual dimension to the coffee. Their farmers use lunar activity to gauge when they pick the coffee and only ever pick in darkness. I can promise that you’ll leave this haven feeling a little more zen...

How to find it: Calle Arequipa, Cusco 08002, Peru

Shoe Shine 

When Tom (Batch Coffee Subscription) and I travel we definitely try to live by the motto ‘Do how the locals do’ so when visiting Cusco I couldn’t help but notice that shoe shiner stands hug every corner of the city; from suited business men to women wearing traditional sandals, the shoe shiners are full. Not only a place to clean your shoes but to catch up on newspaper headlines, chat weather with the gent next to you or take a quiet moment to people watch - it’s definitely part of Peruvian culture. I recommend visiting a traditional stall of your choice on a sunny morning, if not only to practice your best Spanish then to marvel at the technique involved - truly the shiniest boots I ever did see!

Textiles Museum 

A great way to spend a rainy afternoon in Cusco, learning about the history, traditions & methods involved in Andean textiles. An abundance of local knowledge, beautiful pieces on display & you’re also able to see weavers creating intricate designs first hand. The museum is packed with everything you could ever want to know about Andean textiles and the shop has some beautiful handmade products, each with a photo of the weaver that made it. Andean Textile Arts is a local charity & they are leading pioneers in supporting local communities & artisans, giving money directly to the weaver & helping give life back to a dying trade which is definitely a cause we support. 

How to find it: Av El Sol 603, Cusco 08002, Peru

Coca Tea

There is no denying that the high altitude in Cusco makes sight seeing a little slower than usual & it sure doesn’t help when your exploring a city built on killer hills. Coca Tea to the rescue - the locals swear by it & I can see why! The infamous coca plant is grown throughout the region and is the go-to hot beverage for the locals. It was used in Inca times to help with altitude and concentration. The leaves are added to boiling water, given a quick stir & left to brew for a moment before being guzzled down. The locals like to add a few heaped spoonfuls of sugar but I enjoyed the tea on its own. A few coca teas throughout the day helps soothe the dizzy head & gives you a great excuse to cafe & market hop around the city. It’s also great for digestion - win win! 

Take in Cusco from above

A city on a hill - Although it tests your fitness levels it does make for some spectacular views. Take your camera & brave the walk up to the Cristo Blanco (big white statue of Jesus) and take in the city from above. Just make sure you’ve had your coca tea first...

How to find it: Jiron José Luis Orbegoso 9, Cusco 08007, Peru

No Name Bar 

This secret no nonsense bar is a personal favourite. Hidden down a cobbled street just off Plaza de Armas & no sign on the door it’s quite the mission to find but once you’re in, you’re there for the night. With amazing views of the city & only a choice of local bottled liquor (make sure you try before hand) it’s a hot spot for good reason. Great to warm up and chat away a couple of hours while you share the fruity spirit. And don’t worry, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you after a few bottles of the good stuff, there really is karma sutra painted on the ceiling tiles!! 

How to find it: Suecia 395, Cusco 08002, Peru

So whether you only have a few nights to enjoy the city or you’re using it as a base to dump your bags while you set off for an adventure I’m sure you will enjoy it just as much as we did. Although at times it can seam a little touristy around the central areas where you are offered Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain tours on every corner, we found the real beauty of the city was just getting lost amongst the many winding roads sprawling in each direction, one of the safest places we visited in Peru and probably South America don’t be afraid to explore somewhere that isn’t on the tourist map.