Altitude Sickness (Soroche)

Cusco welcomes you at 3,399 meters above sea level, where oxygen is scarcer. Your body needs time to recalibrate. The golden rule is "passive acclimatization": take it absolutely easy for the first 24 hours. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol. Hydrate twice as much as normal and drink coca tea; it is the ancient remedy of the Incas to oxygenate the body and combat fatigue.

Don't underestimate the power of walking slowly. Your heart rate will increase faster than usual; Listen to your body and stop if you feel chest pressure or dizziness. Short walks through the Plaza de Armas are ideal to test your endurance without straining the machinery.

Finally, food plays a crucial role. Eat easily digestible carbohydrates and avoid red meat during the first dinner. The digestive system slows down at altitude, so a light diet will ensure a restful night's sleep, vital for adaptation.

Cusco's gastronomy is a journey in itself. From traditional markets to haute cuisine tables.

San Pedro Market

The beating heart of the city. Here, among mountains of exotic fruits and giant chuta breads, you will find the most authentic breakfast in the Andes. Don't miss the chicken broth or a freshly squeezed assorted juice to start the day with solar energy.

Cusco Picanterías

Culinary temples where time stands still. In legendary places such as "La Chomba", the ritual is sacred: Frutillada (sparkling chicha) accompanied by monumental dishes such as Chiriuchu, which combines the flavors of the coast, mountains and jungle in a single dish.

Chicha by Gastón Acurio

A tribute to Cusco's culinary wisdom. Located in an old house, it offers regional dishes elevated to haute cuisine, using local ingredients from the Sacred Valley.

Anticuchos at dusk

As the sun goes down, the corners of Cusco are filled with the smoky aroma of anticuchos (beef heart). Look for the "mamachas" near Plaza San Francisco to try this street delicacy, served with papa dorada and house chili pepper.

The Giant Bread of Oropesa

Travel 30 minutes south to taste this giant sweet bread, blessed by tradition and baked in wood. It is the classic gift that Cusco residents bring to their families and perfect to accompany a coffee.

The Black Gold of the Jungle

Cusco (La Convention) is home to Cacao Chuncho, one of the finest varieties in the world. Visit the ChocoMuseo or specialized cafeterias to try it in a thick cup or in an award-winning bar.

Getting around Cusco requires a bit of cunning. Here we explain the unwritten rules for navigating the city and the Sacred Valley like a local.