Beyond Machu Picchu and the Plaza de Armas, Cusco hides neighborhoods and culture most tourists never discover.
Cusco's Secret Side: Beyond the Inca Trail
Cusco's Machu Picchu connection draws millions, but the former Inca capital hides neighborhoods, markets, and culture that the tourist circuit bypasses. These five spots reveal the Cusco that locals love.
1. San Blas (The Back Streets)
Everyone walks San Blas's main streets. But the lanes climbing above the artisan shops—the workshops where craftspeople actually work, the local restaurants, the viewpoints—create experiences the tourist parade misses. Morning visits find the neighborhood before the crowds arrive.
Perfect for: Those wanting San Blas beyond the obvious. Craft enthusiasts seeking workshops. Early risers catching authentic atmosphere.
Skip if: The famous streets satisfy you. The climb at altitude challenges some. The back lanes require confident exploration.
2. San Pedro Market
While tour groups eat at tourist restaurants, this massive market feeds Cusco. The juice stalls, the lunch counters serving local dishes, and the produce sections reveal Peruvian food culture. The market predates tourism and continues serving regardless of visitor presence.
Perfect for: Adventurous eaters wanting authentic cuisine. Market culture enthusiasts. Budget travelers seeking quality.
Skip if: Market environments overwhelm you. The food requires adventurous palates. Altitude can affect appetite—go easy.
3. Sacsayhuamán at Sunset
Everyone visits the massive Inca fortress on tours. But returning at sunset—when tour buses have gone and locals walk their dogs—reveals the site's spiritual quality. The golden light on massive stones and the view over Cusco create experiences the midday crowds destroy.
Perfect for: Those wanting the fortress without crowds. Photographers seeking golden hour. Visitors who can return to sites.
Skip if: Your ticket doesn't allow returns. The walk from town at altitude is challenging. Evening temperatures drop quickly.
4. Mercado de Wanchaq
Beyond San Pedro, this local market serves Cusco's residents without tourist awareness. The prices are real, the food serves workers, and the atmosphere reflects daily commerce rather than visitor expectations. The location outside the center means tourist-free experiences.
Perfect for: Those seeking markets without tourists. Serious foodies. Visitors with time to explore beyond the center.
Skip if: San Pedro satisfies your market needs. The location requires taxi or walking. English is rare—bring Spanish or gestures.
5. The Surrounding Ruins (Beyond Sacsayhuamán)
The boleto turístico includes sites most visitors skip. Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay sit along the road from Sacsayhuamán, offering Inca experiences without Machu Picchu crowds. Walking between them (downhill toward town) creates full days of archaeological exploration.
Perfect for: Those wanting more Inca sites. Hikers comfortable at altitude. Visitors maximizing the tourist ticket.
Skip if: Machu Picchu will satisfy your Inca needs. The walk requires fitness at altitude. The sites are smaller—manage expectations.
Discover Cusco with Local Insight
Cusco rewards exploration beyond the Machu Picchu express. A travel advisor who knows the city can help you navigate to experiences like these—and arrange the alternative Inca sites and Sacred Valley experiences that make Peru's ancient capital more than a transit point.