Highlights
- Exploring the vibrant San Pedro Market to barter for gorgeous handmade alpaca knit sweaters.
- Visiting the ancient, awe-inspiring ruins of Ollantaytambo and meeting the local alpacas.
- Discovering the hidden animal carvings of the puma, snake, and condor at the massive Sacsayhuamán fortress.
The Story
Honestly, my flight to Cusco was an absolute nightmare—I spent half the journey fighting off jet lag and the other half stressing that my oversized suitcase wouldn’t make it to the Andes. When I finally touched down, the altitude hit me like a tonne of bricks, but the vibe in the city was so enchanting that I forgot all about my travel drama. The historic streets are just dripping with charm, and the mix of Spanish colonial architecture and ancient Inca history is honestly such a mood.
I spent my first few days wandering the cobbled streets of San Blas, which is basically the cutest neighbourhood ever for art lovers. I made sure to hit up the San Pedro Market to grab some alpaca knit jumpers—I definitely had to barter a bit, but I’m a pro at that now! I also took a day trip to the Ollantaytambo ruins, where I hung out with the most adorable alpacas and had a sandwich that was genuinely life-changing. Standing beneath the massive stone walls of Sacsayhuamán was a total 'main character' moment, and I even spotted the hidden shapes of a puma and a snake in the rocks.
Overall, the trip was a mix of budget-friendly adventures and pure magic. Whether you’re into history or just want the perfect Instagram shot, Cusco is a total must. It’s the perfect spot to get your travel fix before heading off to Machu Picchu, and honestly, I’m already planning my return trip to eat more of that local food!