Letters from Peru: Exploring Cusco with Casa Andina Premium Cusco

My dear travelers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the new series of travelogues on the Mr.M blog. June, as well as the following months, will be dedicated to one unusual continent – South America, I will show you the countries that I had the opportunity to visit and I am convinced that you will enjoy it and want to spend your vacation in one of the destinations. At the very beginning of today’s travelogue, where I will try to show you Cusco, the former luxurious capital of the Inca Empire with Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel, I would like to thank the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), local ministries of tourism, national tourism organizations, as well as other partners who selflessly supported my adventure in South America. With their help, travelogues from several countries were created, as well as numerous fashion stories that you will have the opportunity to read during this series of posts, and I sincerely hope that you will enjoy the new adventure.

Post from Cusco was created with the unselfish help of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), the Commission for Trade, Tourism and Investments of Peru(PROMPERU), the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru and the Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel.

If you missed the earlier travelogues from Peru or wish to relive the highlights of Lima, I invite you to revisit the following links:

1. Letters from Peru: Lima, the Gate of the Andes Where the Wind carries the Whispers of Ancestors
2. Swissôtel Lima: Place where Swiss Elegance Meets Peruvian Soul
3. Brunello Cucinelli in Peru: Italian Elegance Meets Lima (Fashion Story)

Casa Andina Premium Cusco: My Luxury Retreat in the Heart of the Former Incan Capital

When I arrived in Cusco, a city steeped in history and the golden glow of the Andes, the Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel greeted me like moonlight on ancient cobblestones. Located just steps away from Plaza de Armas, this hotel not only beautifully reflects the tradition and warmth of Peruvian culture but also provides ultimate comfort for the modern traveler. From the moment I stepped inside, the lobby amazed me with a mix of rustic architecture and contemporary design dark stone walls combined with warm wood tones, luxurious rugs with Inca motifs, and sparkling Murano glass chandeliers.

Casa Andina Premium Cusco: A Synonym for Warm Peruvian Hospitality

Upon my arrival, I immediately noticed the exceptional hospitality of the staff: warm smiles, the welcoming Spanish greeting “¡Bienvenidos!” and a refreshing glass of mate de coca upon check-in. The receptionists patiently explained the additional amenities the hotel offers, including free tea and coffee in the mini-lounge available 24/7, the option to rent a blanket for chilly morning walks in Cusco (at 3,400 meters above sea level, trust me, this is a fantastic solution!), and extra pillows and blankets upon request.

Imperial Suite Matrimonial: A Royal Retreat You Deserve

As I entered my Imperial Suite Matrimonial, I felt as though I had stepped into a private Inca residence. The spacious living room, with comfortable sofas and a work desk, provided the perfect spot to plan my upcoming days in Peru. The large windows offered views of Cusco’s narrow streets and colorful rooftops, while the early rays of sun beckoned me to enjoy every moment. The bedroom, equipped with a king-size bed, high-density mattress, and soft duvets, assured me of a peaceful and restful sleep.

The bathroom deserves special praise: the shower with strong hot water flow and double sinks—perfect for my (im)perfect morning routine. Luxurious toiletries inspired by local Andean herbs and citrus fruits gave me the feel of a spa oasis right in the heart of the city. Additionally, a small but incredibly useful touch: specially heated towel racks and slippers, a detail that truly enhanced the experience.

The Andean Hedonism Journal and Panoramic Breakfast

Each morning, I started with a hearty breakfast at the Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel restaurant. Large windows framed the charming ancient streets of Cusco, while the interior combined traditional Quechua fabrics with minimalist furniture. The breakfast included fresh fruits, local grains such as kiwicha and quinoa, homemade guava jam, and a cocktail of freshly squeezed juices. With such a wonderful and perfectly balanced breakfast, I felt healthy but also somewhat pampered, a memorable contrast between the ancient Inca culture and modern Peruvian luxury.

The Connection Between Casa Andina Premium Cusco and Cusco

For me, Casa Andina Premium Cusco is more than just a place to stay: it is a portal into the past of the Inca civilization and the present of Cusco. Every day, the staff organizes brief lectures on local history and cultural customs. I even attended a workshop on traditional textile making and learned to recognize various colors and patterns. This experience helped me better understand the meaning of stone in Inca architecture and the symbolism of colors in textiles. I felt like, at least for a moment, I became a part of Inca culture, perfectly integrated—not just as a guest but as a student of a magnificent civilization.

Cusco: The City of Gold and Stone

When I first set eyes on Cusco, I was filled with an unusual sense of excitement. Once the opulent capital of the Inca Empire, today this city enchants with its stone walls, colorful squares, and the golden glow of the Andes. At every corner, at 3,400 meters above sea level, you can feel the breath of history and the energy that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

Cusco (Quechua: Qusqu or Qosqo, Spanish: Cuzco) is the historical capital of Peru and the main city of the former Inca Empire. The city is situated in the fertile and fresh valley of the Andean mountains at an altitude of 3,416 meters above sea level. The city’s origins date back to the pre-Inca period, and during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti in the 15th century, Cusco became an opulent metropolis. UNESCO proudly states that the “historical center of Cusco is listed as an example of Inca urban architecture,” where the Spanish built baroque palaces and churches over the ruins of Inca temples. During the Spanish colonization, the city survived bombardment, as the Spanish respected the wise urban layout of the Incas and essentially built their cathedrals over the foundations of sacred Inca temples. As a result, at every turn, you can witness massive stone blocks perfectly integrated into the walls of the Temple of the Sun—Qorikancha.

Arriving in Cusco and My First Impressions

I arrived by flight at the CUZ international airport. As soon as I stepped out of the terminal, I was greeted by the refreshing cool air of the Andes. Then, as we passed by the Huatanay River bank, with its ancient bridges, I thought about my adventurous blogging mission: uncovering all the secrets of Cusco. Finally, at the Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel, I sipped my first glass of mate de coca and prepared to explore the city.

Geography and the Meaning of the Name Cusco

Cusco is located in southeastern Peru, near the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Huatanay River. According to the latest 2017 census, the city has about 450,000 residents. Together with its surrounding suburbs, it is the seventh-largest metropolitan area in the country. The name of the city comes from the Aymara word qusqu wanka (“rock of the owl”). According to the legend of the brother Ayar Auca, the owl was the symbol of the city’s guardian and wisdom, which is why the Incas chose this location.

Cusco History: The Capital of the Inca Empire

Before the Spanish arrived, Cusco was the heart of the largest empire in South America. It was the home of Manco Cápac, the first Inca ruler, who is believed to have emerged from the Pacaritambo cave with his four companions. From that new home, the city grew into a center of political and spiritual power. In the 16th century, when the conquistadors conquered Peru, the city fell under their influence; however, the custom of joining Inca stone walls without mortar remained untouched.

UNESCO and Modern Cusco

Due to its rich heritage, UNESCO declared Cusco a “World Heritage Site” in 1983, calling it the City of Cusco. Since then, the city has attracted over two million tourists annually. According to the 1993 Constitution, Cusco is officially Peru’s historical capital. Despite the influx of visitors, the city has preserved its authentic atmosphere, from the narrow cobblestone streets to the colorful markets.

The Founding Myth: Ayar Auca & Ayar Oche

Legend says the brothers Ayar Auca and Ayar Oche sprouted wings. Ayar Auca flew across the valley, turning to stone to stake out sacred ground, while Ayar Oche returned to the Sun, commanding Manco Cápac to build a city exactly where the brothers had landed. Joined by their four sisters, they sowed the first corn and Cusco was born. Including the myth in your itinerary adds cultural depth and sets the stage for every ruin you’ll explore.

Stone Streets & Timeless Engineering

Walking Cusco feels like stepping inside an ancient blueprint. Inca ashlar masonry, massive stones locked together without mortar, still absorbs earthquakes that topple modern concrete. Every block in the historic center is a tactile timeline binding past to present.

Plaza de Armas: Heartbeat of the City

Of course, the heart of the city is the Plaza de Armas, the main square in the city. From there, there is a view of the cathedral and colonial buildings that intertwine with the remains of the rich Inca civilization. In the early hours of the morning, the square is quiet, the sellers have not yet set up their stalls with alpaca fabrics, and the sun is just shedding its first rays on the surrounding mountains. Later, the square comes alive with the smells of ceviche and fried corn galette.

This square is the heart of the city, surrounded by colonial buildings, cathedrals and numerous restaurants and cafes. The 16th century cathedral on the north side of the square is spectacular, not only for its size and architecture, but also for the details, look closely at the altars, many are made of pure gold, and there is also a local version of the Last Supper where Christ has a “cuy” in front of him – a roasted guinea pig, a local specialty.

Quick tips

• Visit before 8 a.m. for photos minus the crowds.
• Step onto a balcony café for sunset views and stellar people-watching.

Where to Eat in Cusco

• Chicha por Gastón Acurio – Modern Peruvian tasting menus; ideal first night splurge.
• Pachapapa – Courtyard dining with wood-fired cuy and Andean stews.
• Museo del Pisco – Try a flight of pisco-based cocktails paired with tequeños.
• Qura Café – Healthy acai bowls, perfect for altitude-friendly breakfasts.

If you are a curious foodie when it comes to food, Cusco is a true hedonistic destination for all foodies. In addition to traditional dishes such as grilled alpaca, aji de gallina (chicken in a creamy chili sauce) and the already mentioned “cuy”, you can also find modern fusions of Peruvian cuisine. I recommend the restaurant Chicha por Gastón Acurio – honestly, it’s not the cheapest, but it’s a great introduction to contemporary Peruvian cuisine. In the continuation of this text, I will share with you some additional recommendations for local cuisine in Cusco.

San Blas: The Bohemian Quarter

A five-minute uphill walk from the plaza, San Blas is all cobblestones, artisan studios, and blue-framed balconies. Browse fair-trade alpaca scarves, sip single-origin Peruvian coffee, and watch sunset paint the rooftops terracotta.

Beyond the Cusco: Essential Day Trips

Site	Why Go	Travel Time*
Sacsayhuamán	Cyclopean ramparts, panoramic city view	15 min by taxi
Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, Q’enqo	Lesser-known Inca ritual sites	20–30 min
Qorikancha	Temple of the Sun under a Dominican cloister	10 min walk

*From Plaza de Armas

IMPORTANT: Save with the Boleto Turístico del Cusco, one ticket grants entry to multiple ruins and museums.

Cusco Markets & Local Culture

In addition to the historical monuments, I also enjoyed exploring the San Pedro Market. The colorful rows of fruits, vegetables, handicrafts and peppers enchanted all my senses. Also, there I tried chicha morada for the first time – a dark, sweet drink made from purple corn, and then the famous Peruvian mulled wine.

The architecture of Cuzco is an incredible mix: rarely will you see such a harmonious fusion of Inca urbanism and Spanish Baroque. The century-old building of the cathedral stands next to the pyramidal terraces of the Inca palaces, the narrow streets with white facades hide the authentic legacies of ancient civilizations. As I sighed over the mighty Inca wall with its perfectly carved blocks, I thought about the legend of the sacred Castle of the Sun and how the ancient Incas built without mortar, influenced by the legend of the “Stone Mage.”

Each stone tells a story: for example, the walls of priestly complexes are cut up to date and tucked among Spanish churches, which UNESCO describes as “an impossible fusion of Inca traditional and Plateresque, Mudejar and even Churigvere style”. Looking at it, I, as a lover of architecture and art, enjoy looking at every architectural detail such as small balconies, the famous red roof tiles, as well as the hinges on the wooden doors, because every detail exudes a place that simultaneously remembers the Inca Empire and the golden age of colonialism.

Cusco Culture and authenticity: Colors of the Andean tradition

Walking through the picturesque districts of Cusco, I felt the real richness of the local culture. The alleys of San Blas and Coralli are filled with a few fashion details, alpaca wool and musicians playing the crouching cajón (wooden box-drum) or the Andean fluted quena. I was often stopped by smiling hosts in colorful ponchos, dominated by the orange, red and turquoise colors of natural colors. At the San Pedro market, the freshness of the fruit mingled with the aroma of macha (corn cream) and coca tea – one little thing says a lot: the traditional pukara of coca tea serves to adapt to the altitude climate, protecting me from headaches!

The custom of local traditions of colorful miniature ponchos and the magic of throat singing impressed me as a fashion blogger. A habitat of indigenous crafts and modern art permeates every corner: I also visited the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco workshop, where local artisans make wallets and bags by weaving wool dyed with natural vegetable dyes. I felt inspired by their costumes, capes and accessories, I immediately started thinking about the perfect fashion combination with some of my pieces that I brought with me in my suitcase, that’s exactly one of the authentic experiences of Cusco.

Peru’s cultural features are diverse, I saw sword nightingale (albacha), who create a mystical atmosphere with their unusual sound, while children played with llamas in the square. Cusco is a fusion of old Inca tradition and new Peruvian culture and this is something that is reflected in every smile of a local. Every night, at the Inca Celebration as recommended by my guide, Spanish guitar chords mingle with the smoldering of Peruvian maracas and the blending of Sacred Valley songs. Even touristic cultural evenings in luxury hotels often include live performances with cruises, instruments marked by the native landscape of the Andes.

Cusco: A gourmet experience of top flavors from the Andes

Cuzco is not only famous for its history, but also for its rich gastronomy. If you are a culinary lover, this is a destination that will win you over. At every step you can find luxurious restaurants of class to authentic Peruvian taverns. In a cozy neighborhood, I visited the festive restaurant Chicha, which was opened by Gaston Acurio, who is known as the “father of Peruvian cuisine”.

At Chichi, I tried their favorite specialties such as local trout ceviche and homemade corn dumplings stuffed with cheese. This experience showed me why the famous Peruvian cuisine has become a worldwide hit. To welcome me, I received a colorful creation: a Passion Fruit Pisco Sour (a cocktail of the local spirit pisco with passion fruit), which I poured between bites of aromatic cheese and corn canapés. This top restaurant in Cusco often combines local ingredients (quinoa, alpaca meat, various types of corn, as well as a large number of mushrooms from the Andes) with a very modern way of serving food, so that every bite is a real visual experience and delight.

Another gourmet discovery in Cusco is the Museo del Pisco – a restaurant and bar dedicated to the city’s homegrown local spirit. There I was introduced to the diversity of pisco-based cocktails, somewhere between a plate of ceviche and tequeña (Peruvian fried fast food), I learned that pisco plays host to related notes of grapes and mountain herbs. The tables are covered with silky tablecloths and the waiters are elegant, and this luxurious experience is filled to the last drop of coconut sorbet for dessert.

I didn’t miss the famous places in the old part of the city: I had breakfast in the bohemian ‘Qura’ cafeteria, where healthy smoothies with acai berries and hot sandwiches are just for those who like to eat healthier, and I tried to feel the magic of lunch of traditional Inca-style food on the terrace of Pachapapa restaurant overlooking the local courtyard and their traditional dish cuy (roasted guinea pig, yes the one that is a pet in our area), which is a real adventurer gourmet challenge. I must admit that this culinary experience in Cuzco left an impressive impression on me, I had the feeling that the sun of the Andes gives a special taste to the dishes, and the smells of spices (cumin, chili, coriander) add magic to the atmosphere.

Travelers in Peru must know that the food here is more than just a meal – it’s a story of a world of copper, gold and fertile soil. You can feel the pride and tradition in every restaurant, and I especially enjoyed listening to the head chefs describing the origin of the ingredients. After each meal, it was an honor to toast with coffee from the mountain plantations or some interesting dessert that is like a small masterpiece and I felt like a part of this local fine dining cuisine.

Luxury Experience & Authentic Shopping in Cusco

When I’m done exploring the city, it’s always nice to find refuge in some nice hotels. Although I try to give as many practical tips as possible, I can’t help but mention the amount of comfort that accompanies each of my trips. I am aware that the beauty of Cusco and the luxury of the experience here is often in the little things. Think for example when you enter your room in a converted monastery from the 17th century: massive wooden doors, carpets with oriental motifs and beds with soft alpaca wool covers, such an interior inspires you to feel like a noble in the evening. A walk through the luxury hotel named after the Andes can be an adventure in itself: restaurants in a forge, rooms with old frescoes and even a caged garden with colorful Andean parrots.

Shopping in Cusco is also part of the experience. In the boutiques of Cuzco, the sellers proudly shared stories and various experiences with me with authentic alpaca coats, hand-knitted gloves, as well as numerous premium silver and copper souvenirs, just as if I was buying something that would take me back to the fashion time machine of the beautiful Andes. All in all, luxury in Cusco is not only an expensive hotel, textiles and souvenirs, but also an interesting encounter with an ancient culture, as well as a quiet escape from reality after a day full of adventures.

Sacred Valley & the Magic of Machu Picchu

I have always been drawn to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the famous citadel of Machu Picchu, and this time I treated myself to a glamorous experience. That moment was truly magical, I felt like I was traveling through time.

In the next post, which I will publish on Friday, June 13, I will present a detailed experience with one of the wonders of the world in South America – Machu Picchu, which is much more than a quiet ancient city, sun and fog. What I can tell you is that it was a really fascinating feeling, like I was on top of the world. I walked along the bright paths, feeling the cold stone under my sneakers, and I thought I was dreaming. It was the highlight of the trip to Peru, one of those moments that makes trips to be remembered for a lifetime.

Cusco Travel Checklist

• Plaza de Armas & Cathedral
• Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
• San Pedro Market food tour
• Sacsayhuamán fortress overlook
• Tambomachay, Puka Pukara & Q’enqo circuit
• Sacred Valley day trip: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero
• Machu Picchu sunrise trek
• Inti Raymi Festival (June 24)
• Art stroll through San Blas
• Museo Inka & Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo

Plan your stay to take in the history, culture and natural beauty of Cusco. A new story awaits you in every corner of the city. Enjoy your trip!

Final Thoughts about Cusco

In the end, this trip to Cusco was truly a combination of travel luxury and authenticity. Walking along the same streets where the Incas walked, drinking a top-notch writer at a salad bar with colonial architecture, experiencing traditional colors and flavors, all of that filled me with new inspiration. Just as UNESCO highlights the unique synthesis of Inca and Spanish influence in Cusco, I have tried to connect history with modern comfort in this text.

Cusco won me over with its contrasts: ancient culture blends with modern tourism. As I watched the city wake up in golden rays on the last morning, I knew I would be back. This city is not just a destination – it is a story that spans thousands of years.

My dear travellers and lovers of unusual trips, I hope that I was able to transport you at least to some extent to the magical world of Cusco and that you enjoyed this travelogue, as I enjoyed preparing it for you. With this fascinating trip to Peru, I broadened my cultural horizons and South America helped me complete the puzzle of the world in my head that I have been putting together for years.

Today’s travelogue would not be possible without the selfless help of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), the Commission for Trade, Tourism and Investments of Peru (PROMPERU), the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru and the Casa Andina Premium Cusco in cooperation with local partners who allowed me to feel the spirit and beauty of local culture and the beauty of daily life in Cusco. Of course, as always, I tried my best to convey to you my impressions of this unusual experience from Peru.

A person is rich in soul if he has managed to explore the world and I am glad that I always manage to find partners of my projects who help me to discover new and unusual destinations in a completely different way.

I am honoured to have the opportunity to collaborate with many companies in the tourism sector and I would like to thank once again United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), the Commission for Trade, Tourism and Investments of Peru (PROMPERU), the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru and the Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel for this incredible adventure and for allowing me to feel the beauty of this very unusual Peruvian – Andean culture in a different way and to feel the beauty of everyday life in Cusco.

How did you like my story about Cusco and the presentation this city steeped in history and the golden glow of the Andes? Have you had the chance to visit Cusco and beautiful Peru so far?

If you have any question, comment, suggestion or message for me you can write me below in the comments. Of course, as always, you can contact me via email or social networks, all addresses can be found on the CONTACT page. See you at the same place in a few days, with some new story!

With Love from Cusco,

Mr.M

This post is sponsored by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), the Commission for Trade, Tourism and Investments of Peru (PROMPERU), the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru, the Casa Andina Premium Cusco hotel and other local partners. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.