High in the Andes: Exploring the Magic of Cusco

Marc and I love a good adventure, so when the opportunity to visit Peru came up, we didn’t hesitate. After a long flight, we touched down in Cusco—a city high in the Andes that’s packed with history, vibrant culture, and that unmistakable feeling of being somewhere truly special.

The altitude hits you immediately. Cusco sits at over 3,300 meters above sea level, and even walking up a small hill leaves you feeling like you’ve run a marathon. Marc laughed at how winded we got just strolling around Plaza de Armas. We took it slow for the first couple of days, sipping coca tea—a local remedy for altitude sickness—and letting our bodies adjust.

But even the altitude couldn’t dampen our excitement. Every street seemed to tell a story, and Cusco had that rare combination of energy and calm that pulls you in and makes you want to explore every corner.

A Glimpse into Life and Culture

Cusco is a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. The locals are warm and welcoming, always ready with a smile or a kind word. Many still speak Quechua, the language of the Incas, and their connection to their heritage is deeply woven into everyday life.

Traditional clothing is common here—brightly colored shawls, embroidered skirts, and hats adorned with pom-poms. Women carry babies wrapped in woven fabrics on their backs, while men lead llamas and alpacas through the streets, often stopping for a chat with passersby.

Speaking of llamas and alpacas, they are everywhere, and they are the real stars of Cusco. We saw them wandering through the hills and posing proudly for photos with tourists. They’re hard to resist—fluffy, curious, and full of personality. We even made friends with a particularly stylish alpaca wearing a red tassel hat.

Markets and Flavors of Cusco

San Pedro Market was one of the highlights of our trip. It’s a sensory overload in the best way—colorful stalls packed with fresh fruit, Andean grains, handmade alpaca wool blankets, and local snacks. Marc was in his element, sampling everything from empanadas to fresh passion fruit. I got lost in the textiles—each one a work of art, with patterns and colors that reflect centuries of Andean tradition.

The food scene in Cusco is something else. From street vendors selling anticuchos (grilled meat skewers) to cozy restaurants serving hearty bowls of quinoa soup, every meal felt like an adventure. And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying alpaca steak—a tender, flavorful dish that surprised us both.

Finding Peace in the Andes

Despite the buzz of the city, Cusco has a peaceful side too. One morning, we wandered up to the San Blas neighborhood, a quieter area with narrow streets and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Andes have a quiet power about them—majestic and grounding at the same time.

Standing there, looking out over the terracotta rooftops with the mountains stretching endlessly behind them, it was easy to forget the hustle and bustle below. We stood in silence for a while, just taking it all in. Moments like that remind me why we love traveling.

A City That Stays With You

Cusco is more than just a city—it’s a living story of resilience, history, and culture. It’s a place where the past feels alive and the present is full of color and life.