Places of Northern Peru that you should know

Tumbes

Puerto Pizarro

Puerto Pizarro is a beach located 13 kilometers from the city of Tumbes. It has a small group of fishermen and extractors of black shells.

Because the waters of Pizarro port are shallow they facilitate the practice of skiing and boat rides.

In Puerto Pizarro there are guided walks to the national sanctuary, the Mangroves of Tumbes, island of love, Hueso Ballena and Isla de los Pájaros. peru tours

The mangroves of Tumbes

They are forests whose vegetation grows and develops in a zone of circulation between the sea and the earth and that comprises a small area of ​​the left margin of the river Tumbes and with greater surface in the right margin until the zone of the International Channel of Capons.

Manglares in Tumbes

The Tumbes Mangroves are a natural beauty, with labyrinths, tidal channels or marshes, shelter and food source of numerous species of crustaceans, mollusks, fish and varied fauna.

The Island of Love

The Island of Love is located in front of Puerto Pizarro, it is a quiet place.

On this island in summer is filled with campers who come to enjoy the tranquility of the sea.

The Island of Love is called this way because many couples of newlyweds come to spend their honeymoon. travel Peru

Caleta de Cruz Pizarro

It is the place where Don Francisco Pizarro began the conquest of Peru. It shows a replica of the cross he planted in 1532.

Punta Sal

 It is the most elegant and beautiful Tumbesina beach, this place is ideal for water sports, horseback riding and rest.

The cove of Zorritos

 This is where the first oil well in SouthAmerica was drilled. What is attractive in this beach are the great marine riches such as: sole, corvina, snook; The artisanal fishing pier, the lighthouse and the boardwalk.

Aguas Verdes. It is the city in full border line, from where the commercial exchange between Peru and Ecuador takes place.

The architectural set Cabeza de Vaca. Located in the Corrales district. In addition, the pre-Columbian remains of Lizard Head, Loma Saavedra, Cucharola, among others, where remains of old human settlements and ceramic pieces can be found.

Trujillo

Chan Chan

This prehistoric urban center is the largest clay city of America Prehispanica. It was declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 1986. Chan Chan would have been the capital of the Chimu kingdom, originally covering more than 20 km2 from the vicinity of the port of Huanchaco to the Campana Center. Archaeologists estimate that it houses more than 100 thousand people. Peru tours

Its structure distinguishes squares, dwellings, warehouses, workshops, streets, ramparts and pyramidal temples. Its huge walls are profusely decorated with reliefs of stylized zoomorphic figures and mythological beings. The tour of the archaeological site is complemented by a visit to the Site Museum.

Chan Chan - Metropoli capital of the vast and powerful Chimu kingdom, the most important on the coast, whose extension is estimated at 18 km. Squares.

Huanchaco

The spa of Huanchaco is located in the district of the same name. It is the most important and beautiful spa of the city of Trujillo capital of the Region the freedom.

The name of Huanchaco comes from Guaukocha (beautiful lagoon with golden pece). Today is a traditional and picturesque seaside resort, obligatorily stop for the tourists that visit the city.

The Rainbow Huanca

4 km from the city of Trujillo. This pyramid of adobe is especially important because if construction had been carried out at the beginning of the Chimú culture and at the end of the Tiahuanaco-Wari culture between the X-XI century D.C. It is estimated that its age is 1100 years. Travel peru

The building has a quadrangular base and walls decorated by high reliefs with zoomorphic and anthropomorphic representations. The name of Dragon is due to one of these figures, a bicephalous being with countless legs similar to a dragon.

The researchers believe that one of the functions of this place was ceremonial (it would be linked to rituals in honor of the rainbow and other natural phenomena related to fertility). It was discovered by a treasure seeker in 1943 and cleaned by the Institute of Anthropology of the National University of Trujillo in 1947 and 1948, work that exposed three outer walls and two interior walls with magnificent decorations in patent relief Mythological intention.

Cathedral

Built between 1647 and 1666, its altars are of baroque and rococo style; The canvases that conserves belong to the Cuzco school of painting and Quito. The Cathedral has the Cathedral Museum with works mainly religious from the viceregal period in gold and silver.

Parade ground

The largest of the country, it is surrounded by the Cathedral, harmonious colonial and republican mansions, and by palaces. In the central part is the monument to La Libertad, which represents the process of independence of the country. The statue was made in France, the materials used are marble and copper, the sculptor was Edmund Moeller. In it you will find many statues

Main Square

Beautiful historical setting from where Martin de Estete began the stroke of the city by order of the founder Diego de Almagro in December 1534. In its beginnings the square appeared desaloda, without any monument, until in 1841don pedro de Mandalengoitia Sanzde Zarate owned a pool Made of white stone that was built on his hacienda and obraje of Santa Cruz de Carabamba. In 1867 the pool was illuminated with 8 davits with their respective lanterns and an iron fence was installed to protect it.

To the center is the Monument of the Freedom sculpted by the German Edmundo Moeller and soon armed by Enrique Albretch inaugurated the 4 of July of 1929.

Piura

Main Square

It is an old square that stands out for its beauty, of colonial court is surrounded by a variety of flowers and plants. Located in the center of the city, it is where the residents gather for civic ceremonies. In addition to the middle is the monument to freedom "La Pola", the oldest in the region and the Cathedral of Piura, built in colonial times.

Also highlights the bridge of the city of Piura and La Paloma de la Paz, built in 1982 by the Peruvian sculptor Victor Delfin.

The artisanal market of Catacaos

It is located 12 kilometers from Piura, it is distinguished when arriving at the town by its bow in the form of pitcher. It is a town of deep traditions and customs. The place is composed of houses of cane, the central part is the Commerce Street. There is also the San Pedro temple, built in the 17th century. Peru tours

The town is unique in many ways, however the craft market is the highlight of the place. Shows products typical of the region; Among them the straw hats and the filigree gold and silver jewelery stand out. Artisanal work is carried out by peasants and much of the material comes from Cajamarca or Madre de Dios. At present, many visitors come to acquire these products.

Chulucanas

Chulucanas is the capital of Morropón and you can arrive in 45 minutes from the city of Piura. It is a small city with a warm climate with friendly people; Which are farmers, farmers and craftsmen, mostly. It is recognized for being a village of potters and potters, which can be observed in the various workshops along the streets. Many of them still use ancient and ancient techniques (vicus and tallanes). Many of them full of images present the life of the community through their art. Every day the pottery of Chulucanas is recognized in national and international markets, really beautiful and stylized.

Mancora

Máncora is located 182 kilometers from Piura. It is considered one of the most beautiful spas on the north coast of Peru. In addition one of the places frequented more in the summer by the national and international travelers. For many it is the point, where you find the perfect wave and for others it is a place of relaxation or fun.

At present, it is full of tourists and travelers while staying a vacation time. Now if you want to get away from the noise, the best beaches are around as Pocitas or at the height of the bridge Cabo Blanco. Peru Travel

Cabo Blanco, Los Organos and Vichayito

If we plan to relax in front of the sea and spend a surprising moment in the north of Peru, then we have to visit Cabo Blanco, Los Órganos or Vichayito. Cabo Blanco is a mystical beach for many and mythical for others, full of epic waves (ranging from two to four meters) and variety of fish in the sea. You can find swordfish, merlin and tuna. Another attraction is to make the so-called Hemingway route, recommended for those who like to write.

The Organs presents a dry and tropical climate. The pier is handcrafted, it is beautiful to watch the sun go down in the sunset and to look at the rafts sailing on the shore. In addition, the district lives on fishing, ecotourism and commerce. Many surfers come to fight their waves and even come to dive. On the other hand Vichayito grows every day and is the attraction of many young people who come to vacation to the beach. The place has some lodgings and restaurants. The place is sunny but very windy.

Peruvian Dessert - Peruvian Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche)

Arroz con Leche, the Peruvian version of rice pudding, is a popular and extremely sweet essert. Brought to Peru by the Spanish conquerors, it's made with simple ingredients like rice, weetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. A delicious and simple to prepare goody.

Every mum and cook has its own recipe for Arroz con Leche here in Peru with at least one  secret" ingredient. Nevertheless we compiled an easy to follow recipe that brings a delicious Peruvian dessert to your home. Only  drawback: you are confined to the stove for quite some time stirring your rice pudding.

Arroz con Leche - Peru Tours

Ingredients

• 200 g rice (1 cup)
• 650 ml water
• juice of 1 orange
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 1 tin evaporated milk (400 ml)
• 1 tin sweetened condensed milk (400 ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• cinnamon powder

Preparation

Pour the water into a heavy saucepan. Add the juice of one orange, the cinnamon stick and the cloves. Bring to a boil. Wash the rice thoroughly and add to the boiling water. Bring to a boil again. Then reduce heat and let simmer without lid until the water is gone and the rice is soft (about 15 – 20 minutes) Remove the cloves and the cinnamon stick.

Add the evaporated milk. Constantly stirring, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer continuing stirring until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Then add the sweetened condensed milk. Without stopping to stir, continue cooking over low heat until your rice pudding gets creamy (about 10 minutes). Stir in the vanilla essence.

Fill the rice pudding in a bowl or small glasses, sprinkle with cinnamon powder and serve hot or cold.

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Peruvian Recipes - Ceviche

Recipe for Peruvian Ceviche (for 2 - 3 persons)

Ingredients for Peruvian Ceviche - Peru Tours

• 400 g semi firm, white, sea water fish filet (sea bass, sole, flounder)
• 1/2 red onion
• 1/2 small aji limo (you could substitute with habanero pepper)
• 1/4 to 1/2 aji amarillo (optional)
• 8 Peruvian limes (key limes will do)
• salt
• 3 ice cubes
• 1 boiled ear of corn, cut into thick slices
• 1 boiled sweet potato, cut into thick slices
• lettuce
• fresh chopped coriander or parsley

Preparation of Peruvian Ceviche - Peru Holidays

• First prepare your ingredients: deseed and devein aji and chop very fine, slice onion into thin strips, cut limes in half and the fish evenly into bite sized pieces. Use a left over piece of the aji and rub the sides of a bowl with it. Toss fish and onions into the bowl. Add the ice cubes. Season with salt and chopped aji. Squeeze half of the limes directly into the bowl. Then mix all ingredients together. Remove ice cubes before they are starting to melt. Squeeze the rest of the limes into the bowl, stir and leave to marinate in the fridge for not more than 10 minutes.

• Quickly place the ceviche on a plate, garnish with lettuce, corn and sweet potato. Sprinkle with chopped coriander or parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of Peru's national dish!

• By the way the marinade used for Ceviche is called Leche de Tigre. Peruvians spoon it when they have finished their Ceviche or drink a small glass of it easing the pain after a long night out.

Preparation Tips

• Ceviche is probably one of the easiest and quickest dishes to prepare and surely makes an impression, at least if you follow some very simple rules
• Use only the freshest, semi firm, white fleshed sea water fish like sea bass, sole or flounder.
• Don't use oily fish like tuna, sardines or mackerel.
• Cut the fish filet evenly (!) into bite sized pieces, so it cooks evenly (yes, the lime juice really cooks your fish, denaturing the proteins similar to the heating process.)
• Use fresh limes. Squeeze them only half to avoid bitterness.
• Don't overdo it with the chili pepper; Ceviche should be a perfect balance between the refreshing acidity of the lime and the spiciness of the aji.
• Nowadays Latin American food shops and even some local markets sell Peruvian ingredients, but if you can't get Aji Limo you could substitute it with habanero peppers.
• Let the fish marinate for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Then it's perfectly cooked; firm outside, but still tender and moist in the interior.

South America Peru tours - SA Peru, can help you plan a memorable trip with many diverse tour options. Exploring the old Inca palaces, hike along Inca trails, witness colorful local celebrations, visit museums with amazing artifacts before making your way to the amazing Amazon Rainforest wildlife, the wonderful beaches, and the marvelous Patagonia.

Best Things To See in Lima City Part 2

The Magic Water Circuit

The Parque de la Reserva was originally opened in 1929 to commemorate all the civilian reservists who fought in the defence of Lima during the War of the Pacific. But more than 65 years later Parque de la Reserva became one of Lima's most visited tourist attractions.(best Peru tours)

In May 2007 a water and light show called the Circuito Magico del Agua (The Magic Water Circuit) was inaugurated. The Magic Water Circuit has the Guinness Book record for the largest fountain complex in the world, displaying 13 distinct fountains and many are interactive. All of the fountains are illuminated at night, many with continuously changing color schemes. A colorful laser light program synchronized with classical and Peruvian music makes the fountains sparkle and shine as the water flows in unique patterns and shapes.

Archeological Museum Rafael Larco Herrera

Founded in 1926, the Larco Museum showcases remarkable chronological galleries providing an excellent overview on 3000 years of development of Peruvian pre-Columbian history. Located in a unique vice-royal mansion of the 18th century built over a 7th century pre-Columbian pyramid and surrounded by beautiful gardens. The museum features the finest gold and silver collection from Ancient Peru and a famous erotic archaeological collection.

For an unforgettable experience, Larco is one of the few museums in the world where visitors can also choose to enter the storage area with its 45.000 classified archaeological objects. Its masterpieces are considered worldwide icons of pre-Columbian art, after being exhibited in the world's leading museums.(south america tours)

We highly recommend taking a guided tour through the museum which is really worth the few Soles extra. And a good way to end your visit at one of the best museums in Lima is stopping for a drink or an excellent meal at the restaurant.

The District Barranco

Unfortunately only a few tourists find their way to the beautiful district of Barranco. Once it was Lima's beach, pleasure and entertainment district for wealthier Limeños (during the colonial and republican times). Barranco was at the beginning of the 20th century home to famous Peruvian writers and artists which gave the district a unique character.

Luckily Barranco could save not only big a part of its colonial charm but as well its special character and charisma. The daily life in Barranco is more relaxed and quieter than in the rest of Lima. The city center invites you to stroll around, visit old colonial and republican houses and enjoy the numerous other amazing sights that Barranco has to offer. (south america travel)

As soon the sun goes down Barranco awakes and becomes the place for dancing and partying. The streets around the Parque Municipal (Municipal Park) get crowed. Cosy restaurants offer excellent typical Peruvian food. Pubs, discotheques and night clubs invite their guests to an exiting night. And the famous Peruvian peñas stage folkloric music shows, in particular Afro Peruvian and Criollo gigs.

Surquillo Market

Located in the district of Surquillo, the Surquillo market is just a few blocks from Parque Kennedy in Miraflores, only a ten minute walk on Av. Ricardo Palma over the bridge. The mercado in Surquillo is an enormous, genuine and bustling place where locals do their everyday shopping. It offers great quality food for amazingly low prices. A wide range of fresh Peruvian fruits, vegetables, herbs, meat, fish, seafood and even harder to find ingredients await you. (Peru destinations)

Around the market hall are hundreds of small stores selling everything from kitchen and table ware, groceries and even clothes. And along adjoining Calle Narciso de la Colina a gastronomic boulevard was opened in 2010, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy a delicious Peruvian meal.

Park of Legends Zoo

The Parque de las Leyendas is Lima's traditional zoo. But it's much more than that. It is located amidst a big part of Lima's most extensive ancient city and is one of the most important pre-Hispanic complexes at the central Peruvian coast called the Archaeological Complex of Maranga. The park successfully manages to combine ecology, archaeology, education and relaxation.

While wandering around the extensive area you can't miss the pyramidal structures that served different ingenious civilizations as temples and burial grounds. In the Parque de las Leyendas are some very interesting museums like the Museo Ernst. W. Middendorf, displaying artifacts and mummies found in the different religious and ceremonial center's, the Museo Petroleo, offering an educational exhibition about the process of exploration, exploitation and the transforming of crude oil and its derivatives and finally the Museo Celestino Kalinosky with an amazing butterfly exhibition.

The zoo itself is focusing on the Peruvian flora and fauna. It's divided into the three principle climatic regions of Peru: costa, sierra and selva (coast, highlands and jungle). Animals from all over Peru can be observed here. The coastal region is represented by pelicans, cormorants, sea lions, penguins and turtles; the highlands by llamas, vicunas, guanacos, pumas, condors and owls; the jungle by monkeys, jaguars, snakes, toucans, parrots, coatis and crocodiles. (Peru holidays)

But you find "international animals" as well. In 2010 the big cats were freed from their tiny cages and moved to more species-appropriate big enclosure, the "Felinario" which resembles more their natural habitat. Here you find lions, pumas, tigers and jaguars sleeping in the shade, running around or playing. Other non Peruvian animals include giraffes, hippos, zebras, buffalo, bears and ostriches.

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Best Things To See in Lima City Part 1

where you can still see the colonial part and the modern areas. Narrow streets cluttered, baroque churches. Colonial structures clad with elaborate balconies. The capital of Peru is surrounded of a variety of restaurants and museums stuffed with pre-Columbian treasures. The web of streets set in 1532 is still full of life. Lima is, also known for its gastronomy that if you have the chance to pass by here you can´t miss out the opportunity to try these exquisite dishes. best Peru Tour experience.

Lima Main Square

The Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas (as it was known until 1990), is the oldest public place in Lima. In 1535 the conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded on the area of an existing indigenous settlement the city of Lima. He designed a main square in the central part of the future city Lima with all important institutions built around it.

On the north side of Plaza Mayor is the Palacio de Gobierno, the presidential residence and in colonial times the location of Francisco Pizarros house - later the Palace of the Viceroys. On the east side you find flanked by the Archbishops Palace the Cathedral of Lima. The Palacio Municipal is located on the west side of Plaza Mayor. Depending on their importance and rank wealthy and influential immigrants were allowed to build their mansions on properties near the Plaza Mayor. In colonial Lima the main square was the economic center of the city. The arcades in front of the main buildings, the small today called Pasaje Olaya and other adjoining streets were full of all sorts of shops. The plaza housed for a long time Limas big food market.(best Peru Destination)

The Plaza Mayor was also the ceremonial center of old Lima. Here all important events took place: religious, state and military processions were held and all kinds of festivities and entertainment. The Spanish Inquisition used the Plaza Mayor for public executions of their condemned. Already in 1538 the first bullfight in Lima was held on Plaza Mayor and many others followed until the construction of the Plaza de Acho. In 1821 General Jose de San Martin declared here the independence of Peru. In it's over 500 year old history the Plaza Mayor has seen all important events of Lima and Peru. It was modified, remodelled and reconstructed many times, but its layout and significance still remains unchanged.

Museum in the Convent of San Francisco

The Church and Convent of San Francisco is besides the Cathedral of Lima probably the most significant religious complex in Lima and the most successful and impressive monument of Colonial architecture in whole Latin America. One of the "must-do's" in Lima is a highly recommended tour through the monastery. It gives an impressive inside on how religious life was during Spanish colonial times.

Coming into the monastery at the side portal of the building you enter a completely different world showing the importance of the Catholic church in Colonial times. Absolutely amazing are the beautiful preserved wooden stairs, the impressive Moorish dome over the main staircase, the outstanding library with over 25,000 volumes, the "Zurbarán - Hall", small chapels, distinctive religious paintings, small patios of typical Spanish style decorated with lovely tiles from Seville and the overwhelming former glory and wealth.(south america Peru tours)

Definitely the absolute highlight of the tour is the descent into the convents catacombs that served until 1808 as a burial ground. An estimated 30,000 deceased are buried here. Quite extraordinary: the monks arranged the remains according to bone types. Absolutely worth seeing!

Torre Tagle Palace

Considered one of the most magnificent buildings in South America, this unique mansion shows the elegance and grace of the architecture in the early 18th century. It was built in 1730 by José B. Tagle, the Marquis of Torre Tagle and treasurer of the Royal Spanish fleet. His coat of arms is still visible above the door.

Flanked by two impressive carved wooden balconies (in our opinion the most beautiful ones in Lima), the stone entrance is carved like the ones you normally find at a church. The inside court is a typical Seville style patio with extraordinary wooden balconies and galleries (beautiful!). The main hall is still furnished with lovely pieces from the 18th century. Today this best example of Colonial architecture in the country houses the Peruvian Foreign Affairs Ministry. Unfortunately it can only be visited after prior coordination or as part of a city tour offered by some tour operators in Lima.

House of the Aliaga Family

The "Casa de Aliaga" is the oldest Colonial mansion in Lima, maybe even in whole South America. The house has been owned and lived in by the Aliaga family and their descendants since Franzisco Pizarro granted the land to Jerónimo de Aliaga in 1535. Originally there was a pre-Colombian altar on that plot of land owned by "Curaca Tauli Chusco" (the reign of the Rimac valley).

Even if time, weather and pollution seem to slowly destroy the facade, the beautiful balcony is still impressive. Absolutely amazing is the inside: the inner patio is extraordinary and an imposing wooden staircase leads up to the elegant salons that are richly decorated with Colonial furniture.

The Casa Aliaga can be visited either with special tour operators in Lima or after prior arrangement with the Casa Aliaga. They as well can recommend specialized private tour guides if you wish to visit independently. Or book an absolutely stunning (but pricey) lunch or dinner with them. An incredible experience!

Presidential Palace

In 1535 Francisco Pizarro founded Lima and built his "palace" exactly on the same place where the main authority of the Rimac Valley at this time, the curazco Taulichusco, had his residence. When Lima was granted the title of Viceroyalty the "Casa de Pizarro" became the first Spanish Viceroys Palace in Lima.

Located at Lima's Main Square, called Plaza Mayor or Plaza de Armas, the palace is used as official residence of the Peruvian president since independence and today is also the central seat of the Peruvian government. Due to destruction by earthquakes and fires the Government Palace has been rebuilt, restored and remodeled numerous times, so today just a tree that Francisco Pizarro is assumed to have planted, might be the only remaining original piece. Nevertheless the last main construction works on the building in the 1930s gave this historical monument an impressive beauty and elegance. great Peru tour.

The Palacio de Gobierno is as well open to the public, but access may be restricted. It's necessary to either call or make an appointment at the public relations office around the corner. Best ask the guard in front of the Government Palace for directions and take your passport with you. Once inside you can enjoy the amazing patios, the richly decorated lounges, the impressive and beautiful entrance hall and all the other unbelievable treasures of nearly 500 years history of Lima yourself.

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Best Things To See in Cusco City

Plaza de Armas

The history of the Plaza de Armas stretches back all the way to the Inca Empire when it was called Huacaypata or Aucaypata. The massive square (originally twice its current size) was built as a venue for festivals and ceremonies in ancient times.

According to legend, this plaza once marked the exact center of the Inca Empire, earning Cusco the nickname "the navel of the world." After Spanish conquistadors conquered the city in the early 1500s, they erected two churches on the either sides of the square – La Compañia and La Catedral – where the former Incan palace once stood.

Today, the plaza contains landmarks significant to both the Andean and Spanish history, and still functions as the historic heart of the city. Recent visitors to the square say you'll find Peruvian dancing, music and plenty of people watching. Buzzing with activity all day and night, most of the centrally located hotels, restaurants and shops are just off the square.

The Cathedral (La Catedral)

Amid the many splendors found in the Plaza de Armas, the sky-high La Catedral is one of Cusco's finest architectural displays. Constructed in the 1550s with stones stolen from Sacsayhuamán, the baroque cathedral features opulent ceilings and gold and silver altars. It is also home to an impressive collection of colonial art that mixes Catholic traditions with indigenous legends.

La Catedral houses a world-renowned painting believed to depict the earthquake that shook Cusco in 1650. And across the building, you'll find a famous crucifix called Señor de los Temblores (Lord of the Earthquakes) who is said to have stopped the 17th-century earthquake from destroying the city.

Many of the works of art give insight into how the Andean people shifted to embrace Spanish culture and religion. For example, paintings of The Last Supper by Quechua artist Marcos Zapata depict Jesus and his disciples eating common ceremonial foods found in the region like cuy (roasted guinea pig) and chicha (a drink made from corn). Guests can also see images of the Virgin Mary depicting Pachamama (Mother Earth).

Recent visitors suggested exploring the church with a guide in order to hear the fascinating stories behind the structure and its artwork.

Visitors can stroll through the cathedral every day between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. for 25 soles (about $7). Save some money by purchasing the Boleto Turístico ticket, which costs 130 soles (roughly $40) and includes admission to 16 of Cusco's attractions, including the La Catedral.

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is often overshadowed by Machu Picchu, but this towering ancient Incan fortress – filled with exquisite stone masonry and dramatic vistas – is worth a visit. Much of the massive structure was used as building materials for the Spaniards, but what remains gives a glimpse at how large the fortress once was.

There’s much to see in these ruins, from the giant zigzagging stone walls (legend has it they formed the teeth of the puma-shaped Incan empire that is now Cusco) to the carved stone benches that form the suspected Incan throne.

During your visit, you'll also notice three foundations where colossal towers once stood. Also, take a few moments to walk around the Explanada, a parade platform where revelers still gather for the Raymi Festival of the Sun. Another interesting feature is Tambomachay, a nearby spring that served as a bathing site for the Incan elite.

Recent travelers remark that the ruins are not only an eye-catching spectacle and window to the past but also a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll with arresting views of Cusco.

You'll find Sacsayhuamán located approximately 2 miles northwest of Cusco's city center, less than a mile from Plaza de Armas. Travelers can take the steep walk or take a taxi to the site. There are two clearly marked entrances, but don't expect much direction once you start exploring the grounds. To hear the legend behind Sacsayhuamán's fascinating stonework, join one of the guided tours you'll find offered near the city center (make sure it's with a reputable tour operator: don't sign up for the tours offered on the street).

You can explore Sacsayhuamán every day between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. and must have the Boleto Turístico for admission. This "tourist ticket" costs 130 soles (about $40) and provides admittance to 15 other Cusco attractions.

Qorikancha

For a glimpse of the Inca's former grandeur, look no further than Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), also known as "Court of Gold." In its heyday, Inca's elite watched as light bounced from 700 gold-plated walls and danced across the temple's altars and statues. And its splendor stretched from its glimmering exterior walls into its regal confines, where approximately 4,000 of the most prestigious priests and their attendants resided.

With gold gleaming from nearly every surface of the compound, it's easy to see why the Spanish were enamored with Qorikancha's riches. After the conquistadors invaded Cusco in 1533 – and looted all its gold – only the Inca's elaborate masonry remained. Utilizing the Inca's masterful work as their foundation, the Spaniards began building their own churches and monuments on top of and around the structure, creating a rich blend of Andean and Spanish architecture.

Visitors say that although the site isn’t as impressive as other Incan ruins, it perfectly represents how the Spanish transformed impressive Incan temples into their own. Plus, its location at Plazoleta Santo Domingo, just south of Plaza de Armas, makes it much more accessible than other ruins, namely Machu Picchu.

You'll find Qorikancha located at Plazoleta Santo Domingo, which sits just south of Plaza de Armas. As part of the grounds, a small museum walks guests through the history of the temple. Admission costs 10 soles (about $3). Visitors are welcome to visit the temple from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

Planetarium Cusco

Located next to Sacsayhuamán, the Cusco Planetarium offers travelers a unique experience in the hills surrounding the city. While it may not be much to look at (the small planetarium is housed in a plain adobe building) recent visitors give almost unanimous praise for the informative guides and idyllic setting.

The facility not only allows visitors to gaze at the stars in a small observatory, it seeks to be a cultural interpretation center for Incan astronomy and offers a personalized experience that you can rarely find at other planetariums around the world. Since the operation has limited size, you must request a spot in advance for the 2-mile shuttle ride from Plaza de Armas.

The shuttle leaves downtown Cusco at about 5:40 p.m. and returns to the city around 7:30 p.m. The schedule is also subject to change – another reason advanced reservations are a smart idea. The cost per person is 50 soles (about $15), but discounts are available for larger groups. 

Museo de Arte Precolombino

While Qorikancha and MachuPicchu draw more visitors, the Museo de Arte Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Art Museum) possesses a world-class Peruvian collection that cannot be matched. This 12-room exhibition space is located in the Casa Cabrera, a mansion-turned-convent that dates back to 1580. Inside the compact space, you'll find 450 artifacts (including Peruvian ceramics, jewelry and carvings) that date back from 1250 B.C. to A.D. 1532.

While some recent visitors complain about the high entrance fee for a small museum, others say that exhibitions are well-crafted, the artifacts are one-of-a-kind and the in-depth descriptions help to give context to each piece.

The Museo de Arte Precolombino is located just two blocks northeast of Plaza de Armas, just off Plaza de las Nazarenas. The museum welcomes visitors every day from 9:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission costs 20 soles (about $6) for adults and 10 soles (about $3) for students. 

Museo Inka

Located in a beautiful 16th-century colonial mansion that was once home to Spanish Admiral Francisco Alderete Maldonado, the Museo Inka (Inca Museum) boasts an eclectic assortment of Incan artifacts.

From textiles to pottery to gold and metal pieces, the museum will intrigue visitors who want an introduction to Incan culture and history. Once you’ve finished admiring the traditional items inside, take a stroll to through the museum’s courtyard, where Andean women can often be found selling goods and weaving authentic textiles.

Recent visitors said the displays and exhibits are interesting, but noted that many don't include English translations and finding a guide may enhance the experience. Still, reviewers say for the cheap admission, a visit is worth it. If you're still interested in seeing more artifacts, check out the Museo de Arte Precolombino that's located one block east.

You'll find the Museo Inka located one block northeast of Plaza de Armas. The museum is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission costs 10 soles (about $3).

South America Peru tours - SA Peru, can help you plan a memorable trip with many diverse tour options. Exploring the old Inca palaces, hike along Inca trails