Cuzco Peru on 31/10/08

Cuzco

Cuzco, Peru is located within the Huatanay River Valley. Bordering Cuzco is Arequipa and Puno. Cuzco is mainly a farming and mining department based on barley, corn, potatoes, and other high altitude crops. However, over the years Cuzco has become a giant hub for tourists owing partly to Machu Picchu, but also due to the beautiful landscape of Cusco that many tourists target for their vacation destination.

There are a plethora of sites to visit in Cuzco. So many, in fact, that the tourism industry has deemed it important to make a Tourist ticket - the ticket that will get any visitor into the 16 most important places in Peru.

Among the many sights in Cuzco, the churches and temples are at the top of the list. The Cathedral located in the Plaza de Armas was built in the shape of a cross, like many roman style cathedrals at the time. Built in 1560, the Cathedral is located on an important Incan temple that was dedicated to one of the Incan God’s. The Museum of Arte Precolobino in Plaza de Nazarenas is open every day and is dedicated to educating the people on the different cultures of Peru. The artist’s quarter in Cuzco is also a sight worth seeing. First settled by the Mitimaes, or the Incan craftsmen, this quarter was created with the purpose of teaching crafts to artisans. San Blas is honored for its atmosphere and twisty streets and is maybe best viewed during the Saturday Fair in which the artisans still come to offer their handwork.

Archaeological enthusiasts can find a haven in Cuzco. In addition to Machu Picchu, Cuzco claims many historical sites backed by ancient legends. Visitors can get up close and personal with history just by viewing the remarkable remains of an ancient human civilization. Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Qenko, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay are just a few of these sites. At Saqsayhuaman visitors revel in the giant wall, made out of rocks weighing between 90 and 120 tons. Qenko is said to have been a site for rituals and ceremonies and boasts a large amphitheater and an underground maze of rooms. Vilcabamba.
About 100 miles from Machu Picchu lies the Parque Nacional del Manu. The park has been called the largest tropical reserve and is well known for its distinct ecosystem. The Puna lay at the highest altitudes and is characterized by the ichu grass. The Cloud Forest is a land constantly enveloped in mist and haze. Varying species of birds, snakes and mammals mark the territory. The lowland rainforest signals the third sector of the Cuzco tropics. The park owes its fame to the variation in altitude, which in turn allows for a large range of flora and fauna differentiations. Peru itself can boast one of the richest ecosystems in the world.

Finding things to do in Cuzco is not difficult. However, deciding where to stay can prove a more daunting task. If interested in visiting the city center think about staying at the Pirwa Backpacker Colonial. This budget hostel is just two blocks from the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral. This hostel is also known for its patio and bar that allow for mingling and conversation with other fellow backpackers.

If you’re more interested in the colorful San Blas, Hostal Sweet Daybreak is the perfect location. With its picturesque view and cozy rooms, there is no way to regret a stay at Sweet Daybreak. Enjoy the comforts of the Hostal and the friendliness of two owners that know the true wonders of backpacking in South America.

Looking for something to match the landscape? Teatro Inka uses a modern Andean style and ecological materials to blend the hostel with the beautiful view. The patio at Teatro Inka is the best way to meet other visitors and hear about new places to visit in Peru.

Find all these budget hostels and more information on Peru at MiniHostels.com.