population: 0.43 million

extension: 385.10 square kilometers

Museums

Great! If you're in Cusco and interested in visiting museums, a must-visit is the Museo de Arte Precolombino. It's located in the Plaza Nazarenas and showcases artifacts from ancient Andean civilizations, including ceramics, textiles, and metalwork.

Other museums in Cusco that may be of interest include the Casa Concha Museum, which houses a collection of Inca and pre-Inca artifacts, and the Museo Inka, which focuses on the history of the Inca Empire.

Food

Cusco is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, which is a fusion of indigenous Andean ingredients and Spanish colonial influences. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Cusco:

1. Cuy (Guinea Pig): One of the most iconic dishes in Peru, especially in the Andean region. It's usually roasted or fried and served whole.

2. Lomo Saltado: A stir-fry dish made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, served with rice.

3. Rocoto Relleno: Spicy peppers stuffed with meat, vegetables, and cheese, then baked.

4. Anticuchos: Skewers of marinated grilled meat, usually beef heart, served with boiled potatoes and corn.

5. Ají de Gallina: Shredded chicken cooked in a creamy sauce made with yellow chili peppers, bread, milk, and nuts, served with rice and boiled eggs.

6. Pachamanca: A traditional Andean dish prepared by roasting meats, vegetables, and potatoes in an underground oven heated with hot stones.

7. Chicha Morada: A refreshing drink made from purple corn, flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and fruit juice.

8. Cusqueña Beer: A local beer brewed in Cusco, available in many varieties including light, dark, and amber.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes and drinks you can try in Cusco!

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Cusco:

1. Take a cooking class: Discover the secrets of Peruvian cuisine by taking a cooking class. You can learn to make traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa.

2. Visit local markets: Immerse yourself in local culture by exploring one of Cusco's bustling markets, such as San Pedro Market or Mercado Central. Here, you'll find everything from fresh produce to handmade textiles.

3. Attend a cultural event: Cusco is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as Inti Raymi (the Inca sun festival) and Corpus Christi. Attending one of these events is a great way to experience the local culture.

4. Hike to nearby ruins: Cusco is surrounded by ancient ruins, and hiking to them is a popular activity for locals and tourists alike. Some popular options include Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, and Q'enqo.

5. Enjoy the nightlife: Cusco has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and nightclubs to choose from. Locals often gather at Plaza de Armas to socialize and enjoy the music and entertainment.