After months of planning, long flights, and dreaming about Machu Picchu, you’ve finally arrived in Cusco. The temptation is to drop your bags at the hotel and start doing everything at once.
Don’t.
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make on their first day in Cusco is forgetting that they’re arriving at over 3,300 meters (11,000 feet) above sea level. Even if you’re fit, young, and healthy, the altitude has a way of reminding you who’s in charge.
The good news? A few simple choices can make your first day much more enjoyable.
Peruvian cuisine is incredible, and Cusco has no shortage of restaurants serving everything from traditional dishes to modern fusion cuisine. But your first day isn’t the best time to challenge your stomach.
Instead of ordering the biggest meal on the menu, start with something light. Soups, grilled chicken, trout, quinoa dishes, and fresh vegetables are all good options while your body adjusts to the altitude.
Many travelers find that heavy, greasy meals leave them feeling sluggish or uncomfortable during their first 24 hours in Cusco.
The dry mountain air can be surprisingly dehydrating. Add a travel day, a long flight, and the altitude, and it’s easy to feel tired before your adventure even begins.
Carry a bottle of water and drink regularly throughout the day. You don’t need to force it, just be mindful that your body is working a little harder than usual.
You’ll probably be offered coca tea at your hotel as well. It’s a local tradition that many visitors enjoy during their first days in Cusco.
Yes, you’re on vacation.
Yes, the pisco sours are excellent.
But if there’s one piece of advice locals and guides repeat over and over again, it’s this: don’t make your first night in Cusco your biggest night out.
Alcohol and altitude aren’t always the best combination. A couple of drinks are usually fine for most people, but going all-in on your first evening can leave you feeling far worse the next morning.
Cusco will still be here tomorrow.
Many visitors land in Cusco and immediately book a challenging hike for the next morning. While that sounds ambitious, your body might have other plans.
Your first day should be about acclimatizing, resting, and enjoying the experience rather than testing your limits. The mountains, treks, and adventures can wait a little.
Think of your arrival day as an investment in the rest of your trip.
Some travelers feel completely normal within a few hours. Others need a day or two before they feel like themselves again.
Neither is right or wrong.
If you’re tired, rest. If you’re hungry, eat. If you need a quiet afternoon with a coffee overlooking the rooftops of Cusco, take it.
The best trips aren’t won by rushing from one attraction to another. They’re enjoyed by giving yourself time to settle in and appreciate where you are.
After all, Cusco isn’t just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu. It’s a destination worth slowing down for.
