Things To Do
in Urcos
Urcos is a small highland town in the Cusco region, set in the Vilcanota valley at a dramatic altitude. It serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby Inca sites, rural villages, and the snow-dusted Andes. The community is warm and traditional, with colorful markets and clear views of the surrounding mountains.
Expect a relaxed pace, authentic Andean cuisine, and opportunities to connect with local Quechua culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Urcos, take in the stunning views of the surrounding Andean mountains. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast. Explore the local area, getting your first taste of the vibrant culture and friendly locals.
Visit the Urcos Lagoon, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or simply relax by the water. The serene environment is perfect for taking photos or having a picnic while you soak in the natural beauty. Engage with local artisans showcasing their crafts at nearby markets.
Savor dinner at a local restaurant, trying regional specialties such as roasted guinea pig or a hearty lomo saltado. Enjoy the evenings in Urcos as the sun sets, casting beautiful colors over the mountains. Engage with locals at community events or enjoy a quiet stroll along the lagoon.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the town. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Urcos, where you can admire colonial architecture and local sculptures. Interact with the friendly locals who often gather here for tea and gossip.
Take a guided tour to the nearby ruins of Tipón, an ancient Incan agricultural site. Walk through terraced fields and marvel at the aqueducts that date back to the Inca Empire, providing insight into their advanced engineering. After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby eatery.
Attend a cultural show featuring traditional music and folk dances that showcase the rich heritage of the region. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or explore more local restaurants. As the stars appear, the tranquil atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🧵Handicraft souvenir | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Andean scenery and authentic village life
- Affordable costs and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end options
- Altitude can cause sickness and some days involve long travel times
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Tiene menú vegetariano?" - Do you have a vegetarian menu?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
Places to Visit in Urcos
Visit one of these nice places.
A high overlook offering dramatic mountain silhouettes and a winding river far below.
Golden light on the glacier-capped Ausangate massif—one of the iconic high-altitude landscape shots.
Colorful rural lanes and stone houses provide warm daytime portraits and street scenes.
Food in Urcos
Urcos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fried guinea pig dish, commonly available in local eateries; typically served with potatoes and maize.
Must-Try!
Meat and vegetables cooked in a ground pit with hot stones, a festive dish often found at family-run restaurants or during celebrations.
Quinoa soup rich with local grains and herbs, a comforting starter or light meal.
Sweet Andean corn served with fresh, local cheese; a popular snack or side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can sample fresh produce, roasted corn, empanadas, and fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm hello; dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; avoid loud behavior.
Ask permission before photographing people or religious spaces; observe local norms around ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Urcos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips of 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included; small tokens for guides and drivers after day trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry-to-warm days with occasional showers; bring a light rain shell, sun protection, and sturdy footwear for variable terrain.
Cold nights and cool days; high altitude makes sun strong during the day—pack warm layers, a hat, and gloves.
Mild days with variable rainfall; ideal for hiking without peak-season crowds.
Urcos at Night
Hiking in Urcos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famed high-altitude trekking area with turquoise lakes, dramatic peaks, and colorful landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Urcos by plane.
Cusco’s main airport; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road to Urcos depending on weather and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents identify with Andean Quechua heritage and speak Quechua alongside Spanish.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and gatherings are common in plazas and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Urcos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose potato and quinoa-based dishes, request vegetables without meat, and ask for vegetarian soups or quinoa dishes.