Easy Walks in Cusco to Enjoy Without Getting Exhausted

🚶‍♂️ Easy Walks in Cusco to Enjoy Without Getting Exhausted

While Cusco is famous for demanding treks to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, it also offers beautiful short and easy walks perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace. Whether you need to acclimate before a high-altitude tour or just want to explore the city gently, this guide is for you.

From historic viewpoints to hidden forests and colonial streets, here are the best short walks in Cusco you can enjoy without overexerting yourself.

✨ 1️⃣ Walk to San Blas Viewpoint

A must-do in Cusco is the traditional neighborhood of San Blas, known as the artisan’s quarter. Its narrow streets, local art workshops, and jewelry stores make it a cultural walk.

📌 Distance: 15 minutes from Plaza de Armas
📌 Difficulty: Easy
📌 Highlights: 12-Angle Stone, art shops, and panoramic views from San Blas square.

✨ 2️⃣ Walk to Cristo Blanco and Sacsayhuamán

From the main square, you can walk up to Cristo Blanco, a 30-minute uphill walk offering an amazing panoramic view of the city.

If you still have energy, continue a little further to Sacsayhuamán, one of the most impressive Inca fortresses.

📌 Distance: 2 km from Plaza
📌 Difficulty: Moderate (some uphill sections)
📌 Highlights: Cristo Blanco, Sacsayhuamán ruins, and city views.

✨ 3️⃣ Stroll to San Pedro Market

For those who love traditional markets, walking to San Pedro Market is a must. Just a 10-minute walk from the main square, it’s filled with colors, aromas, and local culture.

📌 Distance: 800 meters from Plaza
📌 Difficulty: Very easy
📌 Highlights: Fresh juice stands, exotic fruits, souvenirs, and typical food.

✨ 4️⃣ Walk through Qenqo Forest

If you want a short nature escape, head to Qenqo Forest. A 15-minute taxi ride from downtown gets you to this peaceful spot with eucalyptus trees and archaeological remains.

📌 Distance: 1 km walking trail
📌 Difficulty: Easy
📌 Highlights: Stone labyrinths, Inca altars, and nature.

✨ 5️⃣ Night Walk around Plaza de Armas and Colonial Streets

A magical experience is walking at night around the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by illuminated churches and balconies. Then continue along Hatun Rumiyoc Street and Siete Culebras Alley, both rich in history and mystery.

📌 Distance: 1-2 km total
📌 Difficulty: Very easy
📌 Highlights: Night lighting, colonial balconies, bars, and hidden Inca walls.