Cusco is a magical place that is full of ancient history, natural wonders, and some intriguing customs and traditions. You may have some expectations before you arrive, but there will also be a lot of things that surprise and amaze you while you’re here.
We’re here to give you some hints of things that may surprise you during your vacation. From the weird to the wonderful, read on to find out what to expect.
ALPACAS ARE EVERYWHERE
That’s right! These adorable fluffy little animals can be seen all over the city. They aren’t just up in the hills grazing all day. Many owners will bring them to the town for you to take photos with them for you to cherish when you go back home.
And don’t be surprised if you see someone trying to squeeze one into a taxi either. It happens!
GUINEA PIGS ARE FOOD
Yes, you heard us right. Little nibbles that you kept as a pet when you were a kid is actually eaten here. They are quite the delicacy and are eaten on special occasions and enjoyed by all the family.
There are places all over the city and in surrounding villages if you want to give it a try yourself. They actually taste quite nice and come with some tasty sides to enjoy it even more.
FIREWORKS IN THE DAY
It can be startling when getting ready for your days tours after breakfast and you hear what sounds like gunshots going off! But, these are probably for a Saint that’s being celebrated by a small village or part of the town.
They don’t care if they can’t be seen, they’ll set fireworks off at any time of day. So, don’t let them frighten you. It’s just tradition.
INCAN RUINS CAN BE FOUND EVERYWHERE
This isn’t really surprising as Cusco was the capital of the Incan empire. But, it can be quite amazing when you’re walking through the hills on a sunny afternoon and you stumble across some ruins that are over 500 years old.
You’ll likely be visiting a lot of the well-known sites around town, but if you have the time take a wander into the hills and see if you can find something mystical that not many of us have seen. It’ll make for some great memories to take home.
A LOT OF FOODS TASTE DIFFERENT
Cusco has most of the foods that you’ll be used to in your own country. But, sometimes they taste different. The cheese from here is unique in taste and appearance, but it doesn’t mean it’s not delicious.
Chocolate, as well, isn’t really the same. Now, you can get some excellent quality stuff as this is where chocolate comes from, but don’t expect it to taste like your favorite mile chocolate.
A few other foods that might surprise you in their flavour include olives, potatoes, and corn.
THE AMOUNT OF POTATOES AND MAIZE
There’s no doubt you’ve heard that Peru is home to literally thousands of varieties of potato. And, it’s true. They come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and even colors! The different textures will amaze you and you’ll see them piled up all over the place in the markets.
Maize also comes in a variety of tones. Each one is used in a different way and has a different taste. They even make a drink from purple corn here, which they drink at every opportunity. It’s Chicha Morada and is really delicious.
The best thing you can do is to take it all in and let become a part of this magical new experience. Take photos to remind you of your time in Cusco and all its little quirks that made it special.
Written by: Liv Palmer
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