Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire. Today it is the landing place and resting place for tourists that travel in from all corners of the world. The city of Cusco also is the home of a Spanish language school in Peru, which is operated by Ecela. Students of the study abroad program who visit Cusco will have an opportunity to explore the land and culture during many activities and excursions.
Top Local Activities in Cusco
Qosqo show
Dance and Music Show – During your time in Cusco be sure to catch the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo show. This music and dance show gives you an understanding of the traditional folk and modern music and dance of the locals and all of Peru. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture of the land and its people.
Cooking Class – The Andean influence on the cuisine of Cusco is remarkable. Chefs in Cusco use fresh, local ingredients from the abundant land that surrounds the city. Many times when you sign up for a cooking lesson the chef will begin your class with a trip to the local market where you can hand-pick your ingredients and try some of the exotic fruit being sold. Learning to cook a traditional Andean meal is an experience that you can replicate at home while you learn Spanish in Cusco.
Taditions and Customs – Costumbres Cusqueñas is an introduction into the customs and traditions of the Andean people of Cusco, Peru. Through the Spanish language school in Peru you will understand the deep-rooted culture of the people.
Local Animal Sanctuary – In Cusco you will surely want to make a point of visiting the Santuario Animal de Cochahuasi. This family-run sanctuary features local animals such as alpacas, tortoises, monkeys, pumas, and even condors! This is truly an experience of a lifetime to hear about and see animals local to Peru, the Andean region, and the Amazon region.
Excursions Near Cusco, Peru
Moray’s ancient agricultural terraces.
Maras y Moray in the Sacred Valley – Plan a day to visit the Scared Valley of the Incas and the towns of Maras and Morey. During your adventure you will visit the salt ponds of Maras and the ancient archaeological site of Moray. The famous agricultural terraces of Moray are a sight to be seen. The purpose of the terraces have been widely speculated by archaeologists around the world.
Cabalgata – For a special treat, book your horseback adventure through the Andes Mountains that surround Cusco. This horseback tour will give you a chance to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this capital of the Incan Empire. The horseback tour will also take you to visit an Incan temple- Templo de la Luna near Machu Picchu.
Rappelling and Rock Climbing the Andes – For the adventure seeker and adrenaline junkie is a rappelling and rock climbing excursion. See the Andes Mountains like you never believed possible. Sink your fingers and toes into the rocks that make up this astonishing South American mountain range.
Students at Machu Picchu
Cusco is not just a destination for those looking to visit Machu Picchu- although you can do that too. It is for the Eleca student who would like to learn Spanish in Cusco while enjoying the sophistication and tranquility of a town that is deeply rooted in its history and culture. Explore Cusco today through the Ecela study abroad program.
Ecela Cusco Activities & Excursions Calendars
Recommended Cusco, Peru Tourist Video
Receive five bite-sized email cultural backgrounds designed to give you insight into Peruvian life:
- eLesson 1: Peruvian Food & Drink
- eLesson 2: Peruvian Cinema
- eLesson 3: Peruvian Personalities
- eLesson 4: Peruvian Literature
- eLesson 5: Peruvian Slang Terms