Things to do in Cusco
Become a dab hand at Peruvian cuisine
Peru's cuisine has become world famous, and innovative chef Marcelo Batata's in-depth lessons give visitors an understanding of Peruvian gastronomy with a market visit, including tastings and, of course, a little pisco. You can find the man himself at Cuzco Dining classes (www.cuzcodining.com).
Make like the locals and speak Quechua
Seeing as you're visiting the ancient capital of the Incas, why not learn a few words of Quechua? Depending on the length of your stay you can either do series of lessons or a very tourist-friendly (i.e. easy) one-day crash course. Thankfully, teachers are well known for being patient with well-meaning travelers (tel: +51 84 242 292; www.spanishcusco.com).
Make your own chocolate
The ChocoMuseo (tel: +51 84 244 765; www.chocomuseo.com) is far more than just a museum. Offering several chocolate-making workshops, the museum lets those with a sweet tooth (over)indulge in their creations as they make anything from delicious chocolate bars to mouth-watering truffles over a two-hour session.
Raft along the Urubamba River
Peru Rafting Tours (tel: +51 84 242 824; www.perurafting.com) offer white-water rafting and kayaking along the Urubamba River, the frothing waterway that runs from near Cusco to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, tours can head into the Tambopata rainforest, promising loads of wildlife and some hardcore rapids.
Rejuvenate your aching limbs in a spa
After your Machu Picchu trek, the only activity you'll feel like doing is jumping into a hot bath. Go one step further by visiting one of the traditional-style bath treatments in the Inca Spa in Hotel Eco Inn (tel: +51 12 160 111; www.incaspa.com/en), which offers delights such as mud and chocolate therapy.
