October 16, 2025
First Day in Cusco
When I arrived in Cusco, it was so interesting. The infrastructure here is so different from what I’m used to. It’s a very small airport, and everything was easy — my bag arrived, I met my taxi driver easily, and it’s only about 15 minutes to where I’m staying.
I was really overwhelmed driving around in the taxi — just how different everything looks. The construction feels kind of haphazard. There are so many buildings that seem lived in but have no windows. It’s really different from what I’m used to.
When I got to my Airbnb, I was so exhausted. Thankfully, they let me check in early — I just went straight in without even asking, two hours early. I took a shower (it took a long time for the water to heat up but thank God there was hot water), and then I got right into bed and took a nap.
When I woke up, I drank water and coca tea, and I thought, “Okay, I should go explore Cusco.” But I felt intimidated. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to walk around and not get lost. It was complicated to figure out the international Wi-Fi — I had my roaming turned off, so nothing worked at first. I didn’t think that would happen. I didn’t expect to have no internet when I arrived in Cusco. But now I’ve figured it out, so that’s good.
It’s super dry here, so I had to buy lotion right away. Once I got my bearings, I used Google Maps and got walking directions to a restaurant called Ofrenda, about a half mile away. I’m so glad I did — it was delicious, and the people were so kind.
That was something I also noticed with the LATAM Airlines staff — everyone was so sweet and genuine, like they were actually having fun doing their jobs. So many people I’ve met here seem genuinely happy. It’s beautiful.
The altitude is no joke — 11,290 feet — and I really feel it. I had to take breaks walking around. But I found my way to the restaurant, which is in a central plaza area that feels like one of the tourist hubs. I had the most delicious quinoa soup, a beautiful coca tea that really helped, and a ceviche dish that was amazing (and I don’t even know if I like ceviche!).
There are so many things here I want to try — like alpaca and other local dishes — but some of them aren’t part of my Dieta. I’m doing the best I can while traveling. I had imagined myself cooking in the Airbnb, buying food at the market, but the kitchen has only two little burners and a tiny fridge, so it’s not really set up for that.
As far as I can tell, the retreat company said to observe the Dieta a few days before, during, and after the retreat. I started about a month ago, so I’ve really been overachieving. It feels good, though.
I haven’t had any caffeine, and I didn’t sleep on the plane at all, so between that and the altitude, I’m a little loopy. But I had a great little wander around town. On the way to the restaurant, I held my phone the whole time to make sure I was going the right way, but on the way back, I actually remembered the route — which felt amazing.
I went into some shops, but it was a little overwhelming. I don’t feel ready to buy anything yet. There were a lot of people trying to get me to book massages or tours, but I just kept walking.
Tomorrow is a full day here, and I don’t know exactly what I’ll do yet, but I have some ideas. The city is really beautiful — the churches, the stone streets, even the street signs. People are out enjoying life. It has a really good vibe. Everyone’s been kind and helpful, and I feel cared for.
There was a moment when I didn’t want to leave my room because it felt intimidating, but once I got out there and walked around as the sun was setting, I felt fine — even peaceful. The sun is super intense when you’re in it, but the shade is chilly, so it’s this funny mix of extremes.
I’ll probably go to bed early tonight. The place I’m staying has a buffet breakfast that starts at 8 a.m., so I’m going to check that out.
That’s my report for October 15th and 16th — my first day in Peru. 🌿🇵🇪
Travel Details
Lima to Cusco (CUZ)
Arrival: Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima)
Transfer: Domestic connection to Cusco
Here’s the Critical Part
Domestic terminal: Walk upstairs (or follow signage) to your next gate — Cusco flights are domestic, and security screening happens again.
Immigration: You’ll go through passport control in Lima, as it’s your first point of entry into Peru.
Baggage claim: You’ll need to pick up your checked bags here, even if they were tagged to Cusco.
Customs: Go through customs with your luggage.
Recheck bags: After customs, there’s a baggage recheck area for connecting domestic flights to Cusco.
Arrive Cusco at 11:15 am (1 hour 30 min. flying time)
Taxi airport pickup is scheduled – 30 soles – driver will contact me via WhatsApp a few days before.
Meeting Your Taxi in Cusco
- The Cusco (CUZ) arrivals hall is small — you’ll exit directly into the public pickup area.
- Taxis and pre-arranged drivers usually wait just outside the sliding glass doors with name signs.
- If you arranged a pickup through your hotel or retreat, they’ll know typical flight delay patterns and will monitor arrival times.
- Wi-Fi: Free but slow in the terminal; you can message your driver once you land if needed.
Airbnb in Cusco – Self check-in with Lockbox
F2JG+46J, Zetas 400, Cusco 08002, Peru
https://maps.app.goo.gl/D8F1zcrTVYYEDn6t8
13°31’13.1″S 71°58’27.7″W
The address is Zetas 400 2nd patio, Cusco, Cuzco 08002, Peru (Reference: in front of Plaza Limacpampa Chico) Here is the location: Zetas 400
LLipimpac Guesthouse
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XtkDfDqEJtnpGRMVA
There you will find the main patio. To get there, follow the stone path and enter through the black grille on the other side of the patio (push the button inside the lock to open it). Continue along the path and on the left you will find the entrance to a second patio. Your apartment is number 36, located on the second floor.
Directions from your host
La dirección es Zetas 400 2nd patio, Cusco, Cuzco 08002, Perú
(Referencia: frente a Plaza Limacpampa Chico)Esta es la ubicación:
Zetas 400
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XtkDfDqEJtnpGRMVAAhi encontrarás el patio principal. Para llegar, sigue el camino de piedra y entra por la reja negra al otro lado del patio (presiona el botón al interior de la cerradura para abrirla). Continúa por el camino y a la mano izquierda encontraras la entrada a un segundo patio. Tu departamento es el número 36, se encuentra en el segundo piso.
Check in 2pm (ok to store luggage at front desk) – Host is Jose Antonio – Self check-in with Lockbox
Welcome to Secret Garden Residence.
Stay in the heart of Cusco in our cozy and luxurious King bed apartment, located in one of the private gardens of a 16th century colonial mansion, just 3 blocks from the Plaza de Armas and 1/2 block from the Qorikancha museum.
Perfect place for couples seeking comfort and convenience in a central location.
Enjoy a modern design with a local touch, ideal for exploring the city’s rich and vibrant history.
Guest access
Exclusive access to the house’s private garden and central patio.
Places to eat nearby:
Plaza Limacpampa Chico, Cusco (your base marker)
Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food, Calle Plateros 359
Organika Restaurant, Calle Ataúd 154
Green Point Vegan Restaurant, Calle Carmen Bajo 235
El Jardín Healthy Food & Coffee, Calle San Agustín 275
Le Fruit Jugeria, Calle Plateros 326
Makipura Organic Healthy Restaurant, Calle Zetas 400
Mercado Central de San Pedro – Fresh Juice Stalls
| Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food | Healthy / fusion / local ingredients | They serve nutritious Peruvian & fusion dishes (ceviches, quinoa salads, etc.). Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food |
| Green Point | Plant-based / vegetarian / vegan | Fully vegan menu, good for when you want lighter fare. Green Point Cusco |
| Organika Cusco | Organic / natural / healthy cuisine | Focus on fresh local produce, healthy options. Beacons+1 |
| Le Fruit Jugeria | Juice bar / light fare | Fresh juices, sandwiches, light healthy stuff. Very fitting for your café / juice bar interest. Tripadvisor |
| Makipura Organic Healthy Restaurant | Organic / healthy restaurant | A mix of Peruvian and international with healthy slant. Tripadvisor |
| Fresh Juice – Mercado Central de San Pedro | Juice / smoothie stall | In the San Pedro market; good for a light, quick juice. HappyCow |
| El Jardin (Healthy Food & Coffee) | Café / healthy café + restaurant | Cozy café, vegetarian / vegan / fresh ingredients. El Jardin Restaurant |
Here’s roughly how you might walk to some of them:
- Le Fruit Jugeria and Ofrenda are likely within walking distance in the central area.
- Green Point is in the central zone (Calle Carmen Bajo) — probably a 5–10 min walk depending on your pace.
- Organika also in the historic center — should be reachable on foot.
- Fresh Juice (San Pedro Market) is slightly toward the market area but still in central Cusco; worth visiting if you pass by the market.