Do you know the museums of Cusco?
Cusco, the historic capital of Peru is one of the most visited destinations by millions of tourists every year, besides enclosing a huge attraction as Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, its museums offer an incredible variety of exhibitions ranging from Inca and colonial history to contemporary art and Andean biodiversity.
History Museums: a true journey into the past
1. Inka Museum
This famous museum is located in a 17th century colonial mansion, the Inka Museum is a must for those who want to learn more about the history of the Incas. Here you will find ceramics, textiles, tools and mummies that show the greatness of this civilization.
- Location: Cuesta del Almirante 103
- Admission: S/.10 adults – S/.5 students
- Useful tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, this way you will be able to enjoy the exhibits at your leisure.
2. Museum of Regional History (Casa Garcilaso)
As its name indicates, this museum is located in the house where the mestizo chronicler Garcilaso de la Vega was born. This museum offers a fascinating view of the historical evolution of Cusco, from pre-Inca times to the Spanish colony.
- Location: Heladeros Street s/n
- Entrance: Included in the Tourist Ticket
- Tip: If you have the Cusco Tourist Ticket, this museum is one of the best ways to take advantage of it.
3. Military Historical Museum
Located in the impressive archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, this place exhibits a wide variety of weapons collection, uniforms and historical documents that tell the story of Cusco’s role in the defense of Peru.
- Location: Sacsayhuaman –
- Entrance: Included in the Tourist Ticket
- Tip: Visit after touring the impressive Inca ruins.
4. Qorikancha Site Museum
This museum offers a combination of Inca-colonial history and archaeology. It is also located next to the Temple of the Sun, one of Cusco’s most impressive sites.
- Location: Av. El Sol s/n
- Entrance: Included in the Tourist Ticket
- Tip: Visit it together with the Temple of Qorikancha to better understand the Inca cosmovision.
Art Museums: painting and more through time.
5. Pre-Columbian Art Museum (MAP)
If you are looking for a much less historical option, this art museum is a great choice for you. Here impressive pieces of ceramics, jewelry and textiles from Peru’s ancient cultures are displayed in a modern and attractive presentation.
- Location: Plaza de las Nazarenas 231
- Admission: S/.20 adults – S/.10 students
- Useful tip: This museum has one of the best souvenir stores with high quality handicrafts.
6. Center of Traditional Textiles of Cusco
This place is not only a museum, it is a living textile center where the different Andean weaving and textile techniques are shown. Here you will see how local weavers preserve ancestral techniques and you can buy handmade pieces.
- Location: Av. El Sol 603
- Admission: Free
- Useful tip: Ask for the weaving workshops if you want a more interactive experience.
7. Museum of Contemporary Art
This museum exhibits works by local and national artists, offering a glimpse of modern art in Cusco.
- Location: Regocijo Square
- Admission: Included in the tourist ticket.
- Helpful Hint: An excellent option for those looking to see the most recent Cusco art.
Natural Science Museums: Andean Biodiversity on Exhibit
8. Natural History Museum
If you are a nature lover, this museum will surprise you with its collection of Andean flora and fauna, including emblematic species such as the Andean condor and the puma.
- Location: Main Square of Cusco
- Admission: S/.5 adults – S/.2 students
- Useful tip: It is small but interesting, ideal for a short visit before continuing to explore the center of Cusco.
Gastronomic Museums: Flavors and Traditions of Cuzco
9. ChocoMuseum
If chocolate is one of your favorite sweets, in this museum you will live an interactive experience where you can learn about the history of cocoa in Peru, see the production process and even make your own handmade chocolate.
- Location: 210 Garcilaso Street
- Admission: Free (workshops and activities have a cost)
- Tip: Don’t leave without tasting the hot cocoa drink and buying chocolates made with beans from the Peruvian Amazon.
10. Pisco Museum
This liquor is an emblematic drink in Peru, so this is a bar specialized in the history and culture of pisco, Peru’s flagship drink. In addition to tastings, they offer classes on how to prepare traditional cocktails such as pisco sour.
- Location: 398 Santa Catalina Ancha Street.
- Admission: Free (additional cost for tastings and classes).
- Tip: Try a pisco tasting to discover the different flavors and aromas of this emblematic drink.
Tips for Visiting Cusco Museums
- Take advantage of the Boleto Turistico: Many museums are included in this ticket, which also covers archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman. There are 1, 2 or 10 day versions depending on what you want to visit.
- Arrive early: Most museums are small and can fill up quickly. For the best experience, go early in the morning.
- Check hours: Some museums are closed on Sundays or have reduced hours on holidays.
- Bring cash: Although many accept cards, some smaller museums only accept cash payments.
- Don’t limit yourself to the big museums: Small spaces like the Chocolate Museum or the Pisco Museum offer unique and delicious experiences.
An Unmissable Cultural Experience
Cusco’s museums are a gateway to the past and present of this incredible city. Even if you are not passionate about history, this incredible city offers a number of varied options that will undoubtedly enrich your experience to the fullest.