Whenever we’re asked what our favorite local destinations are, we always include Zamboanga City in the list. And almost always, we get a one-word follow-up question delivered with a lot of curiosity — “Why?”

In my circle of friends, I can count with my fingers those who have set foot in this corner of Mindanao. But what’s in Zamboanga? Why should you visit? As one of the biggest urban hubs in the Philippines in terms of land area (and population), Zamboanga City is brimming with attractions that are worth going the distance.

Zamboanga City’s travel scene has been developing fast over the past few years. It is, after all, Region IX’s primary gateway. Tours are becoming more organized. Promotion of the city has been relentless, especially after travel restrictions have eased. Most tourists flock to the islands and the beaches, but the local food scene is steadily drawing in more visitors, too.

The team has been to Asia’s Latin City five times already, but each time we felt like there was still more to see and discover!

If you’re curious about what awaits you there, here’s a full rundown of the things to do and places to visit in Zamboanga City.

Pink Beach (Sta. Cruz Grande Island)

Off the coast of Zamboanga Peninsula lies an island that, when kissed by the sun, glows with a natural rosy blush. Hailed by the National Geographic as one of the World’s 21 Best Beaches in 2017, Pink Beach is Zamboanga City’s most popular tourist attraction.

To manage your expectations, the pink hue isn’t vivid or bright. From afar, the sandy shore looks like the usual white beach, but the closer you get, the pink taint becomes more apparent. The sand’s pale pink tint is the result of the weathering of the red organ-pipe corals (tubipora musica) that were brought to the shore by the waves.

Punctuating the southeastern side of the peninsula, Zamboanga City’s Paseo del Mar is the main jump-off point to the island and its Pink Beach. Visitors can hire a tricycle from the city center to Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal in Paseo del Mar. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes.

Because the number of visitors is strictly regulated, you need to register in advance before going. Registration and boat service start at 7:00 AM. Overnight stay is not permitted and only day tours are allowed. For slot reservations and queries, you may contact the management through any of the following:

• Email: islasdesta.cruz@gmail.com
• Landline: +63 62 9756341
• Office: Turismo Local de Zamboanga, Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga City
• Facebook Page: Turismo Zamboanga
• Official Website: www.destinozamboanga.com

Boat fee is P1000, good for up to 10 passengers. If your group is smaller, you’ll still need to pay the same amount.

Jump-off Point: Paseo del Mar (Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal)
Day Tour Schedule: Daily, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.
Environmental Fee: P20 + P5 (Terminal Fee)
Boat Fees: P1000/boat (good for up to 10 pax)
Cottage Rental Fee: Small (10 pax), P100; Medium (15 pax), P200; Pavillion (30 pax), P500

Mangroves Boat Tour (Sta. Cruz Grande Island)

While Grande Santa Cruz Island allures with its pink radiance, its beauty goes beyond appearances. It also keeps a trove of natural wonders. On the other side of the island is a lagoon fully adorned with mangroves, nourishing wildlife and promoting biodiversity.

The lagoon actually dominates the whole island, occupying most of the surface. The best way to explore it is to take a guided boat tour. As your boatman paddles, a guide will lead you to a number of spots to explain just how important it is to protect this site. You’ll learn about the types of mangroves and meet upside-down jellyfish. Don’t worry, they’re not dangerous at all. They’re virtually stingless. But please don’t get them out of the water.

To join a lagoon boat tour, tell the boatmen that brought you to Pink Beach that you want to explore the lagoon. They will take you to a small community near the entrance to the lagoon. This transfer will cost you an additional P300.

Here, you’ll be transferring to a smaller “yellow boat.” Rental of each yellow boat costs P300, good for two (2) passengers. Any given boat will be accompanied by two paddlers, each from a different family. (It’s a way of making sure everyone in the community benefits from the program.)

Tour guide fee is P300. A tour guide can lead up to five (5) boats. You can team up with other boats so you could split the guide fee.

Important: you can only arrange a tour before 12 noon! They won’t be accepting any booking beyond that time. Please follow the rules and regulations when exploring. The Grande Santa Cruz Island, together with the smaller Little Santa Cruz Island, is a protected area.

Here’s a summary of the lagoon tour expense.

Boat to Yellow Boat Tour Jump-off: P300/boat (up to 10 pax)
Yellow Boat Rental: P300/boat (good for 2 pax)
Tour Guide Fee: P300 (good for up to 5 boats)

Vinta Rowing

The vinta is the traditional outrigger boat that is common in Mindanao, especially in the areas of southern Mindanao, Sulu archipelago, and the Zamboanga peninsula. It is famous for its vividly colorful rhombic sail, adding a splash of color to the waters of Sulu Sea.

The vinta plays an important role in the livelihood of the locals — economy, trade, and transportation. It is historically used as a fishing vessel. Today, it also serves as a mode of transportation for people, as a cargo vessel to deliver products/goods, and as a tourist attraction.

If you want to experience rowing or riding a vinta, you may charter one in any of the barangays along the city’s coastlines or you can do it when you visit Grande Santa Cruz Island.

Little Sta Cruz Island & Sandbar

Sitting northwest of Santa Cruz Grande Island, Little Santa Cruz Island is like a quick dash of paradise off the coast of the Zamboanga peninsula. The most recognizable feature of the island is the sandbar trailing on the easternmost point.

Although the island is fringed with fair sand, it is a mixture of fine and broken shells and corals. There are small lagoons, but tourists are not allowed to venture beyond sandbar. The surrounding waters are mostly deep, sea-grass-covered, and are not recommended for leisure swimming.

Visitors are only allowed to stay here for 10 minutes. But if you really want to make a stop here, a detour will cost you an additional P300. But this rate is per boat and can accommodate up to 10 passengers.

Jump-off Point: Paseo del Mar (Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal)
Boat transfer from Grande Santa Cruz: P300/boat (good for up to 10 pax)
Tour Guide Fee: P100 (good for up to 10 pax)

A steadily rising tourist attraction is Once Islas (11 Islands), a string of islands and islets off the eastern coast of Zamboanga City. Not all islands are open to the public, but those that are accessible are great for swimming, sunbathing, and further exploring. There are designated snorkeling spots for those who want to take a peek into the underwater scene. Bisaya-Bisaya, Baung-Baung, and Sirommon are those that are accessible to the public.

The islands are only open for day trips. A limit of 200 visitors per day is implemented, so advance registration is required. You need to book online through onceislas@gmail.com at least one day before your planned visit. Guidelines and steps will be emailed upon booking inquiry. Walk-ins are not entertained. For other concerns and questions, you can contact the management through any of the following:

• Email: onceislas@gmail.com
• Landline: +63 62 9756341
• Office: Turismo Local de Zamboanga, Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga City
• Facebook Page: Turismo Zamboanga
• Official Website: www.destinozamboanga.com

The jump off point is the Panubigan Ferry Terminal, roughly 1.5 hours from the city center.

Jump-off Point: Panubigan Ferry Terminal in Barangay Panubigan
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday & Saturday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Friday, CLOSED. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

Island Tour Packages (Good for 9 Pax)

• Island Cruise (Three Islands): P2,500
• BiBa Route (Bisaya-Bisaya & Baung-Baung): P1,400
• Sirommon Island Tour: P2,000
• Bisaya-Bisaya Island Tour: P1,000
• Baung-Baung Island Tour: P1,000

Other Fees: Entrance Fee, P100/head; Environmental Fee, P100/head; Guide Fee, P400/group; Cottage Fee, P150/island; Crystal Kayaking, P300 (30 mins)

Below are the accessible islands:

Bisaya-Bisaya Island

Bisaya-Bisaya Island is a two-faced island, with steep cliffs on one side but blanketed with fine white sand on the other. Its northern face is where you’ll find the sandy stretch, fringed with palm trees. From above, the beach area resembles a boomerang on patch of grass. In between the trees are a few huts where you could stay and enjoy coconut juice, which is for sale on site.

Not too far away is a smaller islet often dubbed a child of Bisaya-Bisaya. This one’s generally more rocky and jagged. It features a small natural pool that gets filled by the waves at high tide.

Our guide Sirna shared with us a folk tale about two fishermen, a Christian and a Muslim, who once stumbled upon the island that blessed them with fish. But the two did not agree on how they would divide the ocean bounty — since one of them caught much more than the other — so they decided to go their own way. According to our guide, “bisaya-bisaya” is the local term for “kanya-kanya” or not sharing.

Baung-Baung Island

Baung-Baung Island is an almost rectangular island whose southwestern end shimmers with its fine white sand. It’s usually the stop right after Bisaya-Bisaya because of its proximity to it. In fact, Baung-Baung has a trekking trail that will lead you to a viewpoint that affords a majestic view of Bisaya-Bisaya and the other islets around it. On Google Maps, it’s marked “Baong Island”.

Sirommon Island

Sirommon Island is the usual lunch stop for boat tours; thanks to its spacious huts. It also has a wide strip of white sand and a sand bar, which is probably why most tourists spend the most time here. It’s also a great snorkeling stop.

El Museo de Zamboanga

El Museo de Zamboanga should be the first stop of any city tour. It offers a quick overview of the history and heritage of Zamboanga City, which explains much of what you’ll see as you visit more places through the day.

It has two galleries — the main gallery, housing the permanent exhibition, and another one for the temporary or seasonal exhibits. It showcases historical items and artifacts that narrate the colorful story of the region, its people, and its rich culture from the pre-colonial period to the more recent decades. The museum is nestled in the extensive Pasonanca Park.

Location: Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat Complex, Pasonanca Park, Pasonanca Road, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Weekends & Holidays, CLOSED. Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page for the latest update before going.
Entrance Fee: Adults, P10; Minors/Students/Seniors, P5

Pasonanca Park & Scout Limbaga Campsite

Opened to the public in the 1910s, the Pasonanca Park is another green space for nature lovers and those who want to have a quick escape from the much busier city center. It houses the Camp Limbaga (Scout Limbaga Campsite) with a convention center, an amphitheater, an aviary, a floral garden and butterfly sanctuary, and public swimming pools — a kiddie pool, a natural pool, and an Olympic-size pool.

Probably the most famous attraction is the Pasonanca Treehouse. Constructed in 1960, it was originally built to serve as the Youth Citizenship Training Center. Today, visitors come here to take photos, but if you want to spend more time here, you can rent the treehouse too! Make sure to contact the LGU’s admin first to coordinate. You can buy food along the way from the sidestreet restaurants, stores, and BBQ stands.

Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.
Admission Fee: FREE. The park itself is free, but the attractions impose their own entrance fees, usually ranging from P10 to P25 per head.

Climaco Freedom Park

Formerly known as Abong-Abong Park, the Climaco Freedom Park is situated about seven kilometers north of the city center. It was named after the late Zamboanga City Mayor Cesar Climaco, a local hero who was assassinated in 1984. The park also serves as his final resting place.

The freedom park is a popular weekend destination for the locals and one of the rising tourist spots, attracting nature lovers of all ages. It encompasses a garden, Chrislam Pool, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts campsite, Heroes Hill, and the Holy Hill, which is the endpoint of the Station of the Cross trek.

Some of the things to do here are swimming, hiking, trekking, biking, having a picnic, and going on a religious pilgrimage and retreat.

Location: Climaco Freedom Park (Abong-Abong Park), Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: 24/7
Admission Fee: P5-10

Fort Pilar Shrine and Museum

Also called Fortaleza del Pilar, Fort Pilar dates back to the 17th century, originally serving as a Spanish military defense post. Fast forward to the present, this bastioned fort is a major historical landmark of the city. Recognized as a National Cultural Treasure in 1973, the fort underwent restorations and is regularly maintained by the city.

It cradles an open-air 18th-century Marian shrine — Our Lady of the Pillar — with an altar and stone seating for the devotees who want to pray and reflect. On Sundays, monoblock chairs dot the area for the regular mass.

The fort also houses a regional branch of the National Museum of the Philippines, the bells of the Sanctuary to the Lady of the Pillar, and a fountain. The fort is located near Paseo del Mar and Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Street, Santa Barbara, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Fort Pilar Shrine – Daily, 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM; National Museum Regional Branch – Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.
Admission Fee: FREE

ZSCMST Bird Sanctuary

Tucked within the Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology, just a stone’s throw from Fort Pilar and Paseo del Mar, the bird sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers, particularly bird watchers.

The vast mangrove-fringed pond is a protected area, where great white egrets breed and thrive. Other migratory birds also frequent the site.

Two designated view decks are accessible for those who want to spend some time here. The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon, while the best months are November to March.

Location: Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Note that the visiting hours might change without prior notice. Check with the ZSCMST management for the updated schedule.
Entrance Fee: FREE

Paseo del Mar

Just across Fort Pilar is Paseo del Mar, a waterfront recreational park facing the Basilan Strait. Aside from the souvenir shops, local food vendors, and eateries, the newly renovated park added a children’s playground and a skatepark, making it a favorite hang-out place for the locals.

It caters not just to families, friends, and couples but also to those who want to spend their alone time or me-time. Several tables and chairs are arranged for those who like to go food tripping here. Local dishes, snacks, and street fare are available. Benches also line the boardwalk, where sunset revelers lounge to watch the sunlight paints the sky with a beautiful gradient of colors as the day turns into night.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Street, Santa Barbara, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.
Admission Fee: FREE

Canelar Barter Trade Center

OK, first things first, despite the name, you need cash when shopping here so please put down whatever it is you plan to trade. 🤣 The name is a nod to the trading system of exchanging goods that was widely practiced in this part of the world back in the day.

Today, however, Canelar Barter Trade Center functions just like any other shopping center. Time to brush up on your haggling skills when you dive into this shopping paradise, tempting you with its cheap imported offerings from the neighboring countries Indonesia and Malaysia.

Alongside local products, a wide array of imported goods are sold here — souvenirs, food, clothes, fabrics, gadgets, accessories, among others. Get a hold of your favorite Malaysian or Indonesian chocolates, coffee brands (Old Town Cofee and others), and milk tea (teh tarik) at relatively cheaper prices. Lastly, don’t forget to pause and breathe. Good? Okay. Let the second wave of haggling and negotiating begin!

Location: Canelar Barter Trade Center, Wee Siu Tuy Street, Barangay Camino Nuevo, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

Zamboanga City Hall

Smack at the very heart of the city center, where well-preserved colonial structures are clustered, the Zamboanga City Hall is considered one of the important heritage sites in the city.

Recognized as a National Historical Site, it was originally used as the official residence of the US Military Governor of the then Moro Province. Later on, it became the government seat of the former Zamboanga Province. It has been serving as the administrative seat of Zamboanga City since 1937. Rizal Park or Plaza Rizal is just across the city hall.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Street, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Sundays, CLOSED. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

Yakan Weaving Village

While in Zamboanga City, don’t pass up the opportunity to take home the best tangible souvenirs you can buy — products made from the exquisite Yakan fabric, which takes time to finish, depending on the intricacy of the designs and patterns. The Yakan are the traditional inhabitants of Basilan and other areas in this part of Mindanao.

Here in Zamboanga City, you’ll find the Yakan Weaving Village, which harbors local shops selling traditional products and practical accessories including bags, purses, pencil cases, and even yards of Yakan fabrics. You can also watch (or try for yourself!) the traditional process of Yakan weaving.

Location: Upper Calarian, Labuan – Limpapa National Road, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

Curacha (Spanner Crabs)

Nope. We are not talking about the Filipino femme fatale movie character played by Rossana Roces nor actual cockroaches! Curacha means cockroach in the Chavacano language, but — before you lose your appetite — we’re not asking you to go full Fear Factor here. Instead, we’re inviting you to have a taste of the most mouth-watering crustaceans that Zamboanga has to offer — spanner crabs! (It got its name because of its spiky appearance.)

So what is it exactly? We are talking about Zamboanga’s gastronomic gem. Curacha looks like the love child of a huge crab and a hairy lobster. Known for its consistent red appearance, whether raw or cooked, it is sought after because it’s meatier than other crabs and packs more flavor. Thankfully, they thrive in the bosom of the Sulu Sea.

Your trip won’t be complete without trying a dish or two. Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant is famous for its curacha dish cooked in its equally popular specialty sauce.

If you want to take some home, head over to Aderes Flea Market in Guiwan, where you can purchase fresh fresh, uncooked curacha at a lower price. Lobsters are also available!

Moro Cuisine

The Filipino Muslims, also known as the Moros, take pride in their distinct cuisine. Although sharing some similarities with other parts of the country in terms of seasonings and ingredients like garlic, onions, and ginger, what make Moro cuisine different are other spices like turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime — which are more commonly used by our ASEAN neighbors. It also utilizes burnt or blackened coconut meat in some dishes.

Some of the Moro faves are beef randang, piaparan, bakas, chicken pyanggang, pater, dodol, and lukatis. If you want to sample several dishes in one sitting, the latal is your best choice. It is a platter of some native dishes of the region.

Both Bay Tal Mal (at SM Mindpro) and Dennis Coffee Garden (near the airport) have latal on their menu.

Knickerbocker

After a sumptuous native Moro food fest, end it “sweetly” with a tall serving of Zamboanga’s iconic dessert — the knickerbocker.

A what? A hybrid of fruit salad and halo-halo, Zamboanga’s knickerbocker usually combines slices of fruits, gelatin, and nata de coco. It is then doused in milk and topped with a scoop of ice cream.

The Palmeras, also known as Hacienda de Palmeras, is said to be the home of the original knickerbocker and is credited for inventing this refreshing dessert.

Satti and Street Food

Of course! Any TPT trip isn’t complete without delving into the street food scene! These everyday accessible munchies tell a lot about the place, its people, and its culture. You can find street food anywhere, especially in busy areas like the public market and around the city hall.

Paseo del Mar has its share of street grubs and snacks. R.T. Lim Boulevard also hosts a number of street food peddlers. Some of the streetfood choices are satay or “ihaw-ihaw”, pastil, sicalang, and lokot-lokot. But our favorite is mi goreng!

But perhaps the most iconic of all is satti, a breakfast favorite among locals. Satti is usually skewered beef or chicken, grilled and then served half-dipped in a bowl of spicy sauce with rice shaped into cubes!

When we asked the locals where to find the best satti in the city, all fingers pointed at Jimmy’s Satti. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to try it, but we had our helping from Dennis Coffee Garden, which also serves satti.

Zamboanga Hermosa Festival

The city’s annual celebration of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival is dedicated to its patron saint La Virgen Nuestra Señora del Pilar. It’s a month-long festivity that takes place in October; the first two weeks of which are usually packed with activities, peaking in the second week, particularly on the feast day of the patron saint, which is on the 12th day of October.

One of the main events is the Regatta de Zamboanga, a vinta race participated by hundreds of vinta owners and operators. All the participants are residents of Zamboanga.

Festival Date: Month of October

Taluksangay Mosque

If you trace the roots of Islam in Zamboanga, they will most likely lead you to the coastal village of Taluksangay on the southeast coast of the city. Here, just next to the barangay hall, stands a historic mosque. It is believed that it is here that Islam began to spread in the peninsula.

Constructed in 1885 by Hadji Abdullah Maas Nuno, the Taluksangay Mosque is said to be the oldest in Western Mindanao and the first in Zamboanga Peninsula. The mosque’s most recognizable features are the two minarets.

This off-route destination is mostly visited by Muslims and history buffs.

Location: Taluksangay Mosque, Barangay Taluksangay, Zamboanga City
Opening Hours: Visitors can enter the mosque anytime EXCEPT during prayer times, which happen five times a day. It’s best to drop by the barangay hall, which is located just beside the mosque. Please observe visiting rules and protocols.

Merloquet Falls

Located about two hours away from the city center, near the boundary with Zamboanga Sibugay in the north and Zamboanga del Norte in the west, the magnificent two-tiered Merloquet Falls is regarded as one of the most beautiful not only in the region but in the country. The most photographed is the wide terraced drop, creating magical, intricate textured cascades instead of just a smooth straight drop.

The path leading to the falls is quite developed with concrete roads and a designated parking area for vehicles. On foot, the trek to the falls entails many cemented pathways and steps. Nonetheless, this may still be quite difficult for those who are physically challenged.

There are several swimming areas, but mind your steps because some parts are slippery. The best time to visit is in the wet/rainy season.

Location: Merloquet Falls Road, Barangay Sibulao, Zamboanga City
Admission Fee: P15/pax
Habal-Habal Service: P500/pax (roundtrip)
Parking Fee: Motorcycle (Habal-Habal), P10; Car/Jeep, P20

Learn Chavacano

Zamboanga is often called Asia’s Latin City because of the heavy Hispanic influences. And it’s most apparent in its most dominant language — Chavacano (or Chabacano), the only Spanish-based creole in Asia. It is like a combination of Spanish and local languages, and it’s quite fascinating!

Why not learn Chavacano while in Zamboanga? Start from the basics such as greetings and useful phrases that you can use while in the city. It is also a good way to interact with the locals and learn more about their culture.

• Welcome! = Bienvenidos!
• Thank you very much. = Muchisimas Gracias.
• Good morning! = Buenas Dias!
• Good afternoon! = Buenas Tardes!
• Good evening! = Buenas Noches!
• I’m sorry. = Perdona mi.
• How much is this? = Cuanto esté?

Adios!

Accommodations in Zamboanga is much more affordable than in other highly urbanized cities in the Philippines. Average rate for a double or twin room at a business hotel should play within P1500-P1800 per night. But you can find a room for less than P1500, even lower when there are ongoing promos.

We have tried three different hotels in Zamboanga and all of them were decent and pleasant:

If you have a bigger budget, you may also check out these other properties in the area:

2025 2 6 – Updated to reflect changes in rates, opening hours, and other details
2023 12 31 – Updated info
2022 6 3 – First uploaded

Words by: Asta Alvarez
Additional words by: Yosh Dimen
Photos by: Yosh Dimen & Vins Carlos

Disc: Parts of our trip (particularly El Museo de Zamboanga, Zamboanga City Hall, Taluksangay Mosque and Once Islas) were made possible by AirAsia through a media tour.

One of the most diverse cities you can visit in all of Peru, Cusco is known both for its incredible architecture and nearby Sacred Valley region.

However it’s the surrounding Andean landscapes that really bring this city and region to life, where we can find multi-colored mountains, deep blue glacial lagoons, snow-capped peaks and untamed wildlife in all corners. As a result there are many unforgettable hiking circuits to head on from Cusco, which all offer something slightly different.

In this article we’ll explore 5 of the very best multi-day hikes that you can do from Cusco, and why each one is worth the visit. We’ll also cover everything else you need to know for a trip, including the best time to hike, preparation and how to book a tour.

Why Head On A Multi-Day Hike From Cusco?

One of the very best countries to go trekking within South America, Peru has many incredible hiking circuits which include those found in Huaraz as well as those within the Amazon Jungle. However the multi-day circuits that can be taken from Cusco are something special in their own right.

Just over 500 years ago this region was once the beating heart of the legendary Inca civilization, who were both formidable and way before their time. They were perhaps best known for their advancements in stonemasonry and architecture, which allowed them to create many incredible structures which we can still see today (such as the perfectly-fitted giant stones of Sacsayhuamán Ruins).

During a multi-day hike from Cusco we can see even more of these spectacular creations, and especially on the Inca Trail which includes the strongholds of Wiñay Wayna and Sayaqmarca. On other treks we can also interact with different remote Andean communities, who still live and practice the ancient ways of their ancestors today.

Of course the scenery of these regions are special in their own right, which includes multi-coloured Rainbow Mountains, towering snow-capped peaks and high Amazon Jungle. Given the variety of biomes here, this means we can see a variety of exotic animals along treks such as Vicuñas, Spectacled Bears, Viscachas as well as the emblematic orange Cock-of-the-rock (which is the national bird of Peru).

How To Get To Cusco

Despite Cusco’s remote location deep within the Peruvian Andes, getting here is quite simple given how it has now become one of the most popular places to visit within this iconic South American nation. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll first need to arrive into the capital of Lima, which is the main gateway into Peru.

Flying from Lima to Cusco is the most popular option, which is a one hour flight over the scenic Andes Mountains. Airlines such as LATAM and Sky Airlines operate dozens of flights daily, with a one-way costing roughly $35-50 (without baggage). This is the best option for those who are either short on time in Peru and want to arrive into Cusco without delay, or for those who want a more comfortable travel option.

Our next method of getting from Lima to Cusco is by bus, which despite being the cheaper option (around $20-30), will take a sobering 20-22 hours to arrive from the capital. Within the district of La Victoria in Lima we can find numerous bus operators which all vary in comfort and extras, with the most popular being Palomino and Paredes Estrella. Of course the long ride puts many off, however it is a solid option for those who want to cut travel costs, those who have a longer time in Peru or for those who simply want a new adventure.

The 5 Best Multi-Day Hikes To Do From Cusco

Alright let’s go! Here are the best multi-day hikes you can do from Cusco. Of course everyone knows number one, but there are other must-see hikes as well.

The Four Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu Hike

Out of all the different Cusco treks you can head on, the Four Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu is the best all-rounder for nature, history and culture. Here we will hike along the same stone steps that the ancient Inca once took to get to Machu Picchu, where we’ll also visit lost ruins such as those of Sayaqmarca, Wiñay Wayna and Intipata. 

As well as camping in some extraordinary locations within the Andes, we’ll also get to enjoy many diverse landscapes along the hike. This includes epic mountain views such as those from Dead Woman’s Pass, trekking through remote cloud forest as well as exploring the high Amazon Jungle. There’s also a chance of spotting animals like Vicuñas, Spectacled Bears and the elusive Cock-of-the-rock Bird.

The Five Day Salkantay Trek

If you love epic mountain scenery, then the Salkantay trek is by far your best bet. Set much higher up into the remote Andes than the Inca Trail, here we will see lots of snowy passes, icy lagoons as well as giant glaciers along the hike.

Here we will also get to visit many famous sites, such as the deep-blue lagoon of Humantay, Machu Picchu as well as getting up and close with Apu Salkantay – one of the tallest mountains in all of the Cusco region. It’s important to mention that the altitudes can be quite difficult along this trek, so you’ll want to follow our key high altitude hiking tips which we’ve listed later in this article.

The Four Day Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain 

Peaking at a towering 6384m above sea-level, the Ausangate Mountain is the highest of all in the Cusco region (and the fourth highest in Peru). Along the hike this means we will experience incredible high mountain passes such as those of Surini and Arapa, as well as many multicoloured lakes dotted throughout the region.

During the Four Day Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain we’ll also get to experience authentic local culture, as we meet indigenous cultures in the mountains and also have a homestay within the Upis settlement on the first day. The other special thing about this particular trek is how the surrounding mountains slowly become more red as we continue hiking – until we eventually culminate the hike at the unforgettable Rainbow Mountain.

The Five Day Lares Trek And Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

One of the biggest pulls of hiking outdoors around the Cusco region is getting out into untamed nature, and also experiencing a variety of beautiful scenery. This is where the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is arguably one of the best well-stocked, where we’ll see crashing waterfalls, turquoise lagoons, giant glaciers as well as indigenous Quechua villages along the hike.

During the last two days we’ll then join on to the Short Inca Trail, which takes a slightly different route from the classic 4 day hike. Here we’ll pass through the ancient Chachabamba Ruins, and also others such as Wiñay Wayna before finally enjoying the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu at the very end of the hike.

The Three Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek To Machu Picchu

If getting off the beaten path and experiencing lesser-explored routes is a must for you, then the three day Huchuy Qosqo trek to Machu Picchu is a great contender. Located within the remote sacred valleys above Lamay, Huchuy Qosqo is another Inca stronghold that is also connected up by a lesser-known part of the original Inca Trail. It’s believed that this site once served as a retreat and ceremonial site for the Inca Elite.

During the multi-day hiking experience we will also get to visit the ancient ruins of Patabamba and Moray, and also get to visit the legendary Maras Salt Mines – which are one of the most popular sites to see within the entire Sacred Valley region of Peru. On the last day we will also enjoy a guided tour around Machu Picchu, and learn why this site was so formidable and remained completely undetected during the Spanish Conquest.

The Best Time To Hiking Around Cusco

The dry season is the overall best time to go hiking due to frequent clear blue skies, which begins in May and lasts until October. This is where we usually have clear blue skies and virtually no rainfall most days, which is perfect for views along the different routes. It does also fall within the winter season, and as a result temperatures can get much colder during these months (so you’ll need to bring extra layers, gloves and a hat).

The wet season isn’t as popular, but still offers many of its own benefits for hikers here. Lasting from November until April, these months see much more rainfall than the dry season, which can sometimes cause flooding on roads and more difficult hiking conditions (with certain routes closing such as the Inca Trail during the month of February). The benefits however include more comfortable temperatures, less crowds as well as a better chance of seeing wildlife and greener pastures.

How To Prepare For A Multi-Day Cusco Trek

A big part of your hiking experience and success here in Cusco comes down to solid preparation, which often begins long before you come to Peru. Below we’ll explore the main factors which you’ll want to plan properly for in advance.

Pre-Booking Your Hiking Tour

One of the best things you can do is to book your hike early, which guarantees both your spot and preferred camping locations. Hikes like the classic four day Inca Trail trek can run out of spaces quickly, so we highly recommend booking at least 6 months in advance to guarantee your spot (only 500 permits are available each day). It’s important to note that treks aren’t as popular in the wet season so you can sometimes get away with a late booking – however it can be risky leaving it all up to a last minute chance.

Preventing Altitude Sickness

The biggest issue for travellers heading to Cusco is altitude sickness – given the city is located up at 3399m above sea-level (whilst much of the rest of Peru is situated lower down).

It’s common for symptoms such as headaches and sickness can occur, and especially so when heading on these higher-altitude treks which often surpass 4000m in altitude. We suggest spending at least two days in Cusco prior to your trek for your body to start acclimating, and also to drink Coca Leaf Tea which helps prevent symptoms. You can also buy Soroche Pills in Cusco which are the most effective method of preventing altitude sickness.

Packing Properly For Your Trek

Packing properly can really make or break your hiking trip, so you’ll want to make sure have everything you need before arriving into Cusco.

As a starting point you’re going to need both light layers, as the sun can be intense during the day. During the evenings the temperatures will dip quickly, so you’ll also need to bring some thick layers too.

We highly suggest bringing walking poles if you are inexperienced or have had injuries from hiking before. Other important things to bring include a hat, thick socks and warm gloves (especially when heading on the higher altitude treks such as those around Ausangate and Salkantay).

Important Tips Before Heading On A Multi-Day Cusco Trek

Tip #1: Book Your Hiking Tour With A Local Operator – Cusco is a very popular place to go hiking within Peru, and this means we can find all kinds of different agencies who offer all kinds of different tours. I highly recommend booking with local hiking company AB Expeditions, who are highly reputable and operate all of the treks mentioned in this article. Not only will you have high quality gear and local expertise, you’ll also be helping them to improve wages and standards for local communities within the Cusco region.

Tip #2: Head To Cusco During The Shoulder Seasons – As we mentioned earlier in this article, the dry season remains the most popular time to hike around Cusco for its great weather. However you can do one better and plan your hike during the shoulder months (April, May, September and October), where you will still have perfect weather for those memorable mountain photos whilst having less tourist crowds around.

Tip #3: Embark On Gentle Day Hikes Around Cusco Before Your Multi-Day Hike – If you’re still worried about getting altitude sickness, then another way of getting prepared for your trek is to head on gentle day trips from Cusco as a way of getting acclimated both quicker and smoother. This includes hiking around Pisac Ruins, Ollantaytambo and up to the Cristo Blanco Statue in Cusco – all of which are located at not-so-demanding altitudes – whilst still helping your body to acclimate.

Overview Of The Best Multi-Day Hikes To Do From Cusco

And that’s all for this guide on the best multi-day hikes that you can do from Cusco.

Known for its stunning mountains, ancient history and high-altitude lagoons, Cusco and the surrounding Sacred Valley region are home to many impressive multi-day treks. With proper planning you can easily enjoy one (or many) hikes during your trip, which may end up being your best highlight during your trip to Peru.

As always, be sure to take the altitude seriously and to go slowly, and also to make sure you pack everything you need before heading on your trek. Depending on the season you will be visiting, you’ll also want to book your hike at least 3-6 months in advance to guarantee your spot on your dream Cusco multi-day trek.

When I started backpacking almost 20 years ago, there were no smartphones. That meant you had to rely on paper maps, physical guidebooks, and (often outdated) information from random web forums. While it made traveling adventurous, it also made planning a trip very difficult.

Fortunately, times have changed.

It’s never been easier to access information while you’re abroad. From booking hotels to looking up directions to finding places to eat, access to Wi-Fi and mobile data has changed the game.

SIM cards were the first step in making this evolution possible. You’d buy an overpriced physical SIM card on arrival and hope that you didn’t blow through the data before your trip ended (or you moved on to a new country).

But even those days are past thanks to eSIMs, digital SIM cards you can set up before you even leave home. They are easy to use, affordable, and sometimes even come with awesome perks (more on that below).

One of the most popular eSIMs on the market? Saily.

In this Saily eSIM review, I’ll break down what Saily offers and how much it costs so that you can decide if it’s the best choice for your next trip.

What is Saily?

Saily is an eSIM app created by NordVPN. Just like a regular physical SIM card, an eSIM lets you activate and access mobile data while abroad. That means you don’t need to buy a physical SIM card on arrival, you can avoid expensive roaming fees, and you don’t need to use public Wi-Fi (which is often unsafe).

For me, the best part of eSIMs is that you can set them up before you leave. That way, you’ll know exactly how much data you have and can pick out the perfect data plan from the comfort of your home. Saily also has 24/7 chat support, so if you have a question or run into problems you can get the help you need.

And Saily offers plans in over 200 destinations, which means that no matter where you’re heading, they can ensure you stay connected while you’re there.

How to Use a Saily eSIM

While using an eSIM might seem more difficult than just popping in a physical SIM card, it’s actually super easy to get started. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Download the app (it’s available on both iOS and Android)
2. Create an account and add your payment info
3. Select the country you’re going to (or the region)
4. Choose your plan
5. Follow the prompts provided

That’s it! Now you have an eSIM that activates automatically the moment you land in your destination, saving you the time and energy of having to find one on arrival.

What I especially like, though, is that you just need to install the eSIM once. Going to more countries later in the year? No problem. You just add a new plan for that trip and pay for the new data. No reinstalling for every trip. As I said, it’s super easy!

How Much Does Saily Cost?

Prices for Saily eSIM plans vary by country, but you can find them for as low as $1.99 USD. For example, if you’re heading to Paris for a week, a 7-day plan with 1GB of data costs $3.99 USD. Staying longer? You can get 30 days of coverage and 20GB of data for just $31.99 USD. Super affordable.

If you’re visiting more than one country, you can also buy a regional plan. These are available for Europe, Africa, Latin America, and more, with prices starting as low as $4.99 USD. They even have a global plan in case you’re going everywhere!

In short, eSIM plans with Saily are very affordable!

Added Security Features of Saily

What makes Saily stand above the competition though is that they are more than just an eSIM company. Their plans include several awesome perks that make using them a no-brainer. Here’s what’s included:

Virtual Location – Saily plans include a virtual location so that you can rest assured your data is secured and private. In the past, I’ve had to buy a separate VPN plan in addition to my eSIMs. Not anymore! Now I can travel knowing my connection is private, secure, and safe from outside access.

Ad blocker – Ads not only make surfing the web a pain, but they chew through your data. With an ad blocker activated, you’ll not only have a better online experience but you’ll save more of your data (which saves you money).

Web protection – When we travel, we often connect to free public Wi-Fi. While convenient, it also opens you up to all kinds of malware (airports are especially bad for this). Having web protection enabled reduces trackers and malicious websites before they reach your device. This ensures your data is safe as you travel.

Pros of Saily

• Competitive rates vs other eSIM companies
• Regional plans available for multi-country trips
• Good data speeds
• 24/7 customer support
• Virtual location
• Ad blocker
• Web protection

Cons of Saily

• Slightly more expensive than buying a local SIM card
• No texting or calls

Saily not only offers a solid product in its eSIM but the added perks make this one of the best eSIM options on the market. It’s affordable, easy to use, and its safety and privacy perks offer incredible extra value. No matter where you’re heading, Saily can ensure you stay connected — without breaking the bank!

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