Day to Day Life in Cusco
About Cusco
Cusco is located in the southeastern Andes of Peru. Known as the historic capital of the Inca Empire, it is one of South America's most culturally significant cities, with a rich heritage that blends Inca and Spanish colonial influences. Once the political, religious, and cultural centre of the Inca civilisation, Cusco is home to remarkable archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha, and the nearby Sacred Valley. Founded as a Spanish colonial city in the 16th century, Cusco has preserved its cobblestone streets, colonial churches, vibrant traditions, and unique Andean identity, earning recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cusco’s cool, high-altitude mountain climate has two distinct seasons: a dry season from approximately May to September and a rainy season from November to March. Days are often sunny with pleasant temperatures, while mornings and evenings can be quite cold due to the city's elevation of around 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level. The surrounding landscape ranges from mountains, fertile valleys, cloud forests, and snow-capped peaks. Bring layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day!
Cusco offers the opportunity to explore world-famous archaeological sites, hike scenic mountain trails, experience traditional festivals, and enjoy the rich flavors of Andean cuisine. Coming to work in collaboration with EcoSwell, in Cusco, gives you the opportunity to make a direct impact on local communities, as well as the chance to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and traditions of the Peruvian Andes.
What a day at EcoSwell in Cusco looks like:
Life at EcoSwell’s base in Cusco balances professional project work with teamwork, community connection, and wellbeing. While everyday tasks may change depending on seasonal and community necessities, a typical weekday looks like this:
Start Your Day
Start the day at the hotel provided by EcoSwell, and enjoy a typical breakfast. You may start your day early with a walk, or run around Cusco city, or with some quiet time to relax before the working day begins.
Project Work Begins
Mornings are focused and productive. Depending on your role and project phase, you may be:
Working from the office alongside local staff, and perhaps other volunteer interns and professionals.
Conducting technical analysis, research, or project planning
Developing sustainable business strategies or partnership initiatives
Supporting fashion design, product development, or community enterprise projects
Planning upcoming field visits and community activities
Lunch Break
Take a break to enjoy lunch provided by EcoSwell or at one of Cusco's many local cafés and restaurants. It's the perfect opportunity to experience traditional Andean cuisine, recharge, and explore the city's vibrant atmosphere before returning to work.
Afternoon Work and Fieldwork
Afternoons may combine office work with hands-on field work. This may include:
Visiting project sites in the rural communities to learn about and work directly on ongoing initiatives
Meeting community members and local partners
Supporting implementation, monitoring, or data collection for projects
Continuing collaborative work back at the office
Evenings
Once the workday wraps up, you have time to experience everything that Cusco has to offer. Participants often choose to:
Wander through Cusco’s historic plazas and cobblestone streets
Visit local cafes, museums and artisan markets
Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner in one of the city’s many restaurants
