When I first arrived in Cusco, Peru, I was unaware that so many people spoke a second language: Quechua. I assumed Spanish would be the only language I\u2019d hear, but I quickly learned I was wrong. Because Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire, many people, preserving their heritage, proudly speak Quechua today, despite Spanish colonialization and attempts at forced assimilation. Many Cusco residents grow up bilingual, speaking Spanish and Quechua, and in the rural communities it\u2019s still common to hear mainly, or even only Quechua. While in Cusco, I had the opportunity to learn a little Quechua myself. I didn\u2019t learn much, but the few phrases I did learn were enough to show genuine interest and help me connect with people in a way I didn\u2019t expect. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A lot of travelers, including myself, show up thinking Spanish will be all we need, and that\u2019s true in the city center; however, once you leave the main city, Spanish isn\u2019t always the language people use. Suddenly, the little Spanish you touched up on through Duolingo becomes pretty useless, and the language barrier reappears. Anytime I tried speaking even a few words of Quechua, people lit up. They smiled and appreciated the effort. It\u2019s rare for foreigners to try learning their language, and they noticed when someone does. I actually ended up loving Quechua; not just because it sounded so beautiful, but also because its pronunciation worked for me. I can\u2019t roll my R\u2019s, and Quechua doesn\u2019t have rolled R’s, making it feel easier to use more words. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Learning just a little Quechua completely changed how I experienced Cusco and the surrounding communities. It made me realize that language isn\u2019t just about communication; it\u2019s a way of showing respect, curiosity, and care. Even imperfect Quechua opened doors, sparked conversations, and made people feel seen. It\u2019s something I\u2019ll never forget, and a language I hope more travelers take the time to appreciate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n