Called the ‘belly button of the world’ by the Inca and the capital of their great empire, the city of Cusco today is Peru’s most popular and culturally-rich destination. Here, the history is layered on top of itself quite literally, many of the landmark colonial buildings built on the foundations of old Incan architecture. The high number of indigenous people who still call Cusco home means the streets are still alive with their original Quechua culture, the bright colours of traditional dress vivid on every street corner. Beyond Cusco is the Sacred Valley of the Incas, flanked by the rugged Andes and dotted with villages, Inca engineered terraces and ruins.
A Charming City and Former Capital of the Inca Empire
Today Cusco is full of historic buildings, character and history which saw it crowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. The city if the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Pichu but here you will also find a wealth of museums, art galleries, boutiques, cafes and restaurants.
Oftern referred to as the “Archaeological Capital of the Americas” Cusco is a striking city to explore. It is riddled with contrasts between the indigenous styles and the modern western world.
Most travellers will go to Cusco to either start the Inca Trail or take the train to the famous Machu Picchu, however we would definitely recommend stopping in Cusco to admire its fascinating attractions, beautiful natural setting and colourful festivals.
The Area
Although Cusco is a large city, getting around is straightforward as many of the cities sights are within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas in the historic centre. There are some ruins you can explore by foot or on a tour. The accommodation options are principally located around the centre of Cusco.
Best Time to Go
Cusco is pleasant throughout the year but the best time to visit is from May – October. There is a rainy season outside of these months but this doesn’t tend to have much of an impact on the services in the city.
Cusco Packages
Machu Picchu
2 Days
Start and end in Cusco! With the Hiking & Trekking tour Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days, you have a 2 days tour package taking you through Cusco, Peru and 3 other destinations in Peru. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Andean Experience
7 Days
Start and end in Cusco! With the In-depth Cultural tour 7 Day Andean Experience Through the Living Culture of the Incas, you have a 7 days tour package taking you through Cusco, Peru and 7 other destinations in Peru. 7 Day Andean Experience Through the Living Culture of the Incas includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Humantay Lake
1 Day
Start and end in Cusco! With the Hiking & Trekking tour Full-Day Trek to Humantay Lake from Cusco, you have a 1 day tour package taking you through Cusco, Peru and 2 other destinations in Peru. Full-Day Trek to Humantay Lake from Cusco includes more.
Salkantay Trek
5 Days
Start and end in Cusco! With the Hiking & Trekking tour Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu, you have a 5 days tour package taking you through Cusco, Peru and 4 other destinations in Peru. Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Qampa Climb
3 Days
Start and end in Cusco! With the Hiking & Trekking tour Qampa Mountain Climb, you have a 3 days tour package taking you through Cusco, Peru and Ocongate,. Qampa Mountain Climb includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Rainbow Mountain
1 Day
Start and end in Cusco! With the Active Adventure tour Rainbow Mountain Tour – Group Service, you have a 1 day tour package taking you through Cusco, Peru and Rainbow Mountain,. Rainbow Mountain Tour – Group Service includes an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Best International Flights
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