There is just so much to see and do in and around Cusco that we almost don’t know where to begin! So, absorb some of the energy from the sacred apus because the capital of the ancient Inca Empire is probably the highlight of any trip to Peru.
The puma shaped “Navel of the World,” as its proud inhabitants know it, was the center of the Inca universe. When the Spanish arrived, they literally tried to squash the city, constructing extravagant colonial buildings on top of central Inca sites. This has left an interesting mix of architecture, with bits of Inca wall blending with elaborate churches and red tiled roofs. We think you will agree when we say that Cusco city center is truly beautiful.
THE INKA BELIEVED CUSCO WAS THE NEXUS OF THE UNIVERSE
Modern day Cusco is still a mix of cultures. It has become a cosmopolitan hub for travelers who coexist with the local population. You can eat food from almost all over the world and speak to people from endless varying nationalities in one of the many bars on offer in Cusco’s vibrant nightlife. Or, you can try any range of holistic therapies and ecological ventures just as easily as you can see people from local Andean communities – such as the colorfully dressed queros – going about their business.
Cusco is the best base for a trip into the surrounding Sacred Valley, to the less visited ruins and the brightly painted churches of the southern valley en route to Puno, crop circles and Inca salt pans…the list of unforgettable experiences goes on. There is truly a wealth of culture on offer here! And then of course there’s Machu Picchu itself…but we’ve given that a whole different section!
build your clients trip with our experts
WHAT NOT TO MISS IN cusco
Plaza de Armas & Cathedral
You’ll find many people who simply sit and adore the Central Square of Cusco (Plaza de Armas), the locals mixed with backpackers, churches and colonial balconies with the Andes as a backdrop. Check out the Cathedral and its Cusqueña School artwork. Try and spot the guinea pig in the painting of the Last Supper, or the non-Christian images depicted on the main doors.
Temple of the Sun Koricancha
Coricancha, Qurikancha or Quri Kancha, originally named Inti Kancha or Inti Wasi, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated primarily to Inti, the Sun God. It was one of the most revered temples of the Inca Empire’s Capital City of Cusco, some walls were said to be plated in gold, mirrored to reflection, with massive stonework locked in by keystones.
San Blas
Sacsayhuaman
San Pedro Market
MAP Museum
destination map
| Title | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|
Machu Picchu | 08680, Perú | Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, is quite possibly the reason you chose to travel to Peru in the first place! It was recently voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and we guarantee that this magical spot will not disappoint you. Read more… |
Cusco | Cusco, Perú | Cusco is the jump off point for a trip into the surrounding Sacred Valley to the less visited ruins and brightly painted churches of the southern valley en route to Puno or to crop circles and Inca salt pans…and of course to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu! Read more… |
Sacred Valley | Valle Sagrado, 08670, Perú | Nestled deep within the Peruvian Andes, the Sacred Valley is home to charming Inca towns, impressive archaeological sites, and traditional local markets. It is also one of the best areas in Peru for a wide range of adventure activities while en route to Machu Picchu. Read more… |
Lima | Lima, Perú | Known as the ‘City of Kings’, Lima is a city of contrasts. A mix of the old world and the new; modernity and tradition…Lima is a chaotic yet fascinating capital city. As well as being Peru’s capital, it is also the capital of gastronomy for all of the Americas! Read more… |
Lake Titicaca / Puno | Titicaca | Legend has it that the children of the sun god, Manco Capac, and his sister, Mama Ocllo, rose from the depths of Lake Titicaca to build the Inca Empire. Explore the floating Uros Islands made from totora reeds and, discover the region’s authentic folklore. Read more… |
Arequipa & Colca Canyon | Chivay, Perú | Legend has it that the children of the sun god, Manco Capac, and his sister, Mama Ocllo, rose from the depths of Lake Titicaca to build the Inca Empire. Explore the floating Uros Islands made from totora reeds and, discover the region’s authentic folklore. Read more… |
Peruvian Amazon | Selva Amazonica, Perú | Early morning bird watching, late night jungle walking, fishing for piranhas, or a visit to the world’s largest macaw’s clay lick where hundreds of birds meet to feed – a truly colorful sight! There’s nothing like the wildlife that thrives in the Peruvian Amazon! Read more… |
Ica, Paracas, Nazca | Ica, Perú | Situated on Peru’s arid desert coastline, this region boasts an interesting mix of ancient local culture, spectacular natural beauty and adventure sports. Ica, Paracas, and Nazca makes a great stop off or break point on a coastal ride towards Arequipa. Read more… |
Trujillo & Chiclayo | Trujillo, Perú | |
Chachapoyas | Chachapoyas, Perú | |
Huaraz | Huaraz, Perú | Surrounded by jagged snowy peaks, glaciers and turquoise blue lakes, Huaraz is a real mountain adventure destination, not to mention home to ancient cultures and charming little villages. Read more… |
Depending on your client’s preferences, we can help you determine the best experiences tailored for your clients. From where to visit, when to go, what to do and how to get there safely, our travel experts will help you create an experience your clients will love.
Best times to
visit cusco
Cusco can be visited all year round; however the best time is between May and October. Its altitude gives it sun during the day and cold temperatures at night. Rainy season is between November and March. The driest time of the year is between June and August, but this is also peak tourist season as it coincides with summer holidays in the northern hemisphere.
practical information
HOW TO GET THERE
Cusco is accessible by airplane from Lima, Puno, Arequipa, Puerto Maldonado, and La Paz (although flights from Bolivia only run twice a week). There are over 15 flights from Lima to Cusco a day. Flights are safe although one should be cautious of the sudden altitude change which can bring about brief periods of altitude sickness. Travelers can also reach Cusco by train from Puno and the scenic trip is comfortable and highly recommended. Cusco can also be reached by bus from a number of destinations in and around Peru.
GETTING AROUND
Cusco is Peru’s biggest tourist town, and all levels of accommodation are available. High-end travelers, backpackers, and everyone in between, will find accommodation suited to their standards. The area in and around Cusco has a few of the finest hotels in South America including the luxurious Monasterio as well as Machu Picchu’s incredible Sanctuary Lodge. Other than these exclusive options, more hotels exist in Cusco per square mile than anywhere else in Peru.
Likewise restaurants vary in class and price across the city and whether one wishes to spend over $50.00 on a white tablecloth four course meal, or simply spend a couple of dollars at a local Peruvian restaurant – there is something for everyone, and all the food tends to be good.
WHERE TO STAY
Everything one needs in Cusco is generally within walking distance, most hotels are located around the central Plaza de Armas, and this makes getting around easy. Most tours provide return transport from your accommodation to all of the city’s attractions.
Cusco also has a number of taxis that provide cheap transport in and around the city. Like anywhere else however, one should keep an eye on one’s belongings while traveling on the city’s public transport.
More highlights of Peru
With eight local offices in Latin America, we have the perfect base to help you build the perfect trip for your clients. Unrivaled experience with a wide selection of bed & breakfasts, small posadas, unique boutique hotels and world class luxurious lodging.