Explore the Best of Cusco

More about visiting Cusco

Cusco, situated high in the Peruvian Andes, was once the majestic capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage city where incredibly precise ancient Inca stonework serves as the foundation for ornate Spanish colonial architecture.

The bustling epicenter of the city is the Plaza de Armas, a beautiful square dominated by the imposing Cusco Cathedral. Just a short walk away, you can marvel at Qorikancha (the Temple of the Sun), where the clash of Inca and Spanish cultures is most visibly preserved in stone.

Acclimatizing to the high altitude is part of the experience, best done while slowly wandering the steep, cobblestone streets of the artisan neighborhood of San Blas. Above the city sits the massive, awe-inspiring ruins of Sacsayhuamán, offering panoramic views of the terracotta roofs below.

Beyond its own immense charm, Cusco serves as the undisputed gateway to the wonders of the Sacred Valley and the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. Whether you are embarking on the classic Inca Trail or taking a scenic train ride, the journey begins here.