Where to Stay in Cusco

More about staying in Cusco

Because Cusco sits at a breathless altitude of 3,400 meters (11,150 feet), choosing a centrally located hotel is crucial to minimize strenuous uphill walking while you acclimatize to the thin mountain air.

The absolute best area to stay is around the Historic Center, near the Plaza de Armas. This area is completely flat, highly secure, and packed with extraordinary luxury hotels—many of which are housed in restored colonial palaces and former monasteries that even pump supplemental oxygen into the rooms.

For a more bohemian vibe, the artisanal neighborhood of San Blas is incredibly charming, filled with boutique guesthouses, vegan cafes, and yoga studios. However, it is located up a very steep hill, which can be challenging during your first few days at altitude.

Alternatively, many travelers choose to immediately travel lower down to the Sacred Valley (towns like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba) upon arrival. Staying in these peaceful valley resorts helps prevent altitude sickness before returning to explore Cusco later in the trip.