DESTINATION CUSCO
Altitude
3,390 msnm
Dry Climate
19°C – 21°C
Rainy Weather
19.6°C – 4.4°C
City of Cusco
The city of Cusco is located in the province and region of the same name. It was the political, administrative, and religious capital of the Inca Empire (Tahuantinsuyo). In the 15th century, the Inca Pachacuti redesigned its urban layout, transforming it into a large urban complex that remained the empire’s principal city until the 16th century, when it was reshaped by the Spanish (March 23, 1534). This second transformation consisted of maintaining the Inca layout and buildings, upon which temples and stately homes were erected, such as the Church of Santo Domingo in Qoricancha and the Cusco Cathedral in Quishuarcancha, the former property of the Inca Wiracocha, among other important and valuable buildings from the Inca Empire. Cusco preserves extraordinary architectural expressions of both cultures in its buildings and urban design, maintaining its authenticity and integrity despite the city’s rapid growth.
What to do in Cusco?
The San Pedro Market is the oldest food market in Cusco. This must-see was once part of the Inca Trail.
The best bars and restaurants can be found both around the Central Plaza of Cusco and in the San Blas neighborhood.
Cusco's main square is the tourist center of the former capital of the Inca Empire. Thousands of tourists from all over the world come here.
The Coricancha is a temple dating back to the Inca religious era. In its time, it was a sacred place where the god Inti was worshipped.
This complex was used to worship the most important Inca deities. Today it is the setting for the Inti Raymi festival.
Located in the heart of Cusco, you can enjoy restaurants and bars, and the company of tourists from all over the world.
It's located next to the Qenqo archaeological complex. If you're at the Cristo Blanco viewpoint, you can walk to this forest.
Its name means "Horn-Shaped Fortress" in Quechua due to its shape with mountain rock formations.
It is believed that Inca gods such as the sun, moon, mountains, and earth were worshipped there. It is located a few kilometers from the city of Cusco.
This historical monument is located on the summit of Pukamuqu hill. Due to its elevated position, it gives the impression of watching over the city.
Tambomachay is an important Inca archaeological site dedicated to the worship of water and the rest of the elite.
Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) is one of the most breathtaking landscapes near Cusco. Located at m.sn.m in the district of Pitumarca.
It is one of the most impressive natural wonders of Cusco, Peru. Located at 4,200 meters above sea level, it stands out for its turquoise..
How to get to Cusco?
By Air
There are direct flights from Lima to Cusco with an average flight time of 75 minutes. Keep in mind that you will need to pay the Airport Tax (TUA) before boarding. You will arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, located just 15 minutes from Cusco’s Plaza Mayor.
By Land
Another way to get to Cusco is by road. Although the journey can be long and demanding, it offers the opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian coast and highlands, allowing you to enjoy unforgettable views and take unique photographs along the way.
The main routes from Lima are:
Route 1: Passes through the cities of Nazca, Puquio, Chalhuanca, and Abancay, before arriving at the Cusco bus terminal. This trip takes approximately 22 hours.
Route 2: Includes the cities of Arequipa and Juliaca, also ending at the Cusco bus terminal. The approximate duration of this route is 26 hours.
Location
The city of Cusco is located in the southeastern Andes of Peru, exactly at 13°30’45” south latitude and 71°58’33” west longitude, within the jurisdiction of the Cusco region.
Recommendations for Altitude Sickness
How to avoid:
- Consult your doctor about altitude sickness before traveling so they can prescribe medication appropriate for your body.
- Visitors should acclimatize for at least 24 hours, meaning they should arrive the day before their tour begins.
Consume low-sodium foods and try to limit your intake of sugary foods. - Drinking plenty of fluids is extremely important as it helps counteract the effects of altitude.
- Avoid long walks on the first day, and if you do walk, it’s best to do so with a companion.
- Wear comfortable clothing that won’t cause discomfort, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Drink beverages such as coca tea or coca infusions (without sugar).
Things to do in your free time
These are some suggestions of what you can do in the city of Cusco.
- Wander its streets and admire the colonial architecture built upon ancient Inca palaces.
- Admire the religious art in the cathedral and the city’s various churches.
- Explore the Sacsayhuaman archaeological park and its surrounding sites on horseback.
- Share and enjoy the nightlife with people from all over the world in the bars and nightclubs near the main square.
- Explore the Cusco Travel Guide for more ideas.
Complete Guide to Visit Cusco:
The most common logistical mistake travelers make in Cusco
Many travelers make the mistake of booking their hotels, trains, and transfers separately, thinking they’ll save money or have more control over their time. However, Cusco is a high-demand destination with complex logistics. Train schedules to Machu Picchu are constantly changing, informal local transport is often delayed, and any unexpected weather event can completely ruin a poorly planned itinerary. The safest, smartest, and most relaxing way to explore the Inca capital is with exclusive private transportation and an experienced local operator who will coordinate every minute of your trip from the moment you land at the airport, ensuring you can enjoy your visit without any worries.
When to book Cusco attractions: The rule of advance booking
Unlike other tourist destinations around the world, key access to Cusco’s main attractions cannot be improvised or purchased on the day of your visit. If you plan to explore the wonders of the Sacred Valley, the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, or the salt mines of Maras and Moray, be aware that the availability of certified official guides and authorized tourist transportation sells out weeks in advance, especially during peak season. Leaving your experience to chance by buying last-minute tickets from informal vendors in the Plaza de Armas often leads to unpleasant experiences; securing your spots with a registered operator is the only real guarantee of a smooth and trouble-free trip.
The advantage of Cultural Peru: Your trip in the hands of local experts
At Cultural Peru Tours, we understand that your vacation time is precious and that you deserve an impeccable experience. That’s why we specialize in designing tailor-made itineraries that respect your acclimatization pace, using modern, private, and comfortable transportation, along with passionate professional guides who will truly connect you with the living history of the Incas. Forget the stress of lines, complicated reservations, and scheduling conflicts; we take care of absolutely all the logistics so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories.
Ready to plan your perfect trip to Cusco? Click here and let’s design your exclusive itinerary together via WhatsApp.
