Cusco
Capital of the Inca Empire
Why Visit Cusco
Cusco was the heart of the Inca Empire, the largest empire in the Western Hemisphere before the Spanish conquest. At 3,400 meters above sea level in the Peruvian Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage city is a unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture where Inca stone foundations support 17th-century baroque churches.
The Plaza de Armas in Cusco, surrounded by cathedrals, colonial arches and contemporary Andean cuisine restaurants, is the hub of Cuscan life. Just a few kilometers away, the Sacred Valley of the Incas offers active agricultural terraces, Andean markets and the ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
Cusco is also the gateway to the Inca Trail, the world's most famous trek, and to Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel considered one of the New Wonders of the World. The city has an extraordinary gastronomic offering led by Chicha by Gastón Acurio, which reinterprets Andean cuisine with local ingredients such as quinoa, native potato and guinea pig.
What to See and Do in Cusco
Hotels in Cusco
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The only hotel steps away from the Machu Picchu citadel. Exclusive luxury with the world's most unique views.
Award-winning eco-resort amid Andean cloud forests. 83 adobe and colonial tile bungalows with orchid gardens.
Built on 15th-century Inca foundations in the heart of historic Cusco. 5-star luxury in a colonial palace.
Modern hotel in the heart of Cusco, steps from the Plaza de Armas. The ideal option for travelers seeking comfort and value.
Tours in Cusco
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The most complete experience at the wonder of the modern world. Expert guide, transport and entrance fees included.
The world's most iconic trek. 43km of Inca trail with mountain camps and sunrise arrival through the Sun Gate.
Explore Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero: Andean markets, Inca terraces and traditional textiles. The heart of the Inca Empire.
Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay: the 4 most imposing Inca fortresses in Cusco plus a tour of the UNESCO colonial city.
Restaurants in Cusco
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Gastón Acurio's contemporary Andean cuisine in the heart of Cusco. Local ingredients, modern techniques.
Traditional Andean cuisine in the artisan neighborhood of San Blas. Baked cuy, pork chicharrón and quinotto in a colonial courtyard under the Cusco sun.
Nikkei and criollo cuisine with privileged views of Cusco's Plaza de Armas. The best pisco sour in the city and impeccable Peruvian-Japanese fusion.
Intimate bistro on the second floor of a colonial alley. Mediterranean cuisine with a Peruvian twist, exceptional wine list and tapas bar below.
Experiences in Cusco
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Explore the Sacred Valley on horseback along Andean trails between Inca terraces and Quechua communities. The most authentic way to experience deep Cusco.
Learn the ancestral art of Andean weaving with the women of Chinchero. Natural plant dye, backstrap loom technique and textiles to take home.
Fly over the Sacred Valley on a zip line at 200m altitude with views of the Andean snow-capped peaks. The highest adrenaline experience in Cusco.
The dark sky at 3,400m altitude offers one of the world's best astronomical views. Professional telescope, Andean constellations and Inca astronomy.
Quick facts
When to Go
May to October (dry season). June and July are the most visited months. Avoid December–February (heavy rain).
Getting There
Direct flight from Lima to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), 1h 20min. From the airport, taxi to the center in 20 min.
What you can book
Travel guides
What to See in Cusco in 3 Days: Complete 2026 Itinerary
8 min de lectura
When to Visit Machu Picchu: The Definitive Seasonal Guide
6 min de lectura
Complete Inca Trail Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know
10 min de lectura
How to Get to Machu Picchu from Lima: All Routes 2026
6 min de lectura
