Situated in southeastern Peru near the Urubamba Valley, the ancient city of Cusco, once the political and geographical centre of the Inca Empire, is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas. Sitting at a dizzying elevation of 3 400 m (11 200 ft), this enchanting city balances age-old Peruvian traditions with Spanish colonial elegance and offers peaceful courtyards, centuries-old passageways, lively European-style squares, open-space temples and sacred hillside sanctuaries for visitors to explore. Now one of Peru’s most popular destinations nestled amongst dramatic Andean panoramas, the city serves as both a base to explore the nearby Inca destinations, such as the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, as well as a vibrant and exciting city attraction in its own right.
Cusco
An impressive former Incan capital high up in the Andes
Discover iconic Cusco
Why we love it
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Built of ancient Inca temples and monuments, colonial architecture and modern buildings, Cusco’s rich cultural history is still palpable today. It was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 in recognition of streets like Calle Hatun Rumiyuq, where the Stone of Twelve Angles can be seen, and Barrio de San Blas, a picturesque artisan neighbourhood.
Incan wonders abounds
Nestled in the mountains and valleys surrounding Cusco are dozens of enticing Inca destinations. Within the Sacred Valley of the Urubamba River are the ruins of Pisac and Ollantayatambo, hanging high above the river below. The megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman looks down on Cusco’s red-tiled roofs and the valley ultimately leads to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
A sample of local Peruvian life
The busy and colourful San Pedro Market offers travellers a glimpse into the every-day life of local communities. An eclectic melting pot of Spanish-Peruvian and Andean-Peruvian traditions, on any day of the week visiting the market will provide explorers with first-hand experience of the many ancestral customs kept alive and expressed in religious celebrations, dances, art, and food.
Traditional Andean cuisine
Although not the gastronomic capital of South America, Cusco’s culinary field is certainly intriguing. Being so close to the jungle, there is no shortage of fresh fruit and vegetables. Expect an eclectic mix of local flavours and traditional foods, which include the use of local protein-rich ingredients such as potatoes, corn and quinoa. Different types of chillies and meats are also often featured.
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Accommodation
Stay here to explore Cusco and surrounds
From hotels and lodges to farms and guesthouses, here are a few of our preferred Peruvian accommodation partners.
Experiences
An entrancing city brimming with adventure
Discover the best of Cusco on one of these immersive cultural experiences.
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