Welcome to our guide to the best places to visit in Cusco, Peru! Nestled in the heart of the Andes Mountains, Cusco is a city steeped in history and culture, offering visitors a truly unique experience. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, there’s something for everyone in Cusco.
Some of the must-see destinations in Cusco include Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel perched high in the mountains; the Sacred Valley, a lush region dotted with historic ruins and traditional villages; and the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. But the list doesn’t stop there – there are countless other hidden gems to discover throughout the city and surrounding areas.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Peru and want to make the most of your time in Cusco, keep reading! In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top places to visit in Cusco, along with some insider tips on how to get the most out of your visit. Let’s get started!
Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Machu Picchu Soul. Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage in Cusco, from hiking the iconic Inca Trail to witnessing the colorful Rainbow Mountain. Let us guide you to Machu Picchu and other must-visit destinations in Cusco.
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1. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is possibly the most well-known destination and the best place to visit in Cusco Peru, and completely reason. This 15th-century Inca site is perched high in the Andes, as well as uses sensational sights of the surrounding hills. The site is unbelievably unspoiled and features excellent stonework and also architecture. To check out Machu Picchu, you can either take a train from Cusco or hike the Inca Trail.
2. Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is a large Inca complex that includes impressive rock walls, terraces, and water channels. The Inca site lies just beyond Cusco as well as is conveniently available by taxi or bus. You can explore the numerous buildings and also holy places that comprise the complex, and take pleasure in the panoramic views of Cusco from the top of the capital.
3. Pisac
Pisac is a village situated in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The community is renowned for its traditional markets, which offer a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and also various other souvenirs. You can additionally visit the Pisac ruins, which lie on a hill above the community. The ruins include impressive stonework and also offer spectacular sights of the bordering valley.
4. Moray
Moray is a distinct Inca site that consists of a collection of farming balconies arranged in concentric circles. The terraces are believed to have been used for trying out different plants and growing methods. This place is located in the Sacred Valley and also is accessible by taxi or bus.
5. Rainbow Mountain
The Rainbow Mountain of Peru is one of the places that you must visit when you come to Cusco. Throughout the year it has become the second most visited destination in Peru after Machu Picchu.
Rainbow Mountain, likewise known as Vinicunca, is a vivid hill located in the Andes. The hill includes bands of pink, yellow, and also green, making for a stunning all-natural landscape. To check out Rainbow Mountain, you can take a trip from Cusco that includes transport as well as an overview.
6. Plaza de Armas
Plaza de Armas is the central square in Cusco and also is bordered by historical buildings and churches. The square is a prominent place for vacationers and also residents alike and uses numerous stores, coffee shops, as well as dining establishments. You can likewise see the Cathedral of Cusco, which lies on the north side of the square.
7. Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is a small town situated in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The community is renowned for its remarkable Inca damages, which feature massive rock walls, terraces, and also a temple complex. You can explore the ruins on your own or take an assisted trip.
8. Choquequirao
Choquequirao is a remote Inca site that is typically compared to Machu Picchu regarding its appeal and historic importance. The site lies in a remote location in the Andes and also comes only by foot. You can take a multi-day expedition to get to Choquequirao and explore the different buildings and also holy places that compose the complicated.
9. Tambomachay
Tambomachay is a small Inca site situated simply beyond Cusco. The site includes a collection of aqueducts and water fountains that were used for ritualistic objectives. You can explore the site by yourself or as a component of a led Cusco City tour.
10. Cusco City Center
The town hall of Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to several of the most remarkable colonial architecture in Peru, this place is also one of the best places to visit during your time here in Peru. The town hall includes slim streets, plazas, and also a wide array of cafés, shops, and restaurants. You can check out the San Blas neighborhood, which is understood for its art galleries and also bohemian atmosphere, or take a walk down the charming Hatunrumiyoc Street, which includes a wall surface constructed from substantial rocks with a 12-angled stone.
11. San Pedro Market
A bustling marketplace where you can find a variety of local foods, artisanal crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and try some traditional Peruvian dishes.
12. Tipón
An Inca site is known for its intricate agricultural terracing and advanced water management system. Located about 30 minutes from Cusco, it’s a lesser-known but fascinating site.
13. Chinchero
A small Andean village is famous for its textile workshops and colorful Sunday market. The town also boasts Inca ruins and a beautiful colonial church.
14. Maras Salt Mines
These ancient salt pans have been used for salt extraction since Inca times. The patchwork of shallow pools set against the green of the mountains is a spectacular sight.
15. Q’enqo
An archaeological site with a series of carved rock formations, tunnels, and an amphitheater. It was used for religious ceremonies during the Inca period.
16. Qorikancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo
The site where an Inca temple once stood, is now overlaid by the colonial Convent of Santo Domingo. The blend of Inca and Spanish architecture is striking.
17. Huayna Picchu
The peak that overlooks Machu Picchu. Hiking to the top provides a unique perspective of the Machu Picchu ruins and breathtaking panoramic views.
18. San Blas neighborhood
The San Blas neighborhood in Cusco, Peru, is a vibrant and picturesque district known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, artistic atmosphere, and stunning views of the city. Often referred to as the “artisans’ quarter,” it is a hub for local artists and craftsmen, boasting numerous art galleries, workshops, and studios where visitors can observe artisans at work and purchase unique handmade items.
19. Lares Trek
A less-traveled alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a more authentic trekking experience through remote Andean villages.
20. Salkantay Trek
Another alternative to the Inca Trail, this trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from mountain passes to jungle.
21. The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
Located in a colonial house in Cusco, this museum showcases a collection of artifacts from ancient Peruvian cultures.
22. Planetarium Cusco
A unique experience to learn about the southern sky and how the Incas interpreted the stars.
23. Paucartambo
A traditional Andean town is known for its charming colonial bridges, cobbled streets, and the annual Virgen del Carmen festival.
24. Ausangate Trek
A challenging trek circling the Ausangate Mountain, known for its stunning landscapes and high-altitude lakes.
25. Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake, located in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, is a stunning natural wonder known for its striking turquoise waters and picturesque mountainous backdrop. This breathtaking lake is situated at an elevation of about 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The trek to Humantay Lake is often included as part of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu but can also be visited on a standalone day trip from Cusco.
Conclusion
Cusco is a city full of history, society, and also natural charm, and there are many places to go that are sure to offer you an extraordinary experience. Whether you are interested in visiting Inca ruins, hiking in the Andes, or simply enjoying the neighborhood food, Cusco has something to offer every person. Be sure to add these top 25 places to visit in Cusco to your itinerary to enjoy an extraordinary trip to this amazing city.
FAQs
How is the climate for traveling to Cusco?
The climate in Cusco is dry and generally trendy, with two distinct periods: the stormy season (November to April) as well as the completely dry period (May to October).
The most effective time to visit Cusco is during the dry period when the weather is pleasant as well as warm throughout the day and cool at night. However, getting ready for temperature changes as well as bringing layers, as temperature levels can vary widely depending on the moment of the day as well as altitude.
What is the best time to visit Cusco?
The very best time to check out Cusco is during the dry period, which runs from May to October. During this time around, the climate is completely dry and also generally sunny, with temperatures averaging around 20 ° C( 68 ° F)throughout the day and dropping to around 5 ° C (41 ° F) at night.
This makes for optimal problems for discovering the city, trekking in the surrounding hills, as well as checking out the several Other tourist attractions and Inca ruins.
Nevertheless, it’s vital to keep in mind that because Cusco lies at a high altitude, temperatures can rise and fall extensively, so it’s important to be as well as bring cozy layers and get ready for changes in climate.
What is the recommended duration of stay for Cusco?
The suggested duration of stay in Cusco is at least four to five days to permit time to explore the city and the bordering locations. Throughout this time around, you can check out the major destinations in Cusco, such as Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, as well as the Sacred Valley, along with discovering the historic city center as well as appreciating the regional cuisine.
Additionally, a much longer stay in Cusco will certainly offer you the opportunity to adjust to the high altitude, which can be testing for some site visitors. If you have even more time, you can additionally take a field trip to nearby villages and communities, or check out various other parts of Peru.
What are the major celebrations and events on Cusco’s calendar?
Cusco has an abundant social heritage that is reflected in the city’s countless parties and events throughout the year. Several of the major events and events in Cusco consist of Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, which occurs in late June as well as commemorates the wintertime solstice; the Cusco Easter Festival, which takes place in April and also functions in processions and spiritual ceremonies; and the Corpus Christi Festival, which occurs in June as well as features vibrant parades and typical dances.
Furthermore, there are a number of smaller-sized celebrations and occasions throughout the year that deserve looking into, such as the Cusco Regional Fair in July and also the Festival of the Virgin of Carmen in July. Make sure to inspect the calendar of celebrations when planning your journey to Cusco to practice the city’s dynamic society as well as traditions.
Is a visit to Cusco recommended?
Yes, a visit to Cusco is well-advised for anyone curious about the background, society, as well as all-natural charm. Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and also is the residence of various well-preserved Inca ruins, including the legendary Machu Picchu. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes an enchanting historical facility with colonial-era structures, narrow streets, and also plazas.
Additionally, Cusco is surrounded by magnificent natural landscapes, consisting of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and also the Andes hills. Visitors can also take pleasure in the local cuisine, which includes a mix of Inca, Spanish, and other cultural impacts. Overall, a check out to Cusco is a one-of-a-kind as well as a memorable background that must not be missed out on.
Are you excited about discovering the top places to visit in Cusco?
Join Machu Picchu Soul to embark on the journey of a lifetime and explore the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of this wonderful city. From hiking the iconic Inca Trail to witnessing the colorful Rainbow Mountain, our tours offer unique and unforgettable experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
Let us guide you to Machu Picchu and other must-visit destinations in Cusco. Book your adventure today and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!
I am Carlos, founder of Machu Picchu Soul, a local tour operator and travel agency based in Cusco, Peru. My journey in tourism began as a porter on the iconic Inca Trail, where I developed a deep connection with the land and its history. After years of dedication, I became a professional tour guide, honing my skills to deliver exceptional experiences. With over 15 years of expertise, I decided to establish Machu Picchu Soul to combine my passion for authentic travel with a commitment to supporting local communities and creating unforgettable adventures for our guests.
