Peru · Americas
Cusco
The Inca capital — cobblestoned, Andean, and the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Best months
May, June, July
Currency
PEN
Language
Spanish & Quechua
Mid-range / day
$130
Cusco was the heart of the Inca empire before the Spanish arrived, and you can still see the masonry walls of pre-Columbian palaces beneath colonial cathedrals. At 11,150 feet, the altitude is no joke — give yourself a day or two to acclimate before doing Machu Picchu or any hiking. Stay in San Blas for the artist-village vibe, eat at Cicciolina or Chicha (Gastón Acurio's restaurant), drink coca tea, and use Cusco as the base for the entire Sacred Valley.
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Best time to visit Cusco
Dry season (May-September) is best for hiking and Machu Picchu. June-August are peak; May and September offer fewer crowds with the same blue skies.
Where to stay in Cusco
Plaza de Armas
The colonial main square — cathedrals, restaurants, and the city's geographic center. Touristy but unmissable.
San Blas
Artisan neighborhood on the hill above the plaza. Cobblestones, art studios, the best cafés, and the most charming guesthouses.
San Pedro
Where the central market is — local life, cheap eats, fruit juices, fresh empanadas.
Best things to do in Cusco
The experiences locals and seasoned travelers actually recommend.
Machu Picchu
Take the Vistadome train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes the night before, then bus up at dawn. Book entry tickets months in advance — you must reserve a circuit.
Sacred Valley day trip
Pisac ruins and market, Ollantaytambo fortress, Chinchero weaving village. Hire a private driver for $80-100 for the day.
Sacsayhuamán
Massive Inca fortress on the hill above Cusco with stones the size of cars fitted together without mortar.
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Day trip from Cusco — 5,200m altitude and a 90-minute uphill hike. Brutal but unforgettable. Take it slow.
Coricancha
The Inca Sun Temple, partially destroyed by the Spanish and rebuilt as Santo Domingo church. The juxtaposition is the point.
Cooking class at Marcelo Batata
Learn to make ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours. Includes a market visit.
How much does a trip to Cusco cost?
Budget
$50
per day · Hostels, street food, public transit
Mid-range
$130
per day · 3-star hotel, two meals out, taxis
Luxury
$380
per day · 4-5 star hotel, fine dining, private transfers
Cusco travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Cusco?+
Five to six days minimum if you're including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Don't rush this region — the altitude alone slows you down.
What about altitude sickness?+
Real and unpleasant for many visitors. Spend your first day resting, drink coca tea, eat lightly, and consider asking your doctor about Diamox before you go.
Do I need to book Machu Picchu in advance?+
Yes — months ahead in high season. Tickets are now circuit-specific; choose Circuit 2 for the classic photo and full ruins experience.
Is Cusco safe?+
Yes, with normal precautions. The main risks are altitude, sketchy taxis (use authorized ones), and being targeted for scams in the Plaza de Armas.
Should I do the Inca Trail?+
Only if you've trained for it and can handle 4 days at altitude. Permits sell out 6 months ahead. The Salkantay Trek is a great alternative with more flexibility.
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