Cusco Peru Travel Guide: Explore the Capital of the Inca Empire

Located high in the Peruvian Andes at 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), Cusco—or Cuzco—is a city where history, culture, and spirituality intertwine. Once the mighty capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South America’s most visited destinations.
 

From exploring ancient stone ruins to discovering the vibrant Andean culture, Cusco is not just a stopover to Machu Picchu—it’s a destination in its own right.

📍 Where Is Cusco?

📌 Location: Southeastern Peru, in the Andes mountains

🏔️ Altitude: ~3,400 meters (11,152 feet)

🚪 Gateway to: Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain

🏛️ A Glimpse into Cusco's Rich History

🏯 Inca Capital

Cusco was the religious and administrative capital of the Inca Empire—considered the “navel of the world” by the Incas. At its peak, the empire stretched from southern Colombia to northern Chile.

⛪ Spanish Colonial Legacy

In the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors conquered Cusco, building colonial churches and mansions atop Inca stone foundations. Today, the city is a beautiful mix of Inca engineering and colonial architecture.

🗺️ Top Things to Do in Cusco

1. Plaza de Armas

Cusco’s bustling main square is surrounded by colonial arcades, restaurants, and churches.

Don’t miss the Cusco Cathedral, a stunning baroque structure with altars lined in gold.

2. Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

Once the most sacred Inca temple, Qorikancha’s golden walls were dedicated to Inti, the sun god.

The Santo Domingo Church was later built atop it.

3. Sacsayhuamán

A short hike from town, this massive fortress is made of enormous interlocking stones.

Come for the ruins, stay for the sunset views over the city.

4. San Pedro Market

A vibrant local market filled with fresh produce, textiles, herbs, and street food.

Great place to try choclo con queso (corn with cheese) or a cup of mate de coca.

5. San Blas Neighborhood

Known for its bohemian atmosphere, artisan shops, and narrow cobblestone streets.

Home to the San Blas Church, with a beautifully carved wooden pulpit.

6. Cusco Planetarium

Offers a fascinating look at Inca astronomy and star gazing sessions.

Perfect for understanding the Incas’ deep connection to the cosmos.

🌄 Day Trips from Cusco

🌈 Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Famous for its vibrant, multi-colored mineral layers.

Day hike from Cusco (5,200m elevation – acclimatization required).

🏞️ Sacred Valley

Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines.

Lush valleys, Inca terraces, and traditional villages.

🚶 Inca Trail or Lares Trek

Multi-day treks to Machu Picchu starting from Cusco.

Involve breathtaking Andean scenery and Inca ruins.

🛕 Cultural Experiences

🎭 Attend the Inti Raymi Festival (June 24) – a grand re-enactment of the Inca Sun Festival.

🧵 Visit weaving workshops in Chinchero or San Blas.

🥁 See Andean folk music performances in the evenings.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Cusco

🌞 June is popular for Inti Raymi and good weather.

🛌 Where to Stay in Cusco

Luxury

Belmond Palacio Nazarenas – A former convent turned 5-star hotel.

JW Marriott El Convento Cusco – Colonial elegance and top-tier comfort.

Mid-Range

Casa San Blas Boutique – Cozy with a local vibe.

Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi – Modern amenities close to the city center.

Budget

El Tuco Hostel – Friendly atmosphere and good location.

Pariwana Hostel – Social, clean, and perfect for backpackers.

🍽️ What to Eat in Cusco

Lomo saltado – Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries

Alpaca steak – Lean and flavorful

Aji de gallina – Chicken in a creamy yellow chili sauce

Cuy chactado – Fried guinea pig (a local delicacy)

Chicha morada – Purple corn drink

Mate de coca – Herbal tea to ease altitude sickness

🧳 What to Pack

🧥 Warm layers – temperatures drop at night

👟 Comfortable walking shoes – cobbled streets and ruins

🧢 Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen – high UV levels

🌧️ Light rain jacket – showers possible even in dry season

💊 Altitude medication or coca leaves

✈️ How to Get to Cusco

From Lima:

✈️ Domestic flights (1 hour) are the quickest option.

🚌 Buses (20+ hours) are available for budget or scenic travel.

From Sacred Valley:

🚗 Private taxi or colectivos

🚆 Train from Ollantaytambo to Cusco or Poroy

🚶 Getting Around Cusco

🚶 Walkable city center

🚕 Affordable taxis (negotiate fare beforehand)

🚌 Public buses (combis) for local travel

🛵 Moto-taxis in outer areas

🧭 Sample 3-Day Cusco Itinerary

Day 1 – Explore Cusco City

Morning: Plaza de Armas, Cathedral, Qorikancha

Afternoon: San Pedro Market & San Blas

Evening: Dinner and traditional dance show

Day 2 – Sacsayhuamán & Nearby Ruins

Morning: Walk or drive to Sacsayhuamán

Afternoon: Visit Q'enqo, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara

Evening: Stargazing at Cusco Planetarium

Day 3 – Day Trip to Sacred Valley or Rainbow Mountain

Choose between adventure or culture before returning to Cusco

🎭 Festivals in Cusco

Inti Raymi (June) – The biggest and most vibrant festival honoring the sun god.

Corpus Christi (May/June) – Colorful parades with saints from around the region.

Semana Santa (March/April) – Processions and religious celebrations.

🧘‍♀️ Tips for Acclimatizing to Altitude

Spend your first day resting and drinking water or coca tea.

Avoid alcohol and heavy meals initially.

Acetazolamide can help prevent altitude sickness.

📜 Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket)

You’ll need this ticket to access many historical and archaeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

🎟️ Valid for 10 days

🏛️ Includes sites like Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and museums

💵 Available at official tourist centers

💬 FAQs

Is Cusco safe for tourists?

Yes, Cusco is generally safe. Stick to tourist areas, avoid walking alone at night, and watch your belongings.

How many days should I stay?

Plan for 3 to 5 days, more if you’re trekking or visiting nearby attractions.

Do I need a guide?

Not necessarily, but hiring a guide at sites like Sacsayhuamán or Qorikancha adds rich historical context.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Visit Cusco?

Cusco is a living museum where past and present blend seamlessly. With its rich heritage, vibrant traditions, and proximity to some of Peru’s most iconic sites, Cusco is far more than a Machu Picchu launchpad—it’s a world-class destination that deserves your time and curiosity.