Cusco is the capital of the Cusco region, located in southern Peru, right in the Andes Mountain Range. Considered the oldest city in the Americas, it has around 3,000 years of history. It was the capital of the Inca Empire for centuries until it was colonized by the Spanish. Despite colonization, its Inca culture and traditions remain deeply rooted, making it an unmissable tourist destination.
Walking through the streets of Cusco is a unique experience. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and green areas filled with history. Its architecture is a fascinating fusion of imposing colonial structures and the powerful stone walls of the Inca Empire. This blend emerged after the arrival of the Spanish, who demolished Inca buildings to construct their own structures, symbolizing their power and dominance. The result is an unparalleled landscape where history can be felt in every corner.
In the Plaza de Armas, one of the main attractions is the imposing Cusco Cathedral, considered one of the most important monuments in the Americas. Built on the remains of the ancient Palace of Wiracocha, it stands out for its Renaissance style and impressive interior decoration, which includes goldsmithing and carved stone pieces. Many of these pieces were brought from Sacsayhuamán, an ancient Inca temple north of Cusco used for religious ceremonies.
Very close to the Plaza de Armas is the Qorikancha Temple or Inca Temple of the Sun, an impressive site of great significance to the Inca Empire. This temple was dedicated to Inti, the sun god, and played a crucial role in Inca religion. The name Qorikancha comes from the Quechua words meaning "golden enclosure," as it housed countless riches, and its walls were covered with gold plates, reflecting the Incas' immense devotion to their solar deity and the power of the empire.
What is truly incredible about Cusco is not just the blend of history and archaeology within the city itself but also its role as the starting point for exploring other tourist areas that combine natural landscapes and remnants of the Inca era. A great example of this is the Sacred Valley of the Incas, just 55 kilometers from Cusco, a place full of mountains, rivers, and lagoons. It also includes historic towns such as Chinchero, Pisac, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Calca, where you can learn more about the legacy of the Inca Empire.
The main economic activity in Cusco is tourism, a sector driven not only by the abundance of historical and archaeological sites that attract visitors but also by the unique handicrafts and souvenirs tourists take home; the rich local gastronomy, featuring traditional dishes such as cuy, ceviche, and pachamanca, which entice those looking to experience the Peruvian culture of this region; and the diverse activities available, such as trekking and guided tours to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lagoon, and more.
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, from April to September. The weather is more stable, with sunny days and cool nights, making excursions and city walks more enjoyable. However, although the chance of rain is low, it is advisable to be prepared for any unexpected weather changes and carry a rain poncho, as occasional showers may occur.
To get to Cusco, you can choose between air or land transportation. The Cusco bus terminal is located at Av. Vía de Evitamiento 429, just 15 minutes by car from the city center. Buses from various companies arrive at this terminal, mainly from Lima and Arequipa, the two nearest cities. If you plan to take one of these routes, you can easily purchase your ticket through our website, kupos.pe, or our app, and conveniently pay with a card.
On kupos.pe, you will find all the transportation options to reach and get around Cusco with total comfort.
Excursions, Hiking, and Tours
If you visit Cusco, you can’t miss the opportunity to explore its breathtaking mountainous landscapes. There are over 100 tours and hiking routes with excursions that require walks of more than 2 hours, but the reward is unmatched. Destinations like Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lagoon are traveler favorites, offering spectacular views and a unique connection with nature in the heart of the Andes.
Other recommended destinations for tourists include the Sacsayhuamán Temple, an impressive Inca fortress with massive carved stones that were the site of important ceremonies and battles. There's also Qenqo, a fascinating archaeological site full of history, with labyrinthine passages, rock-carved altars, and an amphitheater that invites visitors to uncover the mysteries of Inca culture and beliefs. We invite you to discover the numerous wonders waiting for your visit!
City View from Cristo Blanco
If you want to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Cusco, you can't miss Cristo Blanco, located at the top of Pukamuku Hill, just 25 minutes from the city center. This imposing 8-meter-high statue, similar to Brazil's Christ the Redeemer, is considered by locals as “the watchful guardian.” From here, you’ll get one of the best views of the city. Plus, entry is completely free, making it an unmissable plan during your visit to Cusco!
Experience the Altitude Without Altitude Sickness
Cusco is located at 3,399 meters above sea level, and this altitude increases as you explore other tourist sites in the area. How can you prevent altitude sickness? Since most visitors are not used to this level of elevation, it’s recommended to follow a few tips to adapt to the lack of oxygen and acclimate to the environment. The first tip we give you is to travel by bus, as the gradual ascent reduces the likelihood of altitude sickness. If you’re looking for ticket options to Cusco, you can check kupos.pe or our App. Another alternative is to take a strategic step-by-step route, passing through cities like Arequipa or Puno before Cusco, which have slightly lower altitudes.
You can also rely on natural remedies, such as chewing coca leaves or drinking them in infusions, or specific medication in pill form to prevent altitude sickness. This way, you can fully enjoy your trip without worries!
Route | Company | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
Abancay to Cusco | Buses Civa | S/80 | Book |
Lima to Cusco | Transportes Palomino | S/100 | Book |
Lima to Cusco | Buses Civa | S/100 | Book |
Ica to Cusco | Buses Civa | S/100 | Book |
Puerto Maldonado to Cusco | Buses Civa | S/60 | Book |
Arequipa to Cusco | Buses Civa | S/120 | Book |
Nazca to Cusco | Buses Civa | S/100 | Book |
Ayacucho to Cusco | Transportes Palomino | S/60 | Book |
Puerto Maldonado to Cusco | Transportes Palomino | S/60 | Book |
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