Travel to Peru: Cusco Tours

Why travel to Cusco

Formerly the center of the vast Inca Empire, the breathtaking and magical city of Cusco remains a highlight of any Peru vacation. Humans have inhabited the site now known as Cusco for thousands of years, probably attracted to the mountainous area’s strategic and defensive qualities, as well as the region’s agricultural fertility. It was the Killke civilization that first left its mark, creating fortresses and roadways up to AD 1200, immediately before the rise of the Incas.

Known as the “navel of the world” in the indigenous Quechua language, the city is rich in spiritual and historical legacy. In Cusco, the turn of every corner offers a fresh glimpse into a fascinating, romantic, and tortured past.

Built in the shape of a Puma, Cusco is a lasting testament to the Inca stonemasons’ unrivaled craftsmanship, much of which is still clearly visible in the city's dramatic architecture. Despite centuries of transformation following the Spanish conquest of Peru, the city has retained its original character and is a cultural window into Peru's ancient indigenous civilizations, as well as its colonial times.

No Peru vacation can be complete without visiting Cusco and its many wonders. History and architecture buffs will revel in the beauty of this historic city, which is also teeming with excellent modern restaurants, cafés, and bars.

What to do in Cusco

Situated an eye-watering 11,000 feet above sea level, in a verdant but mountainous landscape known as the Sacred Valley, the Cusco region is the jewel of the Andes. Within the city itself there are treasures like the Stone of 12 Angles, the Golden Palace, and the Temple of the Sun. The surrounding hills are dotted with numerous sites of immense importance: the fort and temple of Sacsayhuaman, the ruins at Pisac, and of course the unparalleled mountain-top citadel of Machu Picchu.

Originally one of many small tribes that lived in the area that would become Peru, the Incas rose to prominence in the 13th century and declared Cusco their capital. From here, they launched their ambitious expansion across the Andes mountain range.

As the empire grew, the Inca’s self-confidence in their own destiny was reflected in their increasingly grand constructions, with Cusco being the focal point for their power and complex spirituality. In addition, leaving a legacy of impressive buildings became central to the personal reputation of each emperor, encouraging each to outdo his predecessor with the creation of ever-more-complex and imposing monuments.

The arrival of the Spanish in the early 16th century represented a new chapter in the city’s life and although much was lost, the Spanish rulers managed to incorporate many aspects of the old ways into their new regime as an attempt to secure their acceptance by the local population. In this way, many colonial buildings were constructed atop Inca foundations, and aspects of the original religion were incorporated into Catholic teachings and religious art, creating what is known as the Cusco school of art, which is recognized as the first organized artistic movement in the New World. This legacy remains clearly visible today, especially in the vast collections of Cusco’s Cathedral of Santa Domingo.

When to visit Cusco

Cusco’s location and altitude result in only two seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season typically lasts from October to March, with the heaviest rains arriving in January and February.Visiting Cusco just after the rainy season or before the rainy season begins in either April, May, or September is most recommended.  However, the peak season for travelers is June/August. The rainy season tends to be quieter with scattered showers throughout the days.

Note that Cusco is a very popular destination among Peruvian visitors during the days surrounding Peru’s Independence Day, which falls on July 28. If you are eager to witness some of Peru’s most fascinating ancient customs, make sure to visit Cusco during the week long Inti Raymi Festival (Festival of the Sun) in early June.

Travel Testimonials

I was most surprised by Cusco. I had seen a couple of shows on the Travel Channel that really only gave it a few minutes and pretty much described it as a place to stop and adjust to the altitude before continuing on to Machu Picchu. But it is so much more than that and so much bigger than I expected. I loved my hotel too. The room was very nice and the location was great.

Kenneth Hammen (CA, USA)

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We fell in love with Cathedral of Cusco, and its historical significance to the Spanish conquest. All of the other churches were just as impressive. Sacsayhuaman was an archaeological site above and beyond my expectation.

Jim Jones (Utah, USA)

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Cusco was wonderful. We love Cusco. We love the city, the people, the culture, the atmosphere. I would have loved to have spent a few more days there. Our hotel, Suenos Del Inka was great. The hotel took really good care of us. Giving us coca tea twice a day helped us tremendously in settling in. We had a great view of Cusco. It was so beautiful. I would highly recommend this hotel for Cusco.

Teresa Valdivia & Robert Sloan (CA, USA)

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The tour guides were good. I didn't know that I would like the city of Cusco so much. I will definitely go back and spend a free day just walking around and enjoying the city. Thanks for all of your help and for your prompt answers to all my questions. Peru was a great experience and I can't wait to go back.

Nick (CA, USA)

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Top Pick Cusco Hotel

Aranwa Boutique Hotel 5*

San Juan de Dios 255, near Plaza Regocijo, Cusco

The brand new Aranwa Boutique Hotel, opened in October2010, is operated by Aranwa Hotels Resorts & Spas, one of the most luxurious hotel chains in Peru, known for their careful attention to their clients' well-being. Probably the best value luxury accommodation in Cusco, this elegant 5-star hotel is housed in a converted 16th-century mansion and is decorated with colonial era furniture, impressive paintings from the Cusco school, and colonial gold-leaf plated carvings and sculptures. This boutique hotel is conveniently located right behind Plaza San Francisco, a new upscale neighborhood away from the hustle and bustle of Cusco's main square. With each room boasting an oxygen system and a variety of soothing spa treatments available, this just may be the best place to acclimatize to the high altitude in Cusco in a most comfortable setting.

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Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco 4*

Plazoleta de Limacpampa Chico 473, Cusco

The Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco is the most recent addition to the renowned Casa Andina Hotels. Built in a large colonial house dating back to the 18th century, the hotel is ideally located in the center of Cusco, just a few blocks from the main square in the direction of Koricancha. Relax in the beautiful courtyard with its gurgling stone fountain, one of Cusco's emblematic colonial sights, and get lost in the intriguing maze of corridors that lead you to the various patios. Casa Andina's first upscale hotel in Cusco features 94 heated rooms with private bathrooms, cable television, telephones, hairdryers, and in-room safes. The hotel is equipped with a gourmet restaurant, a bar, 3 courtyards, and offers room service as well as many other excellent amenities. Discover the magic of this beautiful city while staying at Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco, where you will enjoy the warm atmosphere and the outstanding service from the very hospitable and highly qualified staff.

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Boutique Hotel Casa San Blas 3*

Tocuyeros 566, San Blas, Cusco

Located in the historic artisan's quarter of San Blas, this boutique hotel is privately situated, but still close to restaurants, bars, artisan workshops and galleries. Only two and a half blocks from the central Plaza de Armas, the Boutique Hotel Casa San Blas is near all the main attractions in Cusco, but provides the peace and tranquility guests look forward to after a long day exploring Inca ruins. With gorgeous wooden furnishings, a pretty patio area with umbrellas, potted plants, and colorful artwork, you will feel at home in this charming hotel.  Guest rooms boast handmade colonial furniture and Andean weavings as well as lush bedding for a good night's rest. Enjoy a delicious dinner or cocktail in the downstairs restaurant before indulging in a luxurious massage in your room. The staff at this excellent-value Cusco hotel will work overtime to make your stay a pleasant one.

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