CUSTOMIZED CUZCO VACATION PACKAGES

WHY YOU HAVE TO VISIT CUZCO

Humans have inhabited the site now known as Cuzco for millennia, probably attracted to the area’s mountainous 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 until 1200, immediately before the rise of the Incas.

Originally one of many small tribes, the Incas rose to prominence in the 1200’s, declaring Cuzco their capital, from where they would launch their ambitious and audacious expansion across the entire Andes mountain range.

As the empire grew, the Inca’s self confidence in their own destiny was reflected in their increasingly grand constructions, with Cuzco 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 1530s represented a new chapter in the life of the city 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 was incorporated into Catholic teachings and religious art, creating what is known as the Cuzco school of art.

The Cuzco School is recognized as the first organized artistic movement in the New World and this legacy remains clearly visible today, especially in the vast collections of Cuzco’s Cathedral of Santa Domingo.

Despite being a tumultuous and destructive period, the Spanish conquest eventually contributed to the city’s architectural grandeur, making Cuzco a fascinating and beautiful example of cultural fusion.

And away from the churches and ruins lies a vibrant, exciting city that promises to entertain visitors for days. The only drawback is trying to contain yourself from overexertion in the thin, high altitude air!

DONT JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

I was most surprised by Cuzco. 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, Cathedral City, CA, USA

We fell in love with Cathedral of Cuzco, 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, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

Cuzco was wonderful. We love Cuzco. 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 Cuzco. It was so beautiful. I would highly recommend this hotel for Cuzco.
Teresa Valdivia, Robert Sloan, El Cerrito, CA, USA

The tour guides were good. I didn't know that I would like the city of Cuzco 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, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Cuzco Testimonials »