Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco blends living culture with ancient history. From temple ruins to panoramic Andean vistas, every corner invites discovery. Browse our Cusco tours or talk to our team to start planning your adventure.
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We design each Cusco tour with care — avoiding peak crowds by adjusting timing, routes, and even the order of visits. You'll explore iconic sites like Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha, balanced with quieter corners, local markets, and cultural encounters. There’s no rushing from site to site — we leave space to explore, connect, and take in the city’s vibrant history at your own pace.
Cusco, honored as the heart of the vast Empire of the Incas, and later functioning as the epicenter of Colonial Spain’s hold and influence on the Andes region of South America, had already been an important nexus for numerous Indigenous Andean peoples for centuries. Around 1200 CE, a city-state corresponding to Cusco was established by Manco Capac, remembered as the first Inca King, marking the beginning of over three centuries of Inca rule (though it would be more than 200 years until the Inca Empire began its era of expansion).
In 1438, Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the Earth-Shaker, oversaw the initial stages of imperial growth. The Inca Empire would expand greatly over the next century. Significant portions of South America’s entire Pacific Coast came under the political, religious and cultural control of the Incas, whose influence emanated from the imperial capital Cusco.
Evidence of how important Cusco was to the Inca rulers is seen in the city’s very bones: Old Cusco was built in the shape of a puma — an animal held sacred by the Inca and other Indigenous cultures — under order of Pachacuti. Numerous opulent palaces, mansions and plazas were built in the city as the empire’s territory and resources expanded. This legacy is still observed today in the neat, straight lines and precise angles of central Cusco’s cobblestone streets and its masterful stone foundations.
It was to this grand imperial capital that the first Spaniards arrived in 1533. Although certainly awestruck by the magnificent city, Francisco Pizarro wasted no time in conquering and sacking Cusco upon his arrival a few months later. For nearly three centuries following its fall as imperial capital of the Inca, Cusco would remain the epicenter of Spanish colonization and Christianization of the Andean region, enjoying much success due to its rich agriculture and farming, mining and trade with Spain.
While Cusco is “base camp” for anyone visiting Machu Picchu and the nearby Sacred Valley, it is undoubtedly a worthy destination in its own right. Many of the amazing sites listed here are included with the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco) and are conveniently close to one another. Here are the most essential places to visit on your trip to Cusco:
Once the Inca capital’s main square, Huacaypata—now Plaza de Armas—remains the heart of Cusco. Lined with churches, restaurants, and cafés, it’s the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and acclimate to the altitude.
This UNESCO-listed cathedral on the Plaza de Armas was built using stones from Inca temples. Inside, you’ll find striking colonial art, including a famous Last Supper painting featuring cuy (guinea pig).
Located along Hatun Rumiyoq Street, this iconic Inca stone is famous for its twelve perfectly interlocking angles. Once part of Inca Roca’s palace, it showcases the masterful masonry that defines Cusco’s historic architecture.
This bohemian hillside neighborhood is known for its whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes, and Peru’s oldest parish church. Long a haven for artisans, it’s filled with workshops and shops showcasing beautiful handmade crafts.
Cusco’s most emblematic market buzzes with local life — from fresh produce and cheeses to alpaca knits and food stalls. Wander deeper to find quirky treasures like love potions, herbal remedies, and mystical charms.
Qorikancha was the Inca’s most sacred temple, once gleaming with gold. Its stone walls now support the elegant Santo Domingo Convent, blending Inca roots with colonial beauty.
This impressive Inca fortress overlooks Cusco and is known for its massive zigzag stone walls. Once a ceremonial site, it's a short walk from the Cristo Blanco viewpoint.
Close to Sacsayhuamán, this hillside statue of Christ with open arms overlooks Cusco. Beside it, a popular viewpoint offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.
A short drive from Cusco, Tambomachay is a tranquil spot where natural spring water flows through intricate stonework. Likely used for ceremonies, it showcases the Inca’s reverence for water and refined engineering.
Known as the Red Fort, this Inca site near Tambomachay gets its name from the pinkish glow its stone walls take on at sunset. Perched on a hill, it offers beautiful views of the surrounding Andean landscape.
Qenko is one of the finest examples of a huaca—an Inca sacred site built around natural rock. Its carved passages and cave-like chambers were likely used for rituals, sacrifices, and mummifications.
A stunning example of Inca hydraulic engineering, Tipón features terraces and stone channels still flowing with water. It’s located in the South Valley and is often overlooked, but well worth a visit.
Located southeast of Cusco, Pikillacta is a large pre-Inca archaeological site built by the Wari civilization. Its expansive layout of straight streets and multi-story buildings offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Peru’s earliest urban cultures.
Often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” this 17th-century church stuns with its richly decorated interior—vivid murals, gilded altars, and painted ceilings. It’s a masterpiece of Andean Baroque art and a highlight of the South Valley route from Cusco.
Towering over the Vilcanota range, Ausangate dazzles with turquoise lagoons, colorful mineral slopes, and remote highland scenery. Revered by locals as a sacred mountain, it offers a glimpse into untouched Andean life.
This dazzling turquoise lake, fed by glacial melt, rests beneath towering Andean peaks. Its striking color and dramatic setting make it one of the region’s most unforgettable hikes.
Famous for its vibrant, multi-colored stripes, Rainbow Mountain offers a dramatic high-altitude hike through stunning Andean scenery. Its unique colors and sweeping views make it one of the most iconic natural sights in Peru.
Perched at over 4,300 meters (14,100 feet), Waqrapukara—or “Horned Fortress”—blends striking Inca architecture with sweeping Andean views in a serene, off-the-beaten-path setting.
A sophisticated 5-star retreat in the heart of Cusco, just steps from the Coricancha Temple. Featuring elegant rooms, fine dining, a modern fitness center, indoor pool, and a guided Art Route through centuries of Peruvian heritage, it’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and luxury.
Housed in a restored 16th-century convent, this 5-star Cusco hotel offers luxury, rich history, Peruvian cuisine, a soothing spa, a gym and oxygen-enriched rooms for ultimate comfort.
The Belmond Andean Explorer is a luxury train that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Peru. It travels from Cusco to Puno and ends in Arequipa. The train features elegant cabins, gourmet dining, and a relaxed atmosphere with lounge areas for enjoying the scenery making it a great way to travel through the country's mountainous region.
The former palace of the founder of the Inca Civilization, Palacio Manco Capac is a unique hotel in that you get a luxury stay in a very historic Inca structure.
With beautiful Baroque and colonial style architecture Inkaterra offers all sorts of amenities including a buffet breakfast and is only a few blocks from the main square.
A wonderful slice of luxury right in the heart of Cusco, Aranwa Boutique is a wonderful place for you to relax and explore Cusco and the surrounding areas.
Antigua Casona San Blas is a charming boutique hotel in Cusco’s historic San Blas district. With colonial architecture, cozy courtyards, and warm local touches, it offers a peaceful and authentic stay.
A large hotel with spacious rooms and excellent meals offered in the resturant area, Costa Del Sol Ramada is a beuatiful colonial style hotel that is perfect for couples.
Just steps from the Plaza de Armas and San Pedro Market, this charming colonial hotel offers 60 rooms, a restaurant, bar, and a rooftop lounge with stunning city views.
Within walking distance of the main square and only a few blocks from the train station Xima Exclusive Cusco offers a luxury experience and an on site restaurant with a quiet atmosphere.
Located in the beautiful San Blas neighborhood Tocuyeros Boutique Hotel has large comfortable rooms and a highly accommodating staff and is a perfect hotel for those looking to stay in San Blas.
Just a few blocks away from San Pedro Market and Plaza San Francisco Union Hotel Cusco is a comfortable hotel with an onsite restaurant and live music.
Located on the outskirts of the center of Cusco Jose Antonio has comfortable rooms and even a private garage to store your vehicle.
A Well maintained and clean hotel with a delicious breakfast located in the center of the city, Hotel San Agustin Plaza has great views of Qoricancha temple just across the street.
Located on the main avenue of the city and only one block from the famous Qoricancha temple, Hotel San Agustin Dorado is a great hotel with an exceptional attention to detail.
Steps away from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, this beautiful 17th-century manor blends colonial charm with modern comfort. With elegant rooms and colonial patios, it delivers an authentic Cusco experience with personalized service.
Novotel Cusco blends colonial charm with modern comforts. The spacious rooms come with Wi-Fi. At Restaurant 365, enjoy international cuisine and a bar with a pisco sour demonstration. During your stay, explore the rich history and culture of the City of the Incas.
Set in Cusco's historic city center, just 1969 feet from the main square, Hilton Garden Inn Cusco offers panoramic views of the city and mountains. Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, room service, and a 24-hour convenience store. The property provides free WiFi throughout and free private parking.
Sonesta Hotel in Cusco offers a luxurious and culturally immersive experience, blending modern amenities with traditional Peruvian charm in the heart of the historic city.
Casa Clara by Ananay is perfectly located in the heart of Cusco, offering easy access to the city’s main attractions while tucked away on a charming, quiet street. Its beautifully designed rooms provide a cozy and elegant retreat, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. A perfect blend of comfort, style, and local character.
Atoq San Blas Hotel is a boutique hotel in Cusco that blends modern design with Andean details, offering comfortable rooms, personalized service, and a prime location in the San Blas neighborhood near the historic center, an excellent choice for a peaceful and stylish stay.
Wilkamayu Hotel is located in the heart of Sicuani, offering a warm and cozy atmosphere—perfect for resting during the journey between Cusco and Puno. It features a beautiful colonial courtyard, comfortable rooms with hot water and Wi-Fi, and an excellent restaurant serving local dishes. A charming and reliable choice with authentic Andean character.
Casa Cavassa Hotel Boutique is conveniently located in the 229 San Andres St., the hotel is located just a block and a half from the emblematic Plaza de Armas of Cusco.
Wayra Lodge is a cozy mountain retreat nestled in the Andes, offering dramatic views of Mt. Humantay — a welcome haven after a long day trekking over the Salkantay Pass.
A welcome refuge for weary travelers, Lucma lodge offers clean, comfortable, and carefully thought out amenities, making it the perfect place to rest along the way.
Colpa Lodge is an oasis found in the middle of the mountains, and the perfect rest stop for those who are hiking the Salkantay Trek.
Nestled at the base of the impressive Salkantay Glacier, Salkantay Lodge offers a beautiful respite for trekkers who are about to take on the mountain.
X.O Art House, a charming boutique hotel, is conveniently located just a three-minute walk from the renowned Hatun Rumiyoc - Piedra de los 12 ángulos in Cusco. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and personalized concierge services throughout their stay. The hotel is situated within walking distance of the Museum of Religious Art, the Chapel of the Sacred Family, and the historic Church of San Blas. Each guest room at X.O Art House is designed to provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
This tranquil hotel, part of the prestigious Tierra Viva hotel chain, is ideally situated in the heart of Cusco, just three blocks from the renowned Plaza de Armas and a short walk from the historic Church of Santa Teresa. The rooms at Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi Hotel are designed with comfort in mind, featuring warm wooden accents, heating, LCD televisions, and work desks.
This opulent hotel is ideally located just one block from Cusco's picturesque main square and two blocks from its historic cathedral. The hotel provides elegant accommodations and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza features a captivating central courtyard, showcasing Spanish-style galleries, a soaring glass-paneled ceiling, and a stunning wrought-iron chandelier. Rooms are beautifully appointed in warm terracotta tones and offer a range of luxurious amenities, including hardwood floors, alpaca and silk bedspreads, heating, and cable television.
A 300-year-old colonial gem just steps from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Offers classic-style rooms with free Wi-Fi and TV, a restaurant serving local and international dishes, and a cozy bar. Only 5 km from the airport, it’s a perfect blend of history, comfort, and convenience.
Located near the center of Cusco, Muru Homely Hotel offers a relaxing stay great for all types of travalers.
Casa Esmeralda by Katari is located in Cusco, a 16-minute walk from Wanchaq Train Station, and offers accommodation with a garden and private parking. This 3-star hotel provides a 24-hour front desk and concierge service. The non-smoking property is a 9-minute walk from Santo Domingo Church.
A very clean and well-kept hotel just three blocks from the center of Cusco, guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and have dinner at the onsite restaurant. The hotel is within walking distance of the city's major attractions and offers incredible views of the Cusco valley.
Tucked away in the beautiful neighborhood of San Blas which offers amazing views of the city and the Cusco valley, Tierra Viva Cusco San Blas is a great starting point to explore San Blas the bohemian center of the city.
Right in the heart of the city, Tierra Viva Cusco Centro is within walking distance to all the major attractions and is a great option for those looking to explore all the city has to offer.
Located just one block from the famous Inca temple Qoricancha, Taypikala Cusco offers excellent service and large spacious rooms where the staff are ready to cater to your every need.
With stunning architecture and an amazing breakfast Quinta San Blas is located in the heart of the city making it a great option for those who want to explore Cusco by foot.
Located in the heart of the city just three blocks from the main square Maytaq Wasin Hotel offers coworking spaces and large comfortable rooms.
With excellent service and a very complete breakfast Hotel San Agustin Internacional is in a great location making it a perfect option for your stay in Cusco.
A small hotel with amazing views of the city and the Cusco Valley, Encantada Casa Boutique has a relaxing atmosphere great for couples.
In between the Santa Ana and Historic Center of Cusco, El Balcon Cusco has rooms with balconies and great views of the city.
With an intimate restaurant and cozy rooms Cooper Boutique Hotel is within walking distance of all the major attractions and is a great option for solo travelers and families.
Located in the Historic Center of Cusco, Casa San Blas has exceptional service, spacious rooms and luxury suites.
Perfectly positioned for access to the main square and the idyllic San blas neighborhood, Rumi Punku is a beautiful boutique hotel perfect for those looking to unwind in the city.
Right in the heart of one of the most attractive neighborhoods in Cusco city, this Casa Andina waits for you. The romantic cobbled streets make for a perfect place for a hotel.
You cannot get more centrally located than this Casa Andina, found right on the main plaza. If you want the heart of the action, this is where to go.
Just a few steps away from the iconic Cusco cathedral, this Casa Andina is the perfectly located central spot for travelers.
Kori Gems Inn in Cusco is a cozy and welcoming boutique hotel offering comfortable accommodations with a blend of modern amenities and traditional Peruvian charm. Located in the picturesque neighborhood of San Cristobal, Kori Gems is a great option for all types of travelers.
Casa Boutique Huascarán in San Blas is a charming hotel that offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional Andean aesthetics. Located in the vibrant San Blas neighborhood, the hotel features beautifully decorated rooms and great views of the city from the hotel's balcony.
A colonial style hotel in the historical center of Cusco Midori Hotel Cusco offers an on site restaurant with a buffet style breakfast and is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the main square additionally, the hotel is only half a block from the Museum of the Inca and is highly rated for traveling couples
Right next door to Qoricancha the most important temple in the Inca Empire, Waman Hotel Qoricancha offers excellent service and large spacious rooms.
Hostería de Anita has spacious rooms and a delicious breakfast, nestled just outside the center of Cusco this hotel is walking distance from all the attractions.
An adobe structure made in colonial times, Hotel Nazarenas is just three short blocks from the main square and is the perfect place for a cozy getaway.
An adobe structure made in colonial times, Hotel Nazarenas is just three short blocks from the main square and is the perfect place for a cozy getaway.
Just three blocks from the historical Plaza de Armas of Cusco, Ankara Hotel Butique offers a comfortable atmosphere where the staff are attentive and provide you with an amazing experience.
Located in the San Blas area close to all major atractions in the city of Cusco, this hotel is a great option for families and solo travelers alike.
Comfortable and cozy, the Hotel Amaru Colonial is the perfect place to base yourself in the popular San blas neighborhood. Centrally located with traditional fittings, the Amaru Colonial is a perfect pit stop for travelers.
Casona La Recoleta offers apartment style lodging, rooms are fully equipped with kitchen and lounge areas.
Excellent, safe, and fun experience! Everything from start to finish was perfect! The communication between Diego/the company and I was seamless. My guide, Rumi, was absolultely wonderful! I went to Peru on my own, and wanted to ensure a safe, easy experience-Cusco Native definitely delivered!
We had a fantastic trip to Cusco. Our guide Marco was excellent. He was very informative and gave excellent historical background of the places we visited. He was also patient with our slower pace. The itinerary was very well planned.
We booked our Peru trip through Cusco Native and Leidy was great help. We had millions of questions and adjustments and changes to our travel plan and Leidy at Cusco Native was very patient and helpful. We had a great time and made memories that will last a lifetime.
We recently returned from an incredible trip organized by this travel company, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. From start to finish, the organization was flawless. They took the stress out of planning by helping us secure the exact Machu Picchu circuit tickets we wanted. If you want a well-organized, stress-free trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, this is the company to book!
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Cusco:
Altitude sickness, also called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a valid consideration and precautions should always be taken. Most visitors acclimate within 24-48 hours without incident, but this can vary widely. Age, sex and physical fitness are generally not considered determining factors, but consult with your physician before traveling if desired, especially if you are pregnant, have a history of heart conditions or are flying in from a very low altitude.
You should plan on spending at least two full days in Cusco if you want to get a good feel for all it has to offer. Besides this, for most visitors the first 24 hours are spent doing lowkey activities like walking around the historic center while acclimating to the elevation. A couple days can easily be spent exploring Old Cusco and sites of interest within walking distance.
Most people arrive by national flight from Lima to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), a short distance outside Cusco proper. Direct international flights are rare but can be booked from Santiago de Chile. While the flight from Lima takes only about 55 minutes, the same journey by bus takes over 20 hours due to the rugged terrain of the Andes.
Machu Picchu is about 4 hours by train from Cusco. The train departs from Poroy Station, a 20-minute drive from Plaza de Armas, and arrives at Aguas Calientes Station near the ruins. Machu Picchu can also be reached by completing a 4-day hike along the Inca Trail. The Sacred Valley is about an hour away from Cusco by car.
Cusco is considered a very safe city, one of the safest in Peru. Nevertheless, opportunistic crimes such as muggings and thefts can occur, as anywhere, and appropriate, common-sense precautions should be taken to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
Exchanging your foreign currency for Peruvian soles can be accomplished with ease once in Cusco. Numerous exchange spots are conveniently located around the old center of town and some hotels also offer their guests exchange services. Money can also be exchanged at Cusco’s airport. Check with your bank for possible options on international banking and local withdrawal from US accounts.
The Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco or BTC) is issued by local and regional government authorities to control and protect the invaluable heritage sites in and around Cusco. You will need one to enter most all ruins and archeological sites. But no worries! The BTC can easily be acquired in Cusco once here. We also offer the BTC as part of various tour and excursion packages we have: see _____ or contact us directly!
In the vast majority of cases you can get along in Cusco just fine speaking English. Most hotels, restaurants, museums, tours and excursions (including us at Cusco Native!) and many shops have fully bilingual staff. Even so, brushing up on some basic Spanish and perhaps carrying a traveler’s phrase book are never bad ideas, especially if you plan to do more shopping and exploring local markets and shops.
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