Cusco
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Spirit of Peru · Destination guide

Cusco

A place to discover

Cusco, in depth

Cusco is located in the southern center of the Peruvian territory. It is divided between mountainous areas and the Amazon jungle, and is well known as the historic heart of the Inca Empire.

Plan a trip here
01

Monuments

This journey will connect you with the pre-Inca and Inca times. Its monuments are perfect lacework of enormous stones without mortar that astounds the entire world. Must-see sites include Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Pikillaqta and Tipón. Machu Picchu, one of the new seven wonders of the world, was a political, administrative and religious center during the Tahuantinsuyu Empire. Its enclosures and surrounding mountain range create a unique setting. Colonial and republican times are reflected in old houses, nunneries, temples and museums.

02

Outdoor activities

Choose ecotourism, hikes among mountain communities, the four- or five-day Inca Trail or the Short Inca Trail. Active options include kayaking, rafting, mountain climbing, paragliding and cycling. Cusco has a range of activities and attractions to discover.

03

Culture and folklore

Cusco keeps customs alive through traditions, clothing, food and typical beverages. These are visible during Holy Week, the feast of Taytacha de los Temblores (The Lord of the Earthquakes), the city’s sworn patron, and Inti Raymi, the celebration honoring the Inca sun god. In August, farmers make offerings to Mother Earth at the beginning of the Andean new year. Plan around these dates to experience the celebrations.

04

Kindness of the people of Cusco

The people of Cusco are known for their warm hospitality and thoughtful treatment of visitors.

05

Craftsmanship

Handicraft in Cusco is a millennial practice passed from generation to generation. Workshops create textiles from plant and animal fibers such as alpaca and vicuña; ceramics inspired by Inca and European artifacts; gold and silverwork; leather work; wood and stone carving; imagery and other works of art.

06

Cuisine

Cusco offers more than archaeological sites, history and mysticism. Local products shape a wide variety of traditional dishes, including roasted guinea pig or cuy al palo, chicharrón cusqueño, lechón (suckling pig), chiri uchu and chairo soup.

Destination gallery

See Cusco

Landscapes, landmarks and experiences from Cusco.

Go a little further

Journeys that include this region

These sample itineraries are a starting point. Every route can be adapted to your pace and interests.

Cusco Food Experience Tour

07 Days / 06 Nights

Cusco Food Experience Tour

Peruvian cuisine captivates with its flavor and tradition. Cusco blends history and culture in its dishes, adapting to the seasons with local ingredients. Enjoy a culinary journey through the heart of the Andes.

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Treasures of Cusco

7 Days / 6 Nights

Treasures of Cusco

Cusco, a hub of cultural tourism, blends history, architecture, and traditions. Explore Machu Picchu, discover its cuisine, and experience the heart of Andean culture.

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Cusco Non-Conventional

8 Days / 7 Nights

Cusco Non-Conventional

Experience Belcheri’s unique adventures: explore Piuray Lagoon, hike the Inca Trail, connect with Machu Picchu, learn Peruvian cuisine, and craft your own organic plant-based experience.

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