Peru · Region
Cusco
Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire, and its old stone streets still carry that history: colonial churches and mansions sit directly atop Inca foundations throughout the historic centre. Set high in the Andes, it's also the springboard most travellers use for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and the wider Cusco region.
Top attractions
attraction Saqsaywaman: Cusco Travel Guide (4.7★)
Saqsaywaman sits on the hill directly above Cusco's Plaza de Armas, about a 20–30 minute uphill walk, and entry is on the Boleto Turístico del Cusco rather than a separate ticket. 4.7★ (20,578 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain: Cusco Travel Guide (4.8★)
Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain sits in the Cordillera de Vilcanota, roughly three hours' drive southeast of Cusco. 4.8★ (1,913 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
Top-rated things to do in Cusco
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Where to stay in Cusco
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Plan your trip to Cusco
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Frequently asked questions about Cusco
How do I get to Cusco?
Most travellers fly into Cusco's Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), a short ride from the historic centre, usually connecting through Lima. From Cusco, Machu Picchu is reached by rail: trains run from nearby Poroy station or from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, terminating at Aguas Calientes, with a bus or short walk up to the ruins from there.
How many days should I spend in Cusco?
Allow ~3-4 days in Cusco: a day or two to acclimatise to the altitude and explore the city, plus a day trip or overnight for Machu Picchu itself.
What is Cusco known for?
Cusco was once the capital of the Inca Empire, and its old stone streets still carry that history: colonial churches and mansions sit directly atop Inca foundations throughout the historic centre. Set high in the Andes, it's also the springboard most travellers use for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and the wider Cusco region.