Cusco
Photo by Sheila C on Unsplash
1 / 5Peru · Historic mountain city
Cusco was the political and religious center of the Inca Empire, and its stone walls still line the old city's streets. At 3,400 meters in the Andes, it is the usual starting point for Machu Picchu, with 383 hotels from converted monasteries to boutique inns.
Known for: History · Culture · Architecture · Spiritual sites · Mountains
Two differently incentivized ranking systems agree on the same answer to the best city to visit in South America. Here's what the data says about Cusco, its runners-up, the safety numbers that don't all point the same direction, and what a day actually costs from Cartagena to Buenos Aires.
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Ask about Cusco in chatThe best time to visit Cusco is from May to September, when rain is scarce and days are sunny and mild, with highs around 18-19°C. June and July are the driest and coolest nights, ideal for exploring the city and nearby ruins. The rainy season from November to March brings frequent afternoon showers, though mornings often stay clear. April and October offer a balance, with fewer crowds and moderate rainfall.
Stay in the historic center around Plaza de Armas for easy access to sights and restaurants; the JW Marriott and Novotel are there. San Blas, the artisan quarter uphill, suits a quieter, bohemian vibe, with Antigua Casona San Blas nearby. For convenience near transport, the area along Avenida El Sol works well, where the Sonesta and Xima are located.
Start at Plaza de Armas, the historic heart with the cathedral and lively arcades. Qorikancha shows Inca stonework beneath a colonial church. Saqsaywaman's massive terraced walls are an engineering marvel above the city. The Twelve Angled Stone in Hatun Rumiyoq street is a famous example of Inca masonry. Mercado Central de San Pedro is the place for local produce and a taste of daily life.
Full-day tours from Cusco go to Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel; Moray and Maras, with circular terraces and salt mines; Humantay Lake, a turquoise mountain lake; and Rainbow Mountain, known for its colorful striped slopes. These trips each take a full day, so plan to add an extra day to your itinerary for one.
Plan 3 to 4 days in Cusco. In 3 days, you can see Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, Saqsaywaman, and the Twelve Angled Stone, plus the Mercado Central de San Pedro. Add a fourth day for a day trip to Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley, which needs an extra day. If you want to include Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake, plan 5 days total.
