From Vineyards to Machu Picchu: A Classic South America Tour
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Lima
,
Santiago
.
10 days /
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Andean Marvels From Lima to Uyuni
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Puno
,
Uyuni
,
La Paz
.
15 days /
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Best of Peru
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
,
Arequipa
,
Puno
.
12 days /
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Brazil Argentina & Peru: Ultimate South America Experience
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Buenos Aires
,
Iguazu Falls
,
Patagonia
,
Ushuaia
,
Amazon
.
23 days /
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Galapagos and Peruvian Andes
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
,
Galapagos Islands
,
Quito
.
14 days /
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Machu Picchu Getaway
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
.
6 days /
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Echoes of the Incas
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
,
Puno
.
8 days /
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Echoes of the Incas
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Puno
.
8 days /
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Chile & Peru - From Vineyards to Machu Picchu
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Santiago
.
9 days /
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Peru Essentials
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
,
Puno
.
10 days /
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Peru & Galapagos Dream Journey
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Galapagos Islands
.
10 days /
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Peru Pinguins, Llamas and Monkeys
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
,
Amazon
.
11 days /
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Peru Panorama
Cusco
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Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Arequipa
,
Puno
.
11 days /
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Peru to Uyuni - The Andean Marvels
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Puno
,
Uyuni
,
La Paz
.
13 days /
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Ultimate Peru Adventure
Cusco
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
.
14 days /
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Classic South America Highlights
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Buenos Aires
,
Iguazu Falls
,
Rio de Janeiro
.
15 days /
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The Complete Peru Experience
Cusco
,
Lima
,
Arequipa
,
Puno
,
Amazon
.
15 days /
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Brazil to Peru: Amazon & Highlands
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Iguazu Falls
,
Rio de Janeiro
,
Amazon
.
16 days /
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Brazil, Argentina & Peru: Rio, Beaches of Florianópolis, Tango & Machu Picchu
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Buenos Aires
,
Rio de Janeiro
.
16 days /
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Colombia & Peru Signature Journey
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Cartagena
,
Bogota
.
17 days /
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Peru, Brazil & Argentina: South America's Great Capitals
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Lima
,
Buenos Aires
,
Iguazu Falls
,
Rio de Janeiro
,
Ushuaia
,
Calafate
.
17 days /
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Brazil, Argentina & Peru: Rio, Iguazu Falls, Patagonia, Amazon & Machu Picchu
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
,
Lima
,
Buenos Aires
,
Iguazu Falls
,
Rio de Janeiro
,
Patagonia
,
Argentina
,
Amazon
,
Perito Moreno
,
Calafate
.
18 days /
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Machu Picchu Classic Getaway
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Sacred Valley
,
Rainbow Mountain
.
6 days /
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Overfly the Enigmatic Nazca Lines to Cusco
Cusco
,
Machu Picchu
,
Lima
,
Nazca Lines
.
7 days /
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Best time to visit
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September. These months offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing, with sunny days, blue skies, and minimal rainfall. This is also the peak season for hiking the Inca Trail and visiting Machu Picchu, as the trails are dry and safe to walk. June is particularly special because it coincides with Cusco’s most famous cultural celebration, Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. While the dry season is the most popular, the rainy season from October to April also has its charm, with greener landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Top tours
Cusco is the gateway to some of Peru’s most iconic tours. The highlight for most travelers is Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, accessible by train or through multi-day hikes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or Lares Trek. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is another must-see, with its traditional villages, vibrant markets, and ancient ruins in Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. For those seeking adventure, tours to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake provide breathtaking natural scenery and unforgettable hiking experiences. Within the city, guided tours include visits to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and other Inca archaeological sites that showcase the grandeur of the empire.
Things to do
There is no shortage of things to do in Cusco. History lovers can immerse themselves in the city’s rich Inca and colonial past by exploring museums, churches, and archaeological sites. Cultural enthusiasts can participate in workshops to learn about traditional weaving, pottery, or Andean cooking. For those who love adventure, Cusco is a hub for trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and river rafting in the Urubamba River. Visitors can also spend time strolling through colorful markets like San Pedro, trying local street food, or enjoying panoramic views of the city from the San Blas neighborhood. In the evenings, Cusco comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, offering everything from traditional folk dances to lively bars and clubs.
Weather
Cusco’s weather is highly influenced by its altitude at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft). The city experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season (May–September) and the rainy season (October–April). During the dry season, daytime temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F–68°F), though nights can be cold, often dropping below 5°C (41°F). This makes it important to dress in layers. The rainy season brings frequent showers, especially from January to March, which can affect hiking trails but also transforms the landscapes into lush green scenery, creating a beautiful backdrop for photography. Regardless of the season, visitors should always carry a jacket, sunscreen, and a hat to adapt to Cusco’s quickly changing weather.
Airports
The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is Cusco’s main airport, located just 15–20 minutes from the historic center. The airport operates domestic flights from Lima, Arequipa, Juliaca, and other major Peruvian cities, making it easily accessible. There are also a few direct international connections to destinations like La Paz in Bolivia and some seasonal flights from neighboring countries. Plans are underway for a new international airport in Chinchero, which will further expand travel options to Cusco in the future. From the airport, visitors can reach the city center by taxi, private transfers, or shuttle services.
Hotels
Cusco offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. Luxury seekers will find boutique hotels housed in beautifully restored colonial mansions, often with courtyards, original stone walls, and modern comforts. For mid-range budgets, there are charming hotels and hostels that blend traditional Andean style with contemporary design. Backpackers and budget travelers can find affordable hostels, many of which provide social atmospheres and excellent locations near the Plaza de Armas. Staying in the San Blas neighborhood is a favorite choice for those looking for a bohemian atmosphere with art galleries, cafes, and great views of the city.
Restaurants
Cusco is one of Peru’s top culinary destinations, offering a wide range of dining experiences. Traditional Andean cuisine highlights local ingredients such as potatoes, quinoa, corn, and fresh trout. Adventurous diners can try iconic dishes like cuy (guinea pig) or alpaca steak, while others may prefer comforting soups like chupe de quinua. The city also boasts fine-dining restaurants that creatively fuse traditional flavors with international techniques, many of which rank among the best in Latin America. For a more casual experience, visitors can explore local markets where street vendors serve affordable, authentic meals. Additionally, Cusco caters to all diets, with excellent vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Best way of payment
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Cusco accept credit and debit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard. However, smaller businesses, markets, and rural areas often operate on a cash-only basis. It is highly recommended to carry some Peruvian soles (PEN) for daily expenses. ATMs are widely available in the city center, although some charge fees for withdrawals. It is also common for businesses to charge a small fee for card payments, so travelers should ask beforehand. U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted, but soles are the preferred currency.
Festivities
Cusco is renowned for its colorful festivals and traditions, which reflect a unique blend of Inca heritage and Catholic influences. The most famous celebration is Inti Raymi, held on June 24th, which reenacts the ancient Festival of the Sun with ceremonies, dances, and processions at Sacsayhuamán. During Holy Week (Semana Santa), processions of the Lord of the Earthquakes draw thousands of devotees. Corpus Christi in June is another major celebration, featuring ornate processions of saints and virgins from different churches. Throughout the year, local communities celebrate their own festivals with music, dance, and traditional food, giving travelers the chance to experience Cusco’s vibrant cultural identity firsthand.
Other useful information
Cusco sits at high altitude, and many visitors may feel the effects of altitude sickness upon arrival. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To ease the transition, travelers should rest on their first day, drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals, and try coca tea or coca leaves, which locals have used for centuries to cope with the altitude. It is also recommended to wear layered clothing, as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. Finally, carrying sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat is essential, as UV rays are stronger at high elevations.
Best places to visit
Cusco and its surroundings are filled with breathtaking sites. Of course, Machu Picchu is the crown jewel, but the region has much more to offer. The Sacred Valley is a must, with highlights such as Pisac’s vibrant market, the massive fortress of Ollantaytambo, and the circular terraces of Moray. The Maras salt mines offer stunning views and a glimpse of traditional salt harvesting. Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake are increasingly popular for their spectacular landscapes. Within Cusco city, travelers should not miss the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the San Pedro Market, and the artistic neighborhood of San Blas. Each destination offers a unique perspective on the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Cusco.