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Picture of Cusco, Peru

Travel Guide for
Cusco

Peru

Temperate; dry season (Apr-Oct), rainy (Nov-Mar)

Introduction

Nestled high in the Andes, Cusco is a vibrant city that was once the capital of the Inca Empire. Its cobbled streets and colonial architecture reflect a rich blend of Incan and Spanish influences, offering fascinating history around every corner.

Families will love exploring colorful markets, tasting traditional Peruvian food, and visiting nearby archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán. With affordable museums, hands-on cultural workshops, and scenic parks, Cusco is a friendly, budget-conscious gateway to adventure and learning for all ages.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

DatesDate not specified

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHostel, hotel, apartment or house

Interests and Activities:

family activitiesfestivals and eventsoutdoor adventuressightseeing and tours

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Picture of Cusco, Peru

Key Facts

Location

Cusco Region, Andes

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

430,000

Language

Spanish, Quechua, Aymara

Electricity

220V, 60Hz, Type A/C

Time zone

UTCPET (UTC-5)

Country code

+51

Internet access

Broadband and mobile; good in city, variable in rural

Climate

Temperate; dry season (Apr-Oct), rainy (Nov-Mar)

See More Peru Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-to kwes-tah es-to)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-bor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-ahs)
  • excuse me

    disculpe (dees-kool-peh)

Map

Logistics

Most travelers reach Cusco by flying; there are direct flights from Lima and other Peruvian cities. Cusco’s airport is small but efficient, and taxis or shuttle buses can take you into town. Booking flights in advance is wise, as prices and availability can vary, especially during high season.

Alternatively, families can take a comfortable long-distance bus from Lima—a scenic but lengthy (20+ hour) option. Train journeys to Cusco aren’t common, but trains from Cusco connect to iconic spots like Machu Picchu. Note that mountain roads may experience delays during the rainy season (November–March), so factor in extra travel time.

Weather

Cusco has a mild climate year-round, but its seasons are defined by wet and dry periods rather than temperature changes. The dry season, from May to September, features sunny days and cool nights, making it ideal for family activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures like hiking or visiting Machu Picchu.

The wet season runs from October to April, bringing frequent rain showers and lush green landscapes. This period is best avoided if you want to enjoy outdoor tours, but it can be rewarding for experiencing fewer crowds and vibrant festivals such as Carnaval. Overall, the dry season is preferred for most travelers seeking comfortable weather and clear mountain views.

Food & Drink

Cusco’s cuisine features hearty Andean dishes like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), aji de gallina (creamy chicken stew), and regional specialties such as alpaca or cuy (guinea pig). Don’t miss fresh fruit juices and chicha morada, a sweet purple corn drink. Adventurous eaters will find plenty to try, but vegetarian options are widely available too.

For family-friendly dining on an average budget, try Morena Peruvian Kitchen, Pachapapa (great for traditional fare and pizzas), or Green Point for vegan meals. For coffee and light bites, visit Cicciolina or Laggart Café. Cholos Craft Bar offers a relaxed setting with local beers. Most restaurants appreciate a 10% tip, though it’s not always required.

Many places accommodate special diets, but it’s wise to ask about ingredients. Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water and avoid ice cubes. Dining early is common, and some eateries may close for siesta. Reserve ahead at popular spots during high season.

A picture of Ceviche

Ceviche

Ceviche is a popular dish made with fresh raw fish or seafood, marinated in freshly squeezed lime or...

A picture of Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a stir-fry dish that combines marinated strips of sirloin steak with onions, tomatoes, and other...

A picture of Anticuchos

Anticuchos

Anticuchos are marinated and grilled skewers of meat, with the most traditional versions using beef heart as the...

A picture of Papa a la Huancaína

Papa a la Huancaína

Papa a la Huancaína is a classic Peruvian appetizer consisting of boiled yellow potatoes smothered in a creamy,...

A picture of Aji de Gallina

Aji de Gallina

Aji de Gallina is a creamy chicken stew featuring shredded chicken in a thick and creamy sauce made...

Accommodation

For families, the historic center of Cusco offers safe streets and proximity to attractions. Popular family-friendly hotels include Tierra Viva Cusco Centro and Novotel Cusco, both known for comfortable rooms and helpful service. Booking.com and Airbnb are excellent for reserving hotels, hostels, or entire apartments ahead of time.

San Blas is a charming, artsy neighborhood perfect for families seeking quieter stays. Hostels like Pariwana Cusco offer private family rooms with social spaces, while Airbnb has many apartment and house rentals with kitchens. Wherever you stay, book early—Cusco is popular year-round, especially between May and September.

Itinerary

Ease into your Cusco adventure by experiencing the city's welcoming atmosphere, soaking up its vibrant culture, and acclimatizing to the Andean altitude together.

Plaza de Armas Stroll and Cultural Welcome

Ease into your Cusco visit by starting at the historic Plaza de Armas. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, local performers, and impressive colonial architecture. Families can watch street musicians and take photos near iconic landmarks while adjusting to the altitude.

San Pedro Market Exploration

Wander through the vibrant San Pedro Market, where colorful stalls offer fresh fruit, local snacks, and crafts. Kids will love sampling Peruvian treats and spotting new foods. It’s a great place to interact with locals and get a taste of Andean daily life.

Andean Music & Dance Demonstration

Experience a family-friendly local music and dance performance at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo. It's both entertaining and educational, immersing you in vibrant indigenous traditions and helping everyone relax after traveling.

The Best of Peru 6-Days: Cuzco, Machupicchu, Puno & Lake Titicaca

The Best of Peru 6-Days: Cuzco, Machupicchu, Puno & Lake Titicaca

INSTANT

Visit the best of Peru on this 6-day excursion from Cusco. Spend time in Cuzco, visit the highlights of the sacred valley, chinchero, Moray, the salt mines and Ollantaytambo along the Urubamba river, you will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. You can also navigate by boat on Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating islands of Uros and Taquile. • Tour of highlights of Cusco and Lake Titicaca in Puno • Tour Machu Picchu one of the 7 wonders of the world, with a guide who speaks your own language. • Five nights of accommodation with daily breakfast included • All transfers and transshipments included • Comfortable round trip transportation by bus and train to Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca

4.9 (18 reviews)

From $798 USD

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Experiences

Surfing & Beach Cleaning in Peru
volunteering

Surfing & Beach Cleaning in Peru

Minimum 1 week

Peru

$430/week

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Endangered Animal Sanctuary in Peru
animals

Endangered Animal Sanctuary in Peru

Minimum 2 weeks

Peru

$550/week

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Culture Week in Peru
learning

Culture Week in Peru

Minimum 1 week

Peru

$495/week

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Eco Build Experience in Peru
volunteering

Eco Build Experience in Peru

Minimum 1 week

Peru

$430/week

Learn More
Veterinary Dog Clinic in Peru
animals

Veterinary Dog Clinic in Peru

Minimum 1 week

Peru

$430/week

Learn More
Archaeology Project in Peru
learning

Archaeology Project in Peru

Minimum 1 week

Peru

$370/week

Learn More

Attractions

4.3 (95 reviews)
Cusco City Sightseeing and Sacsayhuaman Archeological Park Tour

Cusco City Sightseeing and Sacsayhuaman Archeological Park Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Be fascinated on a half-day tour of Cusco’s surrounding archeological sites, including the famous Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas’ construction of tightly placed stones created an incredible series of walls. With an experienced guide, you’ll also visit Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay, as well as the Temple of the Sun (also known as Korikancha). Before your tour ends, visit Cusco’s Plaza de Armas and tour Cusco Cathedral – also known as the Cathedral of Santo Domingo – to see its stunning architecture. Not included ticket entry to Sacsayhuaman, you need to buy it for your own

From $79 USD

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4.4 (138 reviews)
Cusco City Sightseeing, San Pedro Market, Cathedral and Qorikancha Temple

Cusco City Sightseeing, San Pedro Market, Cathedral and Qorikancha Temple

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the magic and beauty of Cusco, the capital of the Incan Empire. The flawlessly built Incan roads spread to all regions from the “Plaza” which was thought of as the center of the world. Visit the Temple of the Sun, the Convent of Santo Domingo and the famous Cusco Cathedral with its Cuzqueno paintings. Entrance fees included, skip the line.

From $59 USD

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4.8 (53 reviews)
8-Day All-Inclusive Peru Tour: Cusco, Machu Picchu, and More

8-Day All-Inclusive Peru Tour: Cusco, Machu Picchu, and More

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Maras-Moray, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake and Bridge Qeswachaka take you through all the most important sites of Cusco. "The Machu Picchu tickets is subject to availability, clarifying that the only entity authorized to sell these tickets is the Ministry of Culture of Peru. Tickets will be purchased according to the available circuits and tickets (corresponding to circuits 1 and 2). Other circuits may be offered with an additional charge for the price difference in tickets. In case there is no availability of any type of tickets for Machu Picchu, you will receive a full refund of your tour package."

From $890 USD

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5.0 (38 reviews)
Horseback Riding Plus Tour to Sacsayhuaman, Quenqo, Puka Pucara and Tambomachay

Horseback Riding Plus Tour to Sacsayhuaman, Quenqo, Puka Pucara and Tambomachay

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a horseback riding tour which will visit the "Four Ruins" taking you to the most famous archaeological sites around Cusco which are Qenqo, Puka Pucara, Tambomachay and the fabulous Sacsayhuaman. To visit these places riding a horse is a great experience.

From $95 USD

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4.9 (50 reviews)
Horseback riding in Cusco to the Temple of the Moon

Horseback riding in Cusco to the Temple of the Moon

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a 3-hour horseback riding tour from Cusco in which you will get to visit the archaeological sites of Chuspiyoc and the Temple of the Moon a . This tour departs either in the morning or afternoon and you will discover another side of Cusco and Peru as you ride your horse.

From $60 USD

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5.0 (44 reviews)
Half Day Private Tour Machu Picchu Cusco Peru

Half Day Private Tour Machu Picchu Cusco Peru

INSTANT

For bookings of 1 person, you may be in a group of a maximum of 4 people. All bookings of 2 or more will have their own private guide. DISCLAIMER: Online tickets typically sell out months in advance but the Cultural Office in Aguas Calientes reserves 1000 tickets per day for in-person purchase. If online tickets are sold out, you will need to arrive very early in the morning the day BEFORE your tour to present your passport to reserve your ticket IN-PERSON. It is possible the ministry of culture will require arriving 2 days in advanced depending on how busy it is. Our team is in Aguas Calientes monitoring the situation and we will advise you on when you should arrive. We will keep you informed on your booking in case you need to change any hotel or train tickets. Your guide will meet you in Aguas Calientes and help you with this process. April, May, and most of June 2025 are both sold out for advanced reservations and are requiring this process above.

From $199 USD

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5.0 (34 reviews)
Half day Horseback Riding tour around Sacsayhuaman park

Half day Horseback Riding tour around Sacsayhuaman park

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour is the best way to explore the hiden places in Sacsayhuaman archeological park, this impresive place is located 15 min away from Cusco city. All the regular tours takes just a few minutes to visit only the big walls, but you need almost 3 to 4 hours to visit this archeologycal park on a good way, there are lots of hiden places that the tourists don't go on a regular way, for example the "Temple of The Moon" an ancient inca temple used for rituals for fertility, the "Inca Face" a natural shape on the nature that was considered sacred by the incas If you love to explore and learn on a curious way about the incas, this is the best option for you! .

From $75 USD

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4.3 (3 reviews)
Private Tour: Cusco City Sightseeing including San Pedro Market and Archaeological Sites

Private Tour: Cusco City Sightseeing including San Pedro Market and Archaeological Sites

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This 4.5-hour private tour will take you on a sightseeing tour of Cusco, 'The Capital of the old Incan Empire' and important archaeological site. Get immersed in the old Incan culture when you visit two of the most important places during Incan times: Sacsayhuaman and Qoricancha, 'The temple of the Sun'. Then, visit the beautiful main square and see wonderful colonial churches including the Cusco Cathedral. Finally, explore the colorful local market of Cusco, San Pedro Market, where you will find a variety of local fruits, vegetables and potatoes.

From $87 USD

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4.5 (18 reviews)
City Tour Cusco - Half day with Sacsayhuaman and Qoricancha

City Tour Cusco - Half day with Sacsayhuaman and Qoricancha

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Cusco City Tour is the best way to start your experience in the capital of the Inca Empire. This tour connects you with history, culture and spirituality, recognized as a World Heritage Site. During this half-day tour, you will visit the main tourist attractions: the impressive Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) and the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, surrounded by unique Andean landscapes. The tour takes place in a group Includes a professional guide (Spanish/English) Entrance to the Temple of Koricancha Tourist ticket, valid for Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay

From $48 USD

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4.8 (119 reviews)
6 Day Best of Peru: Cusco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca Tour

6 Day Best of Peru: Cusco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca Tour

INSTANT

Visit all of Peru's top attractions on this 6-day, small-group tour. Spend time in Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Visiting Pisac, the famous Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo along the Urubamba river. Then visit the amazing Machu Picchu city of the Incas. You'll also visit the highest navigable lake in the world: Lake Titicaca, with the floating Uros and Taquile islands. Overnight accommodations starting at 3 star hotels, most of your meals, entrance fees and all transportation to and from each attraction (including Cusco airport transfers) are included in the cost of this tour.

From $799 USD

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