Attractions and Places To See in Cusco - Top 20

Cusco is rich in history, offering numerous significant sites. Beyond the well-known Machu Picchu, you can explore the vibrant Plaza de Armas of Cusco, which was once the heart of the Inca Empire. The Cusco Cathedral, built atop an Inca temple, houses an impressive collection of colonial art. Another must-see is Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), a former Inca temple with a Spanish convent built on its foundations, showcasing a unique blend of architectures.

The region around Cusco boasts breathtaking natural features. The world-famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is known for its distinctive multicolored stripes. Another stunning destination is Lake Humantay, a turquoise glacial lake nestled in the mountains. You can also visit the ancient Maras Salt Mines, which feature thousands of terraced salt pans creating a striking landscape.

Absolutely. Beyond the major historical sites, explore the picturesque San Blas Neighborhood, known as the artisan quarter with cobbled streets and workshops. The Twelve-Angled Stone, part of an ancient Inca palace wall on Hatunrumiyoc Street, is celebrated for its precise, mortar-less masonry. The Inca Museum (Museo Inka) provides extensive information about Inca culture and artifacts, while the ChocoMuseo offers insights into chocolate production and workshops.

Many attractions in Cusco are suitable for families. The Plaza de Armas of Cusco is a lively central square perfect for a stroll. The Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and the Twelve-Angled Stone are fascinating for all ages. For a unique experience, consider the Planetarium Cusco to learn about Southern Hemisphere constellations, or visit the San Pedro Market for a vibrant local cultural immersion.

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Cusco. During these months, you can expect clear skies and less rainfall, which is ideal for exploring archaeological sites and undertaking treks to natural wonders like Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake. However, this is also peak tourist season, so sites may be more crowded.

Cusco offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the one connecting Sacsayhuamán to Qorikancha. For runners, there are trails around historical sites such as Saqsaywaman. You can find more details on specific routes in our guides for easy hikes, MTB trails, and running trails in Cusco.

Yes, Cusco has several easy hiking options perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. For example, you can enjoy a loop from Chillca, or a walk around the Twelve-Angled Stone to San Francisco Square. These trails typically have an easy difficulty grade and are a great way to experience the local scenery. Explore more options in our Easy Hikes in Cusco guide.

The Inca's incredible engineering skills are evident throughout Cusco. The Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Site, with its massive stone walls and boulders weighing over 100 tons, is a prime example. The Twelve-Angled Stone on Hatunrumiyoc Street also showcases their precise, mortar-less masonry. Additionally, sites like Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay (the "Bath of the Inca") demonstrate advanced hydraulic and architectural techniques.

For those seeking unique experiences away from the main crowds, consider exploring the Red Valley (Pitumarca) near Rainbow Mountain, which offers a similar colorful landscape with fewer visitors. The Huasao Wetland, just 30 minutes from Cusco, is a natural setting with large sculptures. Devil's Balcony (Balcon del Diablo) is a natural cave offering unique views. Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town in the Sacred Valley, also provides a rich historical experience.

To immerse yourself in local culture, a visit to the San Pedro Market is highly recommended. It's Cusco's most famous market, offering a vibrant atmosphere where you can find fresh produce, meats, textiles, and local food. Exploring the artisan workshops in the San Blas Neighborhood also provides a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship and local life.

Cusco's colonial architecture is prominent, especially around the Plaza de Armas. The grand Cusco Cathedral and the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús are stunning examples of Spanish Baroque architecture. The Santo Domingo Convent, built atop the Inca Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), also represents a significant colonial structure integrated with Inca foundations.

Yes, several locations provide spectacular panoramic views of Cusco. The Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Site, located above the city, offers excellent vistas. Cristo Blanco, a large statue, is another popular spot for sweeping views of colonial Cusco. Additionally, the Llactapata Ruins offer a distant view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley.

The Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras) are an ancient, unique site consisting of thousands of terraced salt pans that have been harvested since pre-Inca times. The striking white and pink landscape created by these pans is visually stunning and offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional salt production. They are definitely worth visiting for their historical significance and photographic opportunities.

The difficulty of attractions in Cusco varies. Many city-based sites like the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, and Qorikancha are easily accessible. However, archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán involve some walking and uneven terrain. Natural wonders like Rainbow Mountain and Lake Humantay are at high altitudes (over 5,000m for Rainbow Mountain) and require good physical fitness and acclimatization due to the thin air, making them challenging.