Discover Cusco, the lost capital of the Inca Empire

The city of Cusco (or Cuzco) is a thriving hub of contradictions. It’s colonial centre speaks of European refinement and ambition, of Spanish troops determined to reap the riches of the South American continent. This golden architecture is stacked directly atop the pristine stonework of its Incan founders, who built the city as the empire capital in the early 1400s.     

But when the Spanish invaded Peru in 1533, the city was captured, and was turned into a playground for rich Europeans hoping to strike it rich in the Americas. These ruthless invaders changed the face of the city, converting Incan temples into Catholic churches, and building on every corner in the classic colonial style. 

Huge Baroque churches sit wall to wall with ancient Inca temples. Carved wooden balconies overlook grand plazas. Cobbled streets, paved in the 15th century, wind through artsy neighborhoods, where IPAs are served alongside pisco sours. Inca stones cradle the golden arches of a thriving McDonalds. The music, the culture, the disparate architecture, come together in a harmony which is distinct to Cusco, and has earned the city its reputation as king of the Peruvian south.

Cusco is nestled deep in the Andes, surrounded on all sides by lush, sweeping valleys, snow capped mountains, and the scattered remnants of ancient Incan sites. The city enjoys an enviable location close to some of the country’s biggest tourist attractions, and is a pleasant drive away from Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Manu National Park. Every year millions of visitors flock here on their way to the Sacred Valley, and are quickly convinced to stay longer than planned in order to spend more time exploring its captivating streets. 

The best way to get beneath the skin of this captivating city is to join a local guide for a tour. Your guide will be able to provide unrivaled insight into the history, daily life, and fascinating culture of Cuzco, and reveal a side to the city you might otherwise miss. 

The selection of tours available is as varied as the city itself, and the best one for you will depend on your budget, available time, and interest area. First, decide how long you want to spend touring the city. Most half day options last between 3 and 5 hours, and condense the major sites into a more compact experience. This is a good amount of time to take in the major sights.

The Temples and Cusco City Tour is a great option for first time visitors looking for an overview of the city. Over 4 hours you will visit the ancient citadel of Sacsayhuaman on the city outskirts, the Convent of Santo Domingo, and the Water Temple of Tambomachay, and learn more about their history thanks to your guide. You will be transported by tour bus, which includes pick up and drop off. The total price, which includes entrance fees, is $~96.

If you’re looking for a more comprehensive tour then the City Tour Cusco With

Coricancha and 4 Ruins is a good option, as it includes a visit to one of the most important Inca temples in the city. This religious complex once housed the Sun Temple, a large worship hub considered one of the richest in the Inca empire. Now the ruins encapsulate the spirit of Cuzco, combining both Inca stone work and Colonial architecture. It is well worth visiting them with a guide. This tour lasts 6 hours, and will disembark in the city center in time for dinner.

For something a little different, consider the Cusco by Night tour, which includes an evening guided walk, entry to Cusco Planetarium and a traditional Peruvian dinner. The experience runs from 3 pm until 9 pm, and costs $~78.

Llama Path, Salkantay Treks, and Imperios Travel all offer similar options.

Away from traditional tour companies, the internet has ushered in a new wave of locals offering authentic, independent experiences. Airbnb is a great way to try something new, guided by a real Cuzco citizen.

For keen cooks, the Peruvian cooking class and market tour is a fantastic way to see the city, and get a taste for its foodie culture. Your guide, a professional chef, will take you round San Pedro Market, where you will gather ingredients for a group meal to be cooked in a traditional stone home.

Some of the tour companies also have photography focused tours, bicycle rides, and weaving workshops.