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Imagine Latin America  >  Destinations  >  Peru  >  Cusco
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Cusco

As well as being the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is also the continent’s oldest, continuously inhabited city. Situated at 3,338m, the majestic Cusco will take your breath away, and that’s not only because of the altitude. A visit to this magnetic city is an essential stop on any holiday to Peru.

When to go

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Nestled in the Andes mountains, the city of Cusco (also spelt as Cuzco) needs little introduction. It is Peru’s most captivating city, rich in colonial splendour, packed with architectural treasures and the prime gateway to the mighty ruins of Machu Picchu.

Designed by the Incas, the city of Cusco is shaped in the form of a puma and was so solidly built that much of ancient Cusco is still visible today. With its solid Inca walls intertwined with Spanish colonial buildings, the city is packed with cultural heritage. Wandering around the cobbled streets of the old town is a magical experience and a must on any visit to Peru. Stroll around the Plaza de Armas, the main square, explore its renaissance style cathedral filled with exquisite cedar carvings and paintings. Roam the outdoor markets in search of alpaca and llama handicrafts and visit local artisans in the bohemian neighbourhood of San Blas. Mix in its abundance of first-class restaurants, shops and bars, Cusco’s colonial charm merges with a 21st century hustle, making it a bustling and atmospheric city to explore.

On the outskirts of Cusco is the ancient fortress of Sasayhuamán, an impressive complex of different sites, where an array of magnificent towering structures intertwines with the natural landscape. Surrounding Cusco the area is rich in rural countryside comprising of lush green valleys, weaving villages and winding rivers, offering a plethora of activities to enjoy. From horse riding, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, quad biking, mountain biking, and hiking - the list goes on. With so much to do and see, we highly recommend giving Cusco the time it deserves and with its developed tourist infrastructure the city is sprinkled with a range of hotels to choose from, from ultra-luxury hotels to charming and quirky boutiques, there is a bed to suit everyone.

The city is one of my favourite. The Inca and colonial contrasts found throughout the city are intriguing and the surrounding scenery is stunning!


Simon Hunt
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Cusco, Peru

The Belmond Palacio Nazarenas is a stunning luxury hotel and former sixteenth-century convent in Cusco. A fabulous spa, the city’s only outdoor swimming pool and exemplary service make the Palacio Nazarenas currently Cusco’s most exclusive hotel.

Belmond Palacio Nazarenas

Cusco, Peru

Inkaterra La Casona is a gorgeous and intimate boutique retreat in historic Cusco. With spellbinding interiors, top-notch service and remarkably good value for money, La Casona offers its guests a stylish connection with Cusco’s past.

Inkaterra La Casona

Cusco, Peru

The Belmond Hotel Monasterio in Cusco is one of South America’s legendary hotels, and nowhere else can boast such a storied history. Explore the Monasterio’s fascinating Inca and Spanish colonial roots, while enjoying contemporary five-star luxury.

Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Cusco, Peru

On a cobbled street close to Cusco’s central plaza, the Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel offers an authentic colonial experience with all the modern extras, and makes an excellent and well-priced base for exploring the city and Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel

Cusco, Peru

A good option for more budget-conscious travellers, the Casa Andina Classic Cusco Plaza is well located on Plaza Regocijo in the centre of Cusco. With friendly staff and all the essentials, the Casa Andina Classic Cusco is an unpretentious safe bet.

Casa Andina Standard Plaza

Cusco, Peru

Located just four blocks from Cusco's Plaza de Armas, the Antigua Casona San Blas exudes charm and points to the city's rich history.

Antigua Casona San Blas

Cusco, Peru

Gliding through some of the most breath-taking scenery in the world, reaching ancient kingdoms, indigenous villages and hidden gems, the Belmond Andean Explorer takes you on one of the highest train journeys on earth.

Belmond Andean Explorer

Cusco, Peru

The gorgeous and contemporary Casa Cartagena Boutique Hotel & Spa is set within a beautifully restored colonial mansion within colonial Cuzco's historic centre, and just two blocks away from main plaza. Stunning accommodation and very friendly service.

Casa Cartagena Boutique & Spa

Cusco, Peru

El Mercado by Mountain Lodges of Peru is a 32-room boutique hotel located in a beautifully renovated colonial building, three and a half blocks from the main square in Cusco, and is a great base for visiting the city's highlights.

El Mercado

Cusco, Peru

El Retablo by Mountain Lodges of Peru is a new 17-room boutique hotel located in a beautifully renovated colonial building, three blocks from the main square in Cusco, and is a great base for visiting the city's highlights.

El Retablo

Cusco, Peru

Located three blocks from Cusco’s main square, the Casa Andina Premium Collection Cusco is a beautifully renovated 18th-century house oozing authentic colonial character and providing an excellent value base for exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Casa Andina Premium Cusco

Cusco, Peru

The Palacio del Inka is a converted mansion in the centre of colonial Cuzco occupying the impressive “Casa de los Cuatro Bustos", where Francisco Pizarro, the first Spanish governor of Peru used to live.

Palacio del Inka A Luxury Collection Hotel

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Lima, Chiclayo, Trujillo, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca

Uncover a wealth of ancient civilisations as you discover the depth of Peru's history, taking in some of the country's most culturally rich sites, from the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu to the Moche and Chimu sites surrounding Trujillo and Chiclayo in the north.

12 nights from $5221 per person Culture & history, Spa, Spectacular scenery

Ancient Cultures of Peru

Amazon, Cusco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Puno, Colca Canyon & Arequipa

Discover Peru's unmissable highlights on this adventurous itinerary, hiking to Machu Picchu along the classic Inca Trail and observing an array of wildlife in the mighty Amazon Rainforest. An incredible bucket list itinerary.

16 nights from $5158 per person Culture & history, Walking & Trekking, Spectacular scenery

Peru Amazon & Inca Trail Adventure

Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes, Quito, Galapagos Islands

Discover the highlights of Peru and combine the culture of Lima, history of Cusco and scenery of Machu Picchu on this incredible tour before cruising the Galapagos and witnessing Darwin's wildlife wonderland.

13 nights from $5913 per person Culture & history, Spectacular scenery, Wildlife

Classic Peru & Galapagos

Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the Amazon

This action packed family itinerary is the perfect way to explore the highlights of Peru. From white-water rafting in the Sacred Valley, clambering around the ruins of Machu Picchu and exploring wildlife in the Amazon, there is something for everyone

13 nights from $4277 per person Culture & history, Family, Highlights

Family Adventure to Peru

Lima, Amazon, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon & Arequipa

This all-encompassing itinerary takes in the absolute best of Peru. Discover dramatic valleys and volcanic landscapes, ancient Inca cultures and an array of incredible bird and wildlife, all whilst staying in boutique and characterful accommodation.

17 nights from $5850 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Imagine Favourites

In-depth Peru

Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu Cuzco, Lake Titicaca & Arequipa

Combining breath-taking landscapes and rich Andean culture, this itinerary packs in the ultimate highlights of Peru, all whilst staying in some of Peru's most luxurious and unique accommodation, taking in Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and Cuzco.

13 nights from $7800 per person Highlights, Culture & history, Honeymoon

Luxury Highlights of Peru

Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado and Mancora

The perfect itinerary for an adventurous couple in search of a honeymoon with a difference! Indulge in a splash of luxury and discover the best of Peru in just two weeks, travelling from the Amazon rainforest to Machu Picchu and ending at the beach.

14 nights from $5284 per person Honeymoon, Highlights, Luxury

The Ultimate Peru Honeymoon

Lima, Cusco, Lares Lodge to Lodge Trek, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca

A breath-taking itinerary that explores some of the most fascinating areas of Peru. Rich in ancient culture and spectacular landscapes, this journey allows you to get under the surface of Peru's highlights while enjoying the Lares trek to Machu Picchu.

12 nights from $7234 per person Walking & Trekking, Culture & history, Spectacular scenery

Cultural Peru with Lares Trek

Lima, Cusco, Salkantay Lodge to Lodge Adventure, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca

This itinerary will take you on a road less travelled as you journey to the iconic Machu Picchu. Experience Peru's spectacular topography, ancient culture and immerse yourself in the country's living culture, all whilst staying in utter luxury.

17 nights from $7548 per person Luxury, Walking & Trekking, Spa

The Luxury Inca Trail: Lodge to Lodge Salkantay Adventure

Lima, Urubamba, Aguas Calientes, Cuzco, Puno, Guayaquil, Galapagos, Quito

An incredible holiday combination staying at the finest places along the way! Mix the cultural sights of Peru, Cusco and Machu Picchu, with the natural wonders of the impressive Lake Titicaca and the endemic wildlife found on the Galapagos Islands.

19 nights from $13964 per person Luxury, Beach, Wildlife

Deluxe Peru and Ecuador

Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls and Rio de Janeiro

This is the ultimate itinerary to get under the skin of South America. In just over two weeks, you will discover the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu, explore the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls, and enjoy the breath-taking views from Christ the Redeemer

15 nights from $5661 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Honeymoon

The Three World Wonders

Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil

Packed with captivating landscapes, cultural treasures and outdoor adventures, South America is a continent destined to be explored. On this month long journey, discover South America's most iconic locations and experience a trip like no other.

29 nights from $12328 per person Beach, Culture & history, Highlights

Ultimate South America

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The Sacred Valley, Peru

Spend your day visiting the most outstanding sites around the Sacred Valley, experience local traditions and learn about the history and culture of the Incas.

FD Private Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley, Peru

Uncover hidden sites in the Sacred Valley for an intimate adventure through Inca history. Marvel at unspoilt beauty of the town and stunning archaeological site in Chinchero.

Chinchero Town, Moray and Maras

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Inspiration

Off the beaten track

Jungle and beach holidays

Top 10 reasons to visit Peru

Different ways to travel to Machu Picchu

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We want to be really clear about this. We offer amazing value. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive, it simply means attention to every detail of your trip arranged by a true expert.

Here at Imagine Latin America, we are so confident that we offer the best value on the market that we have a price promise. If you find the exact same holiday cheaper with another UK tour operator, then we promise to beat their price by £50.

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Rest assured that all our holidays are 100% financially protected. Our ATOL bond protects holidays booked in the UK with flights. Our ABTOT bond protects holidays which are booked without flights or those booked outside the UK, either with or without flights.

Protection means that in the unlikely event that we become insolvent; your holiday will be refunded or you will be repatriated if already travelling or have flights with us.

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