Cusco

Cusco serves as the epicenter for exploring Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and embarking on treks throughout the Cusco region. Within Cusco itself, visitors can marvel at unique attractions such as the Koricancha temple, the Cathedral, and archaeological wonders like Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambo Machay.

The Sacred Valley, situated at a lower altitude than Cusco, boasts additional must-see destinations including the Ollantaytambo fortress, the vibrant Pisaq market, the mesmerizing salt mines, and traditional Quechua villages. This area serves as an ideal location for acclimatizing to the altitude before venturing further. For accommodation inquiries, please reach out to us.

Located in southeastern Peru, Cusco rests at an elevation of 11,090 ft (3,380 m) above sea level, approximately 600 miles (1,000 km) from Lima, Peru’s capital city.

Regarding climate, Cusco experiences distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season spans from December to March (summer), while the remainder of the year remains relatively dry albeit cold. The climate is semi-dry, with average daytime temperatures around 64 °F (18 °C) and winter lows dropping to 23 °F (-5 °C).

Accessing Cusco can be accomplished through three main routes:

By Air: Daily flights connect Cusco with Lima, Juliaca (Puno), and Arequipa, all operating during daylight hours.

By Land: Cusco is over 680 miles (1,100 km) from Lima, with two primary land routes: the Lima-to-Cusco route via Nasca, a 22-hour journey by tourist bus, and the route from the border town of Puno, covering 242 miles (389 km) and taking between 6 to 8 hours by tourist bus.

By Train: The Andean Explorer train offers a scenic route from Puno to Cusco. This service, operated by Peru Rail, offers travelers a memorable experience through breathtaking landscapes.

While the level of difficulty for activities in Cusco is moderate, acclimatization to the altitude and maintaining good health are essential considerations for travelers.
For further information about how to avoid altitude sickness and where to stay before reaching Machu Picchu please contact us.