Top-rated attractions, experiences and activities — from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
These are the experiences most visitors to Cusco rate as unmissable — the highlights that define a trip to this destination.
The most important temple in the Inca Empire — walls once lined with solid gold, now supporting the Spanish church of Santo Domingo built directly over the Inca foundations. The most telling single site in Cusco for understanding the collision of two civilisations.
The massive hilltop fortress above Cusco — three zigzag terraces of perfectly fitted stones, some weighing 200 tonnes, with views over the entire Cusco valley. The scale of the stonework defies modern engineering understanding.
One of the finest Spanish colonial churches in the Americas — built over the palace of Inca Viracocha using Inca stones from Sacsayhuamán. The interior contains extraordinary colonial art including a famous painting depicting the Last Supper with guinea pig as the main course.
The most atmospheric neighbourhood in Cusco — narrow cobblestone streets climbing steeply from the Plaza de Armas to a hilltop square, lined with artisan workshops, independent restaurants, and the finest boutique hotels in the city.
The finest Inca terracing in the Sacred Valley — agricultural terraces cascading down a mountainside above the village of Pisac, with ceremonial plazas and temples at the summit. The Sunday market below in the village is the best artisan market in the Cusco region.
The best-preserved Inca town in existence — streets, water channels, and building foundations all original Inca construction, still inhabited. The temple fortress above the town is the finest Inca military architecture outside Cusco itself.
The dry season — clear blue skies, cold nights (near 0°C), and warm sunny days (18–22°C). Trails are dry, views are sharp, and Machu Picchu is at its most photogenic. June 24 is Inti Raymi — the Festival of the Sun at Sacsayhuamán, the most spectacular Andean ceremony in Peru.
The rainy season — warm temperatures (15–20°C) but afternoon rain most days. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. Machu Picchu in the clouds can be more atmospheric. Significantly lower prices and fewer tourists than dry season.
The best months for balancing weather, crowds, and price. May sees the end of rains; September–October offers dry conditions at 20–30% lower prices than June–August peak.
Busiest season — maximum visitors, maximum prices, but reliable dry weather and the spectacular Inti Raymi festival (June 24). Book all Machu Picchu tickets and Inca Trail permits months ahead.