Cusco Travel Guide

Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, Cusco is best known as the gateway to Machu Picchu. Visiting the iconic Incan ruins is a must for your first time in Cusco, but there’s more to uncover amongst the city’s cobblestone streets, such as the 16th-century cathedral in the bustling Plaza de Armas. Explore out-of-this-world scenery on day trips to Peru’s natural wonders, from the picture-perfect nature of Humantay Lake to the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain. Discover everything you need to know in this first-timer’s guide to Cusco, from must-visit attractions to tips for avoiding altitude sickness.

Rich in Incan history, Cusco is considered one of the most fascinating historical cities in the world, with a wealth of landmarks, monuments, and ruins that tell incredible stories of the past. From trekking Machu Picchu to experiencing traditional Andean Catholic cultural events and festivals like Fiestas de Cusco, this month-by-month guide to Cusco unveils the best season to visit the city. So, whether you want to discover the city’s top sights like Saksaywaman, explore Cusco’s magical surroundings, or just want a relaxing break, read on to discover the best time to visit Cusco for you.Choosing the best time to go to CuscoThe best time to visit Cusco is from late April to June and from September to mid-October. Planning your visit during the dry season between April and October will ensure the best weather. The peak season occurs from mid-June to August, so visiting just before or after these months is ideal for fewer crowds.Best time for outdoors loversIf you want to explore the great outdoors around Cusco, visit during the dry season. Running from April to October, this time of year is best for hiking Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Sacred Valley as there is a lower chance of rain, temperatures are cooler, and the sun will be shining. Best time for people on a budgetThe off-season is the best time for those on a budget, as prices are much lower between November and March. However, you might have to compromise on the weather as this is the city’s rainy season. Be aware that many attractions will also close in February due to dangerous weather conditions.Best time for sightseeingSpring and fall are ideal seasons for sightseeing in Cusco. You will enjoy pleasant conditions, with relatively low rainfall and sunny days, while also avoiding the crowds that visit during peak season.Cusco throughout the seasonsSpring in CuscoMarch to MaySpring in Cusco marks the transition from wet to dry season, so you can expect brighter, sunnier days between March and May. Thanks to the pleasant weather conditions and relatively low crowds, this is one of the best times to visit.If you visit Cusco in the spring, you will also have the chance to witness the city’s impressive Easter celebrations, one of its most significant religious ceremonies.Summer in CuscoJune to August Cusco’s peak tourist season falls between June and August. This is the height of the city’s dry season –– and you can expect plenty of tourists during these months. The Fiestas de Cusco occur throughout June to celebrate the Inca’s rite of the winter solstice. Expect plenty of color, with nightly parades keeping spirits high.Fall in CuscoSeptember to November Fall in Cusco marks a transition from dry to wet seasons. The beginning of fall will boast dry, warm conditions, while rainfall increases from month one to month two.The Virgen de Natividad, or the Virgin of the Nativity festival, takes place in early September in Chinchero. It is one of Cusco’s biggest festivals and one of the best things to check out if you’re wondering what to do in what to do in Cusco in September.Winter in CuscoDecember to February Winter in Cusco is the height of the rainy season. Expect warm weather and plenty of showers. The heaviest rainfall comes in February, and many attractions close due to treacherous conditions. Christmas Chocolatada is an interesting festive event in Peru that lasts throughout December. Families and businesses bring hot chocolate, sweet bread, and gifts to rural communities. If you want to embrace this tradition for yourself, you can even take part in a Christmas Chocolatada Trek.

A long weekend in Cusco is full of adventure, from discovering the history of Inca civilizations to savoring traditional Peruvian culture. Whether you want to hike the iconic Machu Picchu Trail, snap a photo at the Instagram-famous Rainbow Mountain, or experience one of the world’s most incredible train journeys from Cusco to Machu Picchu, this vibrant city is full of exciting things to do. The perfect break for every traveler, this is how to spend the ultimate Cusco long weekend itinerary to experience the very best of everything this destination has to offer.Know before you go to CuscoWhy you should go: Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, making it a center of historical significance. Visit ancient ruins, stone architecture, and historic churches.Don’t miss: Saksaywaman, Plaza San Blas, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain. Best way to get around: Walking is the easiest way to explore Cusco’s historic city center. Otherwise, you can use a taxi to travel between popular sites. The most convenient way to reach Cusco is by flying from Lima to Cusco.Best time to go: Cusco is at its best but busiest during the summer from June to August; early spring or fall also falls into the dry season (April-October), but the crowds are fewer. Insider tip: Check out a dance at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, a cultural center working to preserve Native Art and Dance. It’s a hidden gem and a great way to experience Peruvian culture.

The sites around Cusco, the former capital of the ancient Inca empire, make the historic city a perfect base for exploring the surrounding nature, towns, hiking trails, and archeological landmarks.  Whether exploring the food and culture in the towns of the Sacred Valley, seeing the splendor of Rainbow Mountain, or making it up to Machu Picchu, there are plenty of things to do in Cusco and its nearby areas. This guide has some of the best weekend getaways from Cusco for you to enjoy.Best weekend getaways from Cusco, according to your interestsBest weekend trips for breathtaking views: Machu Picchu and Humantay LakeBest weekend destination for food: Urubamba Best places for unique photography: Moray, Maras and Rainbow MountainBest off-the-beaten-path trek: Choquequirao