Cusco, the “Archaeological Capital of American” was the capital of the fabled Inca Empire. Most striking in Cusco is the super imposition and mingling of three cultures, the native Quechua Indian, the conquering colonial Spanish and the modern. The main square of Cusco Know as the Wajaypata in the times of the Incas, it was the side of many religious, cultural and ethnic celebrations and it is still an ideal meeting place. There, practically at all times you can find people from all over the world hanging around. The cathedral and La Compañia , two main colonial churches of Cusco , beautifully frame the square. Other colonial churches which should not be missed, they are Santo Domingo, the convent of Santa Catalina and San Blas with its famous pulpit, it is the neighborhood of the artists.


A visit to Cusco without a pilgrimage to the legendary Machu Picchu and return to Cusco in the afternoon, unless you are staying in a hotel in the archeological site or at Aguas Calientes. The more adventurous can hike and camp on the Inca trail, a three to four day trek, which can be arranged in Cusco . Day trips through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the fortress of Ollantaytambo and the Inca agricultural terraces of Pisaq should not be passed up. From Cusco excursions to Sacsayhuman, the massive Inca fortress overlooking the city, Tambomachay, Puka-Pukara and Kenko can also be arranged in any agency, but be cautious, some people in the street will offer themselves to guide you, might be putting up an scam.


An excursion to the colorful Indian markets of Pisac or Chinchero will load you up with handicrafts, both towns have Inca remains.