Cheap Flights to Cusco

Cusco, a historic city nestled high in the Andes Mountains, serves as a significant gateway for exploring Peru’s ancient wonders. Your journey to this former Inca capital places you in a central hub of South American heritage. The city’s elevation, at approximately 3,400 metres, offers a unique initial experience.

Wander through Cusco's historic centre and discover the Plaza de Armas, a lively main square surrounded by colonial architecture. Explore the imposing Qorikancha Sun Temple and the majestic Cusco Cathedral, showcasing intricate stone carvings and rich history. Saqsaywaman, an impressive Inca fortress overlooking the city, also reveals the engineering prowess of ancient civilisations.

Cusco offers a profound sense of discovery, blending ancient Inca traditions with Spanish colonial influences. Its streets and archaeological sites provide a window into centuries of rich culture and history, inviting you to delve deeper into its unique character.

High Season

Cusco's high season runs from May to October, aligning with the dry, winter months. Upon arrival, you'll find clear, crisp days with abundant sunshine and minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. Daytime temperatures average 18°C to 20°C, though evenings become quite cool, dropping to 0°C to 5°C. This period sees the city bustling with activity and a lively atmosphere.

During these months, Cusco feels lively and energetic. Major cultural events like Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun) in June and Fiestas Patrias in July draw large crowds, with parades, traditional music, and dancing filling the streets. The dry weather encourages outdoor dining and market visits. You'll notice a distinct buzz as people enjoy the excellent conditions for sightseeing and day trips into the surrounding Sacred Valley.

Low Season

The low season, from November to April, corresponds with Cusco's wet, summer months. Upon landing, you'll often encounter cloudy skies and frequent rainfall, particularly from January to March. Daytime temperatures remain mild, around 18°C to 20°C, but evenings are less cold than in the dry season, typically staying above 5°C. The city adopts a quieter, more relaxed pace.

Rain showers shape daily life, making the city feel refreshed and green. While outdoor activities require more planning around the weather, the city maintains its charm with fewer crowds. Local events during this period include Carnival in February, celebrated with water fights and traditional festivities. Cusco’s colonial streets feel calmer, offering a different, often more reflective, experience as you explore its ancient sites and museums.

As you touch down in Cusco, Peru, the city immediately reveals its deep Incan roots and colonial layers. This historical blend sets the scene for exploration, promising a journey through ancient traditions and lively street life. Prepare to discover a city where every corner tells a story, inviting you to connect with its unique past and present.

Here are some of Cusco’s most distinctive attractions and experiences:

Plaza de Armas
This central square acts as the city’s heart, surrounded by stunning colonial arcades and cathedrals built upon Incan foundations. It is a lively hub where locals and visitors gather, offering a glimpse into daily life and historical grandeur.

Sacred Valley of the Incas
Journey beyond the city to this fertile valley, home to a series of important Incan archaeological sites and traditional Andean villages. The valley showcases the Incas' ingenuity in agriculture and construction amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.

Coricancha (Temple of the Sun)
Once the most important temple in the Incan Empire, Coricancha’s finely crafted stone walls now form the base of the Santo Domingo Convent. This site vividly demonstrates the superimposition of Spanish colonial architecture over Incan sacred spaces.

San Pedro Market
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Cusco’s main market, a sensory feast of local produce, handcrafted textiles, and traditional foods. It offers an authentic taste of daily life and Andean culture.

Saqsaywaman
Just above the city, these monumental Incan ruins feature massive dry-stone walls fitted together with incredible precision. Exploring Saqsaywaman reveals the extraordinary engineering skills of the Inca civilisation and offers panoramic views of Cusco.

San Blas Neighbourhood
Wander through the narrow, winding streets of San Blas, known for its artisan workshops, galleries, and bohemian vibe. This charming district is perfect for discovering unique local art and enjoying the quiet charm of traditional Cusco.

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