Discover Cusco: Top 10 Must-Visit Spots

1. Machu Picchu

Description & History:
Built around 1450 under the rule of Pachacútec, Machu Picchu served as an important religious and agricultural center in the Inca Empire. Abandoned after the Spanish conquest in the 16th century and rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, its remarkable preservation offers insight into Inca hydraulic engineering and urban planning.

Transportation:

• Train from Poroy or Ollantaytambo (2–4 h).
• Bus from Aguas Calientes (25 min).

Accessibility:

• Paved walkways to the main entrance.
• Ramps and boardwalks suitable for wheelchairs (companion required).
• Accessible restrooms near the administrative area.

Practical Tip:
Book your ticket at least 2 months in advance and choose the earliest time slot to enjoy fewer crowds.

---

2. Sacred Valley of the Incas

Description & History:
The Sacred Valley, once the empire’s granary, features terraces built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Renowned for maize and quinoa cultivation, it still preserves ceremonial centers like Pisac—established during Túpac Yupanqui’s reign.

Transportation:

• Tourist vans from Cusco (1–1.5 h to Pisac; 1.5 h to Urubamba).
• Private taxi or shared van departing in the morning.

Accessibility:

• Uneven paths on Pisac’s terraces—use trekking poles for stability.
• Ollantaytambo viewpoint has shaded rest areas.

Practical Tip:
Book a full-day tour to visit multiple villages efficiently with expert local guides.

---

3. Sacsayhuamán

Description & History:
Constructed in the late 15th century, Sacsayhuamán showcases the Inca’s stonework prowess through massive blocks fitted without mortar. Once a religious and military site, its terraces offer panoramic views over ancient Cusco.

Transportation:

• Taxi or shared van from Cusco (15 min).
• Hike uphill from the city center (45 min).

Accessibility:

• Steep, cobblestone paths—not wheelchair accessible.
• Benches available for midway breaks.

Practical Tip:
Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the golden light on the stones.

---

4. Ollantaytambo

Description & History:
This strategic settlement dates back to the 15th century and served as an Inca stronghold. Its ruins display sun temples and fortifications still woven into the town’s original layout, inhabited by descendants of the Incas.

Transportation:

• Direct train to Machu Picchu (1.5–2 h).
• Tourist bus from Cusco (2 h).

Accessibility:

• Uneven cobblestone streets—wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes.
• Archaeological site features ramps for easier access.

Practical Tip:
Stay overnight to acclimate and catch the early train to Machu Picchu.

---

5. Pisac

Description & History:
Pisac combines a vibrant contemporary market with 15th-century Inca ruins, where agricultural terraces formed part of the state production system. The hilltop sanctuary functioned as both ceremonial site and defensive lookout.

Transportation:

• Minivan from Cusco (45 min).
• Private taxi (30 min).

Accessibility:

• Flat market area—wheelchair accessible.
• Ruins require climbing stone stairs.

Practical Tip:
Visit the market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Sundays and practice respectful bargaining.

---

6. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Description & History:
Also known as Ausangate-Munni, its mineral stripes were scientifically documented in 2015. Though formed over millions of years, it gained popularity through geological studies and conservation efforts.

Transportation:

• 4×4 drive from Cusipata (3 h) + 5 km trek (one way).

Accessibility:

• Altitude of 5 020 m—requires good acclimatization.
• Steep, rocky trail—not wheelchair accessible.

Practical Tip:
Start before dawn, layer up with thermal clothing, and bring trekking poles and water.

---

7. Humantay Lake

Description & History:
Part of the sacred Ausangate mountain circuit, Humantay Lake was used for ceremonial offerings to mountain deities during the Inca era. Its turquoise hue comes from glacial sediments and minerals in the Vilcanota range.

Transportation:

• 4×4 ride to Soraypampa (3 h) + 3 km hike (1.5 h).

Accessibility:

• Dirt path with rocky sections—trekking poles recommended.
• Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Practical Tip:
Hire a local guide to manage pace and altitude adjustments.

---

8. Maras Salt Mines & Moray

Description & History:
Maras dates back to the pre-Inca era and features salt ponds fed by a natural saline spring. Moray’s concentric circular terraces showcase Inca agricultural experiments at varying microclimates.

Transportation:

• Shared van or taxi from Urubamba/Maras (30–45 min).

Accessibility:

• Maras: uneven dirt and stone paths—moderately accessible.
• Moray: stepped terraces—wheelchair inaccessible.

Practical Tip:
Visit early to capture the ponds without harsh shadows and combine both sites in half a day.

---

9. Qoricancha & Cusco Historic Center

Description & History:
Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, was the Inca Empire’s most sacred shrine. After conquest, the Spanish built Santo Domingo convent atop its walls, creating a unique architectural fusion that reflects a meeting of cultures.

Transportation:

• 5 min walk from Plaza de Armas.
• Taxi within the historic center (limited pedestrian zones).

Accessibility:

• Entrance ramp available.
• Smooth interior floors; accessible restrooms in the museum.

Practical Tip:
Purchase the comprehensive Tourist Ticket to access multiple churches and museums with one pass.

---

10. Tipón

Description & History:
Rediscovered in 1937, Tipón’s water channels and fountains still channel the Pukara River’s flow. Its 15th-century terraces exemplify Inca hydraulics, showcasing advanced control over steep gradients and microclimates.

Transportation:

• Taxi or shared tour from Cusco (1 h).

Accessibility:

• Moderately steep dirt paths—trekking poles helpful.
• Shaded rest areas along the way.

Practical Tip:
Perfect for a half-day excursion—fewer tourists and tranquil trails.