Cuzco

Why Cuzco is special
It was the capital of the vast Inca Empire until conquered in the 16th century by the Spanish. Today, Cuzco is known for its massive Inca stone walls, for its Colonial-era architecture, and for being the gateway city to Machu Picchu.

Cuzco tips and insights
Inca stone walls in the city
After the Spanish destroyed most of the major Inca temples and other structures, they built their colonial-style buildings on top of the Inca wall foundations. This well-preserved stonework is easily seen in the Historic Center.

Nearby archaeological sites with Inca stone walls
There are several worth exploring. Those in Sacsayhuaman are the most impressive (see photo above) and stand just outside Cuzco.

When to come
• Best period: May to October (dry, sunny season). • Worst period: December to March (rainy season). • Good but iffy: April, October, and November.

Getting to Cuzco
Most visitors fly in from Lima. The flight takes 55 minutes.

Cuzco to Machu Picchu
You have two basic options. Ride the train (three hours each way). Hike the Inca Trail (about 40 kilometers or 25 miles in length). Click Machu Picchu for my web pages on that wonder.

Location