The Best Cusco tours is waiting for you, this 2026. Cusco, formerly the capital of the vast Inca Empire, is located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes and is mostly known as the “Navel of the World.” This sacred city was the epicenter from which the Incas extended their dominion throughout much of South America, so its streets still preserve the vestiges of its glorious past in its majestic stone-based buildings and its impressive archaeological ruins in the top of the mountains.
Likewise, this place is characterized by its outstanding history that dates back thousands of years, in which the Inca empire stands out. Likewise, under the leadership of Inca Pachacutec, the ninth Inca emperor, Cusco was transformed into a monumental metropolis with advanced architecture, including temples, palaces, and an intricate network of Inca roads that connected the entire empire. However, with the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, they brought with them conquest and a mix of cultures that is reflected in the modern city, where colonial buildings are based on ancient Inca foundations.
On the other hand, even with the passage of time, the vestiges of the Inca civilization still endure and are widespread throughout the Cusco region, which is why today a large number of visitors travel from different places in the world to see and observe these incredible buildings. For this reason, in this blog we will tell you about the best Cusco Tours 2025 that you can undertake, to visit most of the destinations in Cusco.
Main destinations in Cusco and its surroundings
Cusco and its surroundings are home to some of the most spectacular and culturally significant tourist destinations in South America. From its Inca ruins to the impressive natural wonders, this region offers a diversity of experiences that captivate the majority of tourists who undertake their trip to Peru. Below, we present the most acclaimed destinations in this Andean region:
Top Cusco tours 2026
- Machu Picchu
The most precious jewel of Peru, it is undoubtedly the most emblematic destination. This Inca citadel, located on the top of a mountain, is a testament to the architectural ingenuity and deep knowledge that the Incas had at that time. This Inca citadel is accessible by train from Cusco or through the famous Inca Trail hike; Although, there are also a large number of tours that have this wonder as their main attraction, among these the most classic is the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu 2 Days. - Rainbow Mountain
Also known as Vinicunca, it is another natural wonder that attracts adventurers from all over the world. It is located more than 5,000 meters above sea level and stands out for its striking layers of colors that have been formed over millions of years. of years. Additionally, Rainbow Mountain tours depart early from Cusco and offer a unique opportunity to see the beauty of the Peruvian Andes at its finest. - The Sacred Valley of the Incas
It is a fertile and picturesque region that is home to numerous archaeological sites and traditional villages. Among them, Ollantaytambo stands out not only for its ruins, which were once an Inca fortress, but also for being a living town that still follows the original Inca urban layout; In addition, the Sacred Valley includes attractions such as the agricultural terraces of Pisac and the impressive circles of Moray or the beautiful Salineras de Maras, each offering a glimpse of the agricultural and architectural ingenuity of the Incas. So, if you are interested in visiting this place, then you should know that the best option is a tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in which you will visit the best sites in this beautiful valley.
Other Essential Destinations
- Sacsayhuamán: It is an imposing archaeological complex located on a hill overlooking the city of Cusco, it is famous for its gigantic stone blocks perfectly assembled. Likewise, this site was a ceremonial fortress and one of the greatest examples of Inca engineering; It is also worth noting that the panoramic views from Sacsayhuamán are impressive, and the site is frequently used for ceremonies and local festivities, such as Inti Raymi.
- Choquequirao: Mostly known as the “brother of Machu Picchu”, it is an impressive Inca citadel located on top of a mountain in the Apurímac valley. Although less known and visited than Machu Picchu, Choquequirao offers an equally fascinating experience with its grandiose architecture and remote location. Likewise, getting to Choquequirao involves a challenging hike, which limits the number of visitors and provides a calmer and more authentic experience.
- Intipunku (Puerta del Sol): Also known as the Puerta del Sol, it is a set of ruins located on the route of the Inca Trail. This site was a kind of checkpoint in the time of the Incas, but today it is one of the most attractive features of Machu Picchu, offering one of the spectacular views of the sunrise over the Inca citadel.
Trekking adventures from Cusco this 2026
Cusco is not only a destination that only highlights its history and culture, but it is also the starting point for exciting trekking adventures. Since, from this place, tourists gather to undertake a long journey, in which they will pass through different areas until they reach the lost citadel of Machu Picchu. Here we mention the most popular hikes that you can undertake on your visit to Cusco:
- Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, leading to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. This multi-day hike passes through stunning landscapes, from dense cloud forests to ancient Inca archaeological sites. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and immerse themselves in the region’s rich history and culture as they follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas to the Lost City. - Salkantay Walk
The Salkantay Trek is an alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a unique experience amid impressive and varied landscapes, this route takes adventurers through snow-capped peaks, turquoise lagoons, and lush tropical jungles, culminating the trip in the citadel of Macchu Picchu. Also, with a variety of terrain and climates, this hike is a good challenge for hikers who like trekking, since they will rise to the heights of the majestic Salkantay mountain. - Lares Walk
The Lares Trek is an ideal option for those looking for a very different experience from the Inca Trail. Since, this route takes travelers through picturesque Andean towns, where they can interact with local communities and learn about their ancestral traditions; In addition to the natural beauty of the mountain landscapes and hot springs there, hikers can appreciate the cultural richness of the region.
