Cusco was the ancient capital and spiritual heart of the Inca Empire, as well as an important commercial center during the colonial period. Strolling its cobblestone streets reveals a blend of remarkable Inca stonework and elegant Andean Baroque architecture. Today, the city is also known for its vibrant handicrafts and is home to some of Peru’s most talented textile and ceramic artisans.

• Best time to visit: April to October
• Climate: Sunny days, but chilly nights. The rainy season (December to March) may bring sporadic heavy rains, but not necessarily every day.
• Yearly temperatures: Min: 0.2°C – 32.9°F | Max: 20.9°C – 69.6°F
• Altitude: 3,400 m a.s.l. – 11,150 ft a.s.l.