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 About Cuzco |
The "Home of Gods," as the Incas referred to it, became the capital of one of the largest pre-Colombian empires: Tiwantinsuyo. Its name in Quechua, Qosqo, means "navel of the world" because Cuzco served as a hub for a vast network of roads interconnecting virtually the whole of South America. Inca society was a surprising example of social and political organization for its vast knowledge of architectural engineering, medicine and agriculture. On March 23rd, 1534, Francisco Pizarro founded a Spanish city on top of what was already this established Inca metropolis.
Main Attractions
The Plaza de Armas or Plaza Mayor: Known in Inca times as Huacaypata, or the Warriors Square, this was the scene for many key events in the history of Cuzco.
Koricancha: It was the main Inca temple, the Temple of Inti (the supreme god - the sun) and a masterpiece of the Inca architecture. The temple is built in blocks of carved granite and smelted gold in the junctures of the blocks. Inside the temple, there was a garden in which the trees, birds, animals, etc. were represented in gold. The temple was surrounded with a gold cornice and all the walls covered in gold plates.
Sacsayhuamanu: This ruin is an imposing example of Incan military architecture. The fortress was built by using large slabs of granite to safeguard the city from possible attacks by the Antis, an invading force from the East.
Sacred Valley of the Incas: An hours drive from Cuzco in just about any direction you will find picturesque communities, impressive terraces and many important archaeological sites. Dominated by the imposing peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range, the Sacred Valley has been the source of agricultural products for the city of Cuzco since Inca times. Its geography and mild climate make it ideal for outdoor sports enthusiasts to practice rafting, mountain biking and trekking, amongst others.
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Infrastructure
Access Routes
Cuzco is accessible by plane (from Lima, Arequipa and Puerto Maldonado) and by bus from Puno
Accommodation
All types of Accommodation are available.
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When to go
The best time to visit Cuzco is during the dry season, from April to November.
How long
The number of days we would suggest to spend here is a min of 3 days, visiting Machu Picchu in 1 day and visit the city and the Sacred Valley. Optimal time is 4 to 5 days, not including the Inka Trail.
Tips
In case you have some time in Cuzco (4 to 5 days), we recommend spending one night in the Sacred Valley, before continuing to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu). In case of the 2-day Inka Trail, we recommend to hike on day 1 to Aguas Calientes and spending the night in a nice hotel in Aguas Calientes, instead of spending the night in an overcrowded Wiña Wayna or along the river in Aguas Calientes. |
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Our Team
