Cusco
Capital of the Inca
Once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Cusco is today the beating heart of Peru's tourism industry. Millions of tourists arrive each year en route to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, and most stay at least a few days in Cusco. With layers of archaeology built on top of each other (often literally), the city is a stunning mix of Inca architecture and later colonial constructions. Packed with excellent restaurants serving both traditional and international cuisine, as well as hostels and hotels for every budget, Cusco has something for everyone.
Some of the most important Inca sites lie within or just outside the city. The most revered temple in the Inca Empire, the Qurikancha (or Coricancha), sits in the historic centre, a short walk from the lively Plaza de Armas with its seemingly endless parades and traditional activities. And overlooking the city is Saksaywaman, a huge complex with some of the most impressive Inca stonework you’ll see, its massive carved blocks interlinking with incredible precision. Then there are the colourful markets of Cusco, where locals sell fresh produce and intricate crafts brought in from across the region, just as they did back in the days of the Inca Empire.
Peru trekking
An expert guide to the best treks in Peru
For me, there’s nothing quite like traversing a remote trail on foot, arriving at a new place by muscle power just like the travellers of old. Trekking in Peru satisfies the human itch to travel by foot for days, to earn a destination after a hearty physical challenge. I’ve done my fair share of hiking around the world but, in my view, there’s nothing that quite compares to the Peru trekking experience...read more