

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.
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.
There are several worth exploring. Those in Sacsayhuaman are the most impressive (see photo above) and stand just outside Cuzco.
Best period:
May to October (dry, sunny season).
Worst
period: December to March
(rainy season).
Good
but iffy: April, October, and November.
Most visitors fly in from Lima. The flight takes 55 minutes.
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.

Learn about all
the 7 wonders of Peru
Amazon Rainforest
Chan Chan
Chavin de Huantar
Cuzco
Lake Titicaca
Machu Picchu
Nazca Lines
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