Cusco (Cuzco) is a very beautiful city at 3360 meter high and is often referred as the "Archaeological Capital of the Americas" and the "Navel of the World". It is riddled with contrasts between the modern western world and the indigenous styles. Its rare beauty has been given by these contrasts. If you come for the first time, you will first be hitten by the Inca walls. These famous walls consist of enormous granite blocks carved to fit together perfectly without the aid of mortar beds. During the construction of a new Spanish city, many of the walls were simply built upon. The population is around 325.000.
When you arive in Cusco from the coast you will immediately notice the thin clear mountain air, a result of the City's high altitude. Take it easy on your first day and gently acclimatize. Plan to spend at least 3 days in and around Cusco before starting any trekking such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This is an ideal opportunity to see the highlights that Cusco has to offer. You can visit the nearby Inca Ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Pucapucara and Tambomachay and, of course, a day trip out to the Sacred Valley of the Incas including a visit to the traditional Indian market at Pisac, the beautiful village of Ollantaytambo and the small village of Chinchero located high up in the mountains. There is a lot to see and to do it this city with its interesting history dating back to 1200 AD.
