What to visit in cusco, the historical and tourist capital of peru

23 de February de 2025 Peru

What to visit in Cusco, the historical and tourist capital of Peru, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco is a city that captivates every traveler with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Cusco has earned the title of the “Historical and Tourist Capital of Peru.” This enchanting city is not only a gateway to the world-renowned Machu Picchu but also a destination that stands proudly on its own with a wealth of archaeological wonders, colonial architecture, and immersive cultural experiences.

Visit in Cusco: Plaza de Armas, the Heart of the Inca Capital

At the very center of Cusco, Peru’s historical and cultural capital, lies the Plaza de Armas—a vibrant and captivating square that has witnessed centuries of history. Once the ceremonial heart of the Inca Empire and later transformed by the Spanish conquistadors, the Plaza de Armas is today one of the most iconic places to visit in Cusco. Surrounded by majestic churches, colonial arcades, restaurants, and shops, this plaza is not only a meeting place for locals and visitors but also a living museum of Peru’s rich past.

A Place Steeped in History

During the Inca era, the Plaza de Armas was called Huacaypata, meaning “the place of tears” or “the place of meeting.” It was the main ceremonial center where the Incas celebrated important events such as Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun). After the Spanish conquest, the square was redesigned, and many of the surrounding Inca palaces were destroyed or converted into colonial buildings.

The Cathedral of Cusco

Dominating the northeast side of the plaza is the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin, commonly known as the Cusco Cathedral. Built in the 16th century using stones taken from the nearby Sacsayhuamán fortress, the cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture with baroque influences. Inside, visitors can admire colonial paintings from the Cusco School of Art, intricately carved wooden altars, and religious artifacts that blend Catholic and Andean symbolism.

Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía de Jesús)

Another architectural gem on the plaza is the Church of the Society of Jesus, built by the Jesuits in the 17th century. Its striking baroque façade and richly decorated interior make it a must-see for those interested in religious art and colonial history. The church stands on what was once the palace of Inca Huayna Capac, demonstrating the fusion of cultures that defines Cusco.

Cultural Life and Atmosphere

The Plaza de Armas is the heartbeat of Cusco. By day, it’s alive with street performers, musicians, and vendors selling handmade crafts. By night, the square transforms into a romantic and atmospheric setting with beautifully illuminated buildings and lively restaurants. Many cultural events and parades take place here throughout the year, including the Inti Raymi Festival, the Corpus Christi procession, and Semana Santa (Holy Week).

Best Things to Do in Plaza de Armas

Relax on a bench and admire the view of the surrounding mountains and architecture.
Visit the cathedral and churches to discover Cusco’s artistic and religious heritage.
Enjoy Peruvian cuisine in one of the many restaurants and cafés with balconies overlooking the square.
Shop for souvenirs, from alpaca wool garments to handmade jewelry and traditional crafts.
Join a walking tour to learn more about the history and significance of the plaza.

Gateway to Adventure

The Plaza de Armas is also the starting point for many tours and excursions around Cusco and beyond. Whether you’re heading to the Sacred Valley, embarking on the Inca Trail, or preparing for your journey to Machu Picchu, you’ll likely pass through this iconic square.

Visit in Cusco: Sacsayhuamán – The Majestic Inca Fortress Overlooking the City

High above the red rooftops of Cusco, just a short walk or drive from the historic center, lies one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Peru: Sacsayhuamán. This colossal Inca fortress, built with massive stones and unparalleled precision, offers not only a glimpse into the architectural genius of the Inca Empire but also panoramic views of Cusco that are simply breathtaking. Visiting Sacsayhuamán is an essential experience for anyone exploring the ancient capital of the Incas.

A Wonder of Inca Engineering

Sacsayhuamán is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Pachacuti in the 15th century, and although much of it was later dismantled by the Spanish, its grand walls remain an enduring symbol of Inca power and skill. The most striking feature is the three-tiered zigzag wall made from enormous stones, some weighing over 100 tons, meticulously cut and fitted together without mortar. The exact techniques used to shape and transport these stones are still a mystery, adding to the site’s intrigue.

More Than Just a Fortress

While often referred to as a fortress, Sacsayhuamán was likely more than a military stronghold. It is believed to have served religious, ceremonial, and administrative purposes. The complex may have represented the head of a sacred puma-shaped layout of the ancient city of Cusco. Its vast open esplanade was possibly used for important rituals and festivals, including Inti Raymi, the annual Festival of the Sun, which is still reenacted here every June 24th.

What to See at Sacsayhuamán

The Main Walls: The three zigzagging walls are the highlight, showcasing the legendary stonework of the Incas. Walking along them gives you a sense of their scale and precision.
The Esplanade: A large grassy area used for ceremonies and still the site of performances during traditional celebrations.
The Rodadero: A natural rock formation smoothed by centuries of use, popular with visitors and children for sliding down.
The Throne of the Inca (K’usilluchayoq): A carved stone believed to have served as a ceremonial seat.
Tunnels and Towers: Though the original towers were destroyed, their bases remain. Some areas feature short tunnels carved into the rock, perfect for exploring.

A Perfect Viewpoint of Cusco

From Sacsayhuamán, visitors can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Cusco’s historic center, surrounded by mountains and dominated by colonial churches. The Cristo Blanco statue, a white figure of Christ with outstretched arms, stands nearby and adds a peaceful touch to the landscape.

Getting There

Sacsayhuamán is located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Plaza de Armas. You can reach it by:

Walking uphill (about 30–40 minutes)
Taking a taxi or tour vehicle
Horseback riding, which is often combined with visits to nearby ruins like Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay

Entrance is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco), which allows access to various archaeological sites in and around the city.

Qoricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo

In the heart of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, stands one of the most powerful symbols of Peru’s layered history: Qoricancha, once the most sacred temple of the Incas, and now home to the Convent of Santo Domingo. This extraordinary site is more than just a historical monument—it is a testament to cultural fusion, spiritual devotion, and the transformation of a civilization.

The Sacred Inca Temple: Qoricancha

The name Qoricancha comes from the Quechua words qori (gold) and cancha (enclosure), meaning “Golden Temple” or “Golden Courtyard.” It was the main religious center of the Inca Empire, dedicated primarily to Inti, the Sun God. According to historical accounts, the temple’s inner walls were once covered in sheets of pure gold, and it housed golden statues, ceremonial objects, and sacred altars representing Inca cosmology.

Qoricancha was not just a temple—it was the spiritual core of the empire. It aligned with important astronomical events and was the reference point from which sacred lines, or ceques, radiated out to connect various shrines (huacas) throughout the Inca territory.

The Spanish Conquest and the Birth of the Convent

When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they were astonished by Qoricancha’s wealth and grandeur. The gold was stripped, and the temple was partly destroyed. In its place, the Convent of Santo Domingo was built by the Dominican Order. However, instead of erasing the Inca legacy completely, the Spaniards constructed the convent on top of the original Inca foundations—creating one of the most striking architectural juxtapositions in Peru.

What to See During Your Visit

Inca Stonework: The lower walls of the complex are built with the classic Inca technique—large, polished stones fitted together without mortar. These structures have survived earthquakes that damaged the colonial buildings above them.
Solar Temple: This was the most sacred space within Qoricancha. Though the golden interior is gone, you can still see the impressive stone niches and curved wall, considered a masterpiece of Inca engineering.
Astronomical Rooms: Rooms that aligned with celestial movements were used by Inca priests for observation and rituals. Their alignment reveals the Incas’ deep knowledge of astronomy.
Convent Cloisters and Art: The Spanish section includes elegant colonial arcades, religious paintings, and baroque altarpieces. The combination of European and Andean iconography can be seen throughout the convent’s artwork.
Gardens and Archaeological Remains: Outside the complex, visitors can explore beautifully landscaped gardens where archaeological remnants of Inca walls, fountains, and terraces have been uncovered.

A Place of Reflection and Identity

Qoricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo represent more than just stones and buildings—they symbolize the story of Peru itself. This site tells the tale of conquest and resistance, destruction and survival, faith and fusion. It invites visitors to reflect on how cultures evolve and endure, and how beauty can emerge from complexity.

Visiting Information

Location: Just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas in central Cusco.
Opening Hours: Usually open Monday to Saturday, with an entry fee.
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours.
Entrance: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or as part of a Cusco city tour.

Visit in Cusco: San Pedro Market – A Colorful Journey into Andean Culture

For those who wish to dive into the heart of local life in Cusco, a visit to San Pedro Market is a must. Located just a few blocks from the historic Plaza de Armas, this bustling market is a vibrant mix of colors, flavors, aromas, and sounds—a true cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Andean people. Whether you’re looking to try traditional Peruvian food, buy handmade souvenirs, or simply observe the rhythms of local commerce, San Pedro Market is the perfect place to explore.

A Historic Landmark

The San Pedro Market was established in the early 20th century and is one of the oldest and most iconic markets in Cusco. The building itself was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the famous French engineer behind the Eiffel Tower. Its iron structure and high ceilings make the market feel spacious and airy, despite the constant flow of vendors and shoppers.

A Feast for the Senses

Walking through San Pedro Market is an immersive experience. The market is divided into sections, each offering something unique:

Fresh Produce: Rows of colorful fruits and vegetables, many of them native to Peru, such as lucuma, chirimoya, and more than a dozen varieties of potatoes and corn.
Local Meats and Fish: For the adventurous, this section shows the ingredients that make up traditional Andean cuisine.
Herbs and Natural Remedies: You’ll find dried herbs, medicinal plants, and natural remedies used in local healing practices and rituals.
Cheeses and Breads: Taste the regional cheeses and try the famous pan chuta, a sweet anise-flavored bread from Oropesa.
Juice Stalls: One of the highlights! Choose your favorite fruits and enjoy a freshly made juice or smoothie prepared right in front of you.
Prepared Food: Enjoy local dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, rocoto relleno, or the ever-popular chicken soup (caldo de gallina) at one of the market’s food stands.

Souvenirs and Handicrafts

San Pedro Market is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and artisan crafts. You’ll find:

Alpaca wool products (scarves, sweaters, hats)
Handwoven textiles
Colorful bags and purses
Andean musical instruments
Traditional dolls and jewelry

Prices here are often better than in more tourist-oriented shops, and you can sometimes negotiate for a better deal.

A Cultural Experience

Beyond shopping and eating, San Pedro Market is a cultural landmark where you can observe the customs, clothing, language, and interactions of local people. You’ll hear a mix of Spanish and Quechua, see women in traditional dress, and witness the continuation of ancient Andean traditions in a modern setting.

Tips for Visiting San Pedro Market

Go early in the morning for the freshest produce and to see the market at its liveliest.
Bring small change (soles) for easier transactions.
Watch your belongings, as busy markets can attract pickpockets.
Be respectful when taking photos—ask for permission if you’re photographing people.
Try something new! Whether it’s a fruit you’ve never seen or a traditional snack, be adventurous.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas: A Timeless Journey through Nature, History, and Culture

Just a short drive from Cusco lies one of Peru’s most captivating regions—The Sacred Valley of the Incas. This lush, fertile valley carved by the Urubamba River is surrounded by majestic mountains, ancient Inca ruins, vibrant villages, and terraced hillsides that seem to defy gravity. Known in Quechua as Wilcamayo, the Sacred Valley was once the spiritual and agricultural heart of the Inca Empire. Today, it remains a place of extraordinary beauty, deep history, and rich Andean traditions.

A Landscape of Wonder and Life

The Sacred Valley stretches between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, with several other charming communities and archaeological sites in between. Thanks to its lower elevation compared to Cusco, the valley enjoys a milder climate and was prized by the Incas for its ideal farming conditions.

The region is famous for producing maize, quinoa, potatoes, and other crops, many of which are still grown today using ancient agricultural techniques. With its dramatic landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, the Sacred Valley offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Top Places to Visit in the Sacred Valley

Pisac

Pisac is known for two things: its archaeological site and its traditional market. The ruins of Pisac include a hilltop citadel, agricultural terraces, ceremonial baths, and a sun temple that rivals those in Machu Picchu. Below, the village hosts one of the most popular artisan markets in Peru, where you can shop for handmade textiles, jewelry, and pottery.

Ollantaytambo

This ancient town was once a royal estate of the Inca emperor Pachacuti and served as a stronghold during the Spanish conquest. Its fortress ruins climb a steep mountainside and feature massive stone terraces, ceremonial temples, and breathtaking views. Ollantaytambo is also the gateway to Machu Picchu, as it is home to the train station that connects travelers to Aguas Calientes.

Chinchero

Chinchero is a small highland town known for its colonial church, built atop an Inca palace, and for its textile workshops, where locals demonstrate traditional weaving techniques. Its Sunday market is more authentic and less touristy than others in the region.

Moray

An Inca agricultural laboratory unlike any other, Moray features large, circular terraces built into natural depressions in the earth. These terraces created microclimates used by the Incas to experiment with crop production at different altitudes.

Maras Salt Mines

Just a short drive from Moray, the Maras salt ponds are a spectacular sight. Thousands of shallow pools carved into the mountainside have been used since Inca times to harvest salt from a natural spring. The gleaming white salt terraces create a stunning contrast with the surrounding hills.

Activities in the Sacred Valley

Beyond visiting ruins and markets, the Sacred Valley is a haven for outdoor adventure and cultural immersion. Popular activities include:

Hiking and trekking through scenic trails and Inca paths
Horseback riding along mountain ridges
Mountain biking between ruins and remote villages
River rafting on the Urubamba River
Spiritual experiences, including Andean ceremonies and meditation retreats

Why Visit the Sacred Valley?

Cultural authenticity: Many communities in the Sacred Valley still speak Quechua and follow traditional lifestyles.
Fewer crowds: Compared to Machu Picchu and Cusco, the valley offers a more relaxed and intimate experience.
Natural beauty: From snow-capped peaks to green farmland, the valley is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
A perfect base: Its location makes it ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude before heading to higher places like Cusco or Machu Picchu.

Visit in Cusco: San Blas Neighborhood – The Bohemian Soul of the Inca Capital

Tucked into the hillside above Cusco’s Plaza de Armas lies one of the city’s most enchanting and artistic districts: San Blas. Known as the bohemian neighborhood of Cusco, San Blas is a charming blend of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed colonial houses, artisan workshops, and cozy cafés. Rich in history, creativity, and panoramic views, this neighborhood is a must-visit for travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic experience of the city.

A Walk Through History and Art

San Blas was originally an Inca neighborhood known as “T’oqokachi,” meaning “salt hole.” After the Spanish conquest, the area was transformed with colonial-style architecture, but its spiritual and artistic roots remain strong. Today, San Blas is home to some of Cusco’s most skilled artisans, many of whom have inherited their craft through generations.

Walking through San Blas feels like stepping back in time. The streets are steep and narrow—designed for foot traffic, not cars—and they wind past colorful homes and hidden courtyards. Along the way, you’ll find small shops selling handwoven textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry, paintings, and carved woodwork.

Highlights of San Blas

San Blas Church (Iglesia de San Blas)

This modest-looking church, built in the 16th century, houses one of the most impressive wood-carved pulpits in Latin America—crafted from a single piece of cedar. The pulpit is a masterpiece of colonial religious art and a hidden treasure worth admiring. The church also offers sweeping views of Cusco from its hilltop location.

Hatun Rumiyoc Street and the Twelve-Angled Stone

On the way to San Blas from the main square, visitors pass along Hatun Rumiyoc Street, famous for the Twelve-Angled Stone, a remarkable example of Inca stonework that perfectly fits among its neighbors without mortar. This wall once belonged to the palace of Inca Roca and remains a powerful symbol of Inca engineering.

Artisan Workshops and Galleries

San Blas is the artistic heart of Cusco. The neighborhood is filled with workshops and galleries where you can meet local artists, learn about traditional techniques, and even take part in creative workshops. One of the most famous artisan families here is the Mendívil family, known for their distinctive religious sculptures with elongated necks.

Cafés and Viewpoints

After exploring, relax in one of San Blas’ charming cafés or restaurants, many of which have terraces overlooking the city. Try a cup of Peruvian coffee, a coca tea, or a delicious local dish while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the Plazoleta de San Blas, a small square often filled with musicians, local vendors, and street performers.

A Cultural Escape

San Blas is not just a tourist attraction—it’s a living neighborhood where art, culture, and tradition meet daily life. It’s quieter and less crowded than central Cusco, making it ideal for those who want to slow down and connect with the local rhythm. Whether you’re searching for unique souvenirs, interested in Andean art, or simply looking for a beautiful place to wander, San Blas has something special to offer.

Tips for Visiting San Blas

Wear comfortable shoes – the cobblestone streets are steep and uneven.
Visit during the day for the best shopping and gallery experiences.
Watch your step – the narrow alleyways are charming but can be slippery when wet.
Don’t forget your camera – the views over Cusco are spectacular, especially at sunset.
Support local artists by purchasing directly from their workshops.

Visit in Cusco: Museums of Cusco – Discover the Cultural Treasures of the Inca Capital

Cusco, once the capital of the vast Inca Empire and later transformed by Spanish colonization, is a city rich in history, art, and culture. While its streets and ruins tell many stories, some of the most fascinating tales are preserved within the museums of Cusco. From pre-Columbian artifacts to colonial religious art and contemporary Andean traditions, the museums offer deep insight into the region’s complex and vibrant heritage. For travelers eager to explore beyond the ruins and markets, Cusco’s museums are essential stops on a journey through time.

Museo Inka (Inka Museum)

Located just a few steps from the Plaza de Armas, the Inka Museum is one of the most important museums in Cusco. Housed in a beautiful colonial mansion built atop Inca foundations, it displays an extensive collection of Inca artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, tools, and mummies. The museum traces the evolution of Andean civilizations from pre-Inca times through the Spanish conquest, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s ancient history.

Inca mummies and burial offerings
Quipus (Inca record-keeping devices)
Models of Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites

Museo de Arte Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Art Museum – MAP)

This elegant museum is located in the former Inca ceremonial court of Amaru Cancha. The Museo de Arte Precolombino showcases a refined collection of pre-Columbian art from different Peruvian cultures, such as the Nazca, Moche, Chavín, and Inca. The artifacts include gold and silver jewelry, ceremonial vessels, carved wood, and striking sculptures. The museum’s modern design and lighting make it a beautiful and contemplative place to appreciate Peru’s artistic legacy.

Finely preserved pre-Inca ceramics
Ancient gold and silver ornaments
Rotating art exhibitions and workshops

Museo de Arte Religioso (Museum of Religious Art)

This museum is housed in the Archbishop’s Palace, built on the foundations of the Inca palace of Inca Roca. The Museum of Religious Art displays a collection of colonial paintings, sculptures, and altarpieces that reflect the fusion of Andean and European religious traditions. The building itself is an architectural treasure, featuring classic baroque details and exquisite stonework, including the famous Twelve-Angled Stone located on its outer wall.

Paintings from the Cusco School of Art
Lavishly decorated altars
Original colonial furnishings

Casa Concha (Machu Picchu Museum)

Owned by the National University of San Antonio Abad del Cusco, this museum showcases artifacts from Machu Picchu, many of which were returned from Yale University. The exhibition highlights the work of Hiram Bingham, the American explorer who brought Machu Picchu to global attention in the early 20th century. The museum offers detailed information about the archaeological site and the lives of the people who once inhabited it.

Artifacts recovered from Machu Picchu
Photographs and journals from Hiram Bingham
Interactive exhibits on Inca daily life

Museo Histórico Regional (Regional Historical Museum)

Located in the Casa del Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, the Regional Historical Museum offers a timeline of Cusco’s history, from pre-Inca civilizations to the colonial era and beyond. Garcilaso de la Vega, the famous mestizo chronicler, was born in this house. The museum honors his legacy and provides insight into the cultural fusion that shaped modern Peru.

Pre-Hispanic ceramics and tools
Portraits and objects from the colonial period
Information on Garcilaso’s writings and life

Bonus: Coca Museum (Museo de la Coca)

For something different, the Coca Museum offers a look into the cultural and spiritual importance of the coca leaf in Andean society, from its sacred use by the Incas to its modern controversies. Small but informative, this museum explores the plant’s role in medicine, rituals, and tradition.

Why Visit the Museums of Cusco?

Gain deeper context before or after visiting archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán or Machu Picchu.
Understand the blend of Inca and colonial cultures that define Cusco today.
Appreciate Andean creativity through centuries of art and craftsmanship.
Enjoy a quiet and reflective activity, especially useful when adjusting to the altitude.

The Twelve-Angled Stone: A Masterpiece of Inca Engineering in Cusco

Hidden along the narrow, cobbled Hatun Rumiyoc Street in the heart of Cusco, Peru, lies one of the most iconic and photographed pieces of Inca architecture: the Twelve-Angled Stone. At first glance, it may look like just another large stone embedded in a wall. But a closer inspection reveals its extraordinary craftsmanship—twelve perfectly carved angles, flawlessly interlocking with the surrounding stones without the use of mortar. This stone has become a symbol of Inca ingenuity, precision, and enduring legacy.

A Stone That Defies Time

The Twelve-Angled Stone forms part of the wall of a former Inca palace, believed to have belonged to Inca Roca, the sixth Sapa Inca of the Kingdom of Cusco. Today, this wall is part of the Archbishop’s Palace, home to the Museum of Religious Art. Despite earthquakes, colonial reconstruction, and centuries of weather, the wall has remained intact, showcasing the extraordinary stability and engineering skill of the Inca builders.

What makes the Twelve-Angled Stone so impressive is not just its shape, but the way it fits precisely with the stones around it—each groove and joint so exact that not even a piece of paper can slide between them. This meticulous stonework was done without iron tools or modern equipment, relying only on stone tools, knowledge of geology, and generations of experience.

Inca Architecture: More Than Just Stones

The Inca civilization is renowned for its architectural mastery, and the Twelve-Angled Stone is a shining example of that legacy. The Incas used a technique called ashlar masonry, where stones were cut and shaped to fit together perfectly without the use of mortar. This not only gave their walls strength and flexibility during earthquakes but also reflected a deep understanding of balance, symmetry, and harmony with nature.

Some researchers believe the number of angles in this stone may have held symbolic significance, although its exact meaning remains a mystery. Others see it as a demonstration of the Inca builders’ skill and an expression of their reverence for the materials and the land.

A Must-See in Cusco

Visiting the Twelve-Angled Stone is easy and free. It is located just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, a pedestrian alley lined with impressive Inca walls and artisan shops. While the stone itself is small in size compared to other archaeological monuments, its importance is monumental.

It’s common to see tour guides stopping to explain the stone’s details, and many visitors line up to take a photo next to it. However, touching the stone is discouraged in order to preserve it for future generations.

Why the Twelve-Angled Stone Matters

It’s a symbol of Inca excellence in construction and design.
It represents cultural continuity, linking the modern city with its ancient roots.
It inspires wonder at how such precision was achieved with rudimentary tools.
It connects the past with the present, as locals and visitors alike appreciate its beauty and significance.

Visit in Cusco: Cristo Blanco – A Spiritual Viewpoint Over the Inca Capital

Perched high on the Pukamuqu hill, just above the historic city of Cusco, stands one of the city’s most beloved landmarks: Cristo Blanco, or “White Christ.” With outstretched arms, this towering statue of Christ offers a gesture of peace and protection over the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. More than just a religious symbol, Cristo Blanco is one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Cusco, attracting travelers seeking spectacular views, serenity, and a deeper cultural experience.

A Gift of Peace and Faith

The Cristo Blanco statue was a gift from the Palestinian community in Cusco to the city in 1945 as a gesture of gratitude for being welcomed during a time of global unrest. The statue stands 8 meters (26 feet) tall and is made of white-painted concrete, contrasting dramatically against the green hills and the blue Andean sky.

Though smaller than Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, Cristo Blanco is equally symbolic—representing faith, unity, and protection for the people of Cusco. At night, the statue is illuminated and can be seen shining from the city below, offering a peaceful presence over the rooftops and historic streets.

The Best View of Cusco

One of the main reasons travelers visit Cristo Blanco is for the incredible panoramic view it offers over Cusco. From this vantage point, you can see:

The Plaza de Armas at the heart of the city
The red-tiled roofs of colonial houses
The majestic Andes Mountains that surround the city
Historic sites like Sacsayhuamán, which is just a short walk away

Sunset is a particularly magical time to visit, as the city glows under golden light, and the mountains create a dramatic backdrop for photos.

Getting to Cristo Blanco

Cristo Blanco is located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the city center. There are several ways to reach the statue:

Walking: You can hike up from the Plaza de Armas or the San Blas neighborhood in about 30–45 minutes. The walk is steep but scenic, passing through Inca streets and forests.
Taxi or Tour Vehicle: An easier option, especially if you’re short on time or adjusting to the altitude.
As part of a city tour: Many tours include Cristo Blanco along with nearby sites like Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, and Tambomachay.

Nearby Attractions

Cristo Blanco is located very close to other important historical and natural attractions, such as:

Sacsayhuamán – The massive Inca fortress with zigzag stone walls.
Qenqo – A sacred Inca ceremonial site carved into rock.
The San Cristóbal viewpoint – Another scenic overlook with a small colonial church.

Tips for Visiting

Bring water and sun protection, especially if hiking up during the day.
Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled and uneven paths.
Keep your camera ready—the views are among the best in Cusco.

Cristo Blanco is more than a statue; it’s a place where visitors can reflect, admire the beauty of Cusco, and connect with both its spiritual and natural essence. Whether you hike up for the views or include it in a larger tour of Cusco’s historical sites, a visit to Cristo Blanco is a rewarding experience that blends faith, culture, and stunning scenery. It’s a peaceful escape above the city—and a reminder of the many layers that make Cusco one of South America’s most captivating destinations.

For more information and to book your trip, contact us on WhatsApp. Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and travel inspiration.

CONTACT US:

We are a Travel Agency specialized in tourist packages, if you need any information, do not hesitate to write to us.

We offer tours in Peru and Bolivia.

Tours in Peru: Tours in Bolivia: