Cusco

Nestled high in the Andes, Cusco serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu and offers travelers a vibrant blend of Incan history, colonial architecture, and bustling markets where local artisans sell handmade textiles. The city’s elevated streets wind past ancient temples like Sacsayhuamán while its lively cafés serve traditional Peruvian dishes such as cuy (guinea pig) and quinoa soup. Staying in one of Cusco’s cozy hostels—whether near the historic center or on the outskirts—provides a comfortable base for exploring both the city’s cultural treasures and the surrounding Sacred Valley.