During its golden age under the rule of the Inca emperor Pachacutec in the 15th century, Cusco was the political, military, and religious capital of the Tahuantinsuyo, the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. The city was originally designed in the shape of a puma, a sacred animal, with the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman representing its head. It was the central hub from which the vast network of Inca trails (Qhapaq Ñan) expanded. Following the arrival of the Spanish in 1533, the city underwent a radical transformation. Sacred temples, such as the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), were stripped of their gold plating, and Catholic churches were erected over them, giving rise to the cultural and religious syncretism that defines modern-day Cusco.

Unlike Machu Picchu, Cusco has been continuously inhabited for centuries, meaning it was never truly "lost" or "discovered." Its origins date back to fascinating myths, such as the legend of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo, who emerged from Lake Titicaca with a golden staff to found the city where the staff sank into the earth. For the Western world, the "discovery" or first encounter occurred on November 15, 1533, when Francisco Pizarro and the Spanish conquistadors entered the city. Chronicles from that time describe the Europeans' absolute astonishment at the perfection of the stone architecture, the gleaming palaces, and the immense wealth of a metropolis that rivaled any European capital of the era in order and cleanliness.

Located in southeastern Peru, Cusco rests in the fertile Huatanay river valley, nestled within the majestic Andes mountain range. It sits at a soaring altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. This high-altitude geography grants the city deep, intense blue skies, surrounded by sacred mountains (Apus) that watch over the valley. Its location serves as the perfect prelude, acting as the gateway to the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas—a geographical corridor with a milder climate, fertile lands, and picturesque villages that gently descend toward the cloud forest.

Because it is located in the Peruvian highlands, Cusco's climate is divided into two main seasons, similar to Machu Picchu, but with one key difference: the higher altitude makes the nights significantly colder.

• Dry Season (May to October): This is the golden era for tourism. The days are bright and sunny, perfect for exploring the city and nearby ruins. However, in June and July (the peak of the Southern Hemisphere winter), nighttime temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F). Tip: Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun) is celebrated in June. It is the most spectacular cultural event of the year, filling the city with color, music, and visitors.

• Rainy Season (November to April): The days are milder, and the nights are not as freezing. Rain typically falls in heavy afternoon showers, leaving the rest of the day open for exploration. During these months, the landscapes surrounding Cusco, such as the Sacred Valley, burst into a spectacular, lush green. This is a great time to visit if you are looking for lower prices and fewer crowds.