4Cusco, Peru

Once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Cusco is a town of extraordinary historical and archaeological significance. Located high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco’s architecture is a mix of Incan foundations and colonial Spanish buildings, reflecting its layered history.

UNESCO recognized Cusco as a World Heritage Site due to its role as a major Inca city and the quality of its preservation. From the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) to the towering Cusco Cathedral, the town is filled with history at every turn, serving as a gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.