About the Port
Set high in the Andes at nearly 3,400 meters, Cuzco was once the capital of the Inca Empire and remains one of the longest continuously inhabited cities on the continent. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, blends Inca foundations with colonial-era whitewashed buildings and Baroque churches, many built directly atop the stonework of earlier rulers. Narrow cobblestone streets wind past plazas, markets, and archways that reveal layers of Andean and Spanish colonial history side by side.
Just outside the city, the massive stone terraces of Sacsayhuamán offer sweeping views over the rooftops below and hint at the engineering skill of Inca builders. Cuzco also serves as the principal gateway to Machu Picchu, reached by rail through the Sacred Valley. Given the elevation, a gradual pace and time to acclimate serve travelers well before venturing further into the surrounding highlands.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Cuzco.
Explore Qorikancha Temple
Once the Inca Empire's most sacred temple, its precise stonework now underpins the colonial Santo Domingo church, making it one of the clearest examples of Cuzco's layered history. Located a short walk from the Plaza de Armas.
Wander San Blas Quarter
This hillside artisan neighborhood above the center is laced with steep cobblestone lanes, small workshops, and galleries selling weavings and silverwork. Best explored on foot, with cafes for a coffee break at altitude.
Browse San Pedro Market
A lively covered market near the old town selling Andean produce, cheeses, textiles, and prepared foods, offering an unfiltered look at daily Cuzqueño life. Allow 30-45 minutes to wander the stalls.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Cuzco
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 2, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $24,972 | |
| Oct 9, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $21,803 | |
| Oct 22, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse | 25 | $50,755 | |
| Oct 26, 2026 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse II | 36 | $82,205 | |
| Nov 13, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $22,274 | |
| Nov 20, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $24,064 | |
| Nov 27, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $20,104 | |
| Dec 4, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $20,256 | |
| Dec 11, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $19,509 | |
| Dec 18, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $25,536 | |
| Jan 1, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $22,160 | |
| Jan 8, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $26,057 | |
| Jan 15, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $18,782 | |
| Jan 22, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $24,656 | |
| Jan 29, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $21,241 | |
| Feb 5, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $21,719 | |
| Feb 12, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $20,551 | |
| Feb 19, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $19,126 | |
| Feb 26, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $21,619 | |
| Mar 5, 2027 | Celebrity | Celebrity Flora | 16 | $20,532 |
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