The countryside surrounding Cusco is stunning, much of it sculpted by agricultural terraces, once watered by complex irrigation systems.

A stay in the Urubamba, the Sacred Valley, is the perfect way to relax in the heart of the country. 

The beautiful valley of the Urubamba River was sacred to the Inca civilisation. Because of its landscapes, towns and ruins this is a trip not to be missed.

Cusco is also the departure point for visits to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, which can be reached by train or via the Inca Trail.

To find out more about getting to the Inca Citadel, visit the 'Machu Picchu' section.

Some of the most outstanding attractions near Cusco are:

Arequipa

Arequipa known as 'The White City', built mostly of ashlar, is the second largest city of Perú, founded in 1540 is  full of colonial churches and mansions, including Santa Catalina, a restored convent established in 1579 and now open to the public having been closed for 400 years.

Three volcanoes dominate the skyline: Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu.
North of Arequipa lies the spectacular Colca Valley and Canyon, which is one of the deepest in the world and home to the majestic condor.

Arequipa's mild climate and altitude (2,300 metres above sea level - 7,500 feet) make it the perfect place to acclimatise before continuing the trip to Cuzco or Puno.

Puno - On the Shores of Lake Titicaca

Every visitor will find something of interest in and around Puno. While here, drive to Copacabana and visit the remote towns of Juli and Pomata on the way. Then board the hydrofoil for departure to the Sun Island where, according to legend, the first Inca appeared. After exploring the island's Inca remains and majestic views of Lake Titicaca and surrounding Andean mountains, continue on to Huatajata for a brief stop.

Bolivia - Land of Gold and Silver

A marvellous country bordering Peru to the south-east, Bolivia displays outstanding diverse and contrasting geographical environments. From gigantic highlands, completely protected by the majestic Andes, to the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca, and its subtropical valleys, Bolivia comprises every type of geological classification, be it land, flora, fauna, minerals or tropical products.

Puerto Maldonado

Tucked into remote south-east Peru, borders the department of Cusco to the west and Bolivia and Brazil to the east. The Puerto Maldonado surroundings offer some of the best viewing of wildlife in the Amazon Basin, including The Manu National Park, a protected area half the size of Switzerland. Enjoy exploring trails deep inside the pristine jungle and its amazing flora and fauna.

As the region is less populated and less travelled than the other areas in the Amazon Basin, it represents an alternative for those seeking adventure off the beaten track, yet at the same time it is reasonably comfortable and requires little physical exertion. Here are some suggestions: 

• Mysticism
  Peru's folk healers draw on their knowledge of the past to cure their patients in ceremonies imbued with a mixture of traditional medicine, Catholicism and natural plant extracts, such as the San Pedro cactus.
• Weaving
  Contemporary Andean weavers are heirs to a rich textile repertoire that goes back thousands of years. Weaving workshops, lectures by weavers and textile experts, and visits to Peru's leading collections of ancient textiles can be arranged.
• Archaeology
  The pre-Inca and Inca cultures of Peru created some of the most stunning artwork and monuments known to mankind. Visit Peru's major archaeological museums, slide lectures and visits to excavations in process, when possible.
• Ecotourism
  Visit some of the best ecotourism destinations in areas like the pristine rainforests of Puerto Maldonado or the canopy walkway near Iquitos.

To find out more about things to do in and around Cusco, visit the 'Places of Interest' section.