Cusco remains the top and most popular tourist destination for international travelers visiting Peru. Even though Peru has developed a much broader and more complex tourism industry in recent years, Cusco continues to be the shining star—especially during certain times of the year.
While traveling to Cusco might feel expensive for many Peruvians, it’s actually considered very affordable for foreign tourists. In fact, the prestigious and globally recognized Forbes magazine included Cusco on its list of the 30 cheapest places in the world to travel in 2017.
Alongside Cusco, only three other South American destinations made the list: Chile, Ecuador, and Argentina. Other budget-friendly destinations on the list included Puerto Rico, Portugal, Mexico, the island of Crete, and Spain.
To create this list, Forbes consulted with over 14 travel and economic experts and conducted an in-depth study of each destination. The result: Cusco was not only praised for its low travel costs but also for its excellent value when it comes to lodging and food.
The magazine pointed out that you can find good hotels for as little as $20 a night in Cusco and enjoy delicious meals at San Pedro Market for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. Eating well in Cusco without spending much is definitely a perk that foreign tourists love.
For both Peruvians and international visitors, traveling to Cusco to explore its many wonders is a rewarding and budget-friendly experience. From a cost-benefit standpoint, Cusco offers incredible returns in the form of unforgettable adventures.
For a modest price, you can visit iconic sites like Machu Picchu, explore ancient Inca roads, and discover archaeological monuments. You’ll also witness stunning natural landscapes such as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, snow-capped and colorful mountains, and rivers that enrich the region like nature’s very own red carpets.
Beyond the scenery, you’ll also have the chance to interact with both the locals in the city and the remote communities throughout the region, learning customs and techniques you never imagined.
Fun Fact: Cusco is the eighth most populated city in Peru and is known as the “Rome of the Americas” due to its abundance of historic monuments.
So… is Cusco worth visiting?
Absolutely! Cusco has the power to nourish your soul with its mysticism, fill your mind with history, challenge your body through trekking, and leave you with stories you’ll be eager to share when you return home.
