Quick Summary of Top Attractions Near Cuzco

Cuzco is surrounded by steep mountains and wide valleys. Many sites are just a short drive from the Plaza de Armas. Others require a full day of travel through the rugged Andes. Knowing which ones to pick depends on your interests. Some people love hiking to alpine lakes. Others prefer wandering through agricultural ruins. Below are some of our top picks for different travel styles.

• Best overall: Saqsaywaman (incredible views and proximity).
• Best for families: Pisac Market for colorful crafts and food.
• Best for adventurers: Humantay Lake or Rainbow Mountain.
• Best for history buffs: Moray and Ollantaytambo.

12 Incredible Top Attractions Near Cuzco

This list includes the most famous ruins and natural wonders. Most require the Cuzco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turistico). Plan your visits according to altitude to stay healthy. Here are the 12 must-see sites nearby.

1. Name: Saqsaywaman
   Type: sight
   Why go: It features massive limestone walls that defy logic. The views over Cuzco are unmatched. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
   Best for: History and city panoramic views.
   Where: Just north of the city center.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Included in the full Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: You can walk uphill for 20 minutes or take a taxi.
   Tip: Visit the Saqsaywaman ruins in the early morning to avoid crowds.
2. Name: Pisac Ruins
   Type: sight
   Why go: Pisac offers extensive agricultural terraces and a hilltop fortress. The mountain setting is spectacular. The site overlooks the Urubamba River.
   Best for: Hikers and photographers.
   Where: Pisac town, Sacred Valley.
   Time: 3-4 hours.
   Cost: Included in the Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: Take a collectivo (shared van) from Puputi Street in Cuzco.
   Tip: Hike down from the Pisac ruins to the village for lunch.
3. Name: Ollantaytambo Fortress
   Type: sight
   Why go: This was a royal estate for Emperor Pachacuti. The village below is still inhabited by locals in original Inca houses.
   Best for: Ancient architecture fans.
   Where: End of the Sacred Valley.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Included in the Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: Take a train or shared van from Cuzco.
   Tip: This is where you catch the PeruRail train to Machu Picchu.
4. Name: Maras Salt Mines
   Type: experience
   Why go: Thousands of salt pans have been used since Inca times. They create a white patchwork on the brown hills.
   Best for: Unique photography and local souvenir shopping.
   Where: Near the village of Maras.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Small entry fee (approx. 10-20 Soles).
   Getting there: Hire a private taxi or take a Maras salt mines tour.
   Tip: Do not forget to buy locally harvested pink salt.
5. Name: Moray
   Type: sight
   Why go: It looks like a giant green amphitheater in the ground. Experts believe it was an Inca agricultural research station.
   Best for: Science and history enthusiasts.
   Where: Near Maras.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Included in the Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: Usually combined with a visit to the Moray Moray archaeological site and Maras.
   Tip: Stand at the top to see the different temperature zones.
6. Name: Humantay Lake
   Type: nature
   Why go: The water is a stunning shade of turquoise. It sits at the base of the Humantay glacier.
   Best for: Hardcore adventurers and nature lovers.
   Where: Mollepata district.
   Time: Full day (12-14 hours total).
   Cost: Tour costs range from $30-$60.
   Getting there: Book a Humantay Lake day tour from Cuzco.
   Tip: The hike is steep and reaches 4,200 meters, so hydrate well.
7. Name: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
   Type: nature
   Why go: Natural minerals create vibrant stripes on the mountain peak. It is one of the most famous sights in Peru.
   Best for: Hikers seeking a challenge.
   Where: Multi-hour drive south of Cuzco.
   Time: Full day (starts at 4 AM).
   Cost: Tours average $35.
   Getting there: Most use a Rainbow Mountain hiking guide service.
   Tip: Check the weather to ensure the mountain is not covered in snow.
8. Name: Tipon Water Temple
   Type: sight
   Why go: Tipon shows off Inca hydraulic engineering. Water still flows through ancient stone channels today.
   Best for: Peace, quiet, and engineering fans.
   Where: South Valley, 45 minutes from Cuzco.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Included in the Tourist Ticket.
   Getting there: Take a local bus toward Urcos or a Tipon water temple visit tour.
   Tip: Try the local roasted guinea pig in nearby Saylla.
9. Name: Huchuy Qosqo
   Type: experience
   Why go: It is a "Little Cuzco" hidden above the Sacred Valley. You can only reach it by trail.
   Best for: People who hate crowds.
   Where: Above the town of Lamay.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Small entry fee plus guide costs.
   Getting there: Check Huchuy Qosqo trekking tips for the best routes.
   Tip: Prepare for a long downhill hike back to the valley.
10. Name: Ausangate Seven Lagoons
    Type: nature
    Why go: You see various colored lakes near the sacred Ausangate mountain. The landscape is wild and high.
    Best for: Experienced trekkers.
    Where: Pacchanta village area.
    Time: Full day.
    Cost: Tours range from $40-$70.
    Getting there: Join an Ausangate seven lagoons hike tour.
    Tip: End your day in the local hot springs.
11. Name: Chinchero
    Type: market
    Why go: This village retains strong Inca traditions. It has a beautiful colonial church and Inca ruins.
    Best for: Textile shopping.
    Where: Highlands of the Sacred Valley.
    Time: 2-3 hours.
    Cost: Ruins included in the Tourist Ticket.
    Getting there: Take a bus or van from Pavitos Street.
    Tip: Visit the local weaving cooperatives for a demonstration.
12. Name: Horse Riding in the Countryside
    Type: experience
    Why go: You can see the "Devil's Balcony" and other minor ruins. The scenery around Cuzco is beautiful.
    Best for: Relaxed exploration.
    Where: San Sebastian or near Saqsaywaman.
    Time: 3-4 hours.
    Cost: $30-$50.
    Getting there: Book Cuzco countryside horse riding through a local agency.
    Tip: No previous experience is usually required for these gentle tours.

How to Best Visit Top Attractions Near Cuzco in 2026

Visiting the top attractions near Cuzco requires some planning. The primary tool you need is the Boleto Turistico del Cusco. This ticket grants entry to 16 different sites. You can buy a full ticket or partial ones. A full ticket lasts for ten days. Partial tickets usually last for one or two days. You can buy these at the first site you visit or in the city.

Transport is another important factor for your 2026 trip. Many travelers use "collectivos" for affordable transit. These are shared vans that run regular routes. They leave when the van is full. For more comfort, hire a private driver for the day. This allows you to set your own schedule. It is often worth the extra cost for groups.

Timing your visit is vital. The rainy season lasts from November to March. Views can be obscured by clouds during this time. The dry season runs from May to September. This is the busiest time for tourism. Expect more people at popular sites like Saqsaywaman. Early mornings are best for peace and quiet.

Must-Have Tips for Exploring Nearby Sights

Altitude is the biggest challenge near Cuzco. Many sites sit at 3,400 meters or higher. Rainbow Mountain reaches over 5,000 meters. Spend at least two days in the city before hiking. Drink lots of water and try coca tea. Eat light meals to help your digestion. Consult your doctor about altitude medicine if needed.

Pack for all four seasons in one day. The Andean sun is very strong. Temperatures drop quickly as soon as the sun sets. Always carry a waterproof jacket for sudden rain. Wear high-factor sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for uneven Inca stones. Always carry some local currency (Soles) for small fees.

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Most people in the tourism industry speak English. However, local drivers and market sellers appreciate Spanish. Learn how to ask for prices and directions. This makes your interactions more rewarding. Respect local customs by asking before taking photos of people. Many locals wear traditional dress for cultural pride.