Cusco

Cusco - also spelt with a Z - is considered one of the highest cities in the world at approx 3,399 metres, 11,154 feet, above sea level. Cusco was the geographical centre of the Inca Empire. When Pachacuteq (the Inca warrior king who instigated the building of the famous monuments) rebuilt the city of Cusco, he laid it out in the shape of a puma.

This city has a fascinating mix of Inca and colonial Spanish architecture; colonial churches, monasteries, extensive pre-Columbian ruins interspersed with countless hotels, bars and restaurants with a great atmosphere at night. Almost all central streets have remains of Inca walls, arches and doorways. There is an array of hotel choices to suit all budgets, being central in the historical part of the city is best.