Cusco
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Cusco at a glance
Cusco, ancient capital of the Incas, takes you back to the past. Its cultural richness continues to charm visitors, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
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Cusco history
Cusco, Mystical City
The city of Cusco is built in the valley of the Huatanay River, in the southern sierra of Peru. "Cusco", from the quechua Qosco, means the "navel of the world", and refers to the fact that this city was long the center of a vast network of roads connecting each of the four parts of the world of Andean cosmology. Of course, Cusco is also a colonial city, with splendid churches and large houses. Many consider this mix of cultures the root of its charm.
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Cusco local information
Cusco by the Numbers:
Population: 300,000

Elevation: 10991 feet

Quick Facts:
Electricity: 220 volts

Time Zone: GMT-5

Country Dialing Code: 51


Did You Know?
Cusco was originally built in the shape of a puma. The body of the puma contained the most important palaces, temples and governmental buildings. The square between the legs of the puma is the Plaza de Armas.

Orientation: Cusco is an inland city located in southern Peru.
Cusco weather
Average Temperatures
Fah
Cel
Rainy Days
Average Annual Rainfall:
18.2" / 46.4 cm
How to get there
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Getting There:

By Air:
Jorge Chavez Aeropuerto Internacional de Lima ( +51 ( 1 ) 517-3100; http://www.lap.com.pe/ ) is the only international airport in Peru. Transfer from Lima to the Cusco Airport, an approximately 70 min. flight.

By Bus:
The overland journey is not recommended as it takes a day and a half. However, the following bus companies offer a Lima-Cusco route: Transporte Flores Cruz del Sur Empresa Huari Ormeño is the recommended bus service if you want both comfort and security. They offer regular service in both Royal and Econo- Class.

Getting Around:

By Taxi:
Unlike in Lima, taxis are regulated in Cusco and charge standard rates. They do not have meters.

By Bus:
You are not likely to need a bus in the city itself, but if you are interested in traveling to towns in the Sacred Valley such as Pisac, Calca, and Urubamba, taking a bus is your best bet. They depart from small terminals on Calle Huáscar and Calle Intiqhawarina, off Tullumayo.

On Foot:
Cusco is best navigated by foot because so many of the sights are in walking distance of the Plaza de Armas. Be warned, however, that walking in this city is demanding due to the high elevation and steep climbs.

By Tranvia:
A tranvia is a vehicle designed to look like the traditional mule-pulled streetcars that once populated Cusco; today they transport visitors around the city for a modest sum. You will find most of them on the Plaza de Armas. (+51 084 962 0732)

By Train: The most popular means to visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley sights is by train. Reservations should be made at least a day in advance. PeruRail (+51 084 238 722 www.perurail.com)

By Car: Renting a car in the Cusco region is a more practical idea than in most parts of Peru.

By Motorcycle: Cuzco Rent a Harley (+51 084 249 248 www.cuzcorentaharley.com)
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