Geography and weather

Cusco geography and weather

Cusco Geography and Weather

Geography of Cusco

Cusco is located in southeastern Peru, high in the Andes Mountains. The city sits at an altitude of about 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, it lies in a valley surrounded by rugged mountains and scenic highlands.

The region features diverse landscapes, including:

Mountain ranges like the Vilcanota and Vilcabamba.
River valleys such as the Sacred Valley, carved by the Urubamba River.
High-altitude plains, forests, and glacial lakes.

Cusco is the gateway to many iconic destinations, including Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Ausangate, and the jungle of Manu National Park.

Weather in Cusco

Cusco has a highland subtropical climate, with two main seasons:

Dry Season (May to September)

Best time to visit
Sunny days and cold nights
Temperatures: 0°C (32°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day
Ideal for trekking and sightseeing

Rainy Season (October to April)

Frequent showers, especially from January to March
Mornings can be clear, but afternoons often bring rain
Temperatures: Mild, with more cloud cover
The landscape is greener, but some trails (like the Inca Trail) may close temporarily