Cusco has once again captured the hearts of travelers from around the world, earning the prestigious title in the World’s Best Awards 2026 and reaffirming its reputation as the Best City in South America. Recognized by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026, Cusco continues to stand out as one of the world’s most extraordinary travel destinations, attracting visitors with its rich Inca heritage, breathtaking Andean landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable hospitality.

For anyone planning to visit Cusco, Peru, Machu Picchu, or the Sacred Valley, this international recognition confirms what millions of travelers have experienced firsthand: Cusco is one of the best places to visit in South America and an essential destination for every Peru travel itinerary.

Travel and Leisure Cusco 2026: Four Years of Absolute Dominance

For the fourth consecutive year, Cusco has secured the top position in the prestigious Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, demonstrating its continued excellence as a global tourism destination. In the latest Travel + Leisure Cusco 2026 rankings, the city achieved an impressive score of 88.05, surpassing renowned destinations including Bogotá (87.97), Mendoza (87.46), and Antigua Guatemala.

This remarkable achievement reflects more than just beautiful scenery. Visitors consistently praise Cusco for its outstanding hospitality, exceptional culinary experiences, well-preserved archaeological sites, luxury and boutique accommodations, and seamless blend of ancient traditions with modern tourism.

As the historic capital of the Inca Empire and the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco continues to set the standard for cultural tourism, adventure travel, and sustainable experiences in South America.

Top 5 Cities in Central and South America – Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards

Why Cusco is Voted the Best City in Central and South America

Travelers consistently recognize Cusco as the Best City in South America 2026 because it offers an experience unlike anywhere else on Earth. Its unique combination of history, living culture, spectacular mountain scenery, and authentic local traditions creates unforgettable memories for visitors from every corner of the globe.

Walking through Cusco means exploring centuries-old cobblestone streets, colonial architecture built upon perfectly crafted Inca foundations, vibrant artisan markets, colorful festivals, and lively plazas filled with music and culture.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Cusco serves as the starting point for some of Peru’s most iconic adventures, including the Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, and, of course, the legendary Machu Picchu.

This extraordinary diversity makes Cusco one of the best destinations for travelers interested in history, archaeology, trekking, gastronomy, photography, wellness, and cultural immersion.

A culinary Revolution: Native Ingredients and Signature Cocktails

Cusco has become one of Peru’s most exciting gastronomic destinations, leading a culinary revolution that celebrates traditional Andean ingredients while embracing contemporary culinary innovation.

Award-winning restaurants combine native products such as quinoa, giant white corn, native potatoes, alpaca, trout, cacao, and Amazonian fruits with modern cooking techniques to create unforgettable dining experiences.

Visitors can enjoy everything from bustling traditional markets like San Pedro Market to elegant fine-dining restaurants, boutique cafés, rooftop bars, and award-winning cocktail lounges serving creative drinks inspired by local herbs, fruits, and pisco.

For food lovers exploring Peru, Cusco offers one of the country’s richest culinary scenes, making it an essential destination for gastronomic tourism.

Top Things to Do in Cusco Beyond Machu Picchu

While Machu Picchu remains Peru’s most famous attraction, there are countless things to do in Cusco beyond Machu Picchu. In fact, many travelers discover that extending their stay allows them to experience the true cultural richness of the region.

Some of the best experiences include:

• Exploring the archaeological wonders of Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara.
• Visiting traditional weaving communities in Chinchero.
• Discovering the agricultural terraces of Moray and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
• Shopping in vibrant artisan markets.
• Participating in Andean cultural ceremonies.
• Hiking world-famous trekking routes through the Peruvian Andes.
• Experiencing authentic local festivals throughout the year.

Whether you seek adventure, history, gastronomy, or cultural immersion, Cusco offers experiences that go far beyond a visit to Machu Picchu.

Sacred Landscapes and Hiking Routes: Palccoyo, Pisac and Ollantaytambo

For travelers looking to explore beyond the traditional tourist circuit, Cusco offers some of the most spectacular natural and archaeological landscapes in South America.

Discover the colorful mountain formations of Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, an excellent alternative to Vinicunca with fewer crowds and breathtaking panoramic views.

Explore the magnificent Inca archaeological complex of Pisac, famous for its impressive agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and vibrant artisan market.

Visit Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns, where original stone streets, water channels, and ancient architecture continue to be part of everyday life. This remarkable destination also serves as the gateway to the Inca Trailand many train journeys to Machu Picchu.

These extraordinary sites showcase the incredible engineering, spirituality, and connection to nature that made the Inca civilization one of the world’s greatest cultures.

Experience the World’s Best City with Wayki Trek

To truly experience the World’s Best City according to the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026, choosing a knowledgeable local operator makes all the difference.

At Wayki Trek, we specialize in creating authentic, sustainable, and personalized adventures throughout Cusco,Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Machu Picchu, and Peru’s most iconic tours.

Our small groups of only 4 to 6 travelers allow us to provide personalized attention, deeper cultural connections, greater flexibility, and a safer, more meaningful experience in the Andes.

Whether you’re planning to hike the Classic Inca Trail and the different alternative trek to Machupicchu , explore the Sacred Valley, discover hidden archaeological sites, or immerse yourself in authentic Andean communities, our experienced local guides help you experience the very best of Cusco beyond the typical tourist routes.

Come discover why Cusco, Peru continues to be recognized as the Best City in South America, and let Wayki Trek help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tours where you’ll discover Peru, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and more:

Sacred Valley Tour: Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas and its secrets. See more.

Acclimatization Package: 3 Days of culture, nature and history to acclimatize before a hike. See more.

Cusco City Tour: Discover the archaeological sites and history that Cusco has to offer. See more.

Salkantay Trek 5 Days: Encounter the majestic glacier on your way to Machu Picchu. See more.

Machu Picchu Full Day: Perfect if you have little time to experience this wonder. See more.

We hope that this article helped you plan your trip to Peru, if you have any questions just contact us!

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