Complete Guide to Traveling to Cusco 2025: Tours, Prices, and Tips

If you are planning a trip to Cusco in 2025, this guide is for you. The ancient capital of the Inca Empire remains the most visited destination in Peru thanks to its cultural richness, mountainous landscapes, and proximity to wonders like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Here you will find information on recommended tours, updated prices, practical advice, and travel tips to make your experience safer, more enjoyable, and unforgettable.

Why Travel to Cusco in 2025?

Cusco is more than a tourist destination; it’s a journey back in time. In 2025, the city expects millions of travelers seeking the perfect mix of history, adventure, and culture. Unlike previous years, tourism in Cusco has modernized: new routes, better access control at Machu Picchu, and more sustainable options for travelers who want to enjoy responsibly.

Cusco combines Spanish colonial architecture with Inca ruins, offering a unique experience for those who want to learn about Peru’s history while enjoying breathtaking scenery. The city also offers a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and artisan markets where you can taste local cuisine and buy handmade souvenirs.

What’s New in Cusco Tourism 2025

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture has implemented improvements at archaeological sites, including digital tickets and better-organized schedules to avoid crowds. This ensures your visit is more comfortable and safe. Local tour operators are also offering personalized experiences, such as:

• Private walks through archaeological sites.
• Cultural activities in Andean communities.
• Gastronomic tours highlighting the fusion of Andean flavors with modern Peruvian cuisine.
• Handicraft and weaving workshops in Sacred Valley towns.

Events and Festivals in 2025

If you travel in June, you can experience the  Inti Raymi Festival, the most important celebration of the year in Cusco, honoring the Sun God. Other notable events include:

• Holy Week, with unique religious processions and celebrations.
• Corpus Christi, combining Catholic rituals with Andean traditions.
• Local festivals in Sacred Valley towns, featuring traditional dances, music, and cuisine.

Visiting during these dates allows you to experience Cusco at its cultural peak, interacting with locals and travelers from around the world.

Must-Do Tours in Cusco 2025

There are dozens of options, but here are the top recommended tours to make the most of your trip:

1. Machu Picchu Tour

The Machu Picchu tour  remains the number one experience in Peru. For 2025, average prices range from $250 to $450 USD from Cusco, prices change depending on the season and the type of service.. If you choose the Inca Trail or alternative treks like Salkantay or Lares, plan for a budget of $500 to $700 USD for a 4-day adventure.

Extra tip: Book your tickets and train in advance to secure availability, especially during the high season (June-August).

2. Sacred Valley Tour

This circuit includes visits to Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Prices range from $25 to $40 USD per person for group tours. It’s an excellent way to acclimatize before visiting Machu Picchu, as the landscapes are at a lower altitude.

Recommended activities

• Explore artisan markets to buy textiles and ceramics.
• Visit lesser-known Inca ruins in the area.
• Participate in Andean cooking workshops and local tastings.

3. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

One of the most popular destinations in recent years. The tour costs an average of $30 to $45 USD and includes transportation, breakfast, and lunch. In 2025, booking in advance is recommended due to daily visitor limits to protect the ecosystem.

Tip: Wear layered clothing, sunscreen, and bring trekking poles. The hike can be challenging, but the multicolored landscape is unforgettable.

4. Alternative Treks: Lares and Salkantay

For those seeking adventure and fewer crowds, the Lares and Salkantay treks offer spectacular routes to Machu Picchu.

• Lares Trek: connects Andean villages and allows interaction with local communities.
• Salkantay Trek: features high mountain landscapes and glacial lagoons.

Duration: 3 to 5 days | Approximate cost: $400 to $700 USD per person | Extra tip: Requires good physical condition and prior altitude acclimatization.

5. Cusco City Tour

This tour allows you to explore Cusco’s main historical attractions:

• Cusco Cathedral
• Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha)
• Nearby ruins: Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay

Duration: half day | Price: $25 USD per person

Ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive cultural and architectural introduction.

Practical Tips for Traveling to Cusco in 2025

How to Acclimatize to the Altitude

Cusco is over 10,800 ft (3,300 m) above sea level, which means altitude sickness can affect visitors. We recommend:

• Resting on the first day and avoiding intense physical activity.
• Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks.
• Drinking coca tea or taking altitude medication if recommended by a doctor.
• Avoiding alcohol and heavy meals for the first 24 hours.

Best Time to Visit Cusco

The dry season (April to October) is ideal for walks, trekking, and cultural tours. The rainy season (November to March) offers greener landscapes and fewer tourists, but some routes may be closed.

Extra Tips

• Buy your Machu Picchu tickets at least 3 months in advance.
• Book trains on PeruRail or IncaRail ahead of time.
• Always carry sunscreen, layered clothing, and water.
• Choose certified local agencies like Aremika Travel for safety and authenticity.

Gastronomy and Cultural Experiences

Don’t forget to try Cusco’s typical cuisine:

• Andean ceviche
• Pachamanca (traditional food cooked underground)
• Chicha de jora (fermented corn drink)

Participating in cooking workshops or tastings enriches your experience and helps you better understand Andean culture.

Safety and Health Recommendations

• Use high SPF sunscreen and a hat.
• Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for walking.
• Keep personal belongings safe, especially in crowded markets.
• Always book tours with certified guides and insurance.

Conclusion

Visiting Cusco in 2025 is a unique opportunity to explore one of the most fascinating cultures in the world. With the right information about tours, prices, gastronomy, festivals, and practical advice, your experience will be more enriching and safe. Traveling with reliable operators like Aremika Travel ensures a secure, authentic, and unforgettable journey.

Ready for your adventure? Explore our Cusco tours and live an experience combining history, nature, and Andean culture.