Gateway to some of the most spiritual and mesmorising locations on the planet, and capital of the Inca empire once upon a time, Cusco is a small yet bustling city that is well worth exploring before or after a hike or trek. Its focal point is the beautiful Plaza de Armas, and off this run a series of cobbled streets and lanes peppered with restaurants, tour companies and shops selling tourist kitsch. It's elevation can get to some people (it's approximately 3,300 feet above sea level), as can the number of bars and nightclubs - this is a party town and leaving may not be the easiest thing to do. While many who stop here only do so for a night before heading off on a big adventure, those who settle for that little bit longer always look back on their time in Cusco fondly. Join them in that club and you'll look back fondly too.
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