Cusco is beautiful at street level, but it takes on a whole new dimension from above. Climbing up to a viewpoint gets you a great panoramic photo, and it’s the ideal activity for your first day: walking slowly to a moderate height helps your body adjust to the altitude without wearing you out.
This is our list of the 5 viewpoints you can’t miss in the Imperial City.
1. San Blas viewpoint: the bohemian corner
The most romantic and popular viewpoint, in the famous artisans’ neighborhood.
- What it’s like. A short, steep walk from the Plaza de Armas takes you to this quiet spot. It’s perfect for having a coffee and looking down on the colonial architecture.
- Acclimatization tip. The climb is slow, but the view makes the break worth it. Take it easy.
2. Cristo Blanco: a 360° view near Sacsayhuamán
One of the most accessible and complete views, very close to the Sacsayhuamán fortress.
- What it’s like. A large white statue stands over the hill and offers a 360° panoramic view of the whole city. It’s the best place to grasp how big Cusco is.
- Tip. This viewpoint is one of the stops on the Cusco City Tour, which makes the visit much easier.
3. San Cristóbal viewpoint: for watching the sunrise
Next to the San Cristóbal church, this viewpoint overlooks the Plaza de Armas and the historic center.
- What it’s like. Thanks to its central position, it offers the best head-on view of the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral. It’s the ideal place to watch the sunrise, if you get up early.
- History tip. The church was built on top of the palace of the Inca Manco Cápac, which gives the place special historical weight.
4. Siete Culebras street (Seven Snakes)
It’s not a high viewpoint, but it’s a unique photo spot.
The street is famous for its Inca wall and its winding layout. The key spot is where the street meets the San Blas square, a great setting to practice street photography.
5. Plaza de Armas viewpoint
The main square isn’t on a hill, but the balcony of any second-floor café or restaurant around it has a spectacular view.
Order a drink at a second-floor café and you’ll get a comfortable, front-row view of daily life in Cusco, the Cathedral and the surrounding churches. It’s the most relaxed option for your first day of acclimatization.
Your trip starts with a good view
Cusco’s viewpoints are the perfect way to start your trip: they give you perspective, help with acclimatization and get you the best photos.
Want to see Cusco from every angle?
We’re a local agency in Cusco, registered with MINCETUR since 2003, with English-speaking guides. We run the Cusco City Tour, in the traditional format or on the Mirabus panoramic bus, ideal for your first days.