The Inca capital in the Andes
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, and its streets still run along Inca walls of perfectly fitted stone, topped by Spanish colonial churches. At about 3,400 metres, it's worth taking the first day slowly with a cup of coca tea. Explore the artisans' quarter of San Blas and the fortress of Sacsayhuamán, then use the city as a base for the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.