Inca Trail, Machu Picchu Tours, Peru Tours

Population: 348,935 (2007)
Area: 70,015.3 km2 (27,033 sq mi)
Elevation: 3,310 m (10,860 ft)

Cuzco is nestled in the Huatanay river valley high in the Andes mountain range at a whopping 3,300 meters (10,800 ft). It is surrounded by rough and rocky mountainous terrain and is close to the Urabamba Valley, or the Sacered Valley, which was an important center of agriculture for the Incas. To fully appreciate the surrounding geography of Cusco, taking a flight into the city gives absolutely jaw-dropping views of the snow capped Ausangate and Salkantay mountains along with the entire Andes range stretching far to the North; make sure to sit on the side of the plane with north facing windows in order to catch this unforgettable picture of Cuzco’s geography. Buses to the city also give spectacular views.