Cusco is very popular due to being the ancient capital of the Inca empire, also for being located very close to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley and of course for its beautiful colonial architecture. But this city has much more to offer and in this post we are going to recommend the best viewpoints in Cusco. These places offer amazing views so you can enjoy the city from above.
1. Mirador de Santa Ana
This is a viewpoint with a spectacular view of Cusco. Mirador de Santa Ana is located north of the city, about a 20-minute walk from the main square of Cusco. Keep in mind that it is all uphill and the 3,400 meters above sea level take their toll so taking a taxi and walking down may not be a bad idea.
From this viewpoint you can see the main square, the ascent to the Cristo Blanco and the view of the snowy Ausangate on a clear day. Take advantage of your visit to this viewpoint and take some photos at the Arco de Santa Ana that is located on the Santa Ana highway which connects the viewpoint with the center of the City.
2. Mirador de San Cristobal
Mirador de San Cristobal is a viewpoint near the main square with beautiful views of Cusco city. It can be reached in just 10 minutes on foot from the center of the main square of Cusco through Cuesta Suecia and Don Bosco street. You can take advantage of the fact that you are at this viewpoint to visit the church of San Cristobal, and even climb its bell tower to have an even better view of the city.
Whether going down or going up, it goes through Calle Resbalosa, you’re going to love it. It is a small cobbled street with white houses, colorful flowers and beautiful views.
3. Mirador del Cristo Blanco
Located near the archaeological center of Sacsayhuaman, this viewpoint can be reached by public transport from Puente Rosario street for only 1 sol. It can also be reached by walking in 30 minutes from the main square, although we do not recommend this option because there is a lot of ascent and it passes through areas that could be dangerous for a tourist. If you go by taxi it should be around 15 soles.
This viewpoint has the best panoramic view of the entire city and is crowned by a huge white Christ reminiscent of Brazil’s Christ the Redeemer. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of the fact that this is a very touristy point to approach with goats and llamas and charge to take a photo with them. We ask and encourage you not to participate in these types of activities that involve animal exploitation. Yes, it is a way of making a living, but in Peru you will see a lot of people making a living in different and ingenious ways without using animals.
4. Mirador del Inca Pachacutec
If you have bought the Cusco tourist ticket you can visit this curious viewpoint located on top of a monument. If you are in the area take advantage of that and visit this place, it is beautiful. The oval of Pachacutec is located in the south of the city. It is a stone tower that supports a bronze statue. Inside this tower there is a museum and on the top floor is the viewpoint.
5. Mirador de San Blas
In this viewpoint located in the San Blas neighborhood you will have privileged views of the main square and a large number of churches in Cusco. To get there you will have to walk about 12 minutes from the main square. Personally, we liked the views from Kiskapata street (which you go up) more than from the viewpoint itself because there is a giant protective glass that spoils the magic of the viewpoint a bit.
In the surroundings of the viewpoint there are many bars and restaurants with views where you can make a technical stop or enjoy a dinner with views of the sunset.