Cusco is the best city in Central and South America according to Travel + Leisure
Cusco is once again standing out in the global tourism sector. Traditional markets, signature cocktail bars, and hiking trails connecting to Andean landscapes are among the attractions that readers of the renowned American magazine Travel + Leisure highlight about Cusco. Thanks to this, the imperial city was named, for the fourth consecutive year, the Best City in Central and South America at the World’s Best Awards 2025, as reported by the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Export and Tourism (PROMPERÚ).
This award is based on the annual survey conducted by Travel + Leisure, in which thousands of travelers around the world rate their experiences in different destinations, taking into account factors such as tourist attractions, cuisine, culture, quality of hospitality, shopping, and variety of tourism offerings.
With an outstanding score, Cusco took first place in the regional ranking. In its article, the publication notes that the Peruvian city is not only the gateway to the Andes, but also charms visitors with its signature cocktail bars and markets full of authentic character.
It’s worth noting that Cusco ranks among Peru’s most visited destinations, and in addition to Machu Picchu, it offers a wide diversity of experiences. Among the standouts are trekking routes, tours to archaeological sites, and natural settings such as Palccoyo, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo. Adding to this is a prestigious culinary scene that combines native ingredients and Andean traditions with contemporary cuisine offerings.
Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards are among the most trusted surveys in the tourism industry. In the annual vote, readers choose their favorite experiences in categories such as cities, hotels, airlines, islands, and tour operators. The results of this year’s edition have already been published on the magazine’s website and will also be included in its August print edition.