CuscovsLa Paz
Can't decide between Cusco and La Paz? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Cusco
Cusco was the heart of the Inca Empire and remains the gateway to Machu Picchu. This high-altitude city blends Incan ruins with Spanish colonial architecture, offering rich indigenous culture, vibrant markets, and access to Peru's most iconic sites.
Known for
La Paz
La Paz is the world's highest de facto capital, a dizzying city sprawling across a canyon at 3,640 meters. Its teleférico cable car network offers jaw-dropping views, while the Witches' Market, cholita wrestling, and Death Road make it one of South America's most unique cities.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Cusco offers Machu Picchu Day Trip, Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán
La Paz offers Valle de la Luna, Witches' Market, Mi Teleférico Cable Cars
Food & Dining
Cusco is famous for its local dining scene
La Paz is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cusco offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
La Paz offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to October
May to October
Weather
Summer: 18°C, Winter: 17°C
Summer: 15°C, Winter: 10°C
Top Attractions in Cusco
- 1Machu Picchu Day Trip
- 2Plaza de Armas
- 3Sacsayhuamán
- 4San Pedro Market
- 5Sacred Valley
- 6Rainbow Mountain
Top Attractions in La Paz
- 1Valle de la Luna
- 2Witches' Market
- 3Mi Teleférico Cable Cars
- 4San Francisco Church
- 5Death Road (day trip)
- 6Tiwanaku Ruins (day trip)
Cusco is Popular With
La Paz is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Cusco
- 1
Museo Inka
A lesser-visited museum housed in the Admiral's Palace, focusing exclusively on Inca culture and history.
- 2
Templo de la Luna (Moon Temple)
A small but spiritually significant Incan ceremonial site carved into a natural rock formation, located on the way to Sacsayhuamán.
Hidden Gems in La Paz
- 1
Museo de Instrumentos Musicales
A fascinating private museum founded by charango master Ernesto Cavour, showcasing over 2,500 musical instruments from Bolivia and around the world.
- 2
Killi Killi Mirador
A lesser-known viewpoint in the Villa Pabón area, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of La Paz sprawling in its canyon and the surrounding mountains.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Cusco
Historic Center (Around Plaza de Armas)
The bustling, tourist-friendly heart of Cusco, centered on the magnificent main square.
San Blas
A charming, bohemian district perched on a steep hillside northeast of the Plaza de Armas.
Top Areas in La Paz
Casco Viejo (Historic Center)
The bustling, historic heart of La Paz, centered around Plaza Murillo.
Sopocachi
A bohemian, residential neighborhood popular with artists, students, and expats.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Cusco
Budget in La Paz
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cusco
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Book Activities in La Paz
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Cusco
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Find cheap transport to La Paz
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Our Verdict
Both Cusco and La Paz are incredible destinations. Cusco excels in Machu Picchu and Incan ruins, while La Paz stands out for highest capital and Death Road.
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