Cusco is best appreciated from above. The red-tiled rooftops, the towers of colonial churches, and the hills surrounding the valley create a scene that changes completely as the sun begins to set. Here are 8 viewpoints in Cusco for photographing the city at sunset, with directions and the best time to visit each one.
What Time Is Sunset in Cusco?
The sun sets in Cusco between 5:30 p.m. and 6:15 p.m., depending on the time of year. The best light for photos begins about 40 minutes earlier. From May to September, the skies are usually clear and the colors are more vibrant. From December to March, clouds may block the sun, although they sometimes create dramatic sunsets after the rain.
The city sits at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, so reaching several of these viewpoints involves climbing stairs or walking uphill. If you have just arrived, start with those closest to the city center and save the higher ones until you have acclimatized.
1. San Cristóbal Viewpoint
Located across from San Cristóbal Church, above the neighborhood of the same name, this viewpoint offers a direct view of the Plaza de Armas, including the Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. It is the most visited viewpoint and one of the best places to watch the sunset, as the light illuminates the facades of the buildings around the square from the side.
How to get there: From the Plaza de Armas, walk up Suecia Street and continue along the San Cristóbal slope. It takes about 15 minutes on foot, with an uphill climb.
2. San Blas Viewpoint
San Blas Square and the streets that climb behind it offer open views of the rooftops in Cusco’s historic center. The neighborhood is known for its artisan workshops, so you can combine photography with a visit to its shops and cafes.
How to get there: From the Plaza de Armas, take Triunfo Street and continue up the San Blas slope. It is about a 10-minute walk.
3. Tandapata Street
Tandapata is a pedestrian street in San Blas featuring stone stairways, water channels, and houses with wooden balconies. From its higher sections, you can see the city center framed by Inca walls. It is a quieter option than the main square and an excellent place to take photos with architectural details in the foreground.
How to get there: Head toward the right from the upper part of San Blas Square.
4. Santa Ana Viewpoint
Located next to Santa Ana Church, northwest of the city center, this viewpoint offers a different perspective of Cusco, with the Plaza de Armas in the distance and the southern hills behind it. It receives fewer visitors than San Cristóbal, making it ideal if you want to take photos without crowds.
How to get there: Walk from the Plaza de Armas along Saphi Street or up the Santa Ana slope. Allow approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Cristo Blanco (White Christ)
The Cristo Blanco statue stands on a hill overlooking the city, very close to Sacsayhuamán. From here, you get the widest view of the Cusco Valley, with the entire city stretching southward. At sunset, the city center is illuminated by the fading sunlight, and the lights of the surrounding neighborhoods gradually begin to turn on.
How to get there: You can walk uphill from San Cristóbal in about 30 to 40 minutes or take a taxi. For the return trip after dark, we recommend taking a taxi.
6. Sacsayhuamán
From the open areas and the Rodadero section of Sacsayhuamán, you can see Cusco with Inca stone walls in the foreground, a combination you will not find at any other viewpoint. A Cusco Tourist Ticket is required, and the site closes before nightfall, so the best lighting here is during the mid-to-late afternoon, shortly before closing.
If you prefer to explore the site with historical explanations, Sacsayhuamán is part of the Cusco City Tour, which also includes Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Qorikancha.
7. Temple of the Moon
Also known as Amaru Markawasi, this archaeological site is located in the hills behind Sacsayhuamán. Its carved rock formations and surrounding open fields provide a beautiful setting for landscape photography, with the city visible in the distance. Admission is free.
How to get there: You can reach the site by taxi or walk from Cristo Blanco in approximately one hour. Since it is farther from the city center, visit with someone and plan your return before dark.
8. Plaza de Armas Balconies
If you do not want to walk uphill, the second-floor balconies overlooking the Plaza de Armas offer excellent views of the Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. Many restaurants and cafes occupy these spaces, so you can enjoy the sunset with a hot drink and stay for dinner as the churches light up in the evening.
Tip: Arrive 30 to 40 minutes early to get a table near the balcony railing.
Tips for Photographing Cusco at Sunset
- Bring warm clothing: Temperatures drop quickly after sunset, especially between June and August.
- Stay after sunset: The 20 minutes following sunset, when the sky turns blue and the city lights come on, often provide the best photo opportunities.
- Keep your camera steady: In low light, a small tripod or resting your phone against a wall can help prevent blurry photos.
- Plan your return: At more distant viewpoints, such as Cristo Blanco or the Temple of the Moon, arrange a taxi from a reputable company for the trip back.
- Combine two viewpoints: You can visit San Blas and San Cristóbal on the same afternoon if you start early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Viewpoints in Cusco
What Is the Best Viewpoint in Cusco for Sunset?
San Cristóbal is the best all-around option because of its convenient location and views of the Plaza de Armas. If you want a wider panoramic view, Cristo Blanco offers a view of the entire city and valley.
Do You Have to Pay to Visit the Viewpoints?
Most viewpoints are free to visit. Sacsayhuamán is the exception, as it requires a Cusco Tourist Ticket.
Is It Safe to Visit the Viewpoints After Sunset?
Viewpoints near the city center, such as San Cristóbal, San Blas, and the Plaza de Armas, remain active into the evening. At more distant viewpoints, it is advisable to go with someone and return by taxi.
Which Viewpoint Do You Recommend if I Have Just Arrived in Cusco?
The balconies overlooking the Plaza de Armas or San Blas Square are good options. They require little physical effort and allow you to enjoy the views while your body adjusts to the altitude.
Which Months Offer the Best Sunsets?
From May to September, during the dry season, the skies are usually clear and the sunset colors tend to be more vibrant.
