Cusco, founded in 1100 A.D., was once the prosperous capital of the Inca Empire. Natives and also the visitors consider it the most impressive of all Peruvian cities for its history and notable mix of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture, together with the beauty of its landscape and the warmth of its people.

Cusco is perfectly located for students to get to know the highlights of Perú, since it's situated in the same region as the ruins of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. The city lies at a high altitude, so the weather can be cold at night and cool during the day. However, there's no reason to worry about the chilly temperatures; you can stay warm by looking up any number of markets that sell unique wool sweaters and other colorful textiles indigenous to Perú.

Within the city, you will find colonial buildings erected atop over the stone foundations of Inca temples, and churches and convents alongside the Temple of the Sun. All around you lay clear reminders of this former capital's rich past. Cusco is truly the perfect place to learn Spanish for those who want to acquire an all encompassing vision of Peruvian history and culture.