Close your eyes and imagine this: you’re standing in a centuries-old courtyard, the golden light of the Andean sun casting a warm glow over the ancient Incan stones. The air is crisp, carrying the sound of a traditional Andean flute. Your partner’s eyes reflect the excitement of the moment, as a local shaman blesses your union with sacred coca leaves.
Welcome to Cusco—where history, romance, and breathtaking landscapes come together for a wedding like no other.
Why Cusco is the Ultimate Wedding Destination
Cusco isn’t just a city; it’s a portal to another world. Nestled in the Peruvian Andes at over 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage city blends Spanish colonial charm with the mystical legacy of the Incas.
What makes Cusco a top choice for weddings?
- Unparalleled historical venues, from luxurious colonial palaces to ancient Incan temples.
- Breathtaking natural scenery—think snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and golden sunsets.
- Rich cultural traditions, allowing for a truly unique Andean wedding experience.
Best Wedding Venues in Cusco
Whether you want an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, Cusco offers stunning locations for your “I do.”
1. Palacio del Inka – Luxury with a Historic Touch
🏛️ Where Spanish colonial charm meets Incan heritage
Located in the heart of Cusco, this 500-year-old palace-turned-hotel offers dramatic stone walls, elegant ballrooms, and a stunning courtyard for your ceremony.
🔗 More about Palacio del Inka
2. Belmond Palacio Nazarenas – For a Fairytale Wedding
💎 A hidden oasis of romance and exclusivity
Once a convent, now a luxurious boutique hotel, this venue boasts colonial courtyards, ancient frescoes, and world-class service.
🔗 More about Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
3. An Andean Mountain Wedding – Saying ‘I Do’ in Nature
🏔️ For the adventurous souls
For a truly unique experience, exchange vows at an outdoor ceremony overlooking the Sacred Valley or even at the base of Machu Picchu. Some travel agencies offer wedding packages in breathtaking locations.
🔗 Check out wedding packages in the Andes
Andean Wedding Traditions – A Spiritual Experience
If you want more than just a ceremony, immerse yourself in the ancient Andean wedding traditions:
💫 A shaman-led blessing – Experience a traditional Kasaracuy ritual, where an Andean priest offers prayers to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
🍃 Coca leaf readings – Symbolizing prosperity and love, these readings add a mystical touch to your special day.
🔥 Sacred fire ceremony – Couples write their intentions and burn them in a ritual that seals their commitment.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Cusco
Before you run off to say “sí, acepto,” let’s talk paperwork. Here’s what you’ll need:
✅ Passports (valid for at least six months)
✅ Birth certificates (officially translated into Spanish)
✅ Affidavit of Freedom to Marry (Certificado Consular de Soltería)
✅ Two witnesses (with valid ID)
✅ Divorce/death certificates (if applicable)
For official details, check with the Peruvian government or consult your country’s embassy.
Planning Tips for a Perfect Cusco Wedding
🌄 Altitude matters – Cusco is at high altitude! Arrive a few days early to acclimate.
📅 Best time to marry – Dry season (May–October) offers clear skies and stunning sunsets.
📷 Capture every moment – You’ll want a photographer who knows how to play with Cusco’s dramatic light. (Hint: I know a guy 😉)
Capture Your Love Story with a Destination Wedding Photographer
Weddings in Cusco are magical, but capturing that magic requires the right eye. This is where I come in—I’m Serg, the photographer behind Your Happy Moments.
I specialize in destination weddings, blending storytelling with a creative, documentary approach. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a historic palace or under the vast Andean sky, I’ll be there to preserve every breathtaking moment.
✨ Explore wedding photography packages: https://www.yourhappymoments.net/investment/
📩 Let’s plan your dream wedding shoot: https://www.yourhappymoments.net/contact/
Final Thought: Cusco, the Wedding of a Lifetime
If you’re dreaming of a wedding filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes, Cusco is calling. Whether you choose a grand historic venue or a sacred mountain ceremony, your love story deserves to be as timeless as the city itself.
So, are you ready to say “I do” in the heart of the Incan Empire? 💍✨