Cusco Peru 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive in Cusco, the old Inca capital city
  • Check-in at Picoaga Hotel or similar, located in the historic center
  • Spend the morning exploring the nearby streets and getting accustomed to the high altitude (3,400m)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco, surrounded by colonial buildings and Inca stonework
  • Explore the Cusco Cathedral, a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture
  • Wander around the San Blas neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, souvenir shops, and local restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Llucha, serving traditional Peruvian cuisine
  • Try some coca tea or muña tea to help with altitude sickness

Tips and Things to Know

  • Drink plenty of water and take it easy on the first day due to high altitude
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with sun, rain, and cold temperatures

Day 2: Sacsayhuamán and Tambomachay

Morning

  • Take a taxi or bus (S/ 1) to Sacsayhuamán, an Inca fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco
  • Explore the ruins, taking in the stunning views of the city

Afternoon

  • Visit Tambomachay, an ancient Inca water temple and aqueduct system
  • Return to Cusco and explore the Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace selling local goods

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Uchu, serving modern Peruvian cuisine
  • Consider booking a Sacsayhuamán and Tambomachay tour (around S/ 80) for a guided experience

Transportation

  • Taxi fare from Cusco to Sacsayhuamán: S/ 20-30
  • Bus fare from Cusco to Sacsayhuamán: S/ 1

Day 3: Sacred Valley

Morning

  • Take a Sacred Valley tour (around S/ 120) or book a private car and driver for the day
  • Visit Pisac, a traditional Andean town with a bustling market and stunning views of the valley

Afternoon

  • Explore Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress and temple complex, with optional hike to the top (around 2 hours)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at El Tunante, serving traditional Andean cuisine
  • Return to Cusco in the evening, around 8 pm

Tips and Things to Know

  • The Sacred Valley tour may include lunch and entrance fees, but check with your operator
  • Be prepared for a long day of travel and sightseeing

Day 4: Machu Picchu

Morning

  • Take an early train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (around S/ 150-200 return)
  • Explore the town, visit the Machu Picchu Museum, or take a hike to the nearby waterfall

Afternoon

  • Visit Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and an iconic Inca citadel
  • Take your time exploring the ruins, with optional guided tours (around S/ 100-150)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Indigo, serving international cuisine
  • Spend the night in Aguas Calientes, with many accommodation options available

Tips and Things to Know

  • Book your Machu Picchu tickets (around S/ 150) and train tickets in advance to avoid sold-out situations
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at Machu Picchu

Day 5: Return to Cusco

Morning

  • Spend the morning exploring Aguas Calientes or visiting Machu Picchu again
  • Take the train back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon

Afternoon

  • Visit the Qorikancha, a 16th-century Inca temple and one of the most important archaeological sites in Peru
  • Explore the nearby San Pedro Market, selling local goods and souvenirs

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Central, serving modern Peruvian cuisine
  • Celebrate your last night in Cusco with a traditional Andean music and dance show (around S/ 50)

Tips and Things to Know

  • Book your train tickets back to Cusco in advance to avoid sold-out situations
  • Consider booking a private transfer from the train station to your hotel (around S/ 20-30)

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring Cusco’s streets
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure flight

Transportation

  • Taxi fare from Cusco city center to the airport: S/ 20-30

Other Tips and Things to Know

  • Altitude sickness: drink plenty of water, take it easy on the first day, and consider taking Diamox (around S/ 10) if you’re prone to altitude sickness
  • Currency: Peruvian Sol (S/) is the local currency, but USD is widely accepted
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas
  • Safety: take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, especially in crowded areas and at night
  • Responsible Tourism: be respectful of local customs, environment, and communities, and consider booking tours with responsible operators

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and adventure, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Cusco!