Cuzco-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive in Cusco, Peru’s ancient capital city
  • Check-in at Hotel Picoaga, a cozy hotel with traditional Andean architecture
  • Take some time to acclimate to the high altitude (3,400 meters above sea level)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco, surrounded by historic buildings and churches
  • Explore the nearby Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace selling local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs
  • Try some traditional Peruvian cuisine at La Estación restaurant

Evening

  • Take a stroll around the city to get familiar with its narrow streets and Inca architecture
  • Enjoy dinner at Uchu Perú, serving modern Andean cuisine

Things to Know

  • Cusco is at high altitude, so take it easy on your first day and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
  • The city has a rich cultural heritage, be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Transportation

  • From the airport, take a taxi (around 20-30 minutes, $10-15) or book a private transfer with your hotel
  • Within the city, walk or take a taxi (around $5-10)

Day 2: Cusco’s History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress with stunning views of the city
  • Explore the Qoricancha Temple, a former Inca temple dedicated to the sun god
  • Learn about Cusco’s history at the Museo de Arte Precolombino

Afternoon

  • Wander through the charming streets of San Blas, a historic neighborhood with many art galleries and craft shops
  • Visit the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, a beautiful church built on top of an Inca temple
  • Enjoy lunch at Green Point, serving healthy and organic food

Evening

Tips

  • Buy a Boleto Turístico, a tourist ticket that grants access to many historical sites and museums
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with sun, rain, and cold temperatures possible at any time of the year

Transportation

  • Use taxis or walking tours to get around the city
  • Consider booking a guided tour to explore Cusco’s history and culture in depth

Day 3: Sacred Valley of the Incas

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a scenic valley surrounded by Andean mountains
  • Visit the Pisac Market, a bustling marketplace selling local handicrafts and textiles
  • Explore the ancient Inca ruins of Pisac

Afternoon

  • Stop at the Urubamba River for lunch and enjoy the stunning views
  • Visit the Ollantaytambo Fortress, an impressive Inca temple and fortress
  • Return to Cusco in the evening

Evening

  • Dine at Los Tres Gatos, serving traditional Peruvian cuisine
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife

Things to Know

  • The Sacred Valley is at lower altitude than Cusco, but still take necessary precautions against altitude sickness.
  • Be respectful of local communities and ancient ruins.

Transportation

  • Book a guided tour or private transportation for the day trip (around $50-100 per person)
  • Consider staying overnight in the Sacred Valley to explore more of its attractions

Day 4: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning

  • Take a morning hike to the nearby Tambomachay, an ancient Inca water temple
  • Alternatively, book a horseback riding tour to explore the surrounding countryside

Afternoon

  • Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at Spa Qhapaq, offering massages and Andean-inspired treatments
  • Visit the Cusco Craft Beer Factory, a local brewery with tastings and tours

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Linterna, serving gourmet Peruvian cuisine
  • Explore the city’s nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from

Tips

  • Book your hike or horseback riding tour in advance to ensure availability
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers adventure activities

Transportation

  • Use taxis or walking tours to get around the city
  • Book a guided tour for the morning hike or horseback riding activity

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit the Cusco Coffee Factory, a local coffee roastery with tastings and tours

Afternoon

  • Depart from Cusco, bringing back memories of this incredible city
  • Head to the airport (around 20-30 minutes, $10-15) for your onward journey

Things to Know

  • Check with your airline for any specific requirements or restrictions on flights out of Cusco.
  • Leave some extra time for security checks and potential flight delays.

Transportation

  • Book a private transfer with your hotel (around $10-15) or take a taxi to the airport
  • Consider booking a morning flight to avoid potential afternoon delays