Cuzco 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Ancient Heart of Cuzco

This itinerary assumes you’re arriving in Cusco with a day for acclimatization before exploring.

Day 1: Acclimatize and Immerse Yourself in History

  • Morning: Arrive in Cusco, relax and adjust to the altitude.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal at Pachapapa, known for its delicious “picarones” (sweet fried pumpkin doughnuts) and “cuy” (guinea pig).
  • Afternoon:
    • Wander through the Plaza de Armas: The vibrant heart of Cusco, explore the surrounding historic buildings like the Cathedral and the Jesuit Church.
    • Visit the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun): This impressive Inca temple, now a Catholic church, showcases the fusion of ancient cultures and architecture.

Things to know:

  • Altitude: Cuzco is located at 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. Take it easy on your first day and drink plenty of coca tea (helps with altitude sickness)
  • Currency: The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN).

Accommodation: Check into a hotel in the San Blas neighborhood. Its cobblestone streets and charming colonial architecture are a big draw for tourists.

  • Recommended Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cusco - A comfortable and well-located hotel with good reviews, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Things to do:

  • Stroll through the narrow streets of San Blas, known for its artisan shops, cafes, and stunning views.
  • Explore the San Blas neighborhood’s artisanal heart:
    • Wander the cobblestone streets: Wander through the charming alleys and discover the hidden treasures of San Blas.

Things to know: Cacao beans are a popular souvenir in Cusco.

Food & Drink:

  • Dinner: Pachapapa is highly recommended for its delicious Peruvian cuisine with a focus on traditional ingredients and dishes.
  • Drinks: Try a local brew like chicha (made from corn) or enjoy the vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene of Cusco.

Food & Drink Recommendations:

  • Pachapapa: For authentic and tasty “cuy” (a Peruvian delicacy) and “picarones” (sweet fried pastries with a sweet potato base).
  • Cicciolina: A popular spot for cocktails and Italian-inspired cuisine.

Day 2: The Sacred Valley & Incan History

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Explore the ancient ruins, learn about the Inca’s history, and experience the stunning beauty of the Andean landscape.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Pisac Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this traditional market, known for its vibrant textiles and handicrafts.

Things to do (continued):

  • Explore Ollantaytambo: Visit the impressive Incan fortress and learn about its history as a religious and administrative center.
  • Enjoy a traditional Pachamanca meal: This is an ancient Andean method of cooking food in an underground oven, and you can find restaurants like Pachapapa (perhaps you’ll see a pattern here?) that offer this unique culinary experience.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins: Wander through the ancient streets and plazas, and imagine the bustling life that once filled them.

Food & Drink:

  • Chicha: Enjoy the traditional fermented beverage made from purple corn at La Cueva del Chinchon.
  • Lunch: Sample a variety of local dishes and delicacies at the various markets in the Sacred Valley, such as the ones in:
    • Ollantaytambo: A delicious lunch with a view!

Things to know (continued):

  • Altitude sickness: Be aware that some areas of the valley are high in altitude, so it’s important to acclimatize gradually.

  • Cacao tea: Enjoy the traditional “mate de coca” at local markets or cafes.

Accommodation: Stay in a charming hotel or guesthouse in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

  • Visit a local coffee plantation: Experience the journey from bean to cup and savor the unique flavors of Peruvian coffee.

Food & Drink (continued):

  • Enjoy a traditional “Pachapapa”: This is a great place to experience this.

Day 3: Machu Picchu - The Lost City

  • Take the train to Aguas Calientes:
    • Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andes as you travel on the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy lunch at a restaurant overlooking the ruins, like Indio Feliz Restaurant, which offers traditional Peruvian cuisine and stunning views.

Things to do:

  • Explore Machu Picchu:
    • Guided tour: Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this ancient Inca citadel.
  • Hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain:
    • Enjoy a traditional meal with a view.
  • Visit a nearby village: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a traditional market, trying some delicious Peruvian food, and interacting with friendly artisans.

Things to do (continued):

  • Enjoy a traditional “Pachapapa”: This is a must-do activity.
  • Learn about the history of coffee in Peru: Visit the

Other things to try:

  • Try “alpaca steak”, a popular dish in the region.
  • Visit Machu Picchu’s “Inti Punku” (Sun Gate) for breathtaking views of the Inca ruins.

Things to remember:

  • Book your train tickets in advance: The journey to Machu Picchu is a highlight, so secure your spot with a booking beforehand.
  • Pack light and layer: The weather in the Andes can change quickly.
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen: Mosquitoes and strong sun can be an issue.

Aguas Calientes

  • Visit the Inca ruins of “Inti Punku”, also known as the Sun Gate, a popular hike for travelers visiting Machu Picchu.
  • Enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal with a view:

Things to remember:

  • Pack light and bring sunscreen: Remember that the sun is strong at these altitudes.

Food & Drink (continued):

  • Embrace the local culture: Visit the markets and try some of the local delicacies.
  • Stay hydrated: The high altitude can dehydrate you, so drink plenty of water and coca tea throughout your trip.

Stay at a hotel with a view:

  • Explore Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes): This charming village is nestled in the cloud forest and offers stunning views of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Mountain.
  • Consider the “Aguas Calientes” hot springs:
    • Machu Picchu

Enjoy traditional “cuy” (roasted guinea pig) at a local restaurant.

Day 1: Explore the Sacred Valley:

  • **Aguas

Important Considerations:

  • Altitude: Machu Picchu is located at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet). Be sure to acclimatize to the altitude before your trip.
  • Weather: The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable. Pack layers of clothing and a waterproof jacket.
  • Train Tickets:

Things to know (continued):

  • Consider the train schedule:

Food & Drink (continued):

  • Enjoy traditional “chicha” at local restaurants:

Stay tuned for more details on your itinerary:

  • Experience the magic of Machu Picchu: This experience is best enjoyed when you are acclimated. Enjoy the local food stalls and markets in the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can savor authentic Peruvian dishes like ceviche (a marinated seafood dish) or “lomo saltado” (stir-fried beef with onions and tomatoes)

Things to consider:

  • Pack for Altitude Sickness:

To make your trip even more magical:

  • Consider packing coca candies, coca tea, and plenty of water:

Enjoy the beauty of the Sacred Valley.

  • Visit Machu Picchu’s ruins: Pack a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
  • Choose your adventure:

Think about exploring the Inca Trail on foot.

Things to do (continued):

  • Enjoy the local cuisine: Be sure to visit the local restaurants in the town of Aguas Calientes.

  • Try “alpaca steak” and other local delicacies: It’s a unique culinary experience and a good way to try something different.

Day 2: Enjoy the beauty of Machu Picchu.

  • Book your train tickets early: You can find them at the Ollantaytambo train station, which is located near the town of Aguas Calientes.

Things to do (continued) & Coffee:

  • Enjoy the local coffee culture: Visit a local coffee plantation and experience the process firsthand.
    • Taste the local “chicciolina”: You can find it in many restaurants along with traditional Peruvian dishes.

Enjoy the town of Aguas Calientes:

  • Try “Pachamama”, a traditional Peruvian dish made from potatoes, onions, and peppers, cooked to perfection.

**Day 3: Enjoy the local markets & “Aguas

  • Things to do:
    • Experience the local markets of the Sacred Valley:
  • **Enjoy the vibrant town of Aguas

Enjoy your journey:

Day 1-3:

Other things to enjoy in the area:

  • Book a tour of Machu Picchu: This is highly recommended, as it will allow you to learn about the history and culture of this ancient wonder from knowledgeable guides.
  • Explore the Inca Trail:
    • Machu Picchu Mountain, accessible by train or hiking.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Experience:

  • Enjoy the stunning views: Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and history of this incredible site.
  • Experience the “Cuy” (Guinea Pig) Culture: Enjoy a delicious meal with a view of the Sacred Valley.

Things to do (continued):

  • Visit local restaurants in Aguas Calientes:

Enjoy the vibrant culture.

Day 3:

Try a cup of coffee and enjoy the beauty of the town: Explore the charming streets, sample traditional “chicha” (a fermented beverage made from corn), and visit the markets for local crafts and souvenirs.

  • A “Taste of Machu Picchu” experience: Enjoy a delicious “Cuy” (Guinea Pig) dish while exploring the area, like “cuy chactado” (fried guinea pig).

Enjoy the views and the culture:

  • Explore the town’s atmosphere: Visit the local markets.
  • Enjoy the scenery of Aguas Calientes: Explore the nearby mountains.

Aguas Calientes is a small town, so it’s best to book your hotel room in advance. Enjoy the delicious traditional “cuy” (fried guinea pig) and the vibrant culture.

Things to do:

  • Visit local markets, enjoy the local culture, and experience the beauty of Machu Picchu.
  • Enjoy a variety of activities:

Try “cuy” at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes. *

Try the “Pachamama” (a traditional dish of potatoes, onions, and peppers) and enjoy the local culture.

Try a coffee smoothie or drink made with “cuzqueño” ingredients.

Enjoy the experience:

  • Aguas

Other options for your culinary adventure:

  • Explore the town and enjoy the delicious food.
  • Visit a traditional restaurant in Aguas Picchu, try a local dish, and enjoy the view.
  • Try a “Pisco Sour” - a traditional Peruvian cocktail made with pisco brandy, lime juice, egg whites, sugar syrup, and simple syrup.

Enjoy the local experience:

  • Travel to Machu Picchu on a train. Enjoy the journey and take in the beauty of the Sacred Valley.
  • Explore the town of Aguas Calientes:

Try the local “Pachamama” (a traditional Peruvian dish made with potatoes, onions, and peppers) while enjoying the local culture.

Day 3:

  • Enjoy a variety of activities in the town of Aguas Calientes.

Enjoy the stunning views of Machu Picchu from the thermal baths at Aguas Calientes.

  • Enjoy the vibrant “Cuy” (a traditional dish made with guinea pig, enjoy it for its cultural significance.

  • Try a “Cuy”:

Try a different type of “cuy” (a traditional “trying” experience)

Other things to consider:

  • The weather: The weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. Be sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly!
  • Altitude sickness: This is a real concern when visiting Machu Picchu. Pack coca candies, chew on coca leaves, or drink coca tea to help with acclimatization.
  • Travel time:

Allow for plenty of time to acclimate to the altitude.

  • Enjoy “Pachamama” (a traditional food) and experience the local culture:

This is a great place to enjoy the local cuisine.

Safety and accessibility:

Remember that while “cuy” is a common dish in Aguas Calientes, it’s important to be aware of its ethical implications for some visitors.

  • Enjoy the variety: Try different types of food and drinks, but try “Pachamama” (a roasted guinea pig dish) at a local restaurant.

Things to do:

  • Visit the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes.
  • Enjoy the local markets and explore the town’s cultural offerings.

Enjoy your trip!