Cuzco 5 Day Itinerary

Cusco: 5 Day Itinerary for Exploring the Ancient Inca Capital

Things to Know:

  • Altitude: Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. Allow yourself a day or two to acclimatize before engaging in strenuous activity.
  • Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN). US dollars are widely accepted but you’ll likely get better exchange rates with local currency.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language. Many people in tourist areas speak English, but learning some basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience.

Transportation:

  • Within Cusco: Walking is best for exploring the city center. Taxis are readily available and inexpensive.
  • To Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu: Buses are the most common transport option. You can book tours or take public buses from Cusco’s main terminal.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostal El Encuentro, Pariwana Hostel Cusco
  • Mid-Range: Casa Andina Premium Cusco, Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique
  • Luxury: Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel, JW Marriott El Convento Cusco

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

  • Morning: Arrive in Cusco (Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport). Check into your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s central square. Admire the colonial architecture and visit the Cusco Cathedral.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner at Pachapapa (local cuisine) or Cicciolina (Italian with a Peruvian twist).

Day 2: Exploring Inca History

  • Morning: Visit Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, and learn about its fascinating history.
  • Evening: Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche or lomo saltado.

Day 3: Sacred Valley Excursion

  • Full Day: Join a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, visiting Pisac market (famous for handicrafts), Ollantaytambo (an Inca town with impressive ruins), and Moray (ancient agricultural terraces).
  • Dinner: Indulge in a delicious meal at El Huerto (organic farm-to-table dining) near Ollantaytambo.

Day 4: Machu Picchu - The Lost City

  • Morning: Take an early morning train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
  • Afternoon: Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu with a guided tour. Hike Huayna Picchu for breathtaking panoramic views (book tickets in advance).
  • Evening: Relax and enjoy dinner in Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Take the train back to Cusco from Aguas Calientes.
  • Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping or visit a museum like Museo Inka (Inca Museum) or Museo de Arte Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Art Museum).
  • Evening: Depart from Cusco.

Tips:

  • Book Machu Picchu tickets and tours in advance. They sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Pack layers of clothing as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or coca tea.
  • Carry small denominations of Peruvian Sol for tipping and smaller purchases.

Other Things to Consider:

  • Visit the San Blas neighborhood for its charming cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, and cafes.
  • Hike up to Cristo Blanco (White Christ) statue for panoramic views of Cusco.
  • Enjoy a traditional Andean ceremony with coca leaves and learn about their cultural significance.