Cusco 10 days

Cusco's main airport, located a short drive from the city center. Upon arrival, you'll immediately notice the high altitude.

• Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals upon arrival.
• Consider pre-booking a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation.

The historical heart of Cusco, surrounded by colonial architecture, cathedrals, and arcades. It's a perfect place to start getting acquainted with the city's atmosphere.

• Take it easy, the altitude can make you tired.
• Observe the local life and street vendors.

A renowned restaurant offering modern interpretations of traditional Peruvian cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients. It's a great introduction to the flavors of the region.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• Try their ceviche or the lomo saltado.

Once the richest temple in the Inca Empire, now overlaid with the Santo Domingo Convent. It showcases the incredible Inca stonework beneath colonial structures.

• Look for the perfectly fitted Inca stones and the Spanish colonial architecture.
• Consider hiring a guide to understand the historical significance.

Dominating the Plaza de Armas, this impressive cathedral is built on the foundations of an Inca palace. It houses a significant collection of colonial art.

• Don't miss the famous painting of the Last Supper, which includes a guinea pig.
• Photography inside may be restricted.

Known as the artisans' quarter, San Blas is a charming area with narrow, winding streets, art studios, and workshops. It offers beautiful views of the city.

• Explore the small shops for unique souvenirs.
• Enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafes with a view.

This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Inca history, culture, and daily life, with artifacts ranging from pottery to textiles and tools.

• It offers great context for understanding the Inca sites you'll visit later.
• Look for the collection of Inca pottery and metalwork.

A popular restaurant in San Blas known for its traditional Andean cuisine, including roasted cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca. It has a lovely courtyard setting.

• Try their pisco sour or chicha morada.
• The ambiance is especially nice in the evening.

A stunning Inca ruin perched on a mountain overlooking the Sacred Valley. It features impressive agricultural terraces, ceremonial sites, and panoramic views.

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; the site involves climbing.
• The local market in Pisac town is also worth a visit on market days (Tues, Thurs, Sun).

A vibrant market in Pisac town, famous for its handicrafts, textiles, and local produce. It's a great place to find souvenirs and interact with local artisans.

• Haggle politely for the best prices.
• Look for high-quality alpaca wool products.

A formidable Inca fortress and town, known for its massive stone terraces and the Temple of the Sun. It's one of the best-preserved Inca sites and served as a royal estate.

• Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the valley.
• The town of Ollantaytambo itself is a living Inca city, worth exploring.

Located in Ollantaytambo, this cafe offers delicious and healthy meals with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. It's a cozy spot with a welcoming atmosphere.

• A good option for vegetarian and vegan travelers.
• Enjoy their homemade cakes and coffee.

The main departure point for trains to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Trains offer scenic views of the Urubamba River valley.

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train departure.
• Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.

These are the primary train services connecting Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Choose a service that suits your budget and comfort level.
• The views from the train are spectacular, so try to get a window seat.

A bustling town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu, serving as the gateway to the citadel. It has hotels, restaurants, and markets.

• It's a tourist hub, so prices can be higher.
• You can purchase bus tickets to Machu Picchu here.

A short, winding bus ride from Aguas Calientes up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. The buses run frequently.

• Buy your bus tickets in advance to save time.
• The bus ride itself offers dramatic views.

The iconic Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its magnificent stone structures and terraces.

• Book your entrance tickets and any optional hikes (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain) months in advance.
• Hire a guide at the entrance for a richer understanding of the site.
• Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

A quirky and popular restaurant in Aguas Calientes known for its eclectic decor and fusion cuisine, blending Peruvian and international flavors.

• Reservations are recommended, as it gets busy.
• Try their trout dishes or the adventurous options on the menu.

For early risers or those who wish to explore more, a second visit to Machu Picchu allows for different light conditions and a more in-depth exploration.

• Ensure your ticket allows for re-entry or purchase a new one.
• Consider hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you didn't yesterday.

Descend from the citadel back to Aguas Calientes by bus.

• Lines can form, especially during peak times.

Take the scenic train ride back through the Sacred Valley.

• Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel.

Arrange for a taxi or shared shuttle to take you back to your accommodation in Cusco.

• Shared colectivos are a budget-friendly option.
• Private taxis offer more comfort and direct service.

A popular spot in Cusco offering a tapas-style menu and a lively atmosphere. It's known for its creative dishes and extensive pisco bar.

• Great for trying a variety of small plates.
• Their pisco sours are highly regarded.

An immense Inca fortress complex just outside Cusco, famous for its colossal stone walls fitted together with remarkable precision. It offers stunning views over the city.

• Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven.
• Combine this visit with other nearby Inca sites using the 'Boleto Turístico'.

A fascinating Inca archaeological site featuring a large carved rock and underground chambers, believed to have been used for ceremonies.

• Part of the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico).
• Look for the zigzag channels carved into the rock.

A small Inca ruin, possibly a military or administrative outpost, known as 'Red Fortress' due to the color of its stones at sunset. It offers good views.

• Also included in the Boleto Turístico.
• It's a relatively quick visit, offering panoramic vistas.

An Inca site believed to be a royal spa or baths, characterized by its beautifully carved stone water channels and fountains. It's known for its hydraulic engineering.

• Part of the Boleto Turístico.
• The water channels are still functional, a testament to Inca engineering.

A smaller, more local market than San Pedro, offering fresh produce, local snacks, and some handicrafts. It's a good place to experience daily life.

• Try some local fruits or freshly squeezed juices.
• Less tourist-oriented than other markets.

A contemporary Peruvian restaurant offering Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian fusion) and traditional dishes. It has a stylish ambiance and is centrally located.

• Excellent ceviche and sushi options.
• Reservations are advised.

Most tours depart very early (around 3-4 AM) from Cusco to reach the Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) area. This is a full-day excursion.

• This is a strenuous trek at high altitude; ensure you are acclimatized.
• Pack warm layers, rain gear, sunscreen, and water.

Tours typically include a stop for a basic breakfast in a local community before the hike begins.

• Fuel up for the trek ahead.

The trek to the viewpoint of Vinicunca, famous for its multicolored stripes of sediment. The hike is challenging due to altitude and steepness.

• You can hire a horse for part of the ascent if needed.
• The views from the top are spectacular, but can be windy.

A simple buffet lunch is usually provided by the tour operator after the trek, often in a communal dining area.

• Simple but filling, designed to replenish energy.

Drive back to Cusco, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

A relaxed Italian restaurant in Cusco offering delicious pizzas and pasta. It's a good option for a casual and satisfying meal after a long day.

• Good value for money.
• A comforting meal after the trek.

Thousands of salt pans that have been used since Inca times, cascading down a mountainside. The sight is unique and visually striking.

• You can purchase various types of local salt here.
• Wear shoes with good grip as the paths can be slippery.

An intriguing Inca ruin featuring circular agricultural terraces built into natural depressions. It's believed to have been an experimental agricultural laboratory.

• The concentric circles are remarkably well-preserved.
• Imagine the advanced agricultural techniques the Incas employed.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley, often included in guided tours or chosen as a stop during independent exploration.

• Look for restaurants offering traditional Andean dishes.

A charming Inca town with a well-preserved archaeological site and a vibrant textile tradition. Visit a local weaving cooperative to see traditional techniques.

• Purchase high-quality, authentic alpaca textiles directly from the weavers.
• The town's colonial church is built on Inca foundations.

A highly-rated restaurant in Cusco focusing on authentic Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. They emphasize fresh, local ingredients.

• Their tasting menus are a great way to sample various dishes.
• Excellent cocktails and service.

Cusco's main market, a bustling hub offering everything from fresh produce and local snacks to textiles and souvenirs. It's a sensory overload and a great place to experience local life.

• Try the exotic fruits and fresh juices.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Housed in a beautiful colonial courtyard, this museum showcases a stunning collection of pre-Columbian art from various Peruvian cultures.

• The museum is well-curated and provides excellent context for the region's history.
• Don't miss the gold and silver artifacts.

A non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Andean weaving techniques. They offer demonstrations and sell high-quality textiles.

• Learn about the natural dyeing processes.
• Support traditional artisans by purchasing directly.

Learn to make Peru's national cocktail, the Pisco Sour, in a hands-on class. Enjoy your creations afterward.

• A fun and interactive way to experience Peruvian culture.
• Many venues offer these classes, book in advance.

Known for its excellent steaks and traditional Peruvian dishes, Uchu offers a more upscale dining experience.

• Try their alpaca or beef options.
• A great spot for a farewell dinner.

Grab any final souvenirs or local crafts you may have missed.

• Focus on items you can easily pack.

Enjoy a final cup of Peruvian coffee and a light snack before heading to the airport.

• Try their local coffee blends.

Allow ample time for your transfer to the airport, considering potential traffic.

• Pre-booking your airport transfer is recommended.