Cusco 2 weeks

Cusco's main airport, serving as the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. It's located just a few kilometers from the city center.

• Arrange airport transfer in advance.
• Drink coca tea upon arrival to help with altitude.

A comfortable mid-range hotel known for its colonial architecture and central location. It offers a good base for exploring the city on foot.

• Check if breakfast is included.
• Ask for a room away from the street for quieter sleep.

The historic heart of Cusco, bustling with activity day and night. Surrounded by colonial cathedrals and arcades, it's a perfect spot for a gentle evening stroll.

• Watch out for street vendors.
• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and street performers.

A popular restaurant offering traditional Andean cuisine in a charming courtyard setting. Famous for its roasted guinea pig and other local specialties.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try the Chicha Morada, a traditional purple corn drink.

A magnificent Renaissance cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, built on the foundations of an Inca palace. It houses an impressive collection of colonial art, including the famous 'Last Supper' painting with a guinea pig.

• Photography is often restricted inside.
• Consider a guided tour to appreciate the history and art.

An ornate Baroque church located on the Plaza de Armas, known for its elaborate facade and opulent interior. It offers stunning views from its bell tower.

• Climb to the bell tower for panoramic views of the plaza.
• Notice the intricate carvings on the main altar.

Once the richest temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. The Spanish built the Santo Domingo Convent on its foundations, creating a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

• Observe the incredibly precise Inca stonework.
• The museum within the convent displays Inca artifacts.

Known as the 'Artisans' Quarter', this charming neighborhood features narrow, winding streets, colonial architecture, and numerous art studios and workshops. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs.

• Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are steep and cobblestoned.
• Visit the San Blas Church for its ornate pulpit.

A renowned restaurant by celebrity chef Gastón Acurio, offering a refined take on Peruvian cuisine with a focus on Andean ingredients. Located in a beautiful colonial mansion.

• Book well in advance.
• Explore the tasting menus for a comprehensive culinary experience.

An impressive Inca fortress complex overlooking Cusco, famous for its massive, perfectly fitted stone walls. It was a significant ceremonial site and a strategic military stronghold.

• The 'Boleto Turístico' (Tourist Ticket) is required for entry.
• Allow time to explore the different sectors and enjoy the views.

An archaeological site featuring a large carved rock with intricate zigzagging channels, likely used for ceremonial purposes. It's a smaller but fascinating Inca site.

• Look for the amphitheater-like structure.
• The central altar is carved from a single piece of rock.

A small Inca ruin, believed to have served as a military outpost or control point. Its name means 'Red Fortress' due to the color of the stones at sunset.

• Offers good views of the surrounding landscape.
• Often visited in conjunction with Tambomachay.

Known as the 'Inca Baths', this site features well-preserved stone channels and aqueducts that still carry water. It's thought to have been a site for water worship or a royal spa.

• Admire the advanced Inca hydraulic engineering.
• It's the last site on the typical 'Cusco City Tour'.

A cozy restaurant offering a mix of Peruvian and international dishes, with a focus on grilled meats. It's a good option for a relaxed dinner after a day of sightseeing.

• They often have live music.
• Good for trying alpaca steak if you're adventurous.

A vibrant traditional market, famous for its colorful textiles, ceramics, and local produce. It's a fantastic place to experience local culture and haggle for souvenirs.

• The main market day is Sunday, but it operates daily.
• Be prepared to bargain respectfully.

Perched high above the town, these extensive Inca ruins offer stunning agricultural terraces, ceremonial sites, and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. It's a significant archaeological complex.

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes; the paths can be steep.
• The 'Boleto Turístico' is required.

A local restaurant in Pisac offering traditional Peruvian dishes with beautiful views of the valley. It's a good spot for lunch after exploring the ruins.

• Try their trout, a local specialty.
• Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Travel back to Cusco from the Sacred Valley.

• Traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

A remarkable Inca archaeological site and town, known for its massive stone fortress and terraced hillsides. It's one of the best-preserved Inca settlements and a crucial point for the Inca Trail.

• The 'Boleto Turístico' is required.
• Climbing the terraces offers incredible views and photo opportunities.

Wander through the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, with its original Inca street plan, water channels, and stone houses. It's a charming place to experience authentic Andean life.

• Visit the small local museum.
• Enjoy the unique atmosphere of a town inhabited since Inca times.

Thousands of salt pans on a mountainside, used since Inca times to extract salt. The stark white pools create a unique and visually stunning landscape.

• There's a small entrance fee separate from the Boleto Turístico.
• Best visited on a sunny day for maximum visual impact.

An extraordinary Inca site featuring circular agricultural terraces that form concentric rings. Believed to have been an experimental agricultural laboratory for the Incas.

• The 'Boleto Turístico' is required.
• Imagine the Incas testing different crops at various altitudes.

Located at the Ollantaytambo train station, this restaurant offers delicious farm-to-table cuisine in a charming setting. It's a convenient and high-quality dining option.

• Great for a meal before or after a train journey.
• They grow many of their own ingredients.

The primary departure point for trains heading to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Various train services operate from here.

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

The town at the base of Machu Picchu, serving as the main hub for visitors. It has a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops.

• This is the last town before ascending to Machu Picchu.
• There are hot springs here, though they can be crowded.

The iconic Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its temples, plazas, and residential areas.

• Book tickets and train journeys months in advance.
• Consider hiring a guide at the entrance for a richer experience.

A popular restaurant in Aguas Calientes known for its unique ambiance and fusion cuisine, blending Peruvian and French influences. It's a cozy spot for dinner.

• Reservations are recommended.
• Try their pisco sour.

Witnessing the sunrise over the ancient citadel is a magical experience. Early morning offers fewer crowds and ethereal light.

• Check sunrise times and plan accordingly.
• Bring layers as it can be chilly before the sun fully rises.

For the adventurous, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for unparalleled views of the citadel. These require separate, limited tickets booked far in advance.

• Huayna Picchu is steeper and more challenging.
• Book these tickets simultaneously with your Machu Picchu entrance.

Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes town after your visit to the citadel.

• Buses run frequently.
• Queues can form, especially during peak hours.

Board your pre-booked train from Aguas Calientes back towards Cusco.

• Check your ticket for the correct station (Ollantaytambo or Poroy).
• Enjoy the scenic journey.

From Ollantaytambo or Poroy station, take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

• Taxis are readily available at the stations.
• Confirm the price before starting your journey.

A bustling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce, meats, and cheeses to handicrafts, textiles, and medicinal herbs. It's a sensory overload and a great place to observe daily life.

• Try a fresh fruit smoothie from one of the vendors.
• Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

The Inca Museum offers a comprehensive look at Inca history, culture, and artifacts, including pottery, textiles, and tools. It provides valuable context for the ruins you've visited.

• The museum is housed in the colonial mansion of Admiral Francisco de Alderete.
• Look for the collection of cranial trepanations.

This center promotes and preserves traditional Andean weaving techniques. You can see demonstrations, learn about natural dyes, and purchase high-quality textiles directly from artisans.

• Support local artisans by purchasing directly.
• Ask questions about the weaving process and symbolism.

A popular spot known for its tapas and creative Peruvian dishes, with a lively atmosphere. It's a great place for a relaxed dinner and drinks.

• The bar area is great for tapas and people-watching.
• Reservations are highly recommended for the dining room.

An early morning pickup from your hotel for the day trip to Rainbow Mountain. The journey involves significant travel time.

• This is a very early start (around 4 AM).
• Ensure you have breakfast before departing or pack snacks.

Travel by van through stunning Andean landscapes to the starting point of the trek. This includes a stop for breakfast.

• The altitude is very high, so acclimatization is crucial.
• Bring coca leaves or candy to help with altitude sickness.

Hike to the summit of Vinicunca, the 'Rainbow Mountain', famous for its vibrant mineral stripes. The trek is challenging due to altitude and steepness.

• Consider renting a horse for part of the ascent if needed.
• Pace yourself and drink plenty of water.

Enjoy a packed or buffet lunch after the trek, followed by the return journey to Cusco.

• The tour usually includes lunch.
• You'll likely be tired, so rest on the way back.

After a long day, opt for a simple and comforting dinner in Cusco.

• Consider room service or a nearby casual eatery.

An early start for the excursion to Humantay Lake, a stunning turquoise glacial lake nestled beneath a towering snow-capped mountain.

• Pack warm clothing, as it can be very cold.
• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun is strong at altitude.

Travel by van to Soraypampa, the starting point for the Humantay Lake trek. Breakfast is typically included.

• The drive offers spectacular views of the Andes.
• Acclimatization is key due to the high altitude.

Hike up to the breathtaking Humantay Lake. The trail is steep and challenging, but the reward is immense.

• Take it slow and steady, resting when needed.
• The lake's vibrant color is due to glacial meltwater.

Enjoy a hearty lunch included in the tour, then begin the journey back to Cusco.

• The tour operators usually provide a buffet-style lunch.
• Reflect on the stunning scenery during the drive back.

After a day of trekking, enjoy a well-deserved and relatively light dinner.

• Consider a place with lighter options like soups or salads.

This museum showcases a significant collection of pre-Columbian art from various Andean cultures, including ceramics, textiles, and goldwork. It's housed in a beautiful colonial courtyard.

• The collection is beautifully curated and displayed.
• Look for the intricate gold and silver pieces.

Housed in a colonial mansion, this museum features contemporary art from Peruvian artists. It offers a different perspective on Peruvian creativity.

• Check for temporary exhibitions.
• The courtyard is a pleasant place to relax.

Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Peruvian dishes, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours. A fun and delicious way to immerse yourself in the culture.

• Book in advance, as classes fill up.
• Enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner!

This day focuses on a challenging, albeit long, day trip or the start of a multi-day trek to Choquequirao, an impressive Inca citadel often called the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu. Given the distance and effort, this is often better as a multi-day trip, but a very ambitious day trip is possible if starting extremely early.

• This is a very strenuous day trip due to travel time and hiking.
• A multi-day trek is highly recommended for a proper experience.

An early morning transfer from Cusco to the village of Cachora, the traditional starting point for the Choquequirao trek.

• This is a significant portion of the day.
• Ensure your transport is arranged in advance.

A challenging trek down into the Apurímac Canyon and then up to the expansive Choquequirao ruins. This requires excellent physical condition and is usually done over 3-4 days.

• This segment is the core of the trek.
• Carry plenty of water and sun protection.

A late return journey from the trekking area back to Cusco.

• This will be a very late arrival back in Cusco.
• Ensure you have a comfortable vehicle for the long drive.

A picturesque Andean village known for its traditional weaving cooperatives and colonial church built on Inca foundations. It offers a glimpse into rural Quechua life.

• Visit a weaving demonstration and learn about natural dyes.
• The Sunday market is particularly lively.

A cooperative where local women demonstrate and sell their handwoven textiles. It's a great place to purchase authentic souvenirs and support the community.

• Prices are often fixed but fair.
• Learn about the symbolic meanings of the patterns.

Enjoy a final traditional Peruvian meal in the Sacred Valley before returning to Cusco. This restaurant offers a pleasant ambiance and local cuisine.

• Good place to try regional specialties.
• Relax and savor the last moments in the valley.

Travel back to Cusco from the Sacred Valley.

• Enjoy the scenic drive as the sun sets.

Grab any final souvenirs or gifts you might have missed in the markets or shops around Cusco.

• Focus on items you won't find easily at home.
• Check baggage allowances for your flight.

Enjoy a final Peruvian meal before heading to the airport.

• Choose a restaurant close to your hotel or the airport route.

Depart from Cusco, reflecting on your incredible journey through the Andes.

• Allow ample time for check-in and security.
• Consider purchasing any last-minute gifts at the airport shops.