Cusco 3 days

The vibrant main square of Cusco, surrounded by colonial architecture and Inca foundations. It's the historical and social center of the city, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere.

• Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the morning light.
• Be mindful of street vendors; polite but firm refusals are effective.

A magnificent Renaissance-style cathedral built on the foundations of an Inca palace. It houses a rich collection of Cusco School paintings, including a notable depiction of the Last Supper.

• Photography is usually restricted inside; check current rules.
• Consider hiring a guide at the entrance for deeper insights into the art and history.

A fun and interactive museum dedicated to cacao and chocolate. Learn about the history of chocolate, the process from bean to bar, and enjoy a free chocolate tasting.

• They offer workshops on chocolate making (additional cost).
• Purchase some unique chocolate bars as souvenirs.

Once the richest temple in the Inca Empire, now the site of the Santo Domingo Convent. Marvel at the precisely cut Inca stonework seamlessly integrated with colonial architecture.

• The Inca walls are incredibly well-preserved and demonstrate advanced engineering.
• Visit the museum section for a better understanding of its history.

A popular mid-range restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere and a fusion of Peruvian and international cuisine. Known for its tapas and excellent service.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• Try their creative tapas selection and Pisco Sour.

Explore the vibrant artisan market in the town of Pisac, famous for its textiles and silver. Afterwards, hike up to the impressive Inca ruins perched high above the valley, offering stunning agricultural terraces and panoramic views.

• The market is busiest on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Go early to experience it before the major crowds.
• Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the ruins; the paths can be steep.

A charming restaurant in Urubamba offering a buffet of traditional Peruvian dishes. Enjoy local flavors in a relaxed setting with views of the surrounding mountains.

• A good place to sample a variety of regional specialties.
• Often included in Sacred Valley tours, but can be visited independently.

A remarkable Inca fortress and town that has been continuously inhabited since the 15th century. Explore the massive stone terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and the strategically important military and religious site.

• Climbing the terraces can be strenuous; take your time and stay hydrated.
• The town of Ollantaytambo itself is a living Inca city and worth exploring.

A historic restaurant located within the Ollantaytambo train station complex, offering a delightful dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes. Enjoy a romantic ambiance.

• Perfect for a pre-train dinner if you are departing for Machu Picchu the next morning.
• Their farm-to-table approach ensures fresh, high-quality dishes.

Thousands of salt pans cascade down the mountainside, a breathtaking sight and an ancient method of salt extraction still practiced today. Witness the unique pinkish salt being harvested and sold.

• Wear shoes that can get a bit dusty, as the paths are unpaved.
• Purchase some of the local Maras salt as a unique souvenir.

An archaeological marvel featuring unique circular agricultural terraces built by the Incas. These concentric rings are believed to have been an experimental agricultural laboratory.

• The scale and precision of the terraces are awe-inspiring.
• Imagine the agricultural experiments that took place here centuries ago.

Known as the 'Artisans' Quarter,' this charming neighborhood features narrow cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, galleries, and unique boutiques. It offers a more bohemian and local feel compared to the main plaza.

• Explore the many hidden alleys and courtyards.
• Look for local crafts and artwork directly from the artists.

A traditional Cusquenian restaurant set in a beautiful courtyard, famous for its authentic Andean dishes, including cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca. Offers a genuine taste of local cuisine.

• Ideal for trying traditional Peruvian ingredients.
• The ambiance is enhanced by live Andean music on some evenings.