Cusco 4 days

The historic heart of Cusco, this vibrant square is surrounded by colonial architecture and Inca ruins. It's a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere, people-watch, and admire the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús.

• Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Be mindful of altitude sickness; take it easy on your first day.

Dominating the Plaza de Armas, this impressive cathedral was built on the foundations of an Inca palace. It houses a significant collection of colonial art, including the famous 'Last Supper' painting with a cuy (guinea pig).

• Photography inside is usually not permitted.
• Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the art and history.

Once the richest temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti. The Spanish built the Convent of Santo Domingo on its foundations, creating a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture. You can see the perfectly fitted Inca stonework beneath the colonial structures.

• Look for the curved Inca walls; they are a testament to their engineering skills.
• The museum exhibits provide good context for the site's significance.

A popular mid-range restaurant offering a modern take on traditional Peruvian cuisine, often with a focus on Andean ingredients. It's a great place to sample local flavors in a stylish setting.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try their signature dishes featuring quinoa or alpaca.

Visit the vibrant Pisac market for local crafts and textiles, and then ascend to the impressive Inca ruins perched high above the town. The agricultural terraces are a marvel of Inca engineering.

• The market is busiest on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
• Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the ruins.
• Bargain respectfully at the market.

Enjoy lunch in Urubamba, a pleasant town in the Sacred Valley, often included in tours. Many restaurants offer buffet-style meals or set menus with local specialties.

• Look for restaurants offering traditional Andean dishes.

A remarkably well-preserved Inca town and fortress with massive stone terraces climbing the hillside. It was the site of a significant Inca victory against the Spanish conquistadors.

• The climb can be strenuous; take your time.
• This is also the departure point for the train to Machu Picchu, so plan accordingly if you have onward travel.

Dine in one of the charming restaurants in Ollantaytambo. Many offer cozy atmospheres and delicious local cuisine, providing a relaxing end to a day of exploration.

• Try 'trucha' (trout) if available, as it's a local specialty.

Take the scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The journey offers stunning views of the Urubamba River and the Andes.

• Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Choose a window seat for the best views.

Explore the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the intricate stonework, terraces, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

• Book your entrance tickets and any hikes (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain) months in advance.
• Hire a guide at the entrance for a richer understanding of the site.
• Carry your passport for entry.

After descending from Machu Picchu, explore the bustling town of Aguas Calientes. You can relax, grab a late lunch, or browse the local market.

Board your return train from Aguas Calientes. Depending on your booking, you might return to Ollantaytambo and then take a taxi/bus back to Cusco, or some trains go directly to Cusco.

• Ensure you have your return train tickets confirmed.
• Factor in transfer time if returning to Cusco from Ollantaytambo.

Witness the breathtaking Maras salt pans, a complex network of thousands of salt pools fed by an underground spring, used since Inca times. The patterns and colors are visually stunning.

• Wear shoes that can get dusty or muddy.
• Best visited in the dry season for clearer views.

Explore the enigmatic Moray ruins, featuring concentric circular terraces believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory for experimenting with crops at different altitudes and microclimates.

• The scale is impressive; walk around the rim for different perspectives.
• Often visited in conjunction with Maras.

Wander through the charming, bohemian San Blas neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the city. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs and relax in a cafe.

• The streets are steep, so comfortable footwear is essential.
• Visit the San Blas Church for its beautiful baroque altarpiece.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at this highly-rated restaurant known for its traditional Andean cuisine, especially its wood-fired pizzas and roasted meats like cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca. It offers a cozy atmosphere with live Andean music.

• Try the tasting menu to sample a variety of dishes.
• Book in advance, as it's very popular.