Cusco 5 days

The main airport serving Cusco, located about 4 km (2.5 miles) east of the city center. It's a gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you'll notice the high altitude immediately.

• Drink coca tea or take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400m/11,150ft).

The vibrant central square of Cusco, historically the main gathering place. It's surrounded by colonial cathedrals, historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, and is the perfect spot to begin exploring the city.

• Watch out for street vendors, especially if you're not interested in their wares.
• Enjoy the street performers and local life.

A magnificent Renaissance cathedral built on the foundations of an Inca palace. It houses an impressive collection of colonial art, including the famous 'Last Supper' painting with a cuy (guinea pig) as the main dish.

• Consider purchasing the 'Boleto Turistico' if you plan to visit multiple sites, as it includes entry here.
• Photography inside the cathedral is usually restricted, so check the rules upon entry.

Once the richest temple in the Inca Empire, its walls were covered in gold. Today, the Santo Domingo Church and Convent are built upon its foundations, showcasing a fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish architecture.

• Note the incredible precision of the Inca stonework, particularly the curved walls.
• This is often included in the Boleto Turistico, but check the specific ticket.

A renowned restaurant offering elevated Peruvian cuisine with a focus on regional ingredients. It's an excellent introduction to the flavors of Cusco in a stylish setting.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
• Try the anticuchos or the traditional Andean dishes.

An immense Inca fortress complex overlooking Cusco, famous for its massive, precisely cut stones fitted together without mortar. It offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding valleys.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking and uneven terrain.
• This site is usually covered by the Boleto Turistico.

A fascinating Inca archaeological site featuring a large carved rock with zigzagging channels, thought to have been used for ceremonial purposes. It's smaller and more intimate than Sacsayhuamán.

• This site is typically included in the Boleto Turistico, but confirm before purchasing.
• Look for the carved altar and the amphitheater-like structure.

Puka Pukara, meaning 'Red Fortress', is a small military outpost with good views. Tambomachay, known as the 'Inca Baths', features an intricate water channel system and is believed to have been a ceremonial site for water worship.

• These sites are usually covered by the Boleto Turistico.
• Tambomachay is particularly interesting for its sophisticated hydraulic engineering.

Known as the 'Artisans' Quarter', San Blas is a charming, hilly neighborhood filled with narrow cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, galleries, and boutique shops. It offers a more bohemian and local feel.

• Explore the workshops and chat with local artists; many are happy to demonstrate their craft.
• The views from the Mirador de San Blas are spectacular, especially at sunset.

A popular mid-range restaurant in the heart of Cusco, offering a modern take on traditional Peruvian dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and creative presentations. It has a lively atmosphere.

• Try their ceviche or lomo saltado for a classic Peruvian experience.
• It's a good option for a relaxed dinner after a day of sightseeing.

Famous for its vibrant artisan market (especially on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays) and its impressive Inca ruins perched high above the town. The ruins feature agricultural terraces and a well-preserved urban sector.

• Visit the ruins first to beat the crowds and the heat, then explore the market.
• Bargain respectfully at the market for textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.

Many tours and private drivers will stop in Urubamba, the main town in the Sacred Valley, for lunch. It offers a variety of restaurants catering to tourists, often with buffet options or set menus.

• Ask your driver or guide for recommendations.
• Many restaurants offer views of the surrounding mountains.

A remarkable Inca military, religious, and agricultural center, Ollantaytambo is a living Inca town with original street layouts and water channels. The fortress itself features impressive terraces and ceremonial sites.

• The climb to the top of the terraces is steep but rewarding with panoramic views.
• This site is usually included in the Boleto Turistico.

Located within the historic Ollantaytambo train station, this restaurant offers a charming atmosphere and delicious farm-to-table meals using ingredients from their own organic garden. It's a perfect end to a day in the valley.

• Enjoy the local trout or alpaca dishes.
• It's an ideal spot if you are taking an early train to Machu Picchu the next day.

The gateway town to Machu Picchu, accessible primarily by train. The journey from Ollantaytambo offers scenic views of the Urubamba River and the changing landscape.

• Book train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Choose PeruRail or Inca Rail for your journey.

A 25-minute bus ride from Aguas Calientes up the winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Buses run frequently throughout the day.

• Purchase bus tickets the day before or early in the morning to avoid long queues.
• Consider walking down if you want to save money and enjoy the scenery.

The breathtaking Inca citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its temples, terraces, and residential areas, marveling at the engineering and spiritual significance.

• Book your entrance tickets and any optional hikes (Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain) months in advance.
• Hire a guide at the entrance or book one in advance for a richer understanding of the site.
• Carry your passport as it's required for entry and you can get a commemorative stamp.

Descend from the citadel back to Aguas Calientes town. You can either take the bus or enjoy a scenic walk down the zigzagging path.

Aguas Calientes has a variety of restaurants catering to tourists. Enjoy a well-deserved meal after your exploration of Machu Picchu.

• Many restaurants offer set menus.
• Try local trout, a specialty of the region.

Board your return train from Aguas Calientes. Depending on your booking, you might return directly to Cusco or Ollantaytambo, where you'll need further transport.

• Ensure you have your return train tickets and know your departure time.
• If returning to Cusco, arrange for a taxi or colectivo from Ollantaytambo.

A bustling local market offering a sensory experience of Cusco. You'll find everything from fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats to handicrafts, textiles, and everyday goods.

• It's a great place to try local snacks and juices.
• Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Inca history, culture, and archaeology. It houses artifacts such as pottery, textiles, tools, and even mummified remains, offering deeper insights into the Inca civilization.

• Look for the detailed explanations of Inca social structures and beliefs.
• It's a good complement to the archaeological sites you've visited.

Enjoy a final taste of Peruvian coffee or a light snack at a local cafe. Cusipata is known for its good coffee and pleasant ambiance, perfect for a relaxing break.

• Try a 'café pasado' or a fruit juice.
• A good spot to review photos or plan your next move.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs from the numerous shops around the Plaza de Armas or in the artisan markets. Look for quality textiles, ceramics, or local crafts.

Depart from Cusco. Ensure you allow ample time for travel to the airport and check-in, especially given the altitude and potential traffic.