5 day itinerary for Cusco

Itinerary

Here's an ideal itinerary for 5 days in Cusco:

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

• Arrive in Cusco and check into your hotel
• Take it easy and spend the day acclimatizing to the high altitude
• Explore the city center and visit the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Qoricancha temple
• Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city center

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

• Take a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, which includes visits to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero
• Explore the Pisac market and see the impressive Inca ruins
• Visit the Ollantaytambo fortress and learn about its history
• Stop by the Chinchero weaving center to see traditional textile making techniques
• Return to Cusco in the evening

Day 3: Machu Picchu

• Take an early morning train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu
• Take a bus up to the Machu Picchu ruins and spend the day exploring this incredible wonder of the world
• Take a guided tour of the ruins and learn about the history and significance of Machu Picchu
• Return to Aguas Calientes in the evening and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in town

Day 4: Cusco City Tour

• Take a half-day tour of Cusco city and visit the Sacsayhuaman fortress, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara
• Learn about the history and significance of these impressive Inca ruins
• Spend the afternoon exploring the city on your own and shopping for souvenirs
• Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city center

Day 5: Departure

• Check out of your hotel and depart for the airport or your next destination
• If you have time before your flight, visit the San Pedro market to buy some last-minute souvenirs or try some local food
• Say goodbye to Cusco and the beautiful Andes mountains!