Itinerary for 7 day trip to Cusco

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Welcome to Cusco! After settling into your accommodation, take some time to acclimate to the altitude. Cusco is located at an elevation of 11,152 feet (3,399 meters), so it's important to take it easy on your first day. Explore the city center, , and visit the impressive . Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant markets. In the evening, indulge in some delicious Peruvian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

Embark on a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, a picturesque region just outside of Cusco. Visit the , where you can browse through colorful handicrafts and interact with local artisans. Explore the ancient Inca ruins of , a well-preserved archaeological site with stunning terraces and temples. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and learn about the Inca civilization. Return to Cusco in the evening and relax at a cozy café or enjoy a traditional Peruvian folk dance show.

Day 3:

Today is the highlight of your trip as you visit the iconic . Take an early morning train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to . Enjoy a scenic bus ride up to the ruins and spend the day exploring this ancient wonder. Marvel at the impressive architecture, intricate stone work, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Take your time to soak in the mystical atmosphere and learn about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, return to Cusco and relax with a soothing cup of coca tea.

Day 4: City Tour of Cusco

Discover the rich history and culture of Cusco on a guided city tour. Visit the Qorikancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, which was once the most important religious site of the Inca Empire. Explore the , an impressive archaeological complex with massive stone walls and panoramic views of the city. Continue to the Qenqo and , where you can learn about ancient Inca rituals and astronomy. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner accompanied by a lively folklore show.

Day 5: Maras and Moray

Embark on a half-day tour to the and the . Explore the fascinating salt pans of Maras, where salt has been harvested since Inca times. Learn about the traditional methods used by local families to extract salt from the natural springs. Continue to Moray, an intriguing Inca agricultural laboratory with circular terraces that served as experimental crop fields. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take in the stunning views of the Andean landscape. Return to Cusco and spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps exploring more of the city's vibrant markets.

Day 6:

Today, venture on a full-day excursion to Vinicunca, also known as . Embark on a scenic hike through the Andean highlands, passing through picturesque valleys and encountering llamas and alpacas along the way. Reach the summit of and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the colorful striped slopes. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique geological formation and take plenty of photos to capture the moment. After the hike, return to Cusco and relax with a well-deserved massage or spa treatment.

Day 7: Free Day in Cusco

On your last day in Cusco, take the opportunity to explore any sites or activities that you may have missed. Visit the , where you can find a variety of local products and try some delicious street food. Take a leisurely walk along the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, known for its art galleries and handicraft shops. Alternatively, you can opt for a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes. In the evening, bid farewell to Cusco with a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can always tailor it to your preferences and interests. Enjoy your time in Cusco and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this fascinating city!