Cuzco

Cuzco is a fantastic destination, and with your interests in Machu Picchu, food, and adventure, we can create an exciting 5-day itinerary that will keep your adrenaline pumping and your taste buds tingling. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning:

• Arrive in Cuzco and check into your hotel. Take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400 meters or 11,200 feet). Sip on some coca tea; it’s a local remedy for altitude sickness!

Afternoon:

• Explore the historic center of Cuzco. Visit the Plaza de Armas and the stunning Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Evening:

• Dinner at Chicha by Gastón Acurio. This place is a must-visit for food lovers! Try the cuy chactado (fried guinea pig) or the lomo saltado (stir-fried beef). Pair it with a local craft beer or a pisco sour!

Day 2: Sacred Valley Adventure

Morning:

• Head out early for a day trip to the Sacred Valley. Start with a visit to Pisac. Explore the ruins and the vibrant market. Don’t forget to haggle for some unique souvenirs!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch at a local restaurant in Urubamba. Try the alpaca steak or a hearty causa (potato dish).
• After lunch, go for an adrenaline-pumping activity like white-water rafting on the Urubamba River. The rapids here are thrilling!

Evening:

• Return to Cuzco and unwind. Grab dinner at Pachapapa, where you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and try their delicious pachamanca (a traditional Andean dish cooked underground).

Day 3: Machu Picchu Day Trip

Early Morning:

• Take the train from Cuzco to Aguas Calientes. The scenic views are breathtaking! Grab a quick breakfast on the train.

Morning to Afternoon:

• Arrive in Aguas Calientes and take the bus up to Machu Picchu. Spend the day exploring this iconic site. Don’t miss the Inca Bridge and the Sun Gate for stunning views!

Lunch:

• Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge. The views are incredible!

Evening:

• Return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cuzco. Treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. Their grilled meats are to die for!

Day 4: Adventure and Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Moray to see the fascinating agricultural terraces. Then, visit the Salinas de Maras salt mines. The views are stunning, and you can even buy some salt to take home!

Afternoon:

• For lunch, stop at a local eatery in Maras. Try some anticuchos (grilled skewers) for a tasty treat!
• In the afternoon, go for a thrilling zip-lining experience in the Sacred Valley. Soar above the stunning landscapes and feel the rush!

Evening:

• Return to Cuzco and enjoy dinner at Los Perros, known for its cozy vibe and delicious pizzas. Try their Peruvian-style pizza topped with local ingredients!

Day 5: Cultural Immersion and Departure

Morning:

• Visit the Sacsayhuamán ruins, just outside of Cuzco. The massive stone walls are impressive, and the views of the city are spectacular!

Afternoon:

• Head back to the city for a cooking class! Learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy some food porn!

Evening:

• For your last dinner, indulge at Cicciolina, a charming restaurant with a tapas-style menu. Try a variety of dishes and pair them with a nice wine or pisco cocktail.

Departure:

• Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute shopping or a stroll around the city. Don’t forget to grab some choclo con queso (corn with cheese) from a street vendor for the road!

And there you have it! A perfect blend of adventure, culture, and mouthwatering food in Cuzco. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌄🍽️✈️