Welcome to Cusco, the beating heart of the ancient Inca empire and today a vibrant tourist destination attracting travelers worldwide. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, this Peruvian city is the perfect starting point to explore some of the world’s most iconic wonders. In just three days, you can immerse yourself in the magic of Cusco, discover the majesty of Machu Picchu, and be enchanted by the beauty of the Sacred Valley.
In this ultimate guide, we propose the most iconic places and entertaining activities and allow you to connect with the essence of this Inca land. Get ready for an adventure that combines history, nature, and the warmth of its people. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline of outdoor activities or an introspective journey through its cultural heritage, Cusco has something special for you. Strap your trekking boots and join us on this unparalleled journey through Peru!
How to Get to Cusco?
If you’re ready to explore the magical city of Cusco and its stunning surroundings, here are the best ways to reach this Inca destination.
1. By Plane: The Fastest Option
The flight from Lima to “Alejandro Velasco Astete” International Airport takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. From there, downtown Cusco is just 5 kilometers away. Make sure to carry your passport, valid for at least six months, with two blank pages. Airlines like LATAM and Sky offer daily flights so that you can find good deals, especially in the low season.
2. By Bus: For Adventurers
If you prefer a more scenic experience, the bus ride from Lima takes between 20 and 23 hours. Several companies, such as Cruz del Sur and Oltursa, offer comfortable routes to enjoy Peru’s changing landscapes. While the journey may be extended, Peru’s diversity makes it unforgettable.
3. From Other Peruvian Cities From
- From Arequipa: A 1-hour and 15-minute flight or a 10 to 12-hour bus ride.
- From Puno: A 6.5-hour bus ride is ideal for visiting Lake Titicaca along the way.
- From Puerto Maldonado: A bus ride takes approximately 9 hours.
Explore how to get to Cusco? On our blog, where we detail all your options for a spectacular experience.
Remember: Upon arrival, remember that Cusco is at a high altitude, so experiencing soroche or altitude sickness is common. Hydration and acclimatization are crucial to making the most of your Inca adventure.
Day 1 in Cusco: Arrival and Soft Acclimatization
Your adventure in Cusco begins on the right foot. The first day is essential for your body to adjust to the altitude while immersing yourself in this historic city’s rich culture. Here’s a detailed list of activities you can enjoy while acclimatizing:
1. Walk Through the Historic Center:
- Plaza de Armas: This is the epicenter of Cusco, surrounded by the Cathedral and the Church of the Company of Jesus. Both are impressive colonial works, but the Cathedral stands out for its Renaissance façade and housing a famous Last Supper painting depicting Jesus eating cuy. Don’t hesitate to enter and explore its artistic wealth.
- Qoricancha: Formerly the most important temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god. Today, you can see the impressive Inca stone walls in contrast with the colonial structure of the Convent of Santo Domingo, built on its foundations.
- San Blas Neighborhood: This bohemian neighborhood is known for its narrow, cobblestone streets filled with artisan shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Walking up the streets of San Blas offers a charming view of the city, and the viewpoint in the neighborhood is perfect for panoramic photos.
2. Tour of Sacsayhuamán:
This Inca fortress is just minutes from downtown Cusco and is famous for its colossal, perfectly fitted stone blocks. It is believed to have been a religious and military complex, and from its location in the hills, you can enjoy spectacular city views. Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
3. Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant:
Cusco is the perfect place to try authentic Peruvian cuisine. Recommended dishes include ají de gallina (a chicken stew in yellow chili cream), quinoa soup (ideal for re-energizing), and lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onion, tomato, and French fries). Restaurants like Chicha by Gastón Acurio offer an exceptional culinary experience with local ingredients.
4. Visit the San Pedro Market:
This market is a feast for the senses. You’ll find everything from exotic fruits like lúcuma and cherimoya to medicinal herbs and traditional textiles here. Don’t miss out on trying fresh fruit juice or pan chuta, a typical local sweet bread. It’s also great for souvenirs like colorful Andean blankets or alpaca garments.
5. Explore Artisan Workshops in San Blas:
San Blas is known for being home to some of the best artisans in Cusco. Many have open workshops where you can watch them create their works by hand. You’ll find unique pieces reflecting traditional Andean art, from ceramics to jewelry and textiles. Additionally, many of these artisans come from generations of creators, adding cultural value to each piece.
6. San Blas Viewpoint:
After exploring the neighborhood, hike up to the San Blas viewpoint. This spot offers an impressive view of the city’s red rooftops and the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal place for photography and to enjoy the tranquility contrasting with the bustle of downtown Cusco.
7. Dinner with Cultural Show:
As night falls, many restaurants in Cusco offer dinners accompanied by folk dance performances and live music. Restaurants like Tunupa or Pachapapa are famous for hosting these events. Besides tasting traditional dishes like pachamanca or anticucho, you can enjoy typical dances such as marinera, huayno, and scissors dance.
8. Stroll Along Avenida El Sol:
Avenida El Sol is one of the main arteries of Cusco. As you stroll down this avenue, you’ll see a mix of modern shops, banks, art galleries, and government buildings. Don’t miss the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales de Cusco, where you can learn more about the region’s traditional textiles and watch weavers working live.
9. Relaxation at a Spa:
If you feel the effects of the altitude, visiting a spa may be the perfect solution. Some hotels and specialized centers offer massages with Andean herbs, steam baths, and salt baths that help with muscle relaxation and overall well-being. This is a great way to recover from the journey and acclimatize to the altitude.
10. Instagrammable Spots:
Cusco is a city entirely of photogenic places. Among the highlights are Qoricancha’s impressive stone walls, the San Blas viewpoint, ideal for capturing a panoramic view of the city, and charming streets like 7 Borreguitos, filled with history offering picturesque settings.
With these activities, you’ll have a full day of exploration, gastronomy, culture, and relaxation, perfect for your first day in Cusco. Enjoy every moment as you acclimate to the imperial city!
Day 2: Full-Day Options
After exploring the historic center of Cusco on the first day, the second day offers the opportunity to venture beyond and enjoy some of the most stunning sites in Peru.
Here are several options, including iconic destinations like Machu Picchu and activities that will connect you even more with the rich history and culture of the region. Each option is designed to help you maximize your stay on your second day in Cusco.
1. Full Day Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas
One of the most emblematic destinations in Peru and the world is Machu Picchu, and with Salkantay Trekking, you can enjoy a fully organized tour without logistical worries. This tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a specialized guide accompanying you to the Citadel.
- Itinerary: Start with a transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo. The train will take you through stunning landscapes to Aguas Calientes, where a bus will transport you directly to Machu Picchu. There, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the main points of interest, such as the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Advantages with Salkantay Trekking: Personalized service and the team’s experience ensure you can enjoy the trip with peace of mind, with guides offering detailed explanations about Inca history and culture.
- Duration: All day (approximately 10-12 hours).
- Tip: Book in advance and bring sunscreen, water, and something warm, as the weather can vary throughout the day.
2. Sacred Valley: Exploring Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Pisac
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is another ideal option for a full day. This tour will teach you about some of the region’s most traditional towns and emblematic ruins.
- Ollantaytambo: Visit the Inca fortress and its impressive terraces. This was one of the last defenses of the Incas against the Spanish conquerors.
- Chinchero: Known for its colonial church and colorful artisan market, here you can learn about alpaca’s traditional dyeing and weaving process from local experts.
- Pisac: Discover the Pisac market, famous for its handicrafts, and visit the ruins atop the hill, offering panoramic views of the valley.
- Duration: 8-10 hours.
- Benefits with Salkantay Trekking: Private transport, specialized guides, and exclusive stops at lesser-known viewpoints for the best photos.
3. Trekking to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
If trekking is your thing and you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, Vinicunca, also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, is the perfect destination. This surreal landscape of red, green, yellow, and violet tones is one of the most stunning places in the Andes.
The day begins early, with about a 3-hour drive from Cusco to the hike’s starting point. As you progress along the trails, you’ll witness the majesty of the Andes, passing herds of llamas and alpacas grazing on the plains. The hike is not easy, as you’ll reach an altitude of 5,200 meters, but the views are worth it.
- Itinerary: The adventure starts early with private transport to the hike’s starting point. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, snowy peaks, and herds of llamas and alpacas.
- Benefits of Salkantay Trekking: The team is prepared if altitude sickness affects hikers. Additionally, their guides are highly trained to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
- Duration: 10-12 hours.
- Recommendation: Bring warm clothing and good trekking shoes, as temperatures vary throughout the day.
4. Maras and Moray: Inca Agricultural Ingenuity
Another ideal tour for the second day is a visit to Maras and Moray, two fascinating sites that showcase the agricultural ingenuity of the Incas.
- Moray: This is a complex of circular terraces believed to have been used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with different microclimates and crops. It’s impressive to see how the Incas already mastered advanced farming techniques.
- Salt Mines of Maras: A few kilometers from Moray, you’ll find the Salt Mines of Maras, a set of over 3,000 salt pools that have been used since pre-Inca times. Local families still operate these pools and are an excellent place to learn about salt production and purchase byproducts like pink salt.
- Benefits with Salkantay Trekking: Stops at exclusive photo points and the option to customize your tour; you’ll be in the hands of experts.
- Duration: 6-7 hours.
- Recommendations: Bring cash to buy salt products and take plenty of photos of the terraces and salt mines. Doing this tour in the morning is advisable to make the most of the Light.
5. Humantay Lake
For adventurers seeking a challenging and rewarding hike, Salkantay Trekking offers a Full Day to Humantay Lake as part of their Salkantay Trek package. This hike will take you to one of the most stunning glacial lakes in the Peruvian Andes, known for its intense turquoise waters.
- Itinerary: The day begins with a drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek. From there, the hike will take you to the beautiful Humantay Lake at the foot of the majestic Nevado Salkantay. The views from the top are spectacular.
- Benefits of Salkantay Trekking: The guides will accompany you throughout the route, providing support and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, they include a delicious lunch at the foot of the snow-capped mountain.
- Duration: 12-14 hours.
- Recommendation: This is a moderately challenging hike, so being acclimatized and in good physical condition is essential. Bring thermal clothing and something warm for the cold.
Important considerations for your second day in Cusco:
- Advance Reservations: For both Machu Picchu and Humantay Lake and Vinicunca, it’s crucial to make your reservations weeks or even months in advance, as these destinations tend to fill up quickly, especially during high season (June to September).
- Acclimatization: Ensure you’ve spent at least one day in Cusco before engaging in high-altitude activities like Vinicunca or Humantay Lake.
- Weather: The weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, so always bring a waterproof layer and sunscreen, regardless of the season.
These options guarantee an unforgettable experience for your second day in Cusco, whether exploring the Inca ruins and traditional markets or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Andes. Prepare your camera and discover the best of Cusco and its surroundings!
Day 3: Complementary Activities or Relaxation
After two intense days exploring the most iconic points of Cusco and its surroundings, the third day is perfect for balancing adventure with a touch of relaxation.
You can customize your day with complementary activities that will allow you to learn more about Cusco’s cultural and natural richness while enjoying a slower pace. Here’s a complete list of what you can do on your third day in the city:
1. Exploration of Nearby Archaeological Sites: Q’enqo, Puca Pucará, and Tambomachay
If you still want to explore Inca history, you can check out some lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological sites located a short distance from Cusco.
- Q’enqo: This site is known for its mysterious rock-carved channels and ceremonial altars that were once used for sacrifice rituals. It’s a place filled with spiritual energy.
- Puca Pucará: Translated as “Red Fortress,” this site was a kind of Inca military outpost controlling access to Cusco. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
- Tambomachay: A place dedicated to the worship of water, Tambomachay is a system of aqueducts and ceremonial baths used by the Incas, ideal for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
- Tour Duration: 4-6 hours.
Recommendation: This is a perfect tour if you prefer something more relaxed and with fewer hikes yet still want to learn about the fascinating Inca culture.
2. Peruvian Cooking Workshop: Learn to Prepare Traditional Dishes
What better way to take a memory of Cusco home than by learning to cook its typical dishes? Participate in cooking workshops to teach you the secrets behind the most famous Peruvian recipes, from authentic ceviche to traditional ají de gallina or delicious lomo saltado.
- What You’ll Learn: You’ll be taught to select fresh ingredients from the local market, followed by a hands-on class where you’ll prepare some of the most emblematic dishes of Peruvian cuisine. At the end, you’ll get to enjoy your creation paired with a pisco sour.
- Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.
- Benefits: It’s a perfect activity for food lovers who want to learn interactively and take some Peru home.
- Tip: Reserve your spot in advance, as workshops tend to be small to maintain a personalized experience.
3. Rest and Enjoy the City: Bohemian Neighborhoods and Charming Cafés
If you prefer a quieter day, a great option is to enjoy the atmosphere of Cusco. Stroll through the bohemian neighborhoods, visit museums, or relax in one of the charming cafés that dot the cobblestone streets.
If you didn’t get a chance to explore the following spots on your first day, make sure to do so on your third day before you leave:
- San Blas Neighborhood: Known as the artists’ quarter, San Blas is perfect for wandering, admiring local art, and enjoying small craft shops. Additionally, you’ll find excellent café options with stunning views of the city.
- Inka Museum: If you’re still curious about Inca history, this museum is a gem. With exhibits of textiles, ceramics, and historical artifacts, you’ll learn more about the civilization that inhabited this sacred land.
- Café with a View: Relax in a café overlooking the Temple of the Company of Jesus or the Plaza de Armas while enjoying a Peruvian coffee or a coca leaf infusion.
Recommendation: Take the time to soak in the atmosphere of Cusco, walk along its cobblestone streets, and feel part of the vibrant local life. It’s the perfect moment to disconnect and reflect on your days of adventure.
4. Discovering Museums and Culture
If you dedicate your third day in Cusco to a more relaxed cultural experience, exploring the city’s museums is an excellent option. These spaces allow you to delve deeper into the history of the Inca Empire and discover the region’s art and traditions. Here are some of the most notable museums you can’t miss:
- Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (MAP)
The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art is a true treasure for art lovers. Located in a beautiful colonial house, this museum exhibits pieces over 3,000 years old from pre-Columbian cultures. You can admire sculptures, ceramics, and gold jewelry that showcase the incredible artistic level of Andean civilizations before the arrival of the Spanish. - Casa Concha Museum
This museum houses a unique collection of artifacts recovered from Machu Picchu, many of which were returned to Peru after being at Yale University for over 100 years. In addition to showcasing these finds, the Museo Casa Concha also tells the story of Hiram Bingham’s discovery of Machu Picchu and how this citadel has impacted Peruvian culture and the world. - Qorikancha Site Museum
This small museum, located near the famous Temple of Qorikancha, allows you to delve into the history of the most important sacred site of the Inca Empire. Here, you can see ceremonial objects, textiles, and tools used by the Incas. It’s an excellent complement to visiting the temple, where Inca architecture blends with colonial construction. - Regional Historical Museum
Housed in the former home of Garcilaso de la Vega, this museum is a journey through time, spanning from pre-Hispanic times to the colonial period. It’s an ideal place to learn more about the fusion of Inca and Spanish cultures and how this interaction shaped modern Cusco. - Museum of Religious Art
Located in an ancient residence of the archbishops of Cusco, this museum is perfect for those interested in the history of colonial sacred art. Here, you will find an impressive collection of religious paintings and sculptures illustrating Christianity’s introduction and assimilation into Andean culture.
Recommendations for Enjoying Your Stay in Cusco
In addition to these critical recommendations, here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your time in Cusco:
- Stay Hydrated: The dry Andean climate can dehydrate you quickly. Always carry water and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Adjust Your Itinerary: Consider adjusting the remaining days of your trip to allow for rest and proper acclimatization before any intense physical activities.
- Book in Advance: Demand for many activities in Cusco is high, especially during peak season. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance to secure your spot.
- Eat Light in the First Few Days: During the first days in Cusco, avoiding heavy meals is essential. Opt for Light, easily digestible foods like soups and quinoa dishes.
- Take Breaks: If you are hiking, don’t hesitate to take short, frequent breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.
- Coca Infusions: Tea is a traditional drink in the Andes that helps relieve symptoms of altitude sickness. You can enjoy it in various cafés around Cusco.
- Don’t Overpack Your Backpack: Pack smart. Bring only the essentials and leave space for water and energy snacks.
- Travel Insurance: Consider getting insurance that covers adventure activities. This will give you peace of mind during your trip in case of a medical emergency.
- Explore Cusco Before Activities: If you have time, spend a few days exploring Cusco’s corners. Visit the San Blas neighborhood, the San Pedro Market, and the city’s impressive museums, like the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.
With these tips and good planning, you’ll be ready to have a unique experience in Cusco. Enjoy every moment of this incredible Andean adventure!
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