- How to Organize Your Activities in Cusco<\/a>
- How Many Days Do I Need for a Trip to Cusco?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Difficulty Levels of the Routes in Cusco<\/a><\/li>
- Cusco: The Capital of the Incas<\/a>
- Walking Tour<\/a><\/li>
- City tour<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Sacred Valley of the Incas: The Legacy of an Empire<\/a>
- Visit Machu Picchu Without Major Hikes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Day Hikes in Cusco<\/a><\/li>
- Multi-day treks: the full adventure<\/a><\/li>
- Challenging Routes<\/a>
- Unique adventures that will put you to the test<\/a><\/li>
- Tips before you go on a trek<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Tips for planning your itinerary<\/a><\/li>
- You Might Be Interested In<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n
How to Organize Your Activities in Cusco<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cusco <\/strong><\/a>is one of the most important cities in Peru, as it boasts a great historical legacy, impressive monuments, and beautiful landscapes. There\u2019s so much to do and discover: from exploring its colonial streets to hiking high mountains or visiting the enigmatic Inca ruins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To choose the right activities and the best order to do them, it\u2019s essential to consider three key factors<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- The altitude of each destination.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Your physical condition and previous hiking experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The total time you have available for the trip.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
These aspects will make the difference between a pleasant and safe experience or an overly demanding itinerary that could affect your health or enjoyment. Plan well to make the most of your adventure in Cusco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Places](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Places-to-visit-in-Cusco-1024x576.jpg\")
Places to visit in Cusco<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n How Many Days Do I Need for a Trip to Cusco?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Although it\u2019s possible to visit Cusco in just a few days, it\u2019s recommended to allow more time to fully enjoy it without rushing and without risking altitude sickness or fatigue. Ideally, you should spend at least a week in the city, which will give you time to acclimatize and explore everything this fascinating place has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spending more time on your trip to Cusco allows you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- More Time to Acclimatize: <\/strong>Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. You need to give your body enough time to adapt to these conditions. Even if you are physically well-prepared, the altitude of the imperial city and the surrounding tourist destinations can affect you with symptoms like fatigue, headache, dizziness, or shortness of breath. That\u2019s why it\u2019s recommended to dedicate 1 or 2 days to acclimate <\/strong><\/a>and do gentler activities, allowing yourself to adjust and thus reduce the risk of altitude sickness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Deeper Exploration: <\/strong>You\u2019ll be able to take your time enjoying Cusco without rushing, allowing for a much more complete experience. With a broad itinerary, you can thoroughly explore the main tourist attractions in the area, discovering both the famous spots and hidden gems that many hurried travelers miss.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Better Adaptation to Hiking:<\/strong> It\u2019s essential to gradually adapt to the pace of the hikes. Starting directly with a very demanding route is not advisable, even if you\u2019ve trained beforehand. The Andes are a unique terrain, with altitude and conditions you won\u2019t find elsewhere. That\u2019s why it\u2019s key to start slowly and organize your itinerary from easier to more difficult hikes, allowing you to get used to it and enjoy each experience to the fullest.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Opportunity to Disconnect: <\/strong>A longer trip gives you the necessary time to relax and unwind. You\u2019ll also have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, stroll peacefully through the streets, and see up close what life in Peru is like. Cusco is the perfect place to recharge and enjoy a unique experience of tranquility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Flexibility to Adjust the Plan: <\/strong>A longer trip gives you the freedom to adjust your itinerary as needed. If something doesn\u2019t convince you or you get a new recommendation, you\u2019ll have time to take a day off or change activities depending on the weather or how you feel physically. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the trip more calmly and without pressure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/City-of-Cusco.jpg\")
City of Cusco<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Tourists](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Tourists-Cuscos-main-square.jpg\")
Tourists in Cusco’s main square<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Difficulty Levels of the Routes in Cusco<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cusco offers routes for all types of travelers, from easy hikes\u2014ideal for acclimatization\u2014to challenging treks that require experience and excellent physical condition. At Salkantay Trekking, we\u2019ve created a guide with the different difficulty levels <\/strong><\/a>to help you choose the option that best suits you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Easy<\/strong>
These activities are a walk in the park! They are light routes that let you enjoy the scenery, history, and surroundings with total ease. You don\u2019t need any special training or equipment. The terrain is generally flat and comfortable. But don\u2019t get overconfident! Any hike in Cusco requires prior acclimatization to the altitude, even the simplest ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Moderate<\/strong>
Before embarking on a \u201cmoderate\u201d hike or tour, you should be reasonably acclimatized to the altitude of Cusco and the Andes. The altitude affects your oxygen levels, energy, and hydration, so it\u2019s essential to get used to it to avoid dizziness, headaches, or breathing problems on these routes.
These hikes are manageable if you are in good physical shape. The terrain often includes uphill and downhill sections, possible rough patches, or less-traveled paths.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Challenging<\/strong>
Challenging hikes or tours require good acclimatization to the altitude. Spending 3-4 days or more at high altitude will be very helpful. These routes are not recommended at the start of your trip, as they demand considerable effort.
You should be in good physical shape, so we recommend training before embarking on this hike, possibly by running, cycling, or strengthening your muscles to improve endurance. The terrain is often uneven, with steep ascents and descents, and in remote areas. In general, these hikes last several hours, or even days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Formidable<\/strong>
This category includes the most complicated routes, requiring great endurance. You need to be in perfect physical condition and should acclimatize to the high altitude of the Andes before setting off. We recommend spending a minimum of 4-5 days at high altitude.
The terrain is usually uneven and variable, with long distances to cover. You may encounter steep slopes, stairs, narrow paths, and cliffs. It\u2019s essential to physically train for these routes, as your body needs to be prepared for the strenuous nature of the journey.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Tourist](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Puka-Pass-Apacheta-Pass.jpg\")
Puka Pass or Apacheta Pass<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Tourists](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Tourists-walking-Salkantay-pass-mountain.jpg\")
Walking to Salkantay pass<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Now that you know how important it is to plan your activities in order of difficulty, you may be wondering: where do I start?<\/strong> As we mentioned, Cusco has thousands of things to do and activities for all tastes. Below, we\u2019ll show you the order you should follow in your tours to enjoy the best of Cusco at an appropriate pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cusco: The Capital of the Incas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The adventure begins in Cusco<\/strong>, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. This city is also known as \u201cthe belly button of the world,\u201d and for good reason: it\u2019s the starting point for some of the most important destinations in Peru. Cusco is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and monuments in every direction, but before venturing out to explore them, it\u2019s important to acclimate to the climate and altitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s why it\u2019s best to dedicate the first two days to light activities<\/strong> within the city. This will not only help you adjust to the altitude, but also allow you to get a feel for the environment, getting to know the surroundings better and connecting with the history of Cusco so you can understand and appreciate the places you\u2019ll visit in the following days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Walking Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A Cusco walking tour<\/strong><\/a> is the best way to start familiarizing yourself with the city. You\u2019ll stroll through its historic center, its churches, the most iconic neighborhoods and streets, and local markets, where you can experience the lifestyle of the people of Cusco and start to orient yourself to move around with confidence during your stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- In the Plaza de Armas and the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun),<\/strong> you will learn about the history of Cusco, from the Inca Empire to the arrival of the Spanish, while admiring the architecture that blends two cultures.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- At the San Pedro Market<\/strong>, you will discover local crafts, colorful textiles, ceramics, products like cacao and coffee, and you\u2019ll have the chance to taste typical regional flavors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The San Blas neighborhood<\/strong> will charm you with its cobblestone streets, white houses, caf\u00e9s, artisan workshops, and a viewpoint offering a spectacular view of the entire city.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
This tour is also a great opportunity to explore restaurants and caf\u00e9s you may want to try during the next days of your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Qoricancha.jpg\")
Qoricancha (the Temple of the Sun)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"San](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/San-Blas-@elenaborsch.jpg\")
San Blas | @elenaborsch<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Calle](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/calle-7-borreguitos.jpg\")
Calle 7 borreguitos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n City tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This tour <\/strong><\/a>of the most symbolic Inca temples in Cusco will help you better understand the history and legacy of this Empire. At these sites, you\u2019ll be able to appreciate the impressive Inca architecture, learn about their rituals and customs, and understand how these places continue to shape Cusco\u2019s cultural identity today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will visit sites such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Sacsayhuam\u00e1n<\/strong>: The colossal fortress with giant stones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Qenqo<\/strong>: An enigmatic ceremonial center shaped like a labyrinth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Puka Pukara<\/strong>: A large military base that served as a control post.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tambomachay<\/strong>: The “Temple of Water,” known for its hydraulic channels that still function perfectly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Very close to this area is the South American Camelid and Textile Interpretation Center, where you can observe closely the iconic animals of Peru: the llama, alpaca, vicu\u00f1a, and guanaco<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Two](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Sacsayhuaman.jpg\")
Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Site<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"South](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/South-American-Camelids.jpg\")
South American Camelids<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Sacred Valley of the Incas: The Legacy of an Empire<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Sacred Valley of the Incas<\/strong><\/a> is an Andean region located near Cusco, stretching along the Urubamba River. It is situated at around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) of altitude, lower than the city of Cusco. This makes it a great place to continue your acclimatization or even to start your altitude adaptation process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This valley was crucial for the Inca Empire due to its fertile lands<\/strong>, where vast agricultural terraces and sophisticated farming systems were built. Today, visitors can explore large archaeological complexes <\/strong>and charming traditional villages, surrounded by a warmer climate and spectacular landscapes of rivers, mountains, and fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Qenqo<\/strong>: An enigmatic ceremonial center shaped like a labyrinth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- At the San Pedro Market<\/strong>, you will discover local crafts, colorful textiles, ceramics, products like cacao and coffee, and you\u2019ll have the chance to taste typical regional flavors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Moderate<\/strong>
- Deeper Exploration: <\/strong>You\u2019ll be able to take your time enjoying Cusco without rushing, allowing for a much more complete experience. With a broad itinerary, you can thoroughly explore the main tourist attractions in the area, discovering both the famous spots and hidden gems that many hurried travelers miss.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- More Time to Acclimatize: <\/strong>Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level. You need to give your body enough time to adapt to these conditions. Even if you are physically well-prepared, the altitude of the imperial city and the surrounding tourist destinations can affect you with symptoms like fatigue, headache, dizziness, or shortness of breath. That\u2019s why it\u2019s recommended to dedicate 1 or 2 days to acclimate <\/strong><\/a>and do gentler activities, allowing yourself to adjust and thus reduce the risk of altitude sickness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tips before you go on a trek<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Day Hikes in Cusco<\/a><\/li>
- City tour<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Difficulty Levels of the Routes in Cusco<\/a><\/li>
- How Many Days Do I Need for a Trip to Cusco?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
![\"Couple](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Salt-Mines-of-Maras-Cusco.jpg\")
![\"Moray](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Moray-was-a-type-of-farming-laboratory-tested-different-climates-on-different-types-of-crops.jpg\")
![\"Archaeological](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Pisac-in-the-sacred-valley-of-the-incas.jpg\")
![\"Guide](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Guide-Machu-Picchu-1024x683.jpg\")