Summary
Travel to South America is booming – especially in Peru. It’s easy to see why, as this destination offers a diverse range of attractions for travelers. From trekking the Inca trail and handicraft shopping to cultural immersion, there is something for everyone. Manuel Vigo, marketing manager at Peru For Less, shares the ideal itinerary in one of their favorite Peruvian destinations – Cusco.
Exploring Cusco
Why choose Cusco? Vigo emphasizes the many layers of the destination.
“The charm of Cusco and its numerous city highlights definitely warrant more than an overnight stay en route to Machu Picchu,” he states. “There are layers of history to explore throughout the city. While in Cusco, you’ll wander down narrow cobblestone streets hugged by old colonial buildings and ancient stone walls crafted by Inca stonemasons.”
Life in Cusco centers around its bustling Plaza de Armas, bordered by the Cusco Cathedral, restaurants serving regional favorites, and inviting cafes. Many of Cusco’s must-see attractions, such as Qoricancha (the Sun Temple) and the Sacsayhuaman Inca fortress, are within a short walking distance or a brief taxi ride from your accommodations.
Here is a sample five-day itinerary to help you experience the best that Cusco has to offer as you make your way to Machu Picchu.
Ideal Itinerary: Cusco
“Cusco is undoubtedly our favorite destination in Peru. Talk to any traveler who has visited and you’re likely to hear something like this: ‘I loved Cusco. Can’t wait to go back,’” says Vigo.
What’s all the excitement about? From stunning Inca temples and ornate colonial cathedrals to cozy cafes, luxurious hotels, a vibrant bar scene, and some of the best restaurants in all of Peru, Cusco has everything a traveler’s heart could desire.
Day 1: Acclimate & Explore
- Mind the Elevation – While eager to explore the city, remember that Cusco’s altitude of 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) may require a more relaxed itinerary. Your first morning is a prime opportunity to find a balcony in a cafe overlooking the Plaza de Armas or Plaza Regocijo, enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea, and indulge in some of the best people-watching in the Andes.
- Cusco City & Ruins – After lunch, head to the main attractions. Start at the Cusco Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, then walk through the narrow streets laid out by the Incas to Qorikancha temple. End the day with a visit to Sacsayhuaman and its monumental zigzagging stone walls. Even with this packed afternoon, booking a tour can save you time while a knowledgeable guide shares Cusco’s history and legends.
- Dine Like Incan Royalty – If you haven’t yet indulged in Peruvian cuisine, the restaurants in Cusco offer a delightful introduction. For classic Peruvian dishes, visit Pachapapa or Nuna Raymi. For gourmet and fusion experiences, check out Chicha by Gaston Acurio, Marcelo Batata, or Limo (don’t miss the ceviche).
Day 2: Museums & Markets
Cusco is a cultural wonderland, perfect for those seeking an enriching travel experience. As you explore the city, you will find an array of museums showcasing all facets of the Andean world: art, archaeology, textiles, chocolate, astronomy, and more.
- Must-See Museums – With an abundance of great museums, choosing which one to visit can be challenging. Here are a few recommendations:
- Machu Picchu Museum (Casa Concha), Calle Santa Catalina 320 – An excellent introduction to the iconic ruins.
- Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (MAP), Plaza de las Nazarenas 231 – The Cusco branch of the acclaimed Larco Museum in Lima.
- Center for Traditional Textiles, Av. El Sol 603 – A beautiful display of textiles with items available for purchase.
- ChocoMuseo, Calle Garcilaso 210, 2nd floor – Experience Peruvian chocolate and participate in making your own.
- Archbishop’s Palace, Calle Hatunrumiyoc – Built on the site of an Inca palace, this place treasures colonial art and architecture.
- Monumento Pachacuteq, Ovalo del Pachacutec – A 20-meter tower topped with a bronze sculpture of the great Inca king Pachacutec, offering a museum and spectacular views over Cusco.
- After Dark – Not all explorations are confined to daylight.
- Planetarium Cusco – A family-run center where you can learn about Inca astrology, located a short drive from the city.
- Museo del Pisco, Calle Santa Catalina 398 – More of a bar than a museum, this is the perfect spot to learn about the wonders of pisco. Live salsa music can be enjoyed on selected evenings, so go early if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
- Markets – Culture thrives not only in museums but also in local markets. Be sure to visit a market to witness living traditions and check off items from your souvenir list.
- San Pedro Market – As the largest traditional market in the historic center, Mercado San Pedro offers local fruits and vegetables, herbs, flowers, dry goods, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to explore the food stalls in the back!
- San Blas Market – A smaller version of Mercado San Pedro, but worth a visit when in the area. A nearby vegetarian restaurant serves a popular set lunch menu.
- Centro Artesanal Cusco – This large indoor market is a treasure trove of artisanal goods, trinkets, ponchos, textiles, and alpaca wool hats called chullos. Explore the stalls to get a good sense of available items, and remember that vendors are more inclined to offer discounts for bulk purchases.
Day 3: Get Out of Town
With several days of altitude experience behind you, it’s time to engage in more vigorous activities. Consider taking a mountain biking or horseback riding tour to discover the stunning countryside around Chinchero, just 30 minutes from Cusco. These active excursions allow you to visit extraordinary sites like the Moray circular terraces and the Maras salt pans.
If adrenaline activities are not your style, you may alternatively book a car tour. At the day’s end, you can either return to Cusco or spend the night in the enchanting Sacred Valley.
Day 4: Sacred Valley of the Incas
The Sacred Valley is rich with fascinating archaeological sites, offering invaluable insights into the grandeur of the Inca Empire. A typical tour will take you to:
- Pisac Ruins: These hilltop ruins offer breathtaking views and reveal a mix of residential and ceremonial structures spread across a mountain ridge.
- Ollantaytambo Fortress: Features fine terraces and a main temple built with massive precision-crafted stones. Below the ruins lies the vibrant town of Ollantaytambo, a prime example of Inca urban planning and a delightful place to spend the night.
- Urubamba: This central hub of the Sacred Valley boasts an increasingly dynamic restaurant scene, featuring options like Tres Keros, Q’anela, and El Huacatay. If your group is large, buffet restaurants such as Tunupa or Muna also provide excellent meals.
Day 5: Machu Picchu
After exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you will be better positioned to appreciate the world wonder of Machu Picchu. Travel by train from Ollantaytambo, enjoy a guided tour of the majestic ruins, and then take time to explore this breathtaking site at your leisure.
