Cuzco-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Cuzco

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start your day at Plaza de Armas, the main square in Cuzco. Take a moment to admire the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Cathedral of Cuzco, a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture that houses impressive artwork and artifacts.

Lunch

  • Head to Puka Pukara for lunch, a local restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine. Try their famous lomo saltado (stir-fried beef strips) and pisco sour.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Visit the Sacsayhuamán Fortress, an impressive Inca ruin located just outside Cuzco. Explore the ancient walls, tunnels, and ceremonial centers.
  • 4:00 PM: Wander through the narrow streets of the San Blas neighborhood, known for its charming shops, cafes, and street art.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Bodega 138, a cozy restaurant serving delicious Peruvian cuisine. Try their grilled anticuchos (beef heart skewers) and ají de gallina.
  • 9:00 PM: Relax with a drink at the rooftop bar of your hotel or a local spot, taking in the breathtaking views of the city.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Casa Andina Standard Cuzco: A comfortable and centrally located hotel with modern amenities. ( approx. $60 USD per night)
  • Hostal Pariwana: A budget-friendly option with dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers. (approx. $10 USD per night)

Things to Know

  • Altitude: Cuzco is at an altitude of 3,300 meters (10,800 ft), so it’s essential to acclimate yourself by drinking plenty of water and taking breaks.
  • Weather: The weather in Cuzco can be unpredictable. Bring layers for cooler evenings and rain showers.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available throughout the city, but be sure to agree on a price before your trip.
  • Walking: Walking is the best way to explore Cuzco’s historic center and surrounding neighborhoods.

Tips

  • Haggling: Be prepared for haggling when shopping at local markets. It’s a normal part of the experience!
  • Respect: Treat the local culture with respect, especially in churches and sacred sites.
  • Safety: As with any major tourist destination, be mindful of your belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Day 2: Inca Ruins and Sacred Sites

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Visit the Coricancha, a former Inca temple that’s now part of a beautiful church.
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the Q’enqo, an ancient rock quarry and ceremonial center. Watch your step, as some areas are steep and uneven.

Lunch

  • Head to Cuzco’s Market for lunch, where you can sample local street food and shop for souvenirs.
  • Try a traditional Peruvian dish like papas a la Huancaina (spicy potato salad) or ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juices).

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Visit the Tambo Machay, a mysterious Inca ruin that’s said to be an astronomical observatory.
  • 3:00 PM: Stop by the Cuzco Planetarium, where you can learn about the city’s history and astronomy.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at El Mirador, a restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Try their grilled anticuchos (beef heart skewers) and ají de gallina.
  • 9:00 PM: Relax with a drink at your hotel’s bar or a local spot, enjoying the sunset over Cuzco.

Day 3: Exploring the Countryside

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley, where you can explore ancient Inca ruins and experience rural Peruvian culture.
  • Visit the Pisac Market, a bustling marketplace selling traditional handicrafts and textiles.

Lunch

  • Head to La Choza del Campesino for lunch, a cozy restaurant serving delicious Peruvian cuisine in a rustic setting. Try their grilled trout and papas a la Huancaina.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Explore the Moray, an ancient agricultural experimentation site where you can learn about Inca farming practices.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, a stunning example of Inca architecture and engineering.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Return to Cuzco for dinner and spend some time exploring the local nightlife.