Cuzco-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cuzco

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in at your hotel (recommendations below)
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cuzco, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and the majestic Cathedral of Santo Domingo
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Pachapapa, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Explore the Sacsayhuamán archaeological site, an impressive Inca ruin with stunning views of Cuzco ( entrance fee: 50 PEN)
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the Qenqo rock, a sacred Inca site featuring intricate stone carvings and a mysterious ritual stone (entrance fee: 20 PEN)

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Gringo’s Cafe, a popular spot for international cuisine
  • 9:00 PM: Experience the lively nightlife of Cuzco, with many bars and clubs to choose from

Day 2: Sacred Valley

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Depart from Cuzco to the Sacred Valley ( approx. 1 hour drive)
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the ** Pisac** archaeological site, a stunning Inca ruin with impressive stone terracing and a market selling local handicrafts
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Pisac Market, where you can try traditional Peruvian dishes like Ceviche or Lomo Saltado

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, a majestic Inca ruin with impressive stonework and a stunning view of the surrounding valley
  • 5:00 PM: Return to Cuzco (approx. 1 hour drive)

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Bodega, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine
  • 9:30 PM: Relax in your hotel or explore Cuzco’s vibrant nightlife

Day 3: Inca Ruins and Local Culture

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Visit the Koricancha Inca ruin, an impressive temple dedicated to the sun god (entrance fee: 15 PEN)
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the Santos Cruz neighborhood, a charming area with many local shops and restaurants
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at La Estación, a popular spot for traditional Peruvian cuisine

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Textile Center, where you can learn about the ancient Inca textile traditions (entrance fee: 10 PEN)
  • 4:00 PM: Attend a traditional Andean dance performance at the National University of Cuzco

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Mama Africa, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine
  • 9:30 PM: Relax in your hotel or explore Cuzco’s vibrant nightlife

Day 4: Last Day in Cuzco

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Visit the Cusipata market, where you can find many local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cuzco, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and the majestic Cathedral of Santo Domingo
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at Pachapapa, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Santos Cruz neighborhood, a charming area with many local shops and restaurants (if you haven’t already visited)
  • 4:00 PM: Depart from Cuzco to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport for your departure flight

Hotel Recommendations:

  • Hotel Torre Dorada (budget-friendly option): a cozy hotel located in the heart of Cuzco, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet.
  • Hotel Casa Andina (mid-range option): a charming hotel located in the historic center of Cuzco, offering spacious rooms and a beautiful courtyard.
  • Hotel Palacio Nazarenes (luxury option): a stunning hotel located in the heart of Cuzco, offering luxurious rooms and a world-class spa.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: a convenient way to get around Cuzco, but be aware that prices may vary depending on traffic.
  • Tourist bus: a great way to explore Cuzco’s main attractions without worrying about transportation.
  • Walking: the best way to discover Cuzco’s charming neighborhoods and historic sites.

Tips:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred Inca sites.
  • Try traditional Peruvian cuisine, which is delicious and varied.
  • Don’t drink tap water, and avoid eating from street vendors (if you’re not comfortable).
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Other things of interest:

  • The National Museum of Cuzco: a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
  • The Cusipata Market: a bustling marketplace where you can find many local handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • The Textile Center: a great place to learn about ancient Inca textile traditions.