Cuzco-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cuzco

  • Arrival: Arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel (approx. $10-$20 USD)
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Casa Andina Standard Cuzco ( approx. $50-$70 USD per night)
  • Lunch: Try Patio Restaurant, a local eatery serving traditional Peruvian dishes (approx. $10-$15 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Plaza de Armas, the historic center of Cuzco
    • Explore the nearby San Francisco Church and its impressive cloister
    • Get familiar with the city’s altitude by taking a short walk around the area
  • Dinner: Have dinner at Tikal Restaurant, serving a fusion of Peruvian and international cuisine (approx. $20-$30 USD per person)

Day 2: Cuzco City Tour

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or grab something to go
  • 9:30 AM: Meet your guide for a city tour, which includes:
    • The Cathedral of Santo Domingo, one of the most important churches in South America
    • The Koricancha Temple, an Inca structure turned into a monastery by the Spanish
    • A short walk through the narrow streets and picturesque plazas of Cuzco’s historic center
  • Lunch: Try El Mirador Restaurant, serving Andean-inspired cuisine (approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Sacsayhuamán fortress, a mysterious Inca ruin on the outskirts of Cuzco
    • Explore the nearby Q’enqo rock, featuring intricate stone carvings and views over the city
  • Dinner: Have dinner at Grano de Oro Restaurant, serving Peruvian-inspired cuisine (approx. $25-$35 USD per person)

Day 3: Sacred Valley

  • 7:00 AM: Depart for the Sacred Valley, a scenic drive from Cuzco
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Pisac Ruins and Market:
    • Explore the Inca ruins of Pisac, featuring impressive agricultural terracing
    • Browse the local market selling handicrafts and textiles (approx. $5-$10 USD per person)
  • Lunch: Try La Bodega Restaurant, serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients (approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Urubamba River and take a boat ride
    • Explore the town of Ollantaytambo, featuring impressive Inca stonework
  • Dinner: Have dinner at Taypikala Restaurant, serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients (approx. $20-$30 USD per person)

Day 4: Machu Picchu Day

  • 5:00 AM: Depart for the train station and catch the early morning train to Aguas Calientes
  • 7:00 AM: Arrive in Aguas Calientes and take a bus up to Machu Picchu:
    • Explore the Sun Gate, one of the most iconic views in Peru
    • Visit the ruins themselves, featuring impressive Inca stonework and stunning views (approx. $70-$100 USD per person for the bus ticket)
  • Lunch: Try El Chocolatero Restaurant, serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients (approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Take your time exploring the ruins and taking in the views
    • Consider visiting the nearby Inca Bridge and Temple of the Moon

Day 5: Return to Cuzco

  • 3:00 PM: Depart from Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cuzco:
    • Enjoy the scenic views along the way
    • Reflect on your time in Machu Picchu
  • 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Cuzco and have dinner at La Casona Restaurant, serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients (approx. $25-$35 USD per person)

Day 6: Explore Cuzco’s Surroundings

  • 9:00 AM: Depart for the nearby town of Chinchero:
    • Visit the Inca ruins and see traditional Andean textiles being made
    • Learn about local traditions and customs from your guide (approx. $20-$30 USD per person)
  • Lunch: Try La Merced Restaurant, serving Peruvian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients (approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the nearby Cuzco’s Cathedral and its impressive cloister
    • Explore the nearby San Pedro Market, selling handicrafts and textiles

Day 7: Last Day in Cuzco

  • 9:00 AM: Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any attractions you missed on previous days
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Patio Restaurant, a local eatery serving traditional Peruvian dishes (approx. $10-$15 USD per person)
  • 2:00 PM: Depart for the airport and head back home

Additional Tips and Information

  • Altitude Sickness: If you experience symptoms such as headaches or fatigue, take it easy and drink plenty of water.
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, learning basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience.
  • Money: Peruvian Soles (PEN) are the local currency; US dollars are widely accepted but may not be the best exchange rate. Credit cards are also widely used at tourist establishments.
  • Safety: As with any major city, take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Take a taxi or shuttle from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) to your hotel
  • Local Transportation: Use taxis, colectivos (shared vans), or walk/bike through the city center
  • Train to Machu Picchu: Catch the train from Cuzco’s train station to Aguas Calientes

Important Notes

  • Travel Documents: Make sure you have a valid passport and any necessary visas.
  • Physical Condition: Cuzco is at high altitude (3,350 meters); take your time and stay hydrated.
  • Local Festivals: Avoid traveling during local festivals as they may cause disruptions to transportation and attractions.

Additional Recommendations

  • Massage Therapist: Treat yourself to a relaxing massage at Inca Massage
  • Market Visit: Explore the vibrant markets of Cuzco’s historic center
  • Peruvian Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes with a cooking class