Cusco Peru 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Cusco City

  • Morning:

    1. Check-in at your hotel (recommendations: Palacio del Inka, Hotel Monasterio, or Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel)
    2. Breakfast at Granja Petit La Grange, a popular spot known for its delicious Peruvian dishes and pancakes.
    3. Visit the Coricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, an Incan temple that served as the main religious center during the Inca Empire.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Head to Sacsayhuaman (a short bus or taxi ride from downtown Cusco), an impressive Inca fortress with large limestone blocks.
    2. Explore the Kenko, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay ruins on a guided tour (these are part of the Sacsayhuaman complex).
    3. Lunch at Cicciolina, an Italian-Peruvian fusion restaurant offering delicious food with a great view of the city.

  • Evening:

    1. Stroll through the San Blas neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and artisanal shops.
    2. Dinner at Greens Organic Cafe, featuring vegetarian and vegan options.
    3. Explore the lively nightlife in Cusco by visiting places like Pachapapa or Inka’s Taverna.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

  • Morning:

    1. Early breakfast at your hotel.
    2. Take a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, including stops at Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.

  • Afternoon:

    1. Lunch in Ollantaytambo at Tunupa, offering traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist.
    2. Visit the local artisan market in Pisac if you missed it in the morning.

  • Evening:

    1. Return to Cusco and dinner at El Albergue, located inside the Ollantaytambo train station, serving exquisite Andean cuisine.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Excursion

  • Morning:

    1. Early breakfast at your hotel.
    2. Take a train to Machu Picchu (you can choose between the PeruRail or Inca Rail services).

  • Afternoon:

    1. Guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces, and palaces.
    2. Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge, overlooking the ruins.
    3. Spend more time exploring the site or hiking to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (permits required).

  • Evening:

    1. Return train ride to Cusco.
    2. Farewell dinner at Limo Restaurant, located in a 16th-century mansion and offering Peruvian and international dishes.

Things to Know:

  1. Altitude sickness is common in Cusco, so be sure to drink plenty of water and coca tea.
  2. Remember to pack layers for varying temperatures throughout the day.
  3. Most places accept credit cards, but it’s still useful to have some local currency (Peruvian Soles).
  4. Tipping is customary in Peru, with 10% being a standard amount.
  5. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting sacred sites.
  6. Remember your passport as you will need it for entrance to Machu Picchu and other attractions.
  7. For transportation within Cusco, consider using taxis or Uber for convenience.