Cusco, Peru 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Cusco Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization

  • Arrival: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is the main airport in Cusco. You can arrange a taxi or pre-book a shuttle service to your hotel.
  • Accommodation: Consider staying at Hotel Monasterio Plaza San Blas, a charming hotel located in the historic center of Cusco.
  • Lunch: Visit “Green Point” for healthy and delicious Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby San Blas neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets and artisan shops. Don’t miss the beautiful church of San Blas.
  • Dinner: Dine at “Cicciolina” for a taste of Italian food with Peruvian influences.
  • Tips: Remember to drink coca tea to help with altitude sickness.

Day 2: Cusco City Tour

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Sacsayhuaman, an Incan archaeological site with impressive stone walls.
  • Lunch: Head back to Cusco and have lunch at “Panchita Cusqueña” for traditional Peruvian dishes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Coricancha (Temple of the Sun), the Inca’s most important temple, followed by the nearby Convent of Santo Domingo.
  • Evening: Explore the bustling San Pedro Market and try some local street food for dinner.

Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour

  • Morning: Depart early for a full day tour of the Sacred Valley. Stops include Pisac Ruins, Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley.
  • Dinner: Return to Cusco and dine at “El Encuentro” for creative Peruvian dishes with a fusion twist.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Expedition

  • Morning: Take the early train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town nearest to Machu Picchu.
  • Afternoon: Spend your day exploring the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu. Don’t forget to visit the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for a stunning view of the site.
  • Dinner: Have dinner in Aguas Calientes at “Inca Grill” for Peruvian-Asian fusion cuisine.

Day 5: Return & Departure

  • Morning: Take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus or taxi back to Cusco.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at “Mama Afrodita” for delicious Peruvian comfort food before your flight.
  • Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit the Qorikancha (Temple of Gold) or do some last-minute shopping in Cusco’s markets.
  • Transportation: For getting around, consider using Combis (shared taxis), taxis, or tour companies for day trips.