Cuzco 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
- Accommodation: Qosqo Hotel Boutique or similar (Booking.com)
- Transportation: Taxi from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport to your hotel
Upon arrival, take some time to rest and acclimate to the altitude (Cusco is at 3,400 meters above sea level). In the afternoon, explore the nearby San Blas neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere, artisan workshops, and charming cafes.
- Dinner: Greens Organic Café or Inka Grill (TripAdvisor)
Day 2: City Tour of Cusco
- Breakfast: Cafe Inka Pachará (TripAdvisor)
- Activities: Visit the Coricancha Temple, the Cathedral, Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay
- Lunch: Cicciolina (TripAdvisor)
- Dinner: MAP Cafe or Alma (TripAdvisor)
Day 3: Day Trip to Sacred Valley
- Breakfast: your hotel
- Transportation: Tour agency or private driver
- Activities: Visit Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray
- Lunch: Tunupa (TripAdvisor) or Salccapunku (TripAdvisor)
- Dinner: your accommodation in the Sacred Valley (e.g., Hotel Casa Andina Premium Valle)
Day 4: Machu Picchu
- Breakfast: your accommodation in the Sacred Valley
- Transportation: Vistadome train or Inca Trail to Aguas Calientes
- Activities: Explore Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (book in advance)
- Lunch: Sanctuary Lodge or Tinkuy (TripAdvisor)
- Dinner: your accommodation in Aguas Calientes (e.g., Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel)
Day 5: Return to Cusco
- Breakfast: your accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Transportation: Vistadome train or bus back to Cusco
- Lunch: your hotel or nearby restaurant (e.g., Greens Organic Café)
- Dinner: your choice based on your preferences
- Tips: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for the daytime activities; learn some basic Quechua phrases to connect with locals; always carry small bills for tips and snacks.