Cusco

Day Trips

Begin your day with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, where you'll admire the stunning colonial architecture. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling dishes like 'pan con chicharrón' and fresh local coffee. Take time to visit the iconic Cusco Cathedral, marveling at its intricate altars and religious artworks.

After lunch at a local restaurant, stroll through the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan shops and vibrant street art. Visit the San Pedro Market to experience the local culture and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to relax at a café, sipping on 'mate de coca' while people-watching.

As the sun sets, head to a traditional restaurant for dinner where you can try 'cuy chactado', a local delicacy. Enjoy a live folk music performance, immersing yourself in the rhythms of Andean culture. End your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, taking in the twinkling lights of the historic center.

Depart Cusco early in the morning for a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, stopping at the picturesque town of Pisac. Explore the vibrant Pisac Market, where local artisans sell handmade crafts and textiles. Ascend to the archaeological site above the town to enjoy breathtaking views of the valley below.

Continue your journey to Ollantaytambo, where you'll have lunch at a charming restaurant. Explore the impressive ruins, which showcase Inca engineering and provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Take a moment to wander through the narrow streets of this ancient town, soaking in its rich history.

Return to Cusco in the evening, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, treat yourself to dinner at a local eatery, indulging in hearty Andean cuisine. Spend your evening reflecting on the beauty of the Sacred Valley while enjoying a quiet night at your hotel.

Catch an early train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush cloud forests. Arrive in Aguas Calientes and take a bus ride up to the breathtaking Machu Picchu Citadel, where you will be greeted by stunning views of the ancient ruins. Spend the morning exploring and learning about the history of this iconic site with a guided tour.

After the tour, take some time to wander around the ruins on your own, capturing photos of the breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a lunch at one of the local restaurants in Aguas Calientes, where you can savor traditional Peruvian dishes. Consider hiking to the Sun Gate for an alternative perspective of Machu Picchu.

Return to Cusco by train in the evening, reflecting on your incredible experience. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, perhaps trying 'pachamanca', a traditional dish cooked with hot stones. Wind down your day with a short walk around the city, savoring the cooler evening air.

Start your day with a visit to the Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, where you can learn about Inca architecture and spirituality. Afterward, enjoy a guided tour of the San Blas neighborhood, visiting local artisans and craftspeople. Stop by a local café to enjoy a Peruvian breakfast, such as 'tamales' or 'queso helado'.

Participate in a hands-on cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes using fresh ingredients. Under the guidance of a local chef, create dishes like 'ceviche' and 'lomo saltado'. Enjoy your culinary creations for lunch, experiencing the flavors of Peru firsthand.

After your cooking adventure, take some time to relax at your accommodation or explore the local shops in San Blas. In the evening, attend a cultural show featuring traditional Andean music and dance, immersing yourself in the local culture. Wind down with a leisurely dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring the evening ambiance.

Spend the morning preparing for your upcoming Inca Trail trek by gathering all necessary gear and supplies. Visit local shops that specialize in trekking equipment to rent or buy items like walking sticks and appropriate clothing. Take a few moments to relax at a café, enjoying a light breakfast.

Join a pre-trek briefing session where you’ll learn about safety, trail etiquette, and what to expect on your journey. Meet your fellow trekkers and share excitement as you bond over your mutual adventure. After the briefing, enjoy a hearty lunch, fueling up for the trek ahead.

In the evening, have a final dinner in Cusco, opting for a restaurant that offers a variety of local dishes. Reflect on your experiences in the city and the excitement of the trek ahead with fellow adventurers. Head back to your accommodation early to rest up for the challenging days to come.

Set out early from Cusco, taking a bus to the trailhead at Km 82, where the adventure begins. After a group briefing, start your hike alongside the flowing Urubamba River, enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Andes. Marvel at the ancient Inca ruins of Llactapata along the way, learning about their historical significance.

Continue your trek through lush valleys and up towards the first campsite, taking in breathtaking views and the diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a packed lunch prepared by your trekking team, providing sustenance for the journey ahead. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including colorful birds and unique plants.

After a rewarding day of hiking, arrive at the campsite and settle in for the night. Enjoy a hot meal prepared by your trekking staff, sharing stories and laughter with fellow trekkers. As night falls, gaze at the stars and reflect on the day’s journey, eager for what tomorrow will bring.

Wake up early to the sounds of nature and enjoy a warm breakfast before tackling the most challenging section of the trail. Ascend to Dead Woman's Pass, the highest point on the Inca Trail, while taking breaks to appreciate the panoramic views. The cool mountain air invigorates your spirit as you reach the top, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Descend from the pass and continue through lush cloud forests, witnessing the changing ecosystems as you hike. Stop for lunch at a scenic spot, enjoying the meal while taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Along the way, explore ancient Inca sites like Runkurakay, gaining insight into the history of the trail.

As you reach the second campsite, take time to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the valley. Feast on a delicious dinner prepared by your crew, sharing experiences and laughter with your trekking companions. End the evening with stargazing, marveling at the clear, unpolluted sky above.

Rise early again to enjoy breakfast before embarking on the final leg of your trek. Hike the stunning Inca Trail, passing by impressive ruins such as Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, each offering a glimpse into the Incas' architectural genius. The trail winds through lush vegetation and high-altitude landscapes, providing exhilarating views.

Reach Wiñay Wayna, a spectacular archaeological site, where you will take a break for lunch and explore the impressive terraced ruins. Feel the excitement building as you approach the final destination, Machu Picchu. The trail becomes more populated as you encounter fellow hikers making their way to the ancient citadel.

Arrive at the Sun Gate just before sunset, where you’ll have your first glimpse of Machu Picchu against the backdrop of the setting sun. After taking in the breathtaking views, descend into the ancient city and explore its wonders. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve experienced.

After an early breakfast, return to Machu Picchu for a guided tour to delve deeper into its history and significance. Walk through the iconic structures, learning about their functions and the story of the Inca civilization. Capture breathtaking photographs of the ruins with the stunning Andean backdrop.

After the tour, take some time to wander the site at your own pace, visiting areas like the Temple of the Sun or the Inca Bridge. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Aguas Calientes at a restaurant featuring views of the surrounding landscape. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, perhaps picking up some last-minute souvenirs.

Catch the train back to Cusco, where you can reflect on your incredible journey to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, celebrate your adventure with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying a mix of traditional dishes. Spend your last evening reminiscing about the highlights of your trip and the friends you made along the way.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation, indulging in some final tastes of Peruvian cuisine. Take a last stroll through Cusco, visiting any shops or sites you may have missed, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Capture some final photos of the beautiful architecture and landscapes before your departure.

Depending on your travel schedule, enjoy a farewell lunch at a favorite café or restaurant, reflecting on the memories made during your time in Cusco. If time permits, visit the Museo Inka to learn more about the history and culture of the Inca civilization. Gather your belongings and prepare for your journey home or onward travel.

As you head to the airport or bus station, take one last look at the majestic Andes and the city that has captivated your heart. Carry the spirit of Cusco with you, remembering the incredible adventures and experiences you've had. Depart with a sense of fulfillment and a promise to return one day.