The standard Lares Valley trek is 3 days, and is alternatively named theWeavers Way.The name comes from the many traditional Andean villages that are know for their beautiful woven artisanal goods. Thank you! If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book yourMachu Picchu Ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu; without any problem. There are multiple hiking routes to reach the Waqrapukara ruins, but those coming from Cusco can easily reach the trailhead from Sangarar village. The following Cusco itineraries dont include Machu Picchu and simply focus on the best things to do in Cusco and the surrounding areas. Drink coca tea before bedtime if you have a headache. We hold major institutions accountable and expose wrongdoing. The local guides stop by many of the top places to see in the Cusco Historical Center and give a brief history of the Inca empire and the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors. Those salt plots look really interesting. an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. I arrived three days before the hike for this exact reason. The Colca Canyon trek draws travelers and is one of top things to do in Arequipa. Be mindful that the rain can fall heavy and that mudslides and landslides can occur. The short answer is at least two to three days. The mountain is called Vinicunca in the native Quechua language. Free Walking Peru (The Blue Team) is boasts an awesome Cusco free walking tour. We will leave the jewel of Cusco for the last day of visit. Eat light, but have a sufficient amount of calories. I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. Yess! The Waqrapukara ruins are gaining popularity and now require a 10 PEN entrance fee ($2.75 USD), but that includes using the camping facilities. If you have more than a couple weeks in Cusco, one of the best things to do in Cusco is to experience an epic multi-day trek. Cusco is about 75 kilometers from Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo only 32 kilometers. Of course, with any city or place in the world, there is petty crime. I am on the team for a luxury publication from there, so now I want to visit!! Be mindful of your possessions and dont flash your valuables. Personally, I spent almost a year in the region and only scratched the surface. 62 dollars or58 euros) per person. The Choquequirao Trek pass through a winding road built in recent times by the Peruvian government, the road to Choquequirao from the second day of the tour is regularly demanding, however it is rewarded by the captivating landscape beauty and a welcoming climate that belongs to the ecological floor of the jungle eyebrow, and above all the charming archaeological park located on a rugged topography, which at the time of the height of the Incas was undoubtedly a place of greater importance in a political and administrative sense, probably with a lower category religious in front of Machu Picchu. It is recommended to do so immediately after knowing the date of visit to the Wonder of the World. Don't push it. WebThe full day Vinicunca Peru tour is one of the most preferred full day tours from Cusco. The trek is typically 5 days and includes a stop at the famous Laguna Humantay before hiking the Salkantay pass. WebWe're flying mid-day from Puerto Maldonado to Cusco, staying 2 full days in Cusco then heading on the 4 day Inca Trail. s.async = true; The once heart of the mighty Inca Empire, today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with magic, dotted with sacred Inca sites all while tucked cozily in the high altitude of the Andes Mountains. Those trekkers that are up for an incredible adventure and have time to play with their Cusco itinerary, can hike all the way to Machu Picchu. Search, watch, and cook every single Tasty recipe and video ever - all in one place! WebTake 1 prior to boarding the plane to cuzco and take 1 after that every 8 hours for about 1-2 days. The duration of the trip by train (one way) depends on the station where the train is taken: If you want to know more information about the scheduales train and services, please visit: train from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Is the entry to each location included in the fee? Dont have much time? Welcome to This Big Wild World travel blog! So, how many days to spend in Cusco and Machu Picchu? Yes, its always a struggle between keeping costs down and avoiding crowds, but when I can afford it I always like to go for the smaller groups! Tucked behind the hillside of Cusco, the valley is filled with charming villages, snow-capped mountains, incredible Archeological Parks featuring sprawling Inca ruins, some of the best hiking trails, and hidden treasures. Consider that in Machu Picchu Town there is much to do and know. for this exact reason. It is necessary at least 5 hours to tour the Inca city of Machu Picchu as it should, understand it, travel its streets and squares, with temples, residences, stairways, fountains and other amazing structures. Nobodys got time for altitude sickness on the trail! These five detailed Cusco itineraries can help with prioritizing all the awesome things to do in the Cusco region, from out of the world day trips, literally sacred valleys, jaw-dropping Inca sites, to the endless Cusco trekking options. However, if looking for more things to do in Cusco check out the ideas below. Again, its easy to hire a private driver, book an organized tour, walk to Saqsaywaman, or hop on a bus. This circuit involves Huayna Picchuor Huchuy Picchumountain. Avoid alcohol the first few days, or at least hydrate frequently with water if you consume liquor. In the morning we will visit fascinating ruins located very close to the center of Cusco: Sacsayhuamn, Kenko, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Popular villages to sleep in the Sacred Valley are Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. Something for everyone for sure. I personally dont like being stuck on a tour bus with a large group. We enjoyed the buffet lunch at Inca House Restaurant. Infact it tops the bucket list of many travellers, just as Machu Picchu. Definetely, the best way to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu are 3, although it can be done in up to 2 days. From there you have the famous postcard view of the old Inca city,Sacred Rock of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu gate. In Kenko we can tour the mysterious underground room carved into the rock and follow the path of the channels that transported the chicha for the ceremonies that took place there. Tipon is massive and sees very few tourists. What did you include on your Cusco itinerary? I do hope you get the experience someday its truly magical. As a New Yorker who went from 33 ft above sea level to 11,200 ft above sea level, it's a miracle I survived Cusco illness-free. WebThis tour combines the beauty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the rainbow mountain and the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu in 6 unforgettable days +51 915 244 141 jesus@intisuntrek.com From Aguas Calientes buses go up to Machu Picchu every few minutes. The Imperial City of Cusco is an absolute highlight on any Peru itinerary. You had the opportunity to see so much! s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); The Classic Inca Trail is a bucket-list item for many travelers. Read my full story here. Load up on coca leaves and coca products to help thwart headaches. Its one of the more ornate churches I have been in so it was nice to just sit and soak it in for a while. The company Peru Hop is the most popular option to get from Lima to Cusco. Keep in mind that each tour is similar, but different. This gives you entry to Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Chinchero and is good for 2 consecutive days. Now that the basics are out of the way, lets dig-deep into different Cusco itinerary options. This area is known for its handwoven goods. In October the rains begin and you can find Machu Picchu covered by clouds. Below, find a Cusco itinerary that best suites your needs. Your body needs time to acclimate due to the oxygen deprivation. (function(d, sc, u) { You can buy small bags of salt on the way out for just S/ 1. Dont forget about the Sacred Valley, just over the hillside, filled with charming hamlets, snow-capped peaks, hidden lakes, and so much more. However, the Andes Mountains are so green, its almost otherworldly. The highlight of this trip is the visit to the Inca site of Cachicata, the quarry that supplies the stones used in the construction of Ollantaytambo. The Cusco Tourist Ticket is a must for those travelers looking to visit the main Archaeological Sites of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. we also flew from lima to cuzco and had 1 day to acclimate, which was tough, actually we arrived at night, spend the next day in cuzco and then went up machu But, this will vary greatly depending on your fitness level, typical altitude, and many other You photos are wonderful. Trekking Cusco | Best Multi-Day Treks Near Cusco Peru, Find the Best Cusco Itinerary & Awesome Things to Do in Cusco Peru, Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek without a tour, Heres how to visit all 16 sites on the Cusco Tourist Ticket without a Tour, Perolniyoc Waterfall Hike with Raqaypata Ruins, View & Download my Choquequirao Trek Map 4 Days, View & Download my Waqrapukara Trek in 2 Days, View & Download my Ausangate Trek Map with Rainbow Mountain, Browse the best places to stay in Pisac Sacred Valley, Sleep in the underrated village of Urubamba Peru, Find the best places to stay in Ollantaytambo Peru, The 6+ Best Things to Do in Kazbegi Georgia, 18 of the Best Arequipa Restaurants | Where to Eat & Drink in Perus White City + Food Tours, Las Arenas de Cabrales Asturias Travel Guide & 7 Worthwhile Things to See in the Picos de Europa Asturias, The Breathtaking Quilotoa Loop in 3 Days | One of the Best Hikes in Ecuador, Waqrapukara | The Most Incredible Inca Site Youve Never Heard of | 2 Day Trek, 43 Spectacular Things to Do in Cusco & Complete Cusco Travel Guide (2023), The Absolute Best Things to Do in Cusco Peru, The Complete Oaxaca Itinerary for 3 Days to 2 Weeks, Game-Changing Camino de Santiago Tips for First Time Pilgrims, A Taste of the Picos de Europa National Park in Northern Spain, Due to the health crisis, you must pre-register for this tour, Roll up your sleeves and take a Cusco cooking class, If you are loving the Inca sites, this half day adventure hike stops by, Explore a Cusco Tour to Rainbow Mountain or Laguna Humantay if you havent yet, There are not one, but two of the top Flashpacker Hostels (Selina) in Cusco |. A Cusco 5 day itinerary would be more relaxed and enjoyable and give some time to acclimate while in Cusco. You can have breakfast at the hotel, at the airport or wherever you want, in Cusco there are hundreds of restaurants, just be sure to be an hour before at the airport. Deposit: $538. When you reach Calle Tupac Amaro youll see Mercado de Abastos, which is an indoor market filled with food and other trinkets. I hope youre able to go and see this amazing place in person one day! Those considering multi-day trekking in Cusco should shoot for at least one month in Cusco. In general, dry season runs from May to September, while dry season is October to April. In short, or not so short, there are so many incredible things to do in Cusco Peru! If drinking, it may be best to take a taxi home instead of walking. The Mercado San Pedro is an excellent place to people watch, order a fresh juice, and simply enjoy the bustling market place. This is enough for most people. While youre there, take a stroll through the interior of the temple, which was originally built in 1571. But by day 3, with lots of water and coca tea, I was ready to go! Hydrate, rest, and repeat. Pro Tip: I recommend the boleto turistico del cusco ticket (S/ 70). Cusco is a great homebase to explore from. I thought Denver, CO was supposed to be bad, but dang. Want adventure in your inbox every month? Youre welcome! Involvesall tourist attraction of the lost city of the Incas, Circuit #3:This ticket involves the Machu Picchu mountain ticket. Its definitely worth a stop, whether or not youre acclimatizing. Glad to hear you found it helpful! Dont leave them unattended and if using buses, keep them on your lap not on the floor of your legs. Its easy to visit the Maras Salt Mines as a quick morning trip, or add on the lovely hike to the Moray Inca ruins. Drink a ton of (bottled) water leading up to your trip, on the plane, and while you're in the city. Did you find that taking the time to acclimate helped you during the hike? in your suitcase and leave it at your hotel, hostel or tour company office. A free walking tour of Cusco is a great way to get acquainted with the city. Please make an appointment with your doctor if you have legitimate concerns before traveling to high elevations. But, this will vary greatly depending on your fitness level, typical altitude, and many other factors. The way back is made by the town of Chinchero, known as the city of the rainbow; It is a colonial town that houses the church of Nuestra Seora de Monserrat, which began to be built in 1607, on what was the Tupc Yupanqui Palace. I chose not to eat anything here because I was worried about getting food poisoning before hiking, but there were tons of delicious choices. Its a three hour drive to Soraypampa. Your email address will not be published. Look like lots of history to explore in Cusco! Yes!! Based in the area around Ollantaytambo, the Cachicata walk takes you through high waterfalls, Inca ruins and beautiful places. Learn how your comment data is processed. From Arequipa, multiple bus companies depart from the Arequipa Terminal Terrestre to Cusco. Circuit#1 2:Thesecircuitsare the traditional route to the guided tour of Machu Picchu. Afterwards, stroll up to San Blas neighborhood and wander the cobble stone streets. Ive never been to the Inca trail (or even anywhere in S. While the Huchuy Qosqo trek is most commonly done as a day hike in the Sacred Valley, there are multiple trails to reach Little Cusco. One of the most epic ways to hike Huchuy Qosqo is as a 2 day trek. I think this is a great way to prepare for a hike! Just an hour away from Cusco, Pisaq is a popular stop on any tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Hi! Intrepid hikers can visit Rainbow mountain without the crowds by adding the hike to Rainbow Mountain as part of the Ausangate trek. Carb it up, people! Some tour companies had cheaper options, but they only stopped in 2-3 places. Many locals still don traditional clothing and even the alpacas can be seen with ribbons in their ears. If you need a bathroom, theres one at both the Starbucks and Cappuccino Cafe. This was cool to see, but be prepared for them to hustle you to buy something afterwards. Remember, the Classic Inca Trail completely shuts in February. function ml_webform_success_2601308(){var r=ml_jQuery||jQuery;r(".ml-subscribe-form-2601308 .row-success").show(),r(".ml-subscribe-form-2601308 .row-form").hide()} Maybe you're planning to hike Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain. Theres so much to do and see! Yes!! I appreciate your tips on booking tours and questions to ask to make sure youre getting what you need out of it! This was my first trip to South America as well and lets just say that Im hooked! That's why take a Machu Picchu 2 Days Tour can be a good idea. The highlight of the Cusco Tourist Ticket is for most, the four sites in the Sacred Valley of Pisac, Moray, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo. Happy travels to you as well! Take a day or two to simply walk TheInca Quarry Trail or Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchuis one of the new hiking trails offered in the Cusco region. Glad you found it helpful! I will like to stop by all those sites. This train highlights the Peruvian highlands and is a luxury experience in Peru. Then we will visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, where pieces from the pre-Inca and Inca periods are exhibited. Our tour company offered to hold our bags, but they were going to be closed when we got back. Please do not drink the tap water. I am yet to visit Peru but its on my list! Please reference my handy chart above, but NYC (where I permanently live) is 33 ft above sea level, while Cusco is 11,200 ft above sea level. Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most magical experiences Ive had to date. Its unclear what their purpose was, but while you ponder that you can enjoy the gorgeous views of the mountains surrounding the ruins. All travelers visiting Cusco will feel the effects of the altitude in some ways, but some may suffer from altitude sickness. Date Calculator Add or subtract days, months, years. Something for everyone interested in hair, makeup, style, and body positivity. Start your day with an early tour pickup wherever youre staying (our pickup was 6:45am). When planning a Cusco itinerary, be sure to consider these three popular Cusco day trips. Ask your doctor for altitude sickness pills, and start taking them a day before you land in Cusco. Ive read so much about hiking Inca but not much about what to do in Cusco, it looks awesome! Walk for 4 days to enter the Inca City of Machu Picchu. If you have at least a one week Cusco itinerary, its best to sleep between Cusco and the Sacred Valley. window.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() { At the end of the first day I had a pretty bad headache, but it went away about 10 minutes after drinking the coca tea. Reporting on what you care about. TOUR OF CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU IN 2 DAYS Day 01: Route in The Choquequirao trek leads to the spectacular Choquequirao Inca Site. It is advisable to be 30 minutes before the scheduled travel time. Heres a rundown of a three day itinerary for acclimatization in Cusco. }); Do you identify as a female and blog about the outdoors? Wow, there is so much to see and do near Cusco! The Cusco tourist ticket includes the best places in the city, the Cathedral of Cusco is probably the first place you visit in your journey through the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, then you can walk to the Coricancha. There is not one in Maukallacta, but three! 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Those who have more time in Cusco altitude, and body positivity a... Through high waterfalls, Inca ruins and beautiful places about the outdoors alpacas can be a good idea 2... Old Inca city of Machu Picchu Pre-Columbian Art, where pieces from the and! Was supposed to be closed when we got back it may be best to between... The boleto turistico del Cusco ticket ( S/ 70 ) staying 2 full in!, the Classic Inca Trail is similar, but some may suffer from altitude sickness Vinicunca in the region only! First trip to South America as well and lets just say that Im hooked sleep between Cusco and Machu....