Unique Cusco Itinerary | The Absolute Best Things to Do in Cusco | 3 Days – 1 Month

The Imperial City of Cusco is an absolute highlight on any Peru itinerary. 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. With so much to see and do in Cusco alone, planning a Cusco itinerary can feel overwhelming.

Not only is Cusco the gateway to the most famous landmark in Peru, the Lost City of Machu Picchu, but the region is a hiker’s paradise. Cusco is the starting point of incredible multi-day treks, day hikes, and more. Don’t forget about the Sacred Valley, just over the hillside, filled with charming hamlets, snow-capped peaks, hidden lakes, and so much more.

This comprehensive Cusco guide includes tips for visiting Cusco, how to get to Cusco, and how to choose a Cusco itinerary that best suites what to see and do on a trip to Peru. These detailed Cusco itineraries range from 3 days to well over a month and include the absolute best things to do in Cusco.

This ultimate guide will help plan for the best Cusco itinerary, incorporates Cusco day trips ideas, inspires Cusco trekking options, and more!

Table of Contents

• General Cusco Travel Tips
• How to Get to the Imperial City of Cusco
• Five Epic Cusco Itineraries
• Trekking Cusco | Best Multi-Day Treks Near Cusco Peru
• Where to Stay in Cusco Peru
• Find the Best Cusco Itinerary & Awesome Things to Do in Cusco Peru

General Cusco Travel Tips

The best Cusco travel tips to make the most of your Cusco itinerary.

Jump to | Cusco Peru Elevation | Cusco Tours or Independent Travel | Cusco Day Trips | Sacred Valley Peru | Best Time to Visit Cusco | Is Cusco Safe | Cusco Tourist Ticket

How Many Days Do You Need in Cusco Peru?

In my opinion, there are so many epic things to do in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and with all the diverse multi-day Cusco treks that a month is ideal. Sadly, most travelers don’t have that kind of time. Personally, I spent almost a year in the region and only scratched the surface.

In Cusco City, it’s possible to see many of the Cusco highlights in 3 days, but of course, you would need to utilize guided tours and/or drivers. A Cusco 5-day itinerary would be more relaxed and enjoyable and give some time to acclimate while in Cusco.

Cusco Peru Elevation

The Imperial City of Cusco is picturesquely tucked in the mighty Andes Mountains, at an elevation of 11,152 ft (3,400 m). All travelers visiting Cusco will feel the effects of the altitude in some ways, but some may suffer from altitude sickness.

In Peru, altitude sickness is commonly known as “Soroche,” which may come in handy if heading to a local pharmacy or “Botica.” Altitude sickness symptoms can include dizziness, loss of appetite, sleepiness, shortness of breath, headaches, and nausea. Symptoms may be mild to rather extreme.

Helpful Tip to Combat Altitude Sickness in Cusco | Almost all tiendas, markets, and street vendors sell coca leaves. These leaves are a staple plant to help fight altitude sickness and can either be chewed or steeped in tea. Many hostels and hotels provide coca tea free of charge. Do as the locals do and use these medicinal leaves to help combat altitude sickness symptoms. However, don’t try to bring them into another country or the US, they are illegal!

Altitude sickness is no joke and the best thing to do is rest and drink tons of water. Hydrate, rest, and repeat. If symptoms do not improve, please seek medical attention.

Those who have never experienced traveling at these great altitudes should prepare to acclimate in Cusco for the first day or two and casually explore the city.

Cusco Tours Vs. Independent Travel in Cusco

Cusco is an extremely tourist-friendly city, and there are endless guided tours for the city, a plethora of Cusco Inca Sites, and popular Cusco day trip options. Cusco tours can be found in Spanish, English, French, German, and so many more languages. Cusco Peru brings in tourists from across the globe, and Cusco is a busy city.

The Cusco historical city center is extremely walkable, so one of the best ways to enjoy the Imperial City is to simply walk, stroll, and take it all in.

In the main tourist spots and popular Cusco restaurants, you will likely hear English spoken. Alternatively, in the local markets and restaurants visited by locals, and a vast majority of the public transportation options and collectivos, no English is spoken.

Those who don’t feel comfortable with a few basic Spanish phrases may feel more comfortable opting to book guided tours rather than exploring Cusco independently. If visiting Cusco on a short time frame, it’s more efficient, but less cost-efficient to take day trip tours from Cusco to the nearby Inca sites, the Sacred Valley, and popular Cusco day trips.

However, Cusco is easily connected to all the tourist destinations, including the unmissable Sacred Valley of the Incas via public buses and collectivos, or small vans. Traveling Cusco independently really allows for an immersive experience and is budget-friendly.

In the end, it comes down to time vs. money. Those with limited time of a Cusco 3 day itinerary will get the most “bang for their buck” with full-day Cusco tours. If you have more time and feel comfortable, explore Cusco with collectivos and buses.

Cusco Day Trips

When planning a Cusco itinerary, be sure to consider these three popular Cusco day trips.

Machu Picchu

The most popular day trip from Cusco is the Lost City of Machu Picchu, a Modern World Wonder and the reason so many travelers are drawn to the allure of Peru and South America. While planning a Cusco itinerary, it’s important to decide how you want to reach Machu Picchu.

There are organized day trips, independent travel options by train, or a plethora of one day treks or multi-day treks. Treks to Machu Picchu range from the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or the intrepid and advanced Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. All roads really do lead to Machu Picchu.

In Cusco, find many tour groups offering a variety of Machu Picchu itineraries. Both trekking and non-trekking Machu Picchu itineraries are viable. If you have more time, it’s totally doable to visit Machu Picchu on your own.

✔ Peru Travel Resources | Visiting Machu Picchu the Basics

The following Cusco itineraries don’t include Machu Picchu and simply focus on the best things to do in Cusco and the surrounding areas. So, in short, add at least one day for Machu Picchu to your Cusco itinerary.

Rainbow Mountain

The “Mountain of Seven Colors,” or Rainbow Mountain is becoming a sought after day trip from Cusco. This is a more recent Cusco tourist attraction and was discovered only due to the snow melting and disappearing from the mountains. The mineral sediments were left revealing the diverse colors. The mountain is called Vinicunca in the native Quechua language.

The main Rainbow Mountain viewpoint sits at a shocking 17,060 feet (5200 meters). Acclimation is key. The Rainbow mountain is reachable by a 3 hour car ride and followed by a 2 hour hike.

Most people visit as a guided day tour from Cusco as the tour companies provide oxygen.

☛ Intrepid hikers can visit Rainbow Mountain without the crowds by adding the hike to Rainbow Mountain as part of the Ausangate trek

Laguna Humantay

Laguna Humantay is another popular full-day trip from Cusco. Organized Cusco tours depart early from Cusco City. It’s a three-hour drive to Soraypampa. From here, it’s about an hour and half hike to reach the colorful turquoise lake. Find Humantay Mountain sitting picturesquely in the backdrop.

☛ Laguna Humantay can be incorporated in the Salkantay Trek, a wildly popular alternative trek to the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley is a must-see travel destination in the Cusco region of Peru.

Tucked behind the hillside of Cusco, the valley is filled with charming villages, snow-capped mountains, and incredible Archeological Parks featuring sprawling Inca ruins, some of the best hiking trails, and hidden treasures.

The valley stretches from Pisac village, with its impressive hilltop Inca sites, three alpine lakes of Kinsa Cocha, a bustling artisan market all the way to the depths of picturesque Ollantaytambo, a spectacular Inca village that is so much more than “just” the gateway to Machu Picchu.

When planning a Cusco itinerary, PLEASE, budget in a few days for this incredible place. Urubamba Peru is the perfect place to sleep for a few nights. The authentic village is centrally located and close to so many of the Sacred Valley highlights.

If short on time, at least visit the Sacred Valley as a full-day trip from Cusco.

➯ Sacred Valley Travel Guide | Over 60+ Things to Do in the Sacred Valley Peru

When is the Best Time to Visit Cusco Peru?

Cusco Peru has two very distinct seasons, rainy and dry. In general, the dry season runs from May to September, while the dry season is from October to April.

The Cusco dry season has less rain and sunny skies, but much of the landscape turns yellow and brown. The dry season is the busiest month in Cusco and prices are higher. The nights during the dry season are much colder than the rainy season.

During the rainy season, expect cloudy skies and showers, usually heaviest in the afternoon. Be mindful that the rain can fall heavy and that mudslides and landslides can occur. However, the Andes Mountains are so green, it’s almost otherworldly.

Serious hikers may wish to avoid the rainy season as some of the trails will be impassible due to high rivers and the weather can be severe. Remember, the Classic Inca Trail completely shuts down in February. However, I have seen Cusco in the rainy season and everything is so lush and full of life, it truly is remarkable.

The shoulder season for tourists is usually March to April and again from October to December.

In my humble opinion, there is no bad time to visit Cusco, since the city offers so many unique things to do and each season has its perks.

Is Cusco Safe?

In general, Cusco is a safe city to visit even for solo travelers. Of course, in any city or place in the world, there is petty crime. There have been some robberies near the Temple of the Moon, so avoid the area after nightfall and it is best not to walk to these areas without a travel buddy.

Be mindful of your possessions and don’t flash your valuables. Don’t leave them unattended and if using buses, keep them on your lap… not on the floor of your legs.

Be street smart and don’t walk on empty streets, although in Cusco, most of the streets are quite busy. If drinking, it may be best to take a taxi home instead of walking.

Cusco can have a lively party scene, so be mindful if drinking in excess. Be mindful that due to the altitude of Cusco, drinking alcohol will affect you differently here than in most places.

Cusco Tourist Ticket & Cusco Archaeological Parks

The Cusco Tourist Ticket is a must for those travelers looking to visit the main Archaeological Sites of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. If your Cusco itinerary includes Inca sites, purchase the full ticket.

The full Cusco Tourist Ticket includes the main four Cusco ruins of Saqsaywaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. The two sites in Cusco South Valley of Tipon and the only Wari (Pre-Inca civilization) on the ticket, Pikillaqta. The highlight of the Cusco Tourist Ticket is for most, the four sites in the Sacred Valley of Pisac, Moray, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo.

The Cusco Tourist ticket does include some museums, a statue, and a nightly show, but the biggest draw of the Cusco Tourist Ticket is the Inca ruins.

There are many tours that make stops at the sites, but keep in mind, most Cusco tours do not include the Cusco Tourist Ticket, it has to be purchased separately.

Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket worth it? Absolutely!

☛ Cusco Travel Guide | Here’s how to visit all 16 sites on the Cusco Tourist Ticket without a Tour

How to Get to Cusco Peru

Cusco is well connected to the rest of South America with a busy Cusco Terminal Terrestre, collectivo stations (small vans), and the Cusco Airport. Cusco is a desired tourist destination, so there are also higher-end bus companies that also arrive at Cusco, just not at the main Cusco bus terminal.

How to Get to Cusco from Lima

Take the slow way to Cusco with a bus trip, or fly into the Cusco Airport.

Bus to Cusco from Lima

Buses to Cusco from Lima are a long haul and will take at least 21 hours.

The company Peru Hop is the most popular option to get from Lima to Cusco. Peru Hop acts kind of like a “hop-on hop-off bus” that helps break up the trip at desired Peru destinations like Paracas, the Oasis Village of Huacachina, and the Nazca lines. Peru Hop is a bus company that caters strictly to tourists.

However, it’s easy to follow the route using local buses that stop in Ica. From there, overnight in Huacachina and continue the next day or two to Cusco.

Lima to Cusco by Flight

From Lima to Cusco, the fastest option is to take a domestic flight. LATAM Airlines offers frequent departures from Lima to Cusco. Budget-friendly airlines like SKY and Viva also fly from Lima to Cusco.

The flight from Lima to Cusco takes around an hour and a half.

How to Get from Arequipa to Cusco

Arequipa is Peru’s second-largest city. There are tons of awesome things to do in Arequipa. “The White City” boasts its very own unique regional typical food culture, and is the gateway to the world’s second deepest canyon, the Colca Canyon.

The Colca Canyon trek draws travelers and is one of the top things to do in Arequipa. Outside the ticketed area of the Colca Canyon, find small villages like Yanque that offer incredible day hikes and awesome hot springs to soak in.

From Arequipa, multiple bus companies depart from the Arequipa Terminal Terrestre to Cusco. Next door is another station that has favorable bus companies like Civa and Cruz del Sur. The bus ride from Arequipa to Cusco is long and takes about 10 to 12 hours. Remember, if utilizing the buses, the roads will be windy with drastic altitude changes.

For me, a night bus from Arequipa to Cusco was perfect.

Those who want a little more luxury can look into the Andean Explorer, a Belmond Train that connects Arequipa, Puno (Lake Titicaca), and Cusco. This train highlights the Peruvian highlands and is a luxury experience in Peru.

Five Epic Cusco Itineraries

Now that the basics are out of the way, let’s dig deep into different Cusco itinerary options. Below, find a Cusco itinerary that best suits your needs.

For those who have more time in Cusco, make sure to check out my recommended multi-day treks from Cusco.

Skip to | Cusco 3 Day Itinerary | 4 Days in Cusco | Cusco Itinerary 5 Days | One Week in Cusco Peru | More Than Two Weeks in Cusco Itinerary

3 Days in Cusco Peru

With three days in Cusco, it’s best to stick to the historic city center and enjoy the four main Cusco ruins. Be mindful, you may need a day to rest completely to acclimate to the Cusco altitude.

With less time, private drivers and organized tours will help maximize sightseeing possibilities in Cusco.

Day 1 | Cusco Itinerary

On day 1, explore the Cusco Historic Center, join a free walking tour, stroll around the San Blas neighborhood, and check out the incredible Mercado San Pedro.

Things to Do in Cusco Historic Center

The Cusco Plaza de Armas in the city center is a perfect place to start exploring Cusco. Try to hop in on the morning Blue Team Free Walking Tour Cusco.

Cusco Free Walking Tour

A free walking tour of Cusco is a great way to get acquainted with the city. 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. They also recommend the best restaurants in Cusco Peru, share local gems, take you through the bohemian San Blas neighborhood, and walk you past the famed Cusco 12-angle stone.

Basically, they can share what to do in Cusco and the best Cusco highlights in a short time.

Bloody Bueno Peru offers a highly rated Cusco free walking tour.

• Meeting Point: Outside the Starbucks in the Plaza de Armas
• Cost: Free, but the guides work hard and rely on tips. Share the love!
• Tour Times:
  • 10:00 / 13:00 / 15:30
• Duration: 2 hours

Alternative Cusco Tour Ideas

If a Cusco Free Walking Tour doesn’t interest you, here are a few more ideas for a Cusco itinerary.

• Take a Cusco food tour
• Roll up your sleeves and take a Cusco cooking class
• Spend the morning in a coffee shop like L’atelier Café Concept or in the patio at Three Monkeys Coffee Company. This a quick reminder to be mindful of the coffee at this altitude. Tea may be best!

More Things to Add to a Cusco Itinerary

After the walking tour, head over to San Pedro Market and sample the local Peruvian cuisine with a “menu del dia,” a two-course menu that includes a drink. The Mercado San Pedro is an excellent place to people-watch, order fresh juice, and simply enjoy the bustling marketplace. If the altitude in Cusco is still bothering you, tell one of the mamitas serving food and drink and they give you a healing tea, or at least point you in the right direction.

If you’ve got an hour or two to spare, visit Qorikancha. This incredible temple was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. During the prime of the Inca Empire, it was rumored to be covered completely in Gold. Today, nuns still occupy the Santo Domingo Church which is a prime example of how the Spanish conquistadors erected churches on top of sacred Inca sites.

Afterward, stroll up to the San Blas neighborhood and wander the cobblestone streets. Watch the sun go down in the San Blas Plaza, or keep climbing the steep staircases to watch the sun go down at one of the best parks in Cusco, Q’enqo Chico.

Day 2 | Cusco Itinerary

On Day 2, visit the four main Cusco Inca Sites of Saqsaywaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Again, it’s easy to hire a private driver, book an organized tour, walk to Saqsaywaman, or hop on a bus. If you only have 3 days in Cusco, it’s time efficient to book a tour. The Cusco tour for these sites typically takes an average of 6 hours. Make sure to stop at Cristo Blanco, the hilltop White Jesus with open arms that offer a great view of Cusco City.

Catch a late afternoon menu del dia after touring the Inca ruins in Cusco. I still think the San Pedro Market has the best budget-friendly options. Additionally, here are some more Cusco food experiences you could try out.

Since you have the Cusco Tourist ticket, you could stop by some of the Cusco museums that are included on the ticket. However, I highly suggest visiting Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP), which is not part of the Cusco ticket. This Cusco museum is extremely well-done and is open late until 22:00. Another great thing to do in Cusco is to browse the many artisan shops.

At night, visit some awesome microbreweries like Cholos Craft Beers in a cute patio setting, or a cozy wine bar like Cantina Vino Italiano Cusco. If you want to experience the lively night scene, wander around the Cusco streets of Tigre and Tecsecocha.

Alternative Cusco Itinerary Day 2

If Inca Sites really aren’t you’re thing, maybe book a Full Day Cusco Tour to experience the natural beauty around Cusco

• Rainbow Mountain
• Laguna Humantay

Day 3 | Cusco Itinerary

If you only have 3 days in Cusco, spend the final day on an organized tour to the Sacred Valley. Most Cusco tours to the Sacred Valley include the four sites of Pisac, Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. Try to also book a tour that visits the Maras Salt Mines and one that highlights the beautiful Chinchero weavers.

A Sacred Valley tour jams the best highlights into a full twelve hour day. The day will be long, but gives a small taste of the magic of this special place.

Cusco Itinerary 4 Days

With 4 days in Cusco, you could break up the full Sacred Valley tour at a more relaxed pace. Another popular half-day tour in the Sacred Valley includes riding ATVS between the Maras Salt Ponds and Moray. However, hiking from Maras to Moray feels a little more authentic.

If you want to utilize the Cusco Tourist Ticket, the Cusco South Valley is spectacular. Tipon is massive and sees very few tourists. The Cusco South Valley also has the only Wari ruins on the Cusco Tourist Ticket at Pikillacta. Across the way is the Rumicolca Gate, the once grand entrance to the Imperial City of Cusco.

Not far down the road is the incredible painted church in Andahuaylillas that is nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” The village plaza is one of my favorites in Peru and is a delight to sit in. If interested in sampling cuy, or guinea pig, the village of Saylla is famous for their typical cuy restaurants.

5 Days in Cusco Itinerary

With a 5 day Cusco itinerary, simply slow down! You can utilize the above Cusco travel guide for 3 or 4 days and space out time between Cusco and the Sacred Valley. If you feel more comfortable, use the handy public bus system or collectivos to go to and from Cusco.

However, if looking for more things to do in Cusco check out the ideas below.

More Ideas for Day 5 Cusco Itinerary

• If you are loving the Inca sites, this half day adventure hike stops by 8 free Inca ruins in Cusco. The highlight is Inkilltambo, that even is part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient and complex Inca Road System that stretches to Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, and into Chile. However, the nature is beautiful and this Cusco hike is a the perfect budget friendly half-day in Cusco.
• Explore a Cusco Tour to Rainbow Mountain or Laguna Humantay if you haven’t yet
• Visit Huchuy Qosqo in the Sacred Valley
• Apukunaq Tianan (Morada De Los Dioses) is a newer sculpture park on the hillside of Cusco. Nearby it’s also possible to visit the 400 year old Acueducto Colonial Fortaleza.

One Week in Cusco Itinerary

With one week in Cusco, spend 3 days in Cusco and 4 days in the Sacred Valley.

Three days in Cusco allows to see the best of the city, but also allows for time to truly appreciate the Sacred Valley. Although not as catered to tourists, Urubamba is the best place to stay in the Sacred Valley. It has a central location, authentic markets, and some the best Sacred Valley day hikes all within reach.

➯ Detailed Travel Guide | Cusco & Sacred Valley Itinerary in One Week

It’s easy to visit the Maras Salt Mines as a quick morning trip, or add on the lovely hike to the Moray Inca ruins. In Urubamba, hike up to the hillside Colcas, or get one of the best views of the Sacred Valley from Saywa Mountain, home to two peculiar pillars and views for days of Mount Chicon.

If hiking in the Sacred Valley isn’t part of your Peru itinerary, take a full day trip to the Lares Hot Springs.

More Hiking Sacred Valley Inspiration | 7 Day Cusco Itinerary

• Inti Punku the Sun Gate in Ollantaytambo
• Pumamarca Ruins Ollantaytambo
• Perolniyoc Waterfall Hike with Raqaypata Ruins
• Laguna Juchuycocha Urubamba
• Lares Valley Trek in 1 Day

Cusco Itinerary | Over 2 Weeks & Best of the Cusco Region

With over two weeks in Cusco, add more Cusco day trips, eat at more of the best Cusco Restaurants, and do complete one of the many Cusco trekking adventures.

More Things to Do in Cusco

If you have more time to spare, there are so many neat Cusco day trips to add to a Cusco itinerary that many tourists miss. Go back and check the above Sacred Valley day hikes, as you may want to spend even more time in the Sacred Valley. Otherwise, stay in Cusco and add these day trips to your Cusco itinerary.

Maukallacta

Maukallacta may actually be the birthplace of the Incas. Most legends say the Incas rose from the depths of Lake Titicaca. However, some say they emerged from the cave at Puma Orqo and then built Maukallacta. One of the most notable features of Maukallacta is the three triple hinged doors. There is not one in Maukallacta, but three! Triple hinged doors were often found at the most sacred sites of the Inca Empire.

➜ Here’s how to visit Maukallacta as a day trip from Cusco

Cerro Picol

The best view of Cusco comes from its tallest mountain peak, Cerro Picol. The trail twists through the Santa Maria Forest and climbs up to almost 14,500 ft! The viewpoint is marked with a cross, but hike along the ridge to reach the actual mountain peak, where there’s 360° views of Cusco and a glimpses into the Sacred Valley.

The Cusco day hike to Cerro Picol is a great way to acclimate for those preparing for trekking near Cusco.

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

Trekking Cusco | Best Multi-Day Treks near Cusco Peru

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.

🥾 Ultimate Cusco Trekking Guide | 🎒 Complete Peru Packing List for Multi-Day Treks

Choquequirao Trek

The Choquequirao trek leads to the spectacular Choquequirao Inca Site. The only way to access the park is via a two day trek from the small village of Cachora. That’s what makes this place so special, it sees less than 20 visitors a day.

The Choquequirao trek can be hiked without a guide, or there is an option to utilize a local guide and donkey at the trailhead. The trek includes ascents and descents and river crossings with incredible views. When you reach the lost city, there’s plenty to see and do. One day is simply not enough time to explore this massive site. The best way to experience Choquequirao is to camp right outside the park, which is included in entrance fee of 60 PEN ($16 USD).

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. The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek takes about 9 days, climbs over some serious mountain passes, stops in tiny communities, and eventually meets with the Salkantay trek. This trek is best suited for more advanced hikers.

Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay trek is one of most popular alternative treks to the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trek is typically 5 days and includes a stop at the famous Laguna Humantay before hiking the Salkantay pass. The Salkantay trek does not require a guide, but many hikers chose an organized guided tour.

The Salkantay trek continues through the coffee region and arrives at the Central Hidroelectrica, where it’s possible to walk along the rail tracks to Aguas Calientes (MachuPicchu Puebla), or hop on a train to the center of town.

Waqrapukara Trek

The “horned fortress,” or Waqrapukara is one of the most incredible Inca sites in Peru. At nearly double the elevation, Waqrapukara elevation is 13,580 ft. The site is nestled in the scenic Apurímac River Valley, making Waqrapukara unforgettable. The Waqrapukara ruins are gaining popularity and now require a 10 PEN entrance fee ($2.75 USD), but that includes using the camping facilities.

There are multiple hiking routes to reach the Waqrapukara ruins, but those coming from Cusco can easily reach the trailhead from Sangarará village. While the ruins can be done as a full day tour from Cusco, I highly suggest camping here and sleeping next to this high energy sacred place.

Ausangate Trek

The Ausangate Trek is a remote trek in Cusco that passes by alpine lakes, towering mountain passes, shepherds with herds of alpaca, and glacial peaked mountains. This incredible trek near Cusco never dips below 4,000 meters and can include an add-on hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

☛ This is the best way to visit Rainbow Mountain to avoid the crowds

Along this trekking route find not one, but two Peru hot springs. The real treasures of the Ausangate trek is spending quality time in the vastness of the Andes Mountains.

Classic Inca Trail Trek

Most people plan their Cusco itinerary around hiking the Inca Trail. The Classic Inca Trail is a bucket-list item for many travelers. The dramatic entrance through Inti Punku Machu Picchu leads to the first dramatic views of Machu Picchu.

The Classic Inca trail is 4 days and one of the most desirable Cusco treks. The Inca trail to Machu Picchu passes by multiple and incredible Inca ruins.

To hike the Inca Trail you must obtain a permit, which are limited. The Inca Trail also requires an official guide. Permits have a daily quota and the Inca Trail completely shuts down for the month of February.

Utilizing a tour company is a must for those seeking to hike the Class Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Weavers Way Lares Trek

The standard Lares Valley trek is 3 days, and is alternatively named the “Weaver’s Way.” The name comes from the many traditional Andean villages that are know for their beautiful woven artisanal goods. Find anything from scarves, blankets, sweaters, and more.

Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, don’t expect to visit Inca ruins, rather appreciate the tranquility of the Lares Valley and all the creatures and people that inhibit it. Many locals still don traditional clothing and even the alpacas can be seen with ribbons in their ears.

Most Lares treks include a stop at the local Lares Hot Springs.

🥾 Don’t have much time? Check out this awesome 1 Day Lares Valley Trek

Huchuy Qosqo Trek

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.

Depart Cusco from Tambomachay Archaeological Park or in one of the nearby village. The trail twists through the barren Andes until reaching Laguna Qoricocha. Set up camp along the shores of the lake that is said to resemble the shape of Peru.

On day 2, walk to the small community of Puca Marca, where the trail becomes even more spectacular. The trail passes by Inca terraces until it finally reaches the towering gates of Huchuy Qosqo.

Enjoy Huchuy Qosqo (20 PEN /$5.25 USD) and continue all the way downhill into Lamay in the Sacred Valley.

Where to Stay in Cusco

There are no shortages of Cusco Hotels, hostels, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts in Cusco. Many travelers prefer to sleep near the Cusco Plaza de Armas, or in the bohemian San Blas neighborhood.

☛ Travel Tip | If spending more than a month in Cusco, look for guesthouses or apartments that offer a monthly discount code

Booking.com

Budget Friendly Cusco Guesthouses

• Secret Garden | Shared & Private Rooms | Wonderful Local Host Family | Stores Valuables | Little details like made-up beds every morning | Kitchen Access | Centrally Located in Cusco
• Kokapelli Hostel Cusco is a popular party Hostel in Cuzco that is centrally located
• Loki Cusco is a hostel that has great common spaces and close to the Cusco City Center
• Supertramp Hostel Cusco boasts incredible views in the San Blas neighborhood and has lots of nice outdoor spaces

Mid-Range Cusco Guesthouses & Hostels

• Casa Rivero | Private Rooms | Friendly & Helpful Owners | Breakfast Included | Excellent Location, only 2 blocks from Plaza de Armas | Bus stop to Tipón across the Street
• There are not one, but two of the top Flashpacker Hostels (Selina) in Cusco | Selina Plaza De Armas Cusco | Selina Saphi Cusco
• Maytaq Wasin Boutique Hotel comes highly recommended in the heart of Cusco

➜ Browse the Best Cusco Accommodations & Cusco Hotels here

Where to Sleep in Sacred Valley Peru

If you have at least a one week Cusco itinerary, it’s best to sleep between Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Popular villages to sleep in the Sacred Valley are Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo.

• 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

Choose a Unique Cusco Itinerary & Absolute Best Things to Do in Cusco

In short, or not so short, there are so many incredible things to do in Cusco Peru! Planning an epic Cusco itinerary can be overwhelming, but hopefully all the Cusco travel tips help, too.

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.

Ideally, travelers should budget at least 3 days in Cusco, but a one week Cusco itinerary is better. Those considering multi-day trekking in Cusco should shoot for at least one month in Cusco.

No matter what Cusco itinerary you choose, one thing is for certain, Cusco will take your breath away (literally 😉).

Have you visited Cusco? What did you include on your Cusco itinerary? Is there something you had on your Cusco itinerary that I’m missing? Let me know in the comments below!

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