3-Day Adventure Exploring Cusco, Peru: Ultimate Itinerary

Cusco, Peru

3 days

Salt ponds in Maras
Turquoise lagoon in Quispicanchi with the snowy Ausangate
Red quinoa flowers cultivation
Walls of Sacsayhuaman Fortress, in Cusco, Peru
Ancient Inca Wall in the ruin of Tipon

About Cusco, Peru

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cusco, Peru. This ancient city, once the heart of the Inca Empire, is a gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. Explore the cobblestone streets, marvel at the Spanish colonial architecture, and visit the Sacred Valley with its traditional markets and Inca ruins. Cusco's bustling San Pedro Market offers a taste of local life with its array of fresh produce and local crafts. Don't miss the chance to sample traditional Peruvian cuisine, like ceviche and alpaca steak. With its blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, Cusco promises an unforgettable travel experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Cusco

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this central square.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in a local restaurant. Try 'Cuy al Horno', a local delicacy, or opt for a lighter 'Quinoa Salad'.

Afternoon

Visit the Qorikancha, once the richest temple in the Inca empire. Marvel at the intricate stonework and learn about Inca culture and history.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering fusion cuisine, combining traditional Peruvian ingredients with international culinary techniques.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll through the San Blas neighborhood, known for its narrow, winding streets and artist workshops.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site. Explore the massive Inca fortifications and enjoy panoramic views of Cusco.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, try 'Lomo Saltado', a popular Peruvian dish made with beef, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.

Afternoon

Visit the 'Pisac' market, a bustling Andean market where you can buy traditional Peruvian crafts, textiles, and jewelry.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of Peruvian dishes. Try 'Ceviche', a classic Peruvian dish made with fresh fish.

Evening

Experience a traditional Peruvian music and dance show. Enjoy the vibrant costumes and energetic performances.

Morning

Visit the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning landscape of salt pans that have been in use since Inca times.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, try 'Alpaca Steak', a unique Andean specialty.

Afternoon

Explore the Moray archaeological site, a series of circular terraces believed to have been used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory.

Dinner

Have your final dinner in Cusco in a restaurant offering a variety of Peruvian and international dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a local bar. Try 'Pisco Sour', Peru's national cocktail, and enjoy the lively nightlife.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Plaza de Armas

1
Plaza de Armas

The main square in Cusco, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Attractions
Landmarks
Qorikancha

2
Qorikancha

Once the richest temple in the Inca empire, now a Catholic church and museum.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
San Blas

3
San Blas

A bohemian neighborhood known for its artisans, galleries, and stunning views.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Sacsayhuaman

4
Sacsayhuaman

A historic Inca fortress with panoramic views of Cusco.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Maras Salt Mines

5
Maras Salt Mines

A stunning landscape of salt pans used since Inca times.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Moray

6
Moray

An archaeological site featuring circular terraces believed to have been used as an agricultural laboratory by the Incas.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Pisac Market

7
Pisac Market

A bustling market where you can buy traditional Peruvian crafts, textiles, jewelry, and more.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cuy al Horno

Cuy al Horno

A traditional Peruvian dish, Cuy al Horno is a roasted guinea pig, often served with potatoes and salad. It's a must-try for adventurous eaters visiting Cusco.

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada is a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn, a staple in Peruvian cuisine. It's a popular drink in Cusco and throughout Peru.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a Peruvian stir-fry dish, combining marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes, french fries, and served with rice. It's a popular dish in Cusco and showcases the fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine.

Causa Rellena

Causa Rellena is a layered potato dish, typically filled with avocado and chicken or tuna. It's a common appetizer in Cusco and is a testament to the importance of potatoes in Peruvian cuisine.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos

Anticuchos are skewers of marinated, grilled meat, typically beef heart. They're a popular street food in Cusco and offer a taste of traditional Peruvian flavors.

Rocoto Relleno

Rocoto Relleno is a stuffed spicy pepper dish, typically filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. It's a common dish in Cusco and showcases the use of spicy peppers in Peruvian cuisine.

Alpaca Steak

Alpaca Steak is a lean, tender meat with a mild flavor. It's a popular dish in Cusco, offering tourists a chance to try a unique Peruvian protein.

Chicha de Jora

Chicha de Jora is a traditional Peruvian corn beer. It's a popular drink in Cusco and offers a taste of ancient Peruvian brewing traditions.

Quinoa Soup

Quinoa Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish often made with vegetables and sometimes meat. It's a common dish in Cusco, showcasing the use of quinoa, a grain native to Peru.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is a famous Peruvian cocktail made from Pisco, a type of brandy, mixed with lime juice, syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters. It's a must-try drink for tourists visiting Cusco.

Ceviche

Ceviche

Ceviche is a seafood dish popular in the coastal areas of Peru. It's made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro. While Cusco is not coastal, many restaurants offer this national dish.

Picarones

Picarones

Picarones are Peruvian doughnuts made from sweet potato and squash, then deep-fried and served with a sweet syrup. They're a popular dessert in Cusco and offer a sweet end to a Peruvian meal.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cusco, Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and rain is rare, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is also the best time to visit if you're planning to hike the Inca Trail or visit Machu Picchu. However, this is also the busiest tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of April and October can also offer good weather with fewer tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 7

Fri

Battle of Arica

June 29

Sat

St Peter and St Paul

July 23

Tue

Peruvian Air Force Day

July 28

Sun

Independence Day

July 29

Mon

Independence Day (day 2)

August 6

Tue

Battle of Junín

August 30

Fri

Santa Rosa De Lima

October 8

Tue

Battle of Angamos

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 9

Mon

Battle of Ayacucho

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Taxis are a common way to get around in Cusco. They are not metered, so it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. Taxis can be hailed from the street or ordered from your hotel.

Local buses are a cheap way to get around Cusco. They cover most areas of the city and surrounding suburbs. However, they can be crowded and routes can be confusing for tourists.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Cusco. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the city.

Trains are not a common mode of transport within Cusco itself, but they are the primary way to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco. The train ride offers stunning views of the Andean landscape.

Cusco's city center is compact and walkable. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas and the Qorikancha, are within walking distance of each other.

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Cusco and the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, be aware that driving in Peru can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain and different driving customs.

Bicycles can be rented from various locations in Cusco. They provide a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. However, the hilly terrain and high altitude can make cycling challenging for some.

Collectivos are shared taxis or minibuses that run fixed routes around Cusco. They are a cheap and efficient way to get around, but can be crowded and may not offer much comfort.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency PEN

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone011, 5114

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type C

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Cusco, Peru as a first time visitor

1

Cusco is located at a high altitude (11,152 feet or 3,399 meters), so you may experience altitude sickness. It's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.

2

The local currency is the Peruvian Sol. It's advisable to carry some local currency for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted.

3

Spanish is the official language in Peru. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can be helpful.

4

The weather in Cusco is divided into a wet season (November to March) and a dry season (April to October). The average temperature ranges from 32°F to 66°F (0°C to 19°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Peru. A 10% tip is generally expected in restaurants.

6

Public transportation in Cusco includes buses and taxis. Always negotiate the taxi fare before starting your journey.

7

Peru operates on Peru Standard Time (PET), which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

8

Peru uses type A and C electrical plugs, so you may need a travel adapter.

9

It's important to stay hydrated, especially due to the high altitude. However, avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is widely available.

10

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.

11

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

12

Peru has a rich cultural heritage. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites.

13

Healthcare facilities in Cusco are adequate, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

14

The sun can be intense due to the high altitude. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself.

15

Pack layers as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day. Also, pack a rain jacket if you're visiting during the wet season.

16

Peru's emergency number is 105 for police, 117 for ambulance, and 116 for fire.

17

Internet access is widely available in Cusco, with many hotels, restaurants, and cafes offering free Wi-Fi.

18

Peru has strict regulations about exporting antiquities. Avoid buying items that look like they could be cultural artifacts.

19

Cusco has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs. However, be cautious of your alcohol intake due to the high altitude.

20

Peru has a 18% General Sales Tax (IGV) which is usually included in the price of goods and services.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

When asking for something

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

After receiving something or someone's help

Yes

See

Agreeing with someone or something

No

No

No

Disagreeing with someone or something

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

When you need to communicate in English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what is being said

Where is the bathroom?

¿Dónde está el baño?

Don-de es-ta el ban-yo

When you need to use the bathroom

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

When you want to know the price of something

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ree-a

When ordering food or asking for something

Help!

¡Ayuda!

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Can I have the menu, please?

¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor?

Pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor

When you want to see the menu at a restaurant

Water

Agua

A-gwa

When you want to order water

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

When you want to order beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-no

When you want to order wine

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

La kwen-ta, por fa-vor

When you want to ask for the bill at a restaurant

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

When you are saying goodbye late in the evening or before going to bed

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing for daytime

  • Warm clothing for nighttime (jackets, sweaters)

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Extra socks and underwear

  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection

  • Swimwear (if planning to visit hot springs)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver’s license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Peruvian Soles)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and power bank

  • Camera

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter for Peru

  • Flashlight

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel guidebook for Peru

  • Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook

  • Daypack for daily excursions

Weather Conditions

Cusco, Peru, is located in the Andes Mountains and experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. During the wet season, you can expect frequent rain showers, so it's advisable to pack waterproof clothing, umbrellas, and sturdy shoes. Despite the rain, temperatures remain relatively mild, averaging between 45°F (7°C) and 66°F (19°C). The dry season, on the other hand, is characterized by clear, sunny days and cooler nights. Daytime temperatures typically range from 66°F (19°C) to 77°F (25°C), while at night, it can drop to as low as 32°F (0°C). Therefore, it's recommended to bring layered clothing to adjust to the temperature changes throughout the day. Regardless of the season, Cusco's high altitude can result in intense sun exposure. Always wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin. Also, remember to stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few days to acclimate to the altitude. Lastly, due to its location in the mountains, Cusco's weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

18° / 7°

January is the start of the rainy season in Cusco, with moderate temperatures. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history.

February

18° / 7°

February is the wettest month in Cusco, with frequent rain showers. Despite the rain, the city's vibrant festivals and cultural events continue.

March

18° / 6°

March sees the end of the rainy season, with temperatures remaining moderate. The city starts to dry out, making it a good time to explore the surrounding landscapes.

April

20° / 3°

April marks the beginning of the dry season in Cusco, with temperatures starting to rise. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.

May

22° / 0°

May is a dry month with clear skies and cool temperatures. It's a great time to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

June

22° / -3°

June is the coldest month in Cusco, but also one of the driest. The famous Inti Raymi festival takes place this month, attracting many tourists.

July

22° / -3°

July is a peak tourist month in Cusco, with cold nights and warm, dry days. It's an ideal time for hiking and exploring the Inca ruins.

August

23° / -2°

August continues the trend of cold nights and warm days, with little rainfall. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's vibrant markets.

September

23° / 2°

September sees a slight increase in temperature and the start of the spring season. The city is less crowded, making it a good time to visit.

October

22° / 4°

October brings more rainfall and cooler temperatures. However, the city's cultural events and beautiful landscapes continue to attract tourists.

November

20° / 5°

November is a transition month in Cusco, with a mix of rain and sunshine. It's a good time to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds.

December

19° / 6°

December is the start of the summer season in Cusco, with moderate temperatures and increased rainfall. Despite the rain, the city's Christmas celebrations are a major attraction.

Did you know?

Did you know that Cusco, Peru was once the historical capital of the Inca Empire, which was one of the most powerful empires in the Americas?

1 of 10

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Moray

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