Cusco 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Cusco & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ).

Take a taxi to your hotel in the city center. Check in and allow time to acclimatize to the altitude (Cusco is at 3,400m/11,150ft).

Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, and take it easy on your first day to prevent altitude sickness. Taxis from the airport are readily available and cost around USD 10-15.

Lunch in Plaza de Armas

Enjoy your first meal in Cusco at one of the many restaurants around the main square.

Try local Peruvian cuisine.

Explore Qorikancha (Coricancha)

Visit the Temple of the Sun, the most important temple in the Inca Empire, which later became the foundation for the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo.

Entrance ticket required. This site beautifully illustrates the clash of Inca and Spanish cultures.

Cusco Cathedral & Plaza de Armas

Wander around the impressive Plaza de Armas and visit the Cusco Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing colonial art and architecture built on Inca foundations.

Entrance fee for the Cathedral. Photography inside is often prohibited.

Dinner in San Blas Neighborhood

Enjoy dinner in the charming San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops, narrow streets, and bohemian vibe.

Many restaurants offer traditional Peruvian dishes and international cuisine.

Full-Day Sacred Valley Tour

Embark on a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Visit Pisac Market and its impressive ruins, then explore the magnificent Inca fortress and town of Ollantaytambo, and finally Chinchero with its textile traditions.

Tours typically include transport and guide, but entrance fees (Boleto Turistico) and lunch are usually extra. Bring layers of clothing, sun protection, and water. Many local tour agencies in Cusco offer this trip. Consider booking with 'Valencia Travel Cusco' or 'Cusco Peru Travel' (TripAdvisor rated).

Relaxing Dinner in Cusco

After a long day of exploring, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant of your choice in Cusco.

Travel to Machu Picchu

An early start to take a taxi/bus to Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station, then a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Train tickets to Machu Picchu should be booked well in advance. PeruRail and Inca Rail are the main operators. This journey sets the stage for a magical day.

Bus to Machu Picchu Citadel

Take a short bus ride from Aguas Calientes up to the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel entrance.

Bus tickets are purchased in Aguas Calientes. Be prepared for queues.

Explore Machu Picchu Citadel

Enjoy a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel, learning about its history and mysteries.

Walk through its temples, terraces, and residential areas.

Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be purchased in advance, often through a tour operator. Booking a guide is highly recommended. Consider 'South Adventure Peru Tours' or 'FLY CUSCO PERU Travel Agency' for booking a comprehensive tour package. Permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are separate and sell out far in advance.

Lunch in Aguas Calientes

After exploring Machu Picchu, descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch before your return journey.

Return to Cusco

Take the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, then transfer back to Cusco.

You will likely arrive back in Cusco late in the evening. Rest up for the next day's activities.

Saqsaywaman & Nearby Ruins

Take a morning tour to the impressive Inca ceremonial fortress of Saqsaywaman, located just above Cusco.

Continue to Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. These sites are often included in a 'Cusco City Tour' that excludes the Sacred Valley.

Entrance with Boleto Turistico. You can hire a local taxi or join a group tour from Plaza de Armas. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for walking at altitude.

Visit Monumento Inca Pachacutec

Explore the monument dedicated to the great Inca emperor Pachacutec, offering panoramic views of Cusco from its top.

A good spot for photos and understanding the city's layout. Easily accessible by local transport.

Lunch at Boulevard turistico cusco wanchaq

Enjoy lunch near the local 'Boulevard turistico cusco wanchaq', a lively area with food stalls and local ambiance.

Shopping at San Pedro Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling local life at San Pedro Market.

Find fresh produce, local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

A great place for authentic experiences and unique souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle politely.

Farewell Dinner for Cusco Exploration

Enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Peruvian restaurant, perhaps trying cuy (guinea pig) or alpaca steak if you're adventurous.

Leisurely Morning & Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed morning, perhaps a late breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.

This is a good time to rest after the busy Machu Picchu day.

Revisit San Blas or Local Shops

Take a leisurely stroll through the artisan district of San Blas, browse local galleries, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the city center.

Light Lunch

Opt for a light and healthy lunch to prepare for the strenuous hike to Humantay Lake tomorrow.

Prepare for Humantay Lake Hike

Organize your daypack for tomorrow's early start to Humantay Lake.

Ensure you have warm layers, waterproof gear, snacks, water, and sun protection. Confirm pickup details with your tour operator.

The Humantay Lake trek involves significant altitude and a steep hike. Get plenty of rest tonight.

Early Dinner & Rest

Have an early and nutritious dinner, followed by a good night's sleep in preparation for the challenging but rewarding Humantay Lake trek.

Hotel Pickup for Humantay

An early start for your full-day tour to Humantay Lake.

A tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. Expect an early wake-up call for this memorable excursion.

Travel to Soraypampa

Journey through scenic Andean landscapes to Soraypampa, the base camp for the Humantay Lake hike.

A packed breakfast will be provided en route to fuel your day.

Altitude sickness can be a concern; ensure you're well-hydrated, consider coca leaves, or consult your doctor about preventative medication. The ride can be bumpy.

Humantay Lake Hike

Embark on a challenging but immensely rewarding hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, nestled beneath the majestic Salkantay and Humantay peaks.

Enjoy panoramic views and the serene atmosphere. Spend time admiring the glacial lake.

The hike is moderately difficult, with a steep ascent. You can often opt for a horse ride up for an additional cost (usually around USD 20-30). Bring warm clothing layers, rain gear, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and plenty of water.

Lunch & Return to Cusco

After descending from Humantay Lake, you'll enjoy a hearty traditional lunch at Soraypampa or Mollepata before boarding your transport back to Cusco.

Rest & Dinner in Cusco

Relax and unwind after your adventurous day at Humantay Lake.

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant in Cusco, perhaps trying some more traditional Andean cuisine.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, taking time to reflect on your incredible Peruvian adventure and all the memories you've made.

Explore San Pedro Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life at Mercado Central de San Pedro, Cusco's bustling main market.

Browse for unique souvenirs, local produce, traditional textiles, and crafts.

A fantastic place for last-minute gift shopping and experiencing the authentic daily culture of Cusco.

Visit Monumento Inca Pachacutec

A quick visit to the Monumento Inca Pachacutec, a towering statue and museum dedicated to the great Inca emperor.

Offers excellent panoramic views of Cusco from its top, a perfect final touch of Inca history.

There is a small entrance fee to go up the monument for breathtaking city views.

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final delicious Peruvian lunch in Cusco at a charming local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.

Hotel Checkout

Complete your hotel checkout and make final preparations for your transfer to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ).

Transfer to Cusco Airport

Arrange a private taxi or shuttle transfer to Cusco Airport for your departure.

Allow ample time for traffic and airport check-in procedures.