Five days is the ideal amount of time to see the essentials of Cusco without rushing: it lets you acclimatize to the altitude, explore the imperial city, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, and add a nature experience in the Andes. This 5-day Cusco itinerary is the one we recommend to first-time visitors.
Before you start: altitude and acclimatization
Cusco sits at 3,399 m (11,152 ft). During the first days it is normal to feel tired or have a mild headache (soroche). To acclimatize better:
- Take the first day easy and avoid strenuous effort.
- Stay well hydrated and try coca tea.
- Choose light meals and avoid alcohol during the first 24 hours.
- If you have any health condition, check with your doctor before the trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco and City Tour
After checking in and resting for a few hours, spend the afternoon visiting the city’s highlights: the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral and the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), followed by the archaeological sites on the outskirts: Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay. It is a gentle cultural tour, perfect for your first day.
Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas
The Sacred Valley is lower than Cusco, between 2,800 and 3,000 m, which helps you acclimatize. Visit the terraces and craft market of Pisac, have lunch in Urubamba and explore the fortress of Ollantaytambo, an Inca town that is still inhabited. At the end of the day, take the train to Aguas Calientes to sleep at the foot of Machu Picchu.
Day 3: Machu Picchu
Very early, take the bus up to the citadel and explore it with an official guide: the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, the Intihuatana and the agricultural terraces. After the visit, return to Cusco by train. For more details on trains and tickets, see our guide on how to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco.
Day 4: Humantay Lake
Early-morning departure to Soraypampa. From there, a challenging 1 h 30 to 2 h hike takes you to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), with turquoise water at the foot of Humantay peak. It is one of the most spectacular nature experiences in Cusco. If you want a bigger challenge, you can swap it for Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), which reaches 5,036 m (16,522 ft).
Day 5: Maras, Moray and departure
In the morning, visit the Maras salt mines, hundreds of salt pools worked since pre-Inca times, and the circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural site. Return to Cusco and transfer to the airport.
Have more or fewer days?
- 4 days: the essential version, with City Tour, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu: Cusco and Machu Picchu in 4 days.
- 5 days: our program Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 days.
- 6 days: add more Andean nature: Cusco 6 days.
- 7 days: more experiences and time to enjoy: Cusco 7 days.
What is the best time for this itinerary?
The dry season, from May to September, offers clear skies and is ideal for hiking, although it is the busiest: book tickets and trains in advance. From December to March it rains more often, but the landscapes are lush and green and there are fewer visitors. April, October and November are good shoulder months.
What to pack
- Layered clothing: mornings and evenings are cold and the midday sun is strong.
- Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket, cap, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottle and snacks for the hikes.
- Original passport: you will need it to enter Machu Picchu.
Frequently asked questions
Are 5 days enough for Cusco?
Yes, to see the essentials at a comfortable pace. With 6 or 7 days you can add Rainbow Mountain or more free time.
In what order should I visit the sites?
It is best to start with gentle activities, such as the City Tour and the Sacred Valley, and save high-altitude hikes like Humantay or Vinicunca for when you are acclimatized.
How much does a 5-day trip cost?
It depends on the hotel category, the type of train and whether the service is private or shared. Our program Cusco and Machu Picchu in 5 days starts from US$ 890 per person.
We design your itinerary around you
This itinerary is a starting point: we adapt it to your dates, pace and interests. Talk to a specialist on WhatsApp and plan your trip to Cusco with Kuntur Spirit.
