If you are planning to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, this article is your perfect guide for your. We’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to plan an incredible itinerary. Whether you’re looking for, you’ll find everything you need to create an unforgettable trip. Read on and get ready to have the best experience in Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
How to Plan Your Itinerary for Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu
If you are considering visiting Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, you are probably wondering how many days you need to explore these iconic destinations in Peru. You should know that it is not possible to visit them if you are short of time, we recommend you to dedicate at least 3 or 4 days to fully enjoy the experience. This will allow you time to acclimatize to the altitude, leisurely explore the cities and enjoy all that these destinations have to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
Your adventure begins in Cusco, once the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival, it is important to note that Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level, so it is important to take some rest to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Recommended activities:
- Arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel, (get some rest at the hotel).
- Take a free walking tour and visit the main streets and Cusco’s main square.
- Visit to the Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha), one of the most important places in the city.
- Take the classic City Tour, exploring the 4 ruins, the Cusco Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha).
Entrance tickets:
To explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley and visit some museums in the city, you need the Cusco Tourist Ticket. This ticket gives you access to a variety of archaeological sites, museums and other points of interest in and around the city of Cusco.
The cost of the Boleto Turístico is 130 soles (approximately $35 USD) and can be purchased on the day of the tour in cash, in local Peruvian currency. This ticket is valid for 10 days and will allow you to enjoy more than 16 atracctions.
Altitude sickeness:
To deal with altitude sickness on the first day in Cusco, it is key to acclimatize gradually. Take it easy, avoid physical exertion and breathe deeply. Stay hydrated all the time, drink coca tea or hmuña tea, which help you adapt to the altitude. Also, try to rest and avoid alcohol and heavy meals.
Where to stay:
For Backpackers:
- Pariwana Hostel: From $10-15 USD per night. This hostel offers social atmosphere and is located near the Plaza de Armas.
- Milhouse Hostel: Similar hostel in price and services, ideal for meeting other travelers.
For Luxury Travelers:
- Belmond Hotel Monasterio: From $300-600 USD. A luxurious hotel in Cusco, located behind the Plaza de Armas.
- Palacio del Inka: From $250-500 USD. Luxury hotel with exclusive services and excellent location nearby the Plaza de Armas of Cusco.
Both options allow you to enjoy Cusco, whether you are on a tight budget or looking for luxury.
Day 2: Exploring the Sacred Valley from Cusco
The trip to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu begins in Cusco. The Sacred Valley is one of the must-see destinations in Cusco, located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Cusco by car. On this tour, you will discover breathtaking landscapes and archaeological sites that connect Inca history with nature.
Recommended activities:
- Moray: Circular terraces used for agricultural experiments by the Incas.
- Salineras de Maras: A set of thousands of salt ponds on a mountain still in operation.
- Ollantaytambo: Impressive Inca ruins and a charming town full of history.
- Pisac: Undoubtedly one of the must-see places in the Sacred Valley, known for its rruins and market.
Estimated cost of a day trip to the Sacred Valley: Full day guided tour in group service: Approximately $25-30 USD per person.
Travel Tip: If you want to make the most of your trip, you can connect the Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu culminating in the village of Ollantaytambo. From there, you can take the train to Aguas Calientes in the afternoon or evening. This option will allow you to spend a night in Aguas Calientes and rest before your long awaited Machu Picchu tour the next day.
Day 3: Trip to Machu Picchu
The next step on your Cusco Machu Picchu itinerary is to head to Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu, to finally explore the iconic Inca Citadel. If you connected your Sacred Valley tour with Machu Picchu then it will be even easier.
How to get there:
From Cusco to the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo): You can take a bus or cab to take you from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours). Or connect your Sacred Valley tour with Machu Picchu (Recommended).
From Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: The train is the most popular and scenic way to get there. The cost of the ticket varies between $50-150 USD depending on the class of train (Vistadome, Expedition or Hiram Bingham).
Estimated cost of train tickets to Machu Picchu:
Train round trip: Between $120-150 USD.
Return to Cusco
After visiting Machu Picchu, you can return to Cusco from Aguas Calientes. Depending on your train schedule, you can take the opportunity to explore a bit more of the city before departing. We recommend taking a late train (From 4:30pm to 6:20pm).
Hotels in Aguas Calientes:
Budget options: $30-60 USD per night.
More luxurious hotels: $100-200 USD per night.
Visit to Machu Picchu
The most awaited day has arrived: Machu Picchu. It is essential that you plan your visit in advance to avoid setbacks, as tickets are limited and sell out quickly. Especially circuit 2 which is the most complete offered, if you travel on your own first make sure you buy your Machu Picchu and train tickets and then make your hotel reservations.
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu
If you visit Machu Picchu during the dry season then the ideal time is early in the morning, just when they open (at 6 a.m.). This will allow you to enjoy the citadel without crowds and see the sunrise. But if you visit Machu Picchu during the rainy season the best time during the day to visit Machu Picchu is between 10 a.m. and 12 noon.
Buying Tickets to Machu Picchu
Purchase tickets in advance online, as tickets are limited. We do not advise you to buy them when you arrive in Cusco, if you visit Cusco during the dry season or high tourist season in Cusco buy your tickets at least 4 months in advance. Be sure to choose your entrance time according to your preference (early or late).
Buy Bus Tickets?
Yes, you must buy bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, as access to the citadel is by road. The ticket costs approximately $12 USD each way. We recommend that you buy it once you arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes.
