Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is a city full of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. If you have 4 days to explore this incredible city of the Incas, you will be able to experience the best of its attractions, from its historical sites to the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your 4 days in the city of Cusco.
Introduction to Cusco: History, Culture, and Location
Cusco is a unique city that combines ancient history with modern culture. Located in southern Peru, at an altitude of (11,200 feet) 3,400 meters above sea level, Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, the most advanced civilization of pre-Columbian America. At the time of the Incas, it is believed that Cusco was the center of the world, and since then, it has maintained its historical and cultural importance, becoming a world famous tourist destination.
The Incas, who ruled much of South America between the 15th and 16th centuries, left indelible traces in the city, including impressive ruins, temples and an advanced agricultural system. However, Cusco also reflects a combination of cultures with the arrival of the Spanish, who built over the original structures of Inca buildings, creating a fusion of colonial and pre-Columbian architecture that characterizes the city’s historic center.
Cusco with its fascinating mix of culture, history and beautiful landscapes offers an unique experience for travelers from all over the world. If you have 4 days to explore it, there are a variety of activities that will allow you to get to know the best of the city and its surroundings.
Day 1: Discover the Historic Center of Cusco
On your first day in Cusco, I recommend a mix of activities that will allow you to get to know the city a little more, such as visiting the local markets, some of the nearby ruins, the viewpoint of the White Christ, and exploring the museums. Here is a guide of activities to enjoy your first day in Cusco:
Option 1) Tour of the Historic Center of Cusco:
Start your day exploring the Historic Center of Cusco and its main tourist attractions. The Plaza de Armas is the ideal starting point, where you can admire the Cathedral of Cusco and the Church of the Company of Jesus, two great examples of colonial architecture. From here, walk along Hatun Rumiyoc Street and visit the famous 12 Angles Stone, a testimony of Inca engineering. Then, you can head to San Blas neighborhood (Barrio de San Blas), known for its bohemian atmosphere, cobblestone streets and handicraft stores, where you can enjoy the local culture and see the work of local artisans.
Option 2) Visit to the Local Markets:
An essential recommendation to get to know the daily life in Cusco is to visit the local markets. The San Pedro Market is the largest and most popular market in Cusco, where you can see and taste a wide variety of local products such as fresh fruits, fruit juices, medicinal herbs and traditional food. Here you can also interact with the locals and feel like a local. If you are staying in San Blas and don’t want to walk too far, you can visit the San Blas Market, known for its charming atmosphere and for being a good place to buy typical handicrafts of the region and local food.
Option 3) Tour of the Four Nearby Ruins:
In the afternoon, you can take a taxi or tour to visit the four ruins near Cusco, which can also be reached on foot from Cusco’s main square. Start with Sacsayhuaman, an incredible fortress built with huge blocks of stone perfectly fitted together. From this site, you can get panoramic views of the city, especially Cusco’s famous Plaza de Armas. Next, head to the ruins of Qenqo, a ceremonial site related to religious rituals, and then to Puka Pukara, a small but important military complex. Finish the tour at Tambomachay, known as the temple of water, a site known for its water fountains and its connection to water worship rituals.
Option 4) Visit the Museums of Cusco:
If you like museums, history and archeology, you can visit some of the museums in Cusco. The Inka museum is a must to learn more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire, with a huge collection of pre-Inca artifacts and objects including well-preserved royal mummies. The Pre-Columbian Art Museum is also an excellent option to explore the art of the diverse cultures that inhabited Peru before the Inca civilization. If you still have time, you can end the day at the Coca Museum, where you will learn about the use of the coca leaf in Andean culture, especially in the Andes region of Peru.
Option 5) Half Day City Tour:
If you prefer a more organized and less stressful option, you can join a half-day city tour. These tours generally cover Cusco’s main points of interest, such as the Cusco Cathedral, the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), the four nearby ruins (Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay) and the White Christ. A local guide will provide you with valuable information about the history of each place you visit, allowing you to make the most of your time and learn more about Cusco’s history.
Note: If you’re looking for a more customized tour for you and your group, we recommend you to take our Private Tour in Cusco. You can check out the tour details here.
Day 2: Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas
On the second day, we recommend exploring the fascinating Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region full of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Whether independently or with a guided tour, this day will be a unique immersion into the rich Inca heritage and an unforgettable memory:
Option 1) Exploring the Sacred Valley on Your Own:
To explore the Sacred Valley on your own from Cusco, take a public bus or take a taxi from Cusco’s main square and head first to Pisac, where you can visit the archaeological site and its market. Then, travel to Ollantaytambo (approximately 2 hours), famous for its Inca fortress and charming village. Here you can have lunch in the village and then continue, if you still have energy and time, visit Chinchero, a village with an archaeological site and a handicraft market. Afterwards, you can return to Cusco or Ollantaytambo to take the train to Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley offers breathtaking scenery and historical sites that you must not miss while in Cusco.
Option 2) ATV Tour in the Sacred Valley:
If you love adventure, an ATV tour is an excellent way to explore the Sacred Valley. There are several operators in Cusco that offer guided ATV tours, which will allow you to tour the beautiful landscapes of the area in a fun way. The tours include visits to the ruins of Moray, lagoons and typical villages, as well as passing through breathtaking landscapes while enjoying the thrill of riding your own ATV.
This type of activity is ideal for those looking for something different and enjoy the scenery while doing something adventurous, some experience is required for this activity.
Option 3) Visit an Alpaca Farm:
If you love alpacas and llamas in Peru then you can visit an alpaca farm in the Sacred Valley, you can include this unique experience to your adventure. From Cusco, you can drive to the Sacred Valley, and one of the most popular options is to visit a farm located near Chinchero or Pisac. Here you will learn about alpaca breeding, wool production and its cultural importance for the Andean inhabitants. In addition, you will be able to interact with the alpacas, feed them, take pictures and buy high quality woven products directly from local ladies. This type of experience will allow you to learn more about the rural life and traditions of the region.
Day 3: Travel to Machu Picchu
Opcion 1) Visit Machu Picchu from Cusco in One Day:
If you prefer to do everything in one day, you can travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu early in the morning, we recommend taking the first train to have more time in Machu Picchu and avoid the crowds. Take a cab from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (depending on your choice of train), and from there take the train to Aguas Calientes. The train ride takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and will take you through beautiful Andean landscapes.
Once in Aguas Calientes, you will take a bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (a ride of about 25 minutes). We recommend hiring a guide to get the most out of your visit. At Machu Picchu, you can explore the site for 3 hours, touring the ruins and learning about the history of the site, either on your own or with a guide. Then, you will return to Aguas Calientes, have lunch and take the train back to Ollantaytambo from there you will travel back to Cusco, arriving in the evening. This plan is ideal if you prefer not to spend the night in Aguas Calientes and want to do everything in one day.
Option 2) Explore the Sacred Valley and Spend the Night in Aguas Calientes
If you have more time and prefer to enjoy Machu Picchu more calmly and without haste, you can opt for this option that allows you to combine your visit to the Sacred Valley with a night in Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu the next day. The day before, after exploring the Sacred Valley, you can take an afternoon train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. The train ride takes about 2 hours, and you will arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes where you will spend the night.
The next day, in the morning, you will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Here you will have the whole day to enjoy the ruins, explore the temples, terraces and breathtaking views of the Inca citadel. After your visit, you will return to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a drive to Cusco, returning to your hotel in Cusco at approximately 7pm. This option is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed and less rushed trip.
Tips for both options:
If you decide to take the option of visiting Machu Picchu in one day, be sure to leave early to make the most of your time in Machu Picchu.
If you choose to spend the night in Aguas Calientes, take the opportunity to explore the town or visit the local hot springs before or after your visit to Machu Picchu.
Tickets to Machu Picchu: Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, as tickets are limited and can sell out quickly, especially if you plan to visit Machu Picchu in the morning.
NOTE: Both options will give you the opportunity to experience one of the seven wonders of the modern world, but the decision on how to do it depends on your pace and travel preferences. If you find this itinerary too complicated and frustrating to do on your own, we recommend you to take a private tour with us and we will take care of everything contact us for further information.
Conclusions: What to Do in Cusco in 4 Days
In conclusion, Cusco offers a wide variety of activities and places to explore in just four days. From immersing yourself in the city’s rich history and culture, visiting iconic Inca ruins, an alpaca farm, and local markets to discovering the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley and experiencing the wonder of Machu Picchu, each day offers unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you prefer to explore on your own or opt for a tailor-made tour package, Cusco combines ancient history, breathtaking scenery and a cultural immersion that will leave lasting memories.
