The ancient Inca capital, the Sacred Valley, and the mountaintop citadel everyone dreams about.
Best months to visit
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Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, and its Spanish colonial churches still stand on Inca stone foundations. From here, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are within reach by train, bus, or trail.
At about 3,400 metres, altitude is the biggest planning factor. Many travellers start lower in the Sacred Valley and work up to Cusco to acclimatise more gently.
Ideal stay
5–6 days
Budget
$$ · Mid-range
Currency
Peruvian sol (PEN)
Language
Spanish, Quechua
Main airport
Alejandro Velasco Astete, Cusco (CUZ)
Good for
History, hiking, landscapes, markets
The full guide
Season by season, a day-by-day plan, where to stay, getting around, costs, and local tips — unlocks with a
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When to go
Dry season (May–Sep)
Clear skies and cold nights; the peak season for trekking.
Shoulder (Apr, Oct)
Fewer crowds, mostly good weather.
Rainy season (Nov–Mar)
Green but wet; the Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance.
Inti Raymi (June 24)
The Festival of the Sun fills Cusco with celebrations — and visitors.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1
Arrive, rest, and take it slow. Short walk around the Plaza de Armas.
Day 2
Cusco's cathedral, Qorikancha temple, San Pedro market, and the San Blas neighbourhood.
Day 3
Sacred Valley: Pisac ruins and market, then Ollantaytambo.
Day 4
Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
Day 5
Early bus up to Machu Picchu for your timed entry, then train back to Cusco.
Where to stay
Historic centre
Close to everything; streets are steep.
San Blas
Artsy, charming, and uphill.
Sacred Valley (Urubamba / Ollantaytambo)
Lower altitude and peaceful; good for acclimatising.
Getting around
Walk within central Cusco; taxis are cheap for longer trips. Trains to Aguas Calientes must be booked in advance. Machu Picchu tickets are timed and limited — book as early as possible, especially in the dry season.
What it costs
Food and accommodation are good value; Machu Picchu entry, trains, and treks are the major expenses. The Inca Trail requires a licensed operator and permits that sell out months ahead.
Good to know
Talk to your doctor about altitude before you go, and take the first day easy.
Bring your passport to Machu Picchu — it is checked with your ticket.
Pack layers: mornings and evenings are cold, midday sun is strong.
Travel information changes often. Prices here are rough guides, and transport, opening hours, and
entry requirements can change without notice. Confirm details with official tourism sites,
operators, and your government's travel advice before you book, and travel with suitable
insurance.
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