Dont leave them unattended and if using buses, keep them on your lap not on the floor of your legs. After going to the archaeological centers on the outskirts of the city, start with Sacsayhuaman then Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Those salt plots look really interesting. If you plan to exercise in any capacity, relax and acclimate first. To hike the Inca Trail you must obtain a permit, which are limited. And if you're doing Rainbow Mountain, that's 6,000 ft above Cusco. The ceviche was probably my favorite dish (my guide ate 4 platefuls of it! Do they offer a private or small group options? Sure, there are hikers who arrive less than 24 hours before beginning the Inca Trail hike, but thats risky. I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. It is recommended you drink lots of waterbefore and during your trip WebIve arrived in Cusco three separate times; in other words, I visited here for 10 days, went to Buenos Aires for 10 days, came back to Cusco, went to the U.S. for two weeks, then At least 2 days of acclimatization are necessary before starting any activity in Travel Stories: How Tragedies Impact a Culture. America!) Im a solo female traveler with a wandering soul thats just making the most of this human experience. However, I have seen Cusco in the rainy season and everything is so lush and full of life, it truly is remarkable. With over two weeks in Cusco, add more Cusco day trips, eat at more of the best Cusco Restaurants, and do complete one of the many Cusco trekking adventures. I love trying to capture the moments . Be mindful, you may need a day to rest completely to acclimate to the Cusco altitude. Please do not drink the tap water. It was a bit confusing to work through all of the options (especially since my Spanish is not great). Don't push it. If visiting Cusco on a short time frame, its more efficient, but less cost efficient to take day trip tours from Cusco to the nearby Inca sites, the Sacred Valley, and popular Cusco day trips. Outside the ticketed area of the Colca Canyon, find small villages like Yanque that offer incredible day hikes and awesome hot springs to soak in. This comprehensive Cusco guide includes tips for visiting Cusco, how to get to Cusco, and how to choose a Cusco itinerary that best suites what to see and do on a trip to Peru. Is that we should visit the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu in two days. You photos are wonderful. The Cusco South Valley also has the only Wari ruins on the Cusco Tourist Ticket at Pikillacta. But when it comes to altitude sickness, the coca leaf is often regarded as a must-have as it helps suppress pain and fatigue. There's over 3,000 varieties of them in Per. The Cusco tourist ticket includes the best places in the city, the Cathedral of Cusco is probably the first place you visit in your journey through the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, then you can walk to the Coricancha. Thats good because tomorrow youll be at higher altitude! function ml_webform_success_2601308(){var r=ml_jQuery||jQuery;r(".ml-subscribe-form-2601308 .row-success").show(),r(".ml-subscribe-form-2601308 .row-form").hide()} While planning a Cusco itinerary, its important to decide how you want to reach Machu Picchu. window.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() { After flying from thecapital of Per, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views. Thanks so much for the kind words on my photos! At the end of the first day I had a pretty bad headache, but it went away about 10 minutes after drinking the coca tea. From Aguas Calientes buses go up to Machu Picchu every few minutes. Some tour companies had cheaper options, but they only stopped in 2-3 places. Imagine you get to Cusco, get altitude sickness, and then have to hike a mountain the next day? Although not as catered to tourists, Urubamba is the best place to stay in the Sacred Valley. The best Cusco travel tips to make the most of your Cusco itinerary. Cusco is a great homebase to explore from. Jump to | Cusco Peru Elevation | Cusco Tours or Independent Travel | Cusco Day Trips | Sacred Valley Peru | Best Time to Visit Cusco | Is Cusco Safe | Cusco Tourist Ticket. Try to hop in on the morning Blue Team Free Walking Tour Cusco. I highly recommend it. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. I love pleasant surprises like that. Definetely, the best way to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu are 3, although it can be done in up to 2 days. Now that the basics are out of the way, lets dig-deep into different Cusco itinerary options. The site is nestled in the scenic Apurmac River Valley, making Waqrapukara unforgettable. The full Cusco Tourist Ticket includes the main four Cusco ruins of Saqsaywaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. The Cusco tour for these sites typically take on average of 6 hours. Those with limited time of a Cusco 3 day itinerary will get the mostbang for their buckwith full day Cusco tours. (function(d, sc, u) { Hi! These detailed Cusco itineraries range from 3 days to well over a month and include the absolute best things to do in Cusco. Minimize or avoid alcohol and try to get to bed at a reasonable time. The valley stretches from Pisac village, with its impressive hilltop Inca sites, three alpine lakes of Kinsa Cocha, a bustling artisan market all the way the to the depths of picturesque Ollantaytambo, a spectacular Inca village that is so much more than just the gateway to Machu Picchu. The short answer is at least two to three days. This trek is best suited for more advanced hikers. Fantastic photos. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, dont expect to visit Inca ruins, rather appreciate the tranquility of the Lares Valley and all the creatures and people that inhibit it. Ive never been to the Inca trail (or even anywhere in S. Most tourists buy the standard ticket for Machu Picchu, which currently costs 152 soles (approx. Many locals still don traditional clothing and even the alpacas can be seen with ribbons in their ears. In Urubamba, hike up to the hillside Colcas, or get one of the best views of the Sacred Valley from Saywa Mountain, home to two peculiar pillars and views for days of Mount Chicon. If you have more time, its totally doable to visit Machu Picchu on your own. I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. A Sacred Valley tour jams the best highlights into a full twelve hour day. Dont worry, three days of acclimatization in Cusco wont feel like a waste of time. Load up on coca leaves and coca products to help thwart headaches. The train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu takes a good three hours, from Ollantaytambo one and a half hours. Organized Cusco tours depart early from Cusco city. Another popular half-day tour in the Sacred Valley includes riding ATVS between the Maras Salt Ponds and Moray. I mean this quite literally! Youll be trail ready in the morning! I hope to make it to Peru one day. The Choquequirao Trek pass through a winding road built in recent times by the Peruvian government, the road to Choquequirao from the second day of the tour is regularly demanding, however it is rewarded by the captivating landscape beauty and a welcoming climate that belongs to the ecological floor of the jungle eyebrow, and above all the charming archaeological park located on a rugged topography, which at the time of the height of the Incas was undoubtedly a place of greater importance in a political and administrative sense, probably with a lower category religious in front of Machu Picchu. I myself had to queue for an hour and a half on the outward journey and about 45 minutes on the return journey in September. Cusco itinerary for seven days of travel Days One and Two: Cusco. First of all, WTF is altitude sickness and is it really that bad? It should be noted that the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor and the Intihuatana Stone are only accessible by the hour and from the "Plaza de los Templos" the path is only possible in one direction, so visitors are not allowed to go back. The Inca Trailto Machu Picchu 4 Daysis one of those experiences that can change your life, unique and unforgettable; One of the best walks in the world. Then visit the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, a military and religious agricultural center that served as a gateway to the Inca Trail that led to the sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu, here you can see residences, temples, terraces, towers and other amazing Inca buildings . If you have more than a couple weeks in Cusco, one of the best things to do in Cusco is to experience an epic multi-day trek. Let me know in the comments below! : When you arrive in Cuzco just go straight to your hotel and take a nap: DO NOT TRY TO SIGHTSEE THE FIRST DAY!!!! After half a day you can have lunch in Urubamba, the commercial center of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and if you did not know, the best white corn in the world is produced in this town. How long does it take to become acclimated to high altitude? 5) Also very important, on the 1st day DO NOT eat anything heavy (meat). WebAcetazolamide (Diamox) is a common drug for altitude sickness and needs to be taken 2 days before you arrive at high altitude and is to be taken for 2-3 days after you arrive. Pro Tip: The elevation of Rainbow Mountain is 6000 feet higher than the city of Cusco and 3000 feet higher than the peak elevation on the Inca Trail. Symptoms of altitude sickness usually develop between 6 24 hours after reaching altitudes more than 3,000m (9,843 feet) above sea level. Your email address will not be published. There are obviously cheaper options if you dont mind larger groups! However, if you want your first vision of Machu Picchu to be from the Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku), but you don't want to walk for 4 days, you can choose the short Inca Trail (2 days). Its likely that check-in as early as 10am is available! Most legends say the Incas rose from the depths of Lake Titicaca. The real treasures of the Ausangate trek is spending quality time in the vastness of the Andes Mountains. Drink loads of water and coca tea while youre there. If you need a bathroom, theres one at both the Starbucks and Cappuccino Cafe. It is recommended to do so immediately after knowing the date of visit to the Wonder of the World. The prices here were outrageous compared to Cusco. There are tons of awesome things to do in Arequipa. Read my full story here. WebHow many days to acclimate in Cusco, Machu Picchu ? The Choquequirao trek can be hiked without a guide, or there is an option to utilize a local guide and donkey at the trailhead. We saw a bus struggling to make a turn and get within inches of the edge of the cliff. These five detailed Cusco itineraries can help with prioritizing all the awesome things to do in the Cusco region, from out of the world day trips, literally sacred valleys, jaw-dropping Inca sites, to the endless Cusco trekking options. The trail twists through the barren Andes until reaching Laguna Qoricocha. Given time, your body can adapt to the decrease in oxygen molecules at a specific altitude. Pro Tip: Pack any extra stuff like clean clothes, toiletries, etc. I am yet to visit Peru but its on my list! Do not forget to take the Tourist Ticket, which includes the entrance to the most important archaeological sites. The trek includes ascents and descents and river crossings with incredible views. In most cases, the tours of the Sacred Valley of the Incas start at 45 minutes from the city of Cusco, in the beautiful town of Pisac. Maukallacta may actually be the birthplace of the Incas. Ive been traveling slow over 10+ years and have experienced over 70 countries. All train services have as their final destination, the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Alternatively, in the local markets and restaurants visited by locals, and a vast majority of the public transportation options and collectivos, no English is spoken. $1,345. WebAusangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain Without Guide From 4 to 6 Days Ausangate To Rainbow Mountain Trek Comprehensive Hiking Guide in Cusco Peru. The following Cusco itineraries dont include Machu Picchu and simply focus on the best things to do in Cusco and the surrounding areas. With mummies, chullpas and well-preserved Inca buildings this is one of the most interesting places in the Cusco region. WebTime and Date Duration Calculate duration, with both date and time included. In my opinion, there are so many epic things to do in Cusco and the Sacred Valley and with all the diverse multi day Cusco treks that a month is ideal. According to Cleveland Clinic, age, sex and general health do not seem to make a difference in risk for altitude sickness. Anyone in possession of this ticket may stay a maximum of four hours in the extensive ruins with more than 200 buildings and can choose between three different circular routes, all of which converge at the"Temple Square ''. I made an appointment to get a prescription (called Acetazolamide) and my doctor recommended I take them starting the night before, and then 1-2 per day as needed. By the first evening in Cusco, I had a full on banging headache (despite drinking water nonstop all day) and my chest felt heavy. These leaves are a staple plant to help fight altitude sickness and can either be chewed or steeped in tea. Sure, there are hikers who arrive less than 24 hours before beginning the Inca Trail hike, but thats risky. })(document, 'script', '//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js'); Browse the Best Cusco Accommodations & Cusco Hotels here. Another great thing to do in Cusco is browse the many artisan shops. Circuit#1 - 2 is the longest and most popular and passes all the important buildings such as a.o. Give your body some TLC. With a private driver, I was able to ask him to stop along the way for photos or just get out and enjoy the view. They also recommend the best restaurants in Cusco Peru, share local gems, take you through the bohemian San Blas neighborhood, and walk you past the famed Cusco 12 angle stone. The authentic village is centrally located and close to so many of the Sacred Valley highlights. For me, a night bus from Arequipa to Cusco was perfect. Alcohol dehydrates you, and that's about the last thing you want at higher elevations. Those costumes are super interesting, Your email address will not be published. In general, Cusco is safe city to visit even for solo travelers. The days needed to make a Cusco and Sacred Valley trip like this are 4, although it can be done in up to 3 days, the best way to visit places like the ones you will see in Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas is patiently, since the best thing to do the Incas made in their cities, and in a more subtle way, in the constructions made in the new cities founded by the Spaniards, are the details. 4) VERY IMPORTANT!!! s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); The only way to access the park is via a two day trek from the small village of Cachora. However, Cusco is easily connected to all the tourist destinations, including the unmissable Sacred Valley of the Incas via public buses and collectivos, or small vans. Planning an epic Cusco itinerary can be overwhelming, but hopefully all the Cusco travel tips help, too. Slow and steady wins the race. I did not know this at first and was panicking the entire weekend trip. Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most magical experiences Ive had to date. Instead I opted for a delicious meal at Morena on Calle Plateros. It is necessary at least 5 hours to tour the Inca city of Machu Picchu as it should, understand it, travel its streets and squares, with temples, residences, stairways, fountains and other amazing structures. This Cusco museum is extremely well-done and is open late until 22:00. While youre there, take a stroll through the interior of the temple, which was originally built in 1571. Have a great time on the trail! Remember, if utilizing the buses, the roads will be windy with drastic altitude changes. But youll definitely want to plan a few extra days for day trips from We believe that this is the ideal way, but it can vary if it comes from very low places, since it will need a previous acclimatization, and it can be done in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, to then go to Machu Picchu and finish its journey in the city of Cusco. Regardless of the route, the standard admission ticket entitles you to a four-hour visit within the admission time specified at the time of reservation. So, in short, add at least one day for Machu Picchu to your Cusco itinerary. The neary town of Urubumba is a great place to stop for lunch. Ask your doctor for altitude sickness pills, and start taking them a day before you land in Cusco. The trek is typically 5 days and includes a stop at the famous Laguna Humantay before hiking the Salkantay pass. There are many tours that make stops at the sites, but keep in mind, most Cusco tours do not include the Cusco Tourist Ticket, it has to purchased separately. The cheapest Machu Picchu tickets from Cusco to Machupicchu town, the starting point for most Machu Picchu tours, cost around U$ 76 per tickets, the most expensive around U$ 250 to U$ 500 dollars (Orient Express or Hiram Bingham Train: Luxury Train Cusco to Machu Picchu). How big are the groups? These ruins are located close to Salineras de Maras. If you find yourself getting altitude sickness, try to go down to a lower elevation. Its one of the more ornate churches I have been in so it was nice to just sit and soak it in for a while. And if you're in Cusco planning to hike Rainbow Mountain, that's EVEN HIGHER than Cusco (and Matterhorn in Switzerland). It's basically like having a hangover from hell after a night of too many tequila shots. Join my Adventure: There's Room in My Backpack. Please check your inbox to confirm your subscription. I do hope you get the experience someday its truly magical. Its unclear what their purpose was, but while you ponder that you can enjoy the gorgeous views of the mountains surrounding the ruins. You can buy small bags of salt on the way out for just S/ 1. The Mountain of Seven Colors, or Rainbow Mountain is becoming a sought after day trip from Cusco. Cusco is the starting point of incredible multi-day treks, day hikes, and more. Ok here's the thing: Machu Picchu is actually at a LOWER altitude than Cusco. They are at a lower elevation than Cusco, and you also get to see more Inca sites. Ukukus, another favorite spot, includes live bands and TOUR OF CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU IN 2 DAYS Day 01: Route in Ultimate Cusco Trekking Guide | Complete Peru Packing List for Multi-Day Treks. The Absolute Best Things to Do in Cusco Peru, The Complete Oaxaca Itinerary for 3 Days to 2 Weeks, Game-Changing Camino de Santiago Tips for First Time Pilgrims, A Taste of the Picos de Europa National Park in Northern Spain, 2023 Packing up the Pieces Journey Theme by Restored 316. Based in the area around Ollantaytambo, the Cachicata walk takes you through high waterfalls, Inca ruins and beautiful places. Im lucky i didnt get sick when i landed in Cusco but its DEFINITELY smart to get there early to acclimate properly. If hiking in the Sacred Valley isnt part of your Peru itinerary, take a full day trip to the Lares Hot Springs. Find anything from scarves, blankets, sweaters, and more. This is the best way to visit Rainbow Mountain to avoid the crowds. Many travelers prefer to sleep near the Cusco Plaza de Armas, or in the bohemian San Blas neighborhood. The eight-kilometre, winding journey takes just under half an hour. What good luck! This gives you entry to Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Chinchero and is good for 2 consecutive days. However, some say they emerged from the cave at Puma Orqo and then built Maukallacta. Thanks so much! Those who want a little more luxury can look into the Andean Explorer, a Belmond Train that connects Arequipa, Puno (Lake Titicaca), and Cusco. To be honest, the citadel looks great from the mountains, but within the citadel there is much more to know. I didnt know there was so much to do right before setting off on the Inca Trail. Tickets cost is U$ 12 one way, round U$ 24 per person. Your body needs AIR and relaxation. }); Do you identify as a female and blog about the outdoors? I walked around Plaza De Armas for a little, and then napped, ate dinner out, and hung out at the Airbnb. Sacred Valley Travel Guide | Over 60+ Things to Do in the Sacred Valley Peru. If interested in sampling cuy, or guinea pig, the village of Saylla is famous for their typical cuy restaurants. Arequipa is Perus second largest city. It's a can of oxygen you can take when you arrive in Cusco. Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an incredible journey, which combines beautiful landscapes and ancestral routes. From there, grab dinner at Papachos, overlooking the plaza. I think this is a great way to prepare for a hiking! Of course, with any city or place in the world, there is petty crime. From there you have the famous postcard view of the old Inca city,Sacred Rock of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu gate. Cusco is a desired tourist destination, so there are also higher-end bus companies that also arrive to Cusco, just not at the main Cusco bus terminal. On day 2 I had a really bad headache all day. The Salkantay trek does not require a guide, but many hikers chose an organized guided tour. We hold major institutions accountable and expose wrongdoing. That's why take a Machu Picchu 2 Days Tour can be a good idea. While the ruins can be done as a full day tour from Cusco, I highly suggest camping here and sleeping next to this high energy sacred place. If you want to choose the best scheduales and the day you want to enter the mountain Huayna Picchu, we recommend you book these tickets 6 months in advance.

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