Machu Picchu Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-hour layover highlights in Cusco

A brief stop in Cusco focuses on the historic city center and gentle acclimatization.

Allow for rest on arrival to manage the altitude. Explore the central plaza, main cathedral, and Qorikancha.

Layover Plan

Morning (Acclimatization): Arrive in Cusco, check into your hotel. Take it easy for a few hours to begin acclimatizing to the altitude. Drink coca tea and water.
Afternoon (Historic Center): Begin your exploration at the Plaza de Armas. Visit the majestic Cusco Cathedral. Walk to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) to see the blend of Inca and Spanish architecture.
Evening (San Blas & Dining): Wander through the charming, uphill cobblestone streets of the San Blas neighborhood. Explore artisan shops. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner at a local restaurant. Return to your hotel for rest.

Extended Journeys

For longer trips, explore the region's attractions.

Weekend getaway 2-3 days - Cusco & Machu Picchu

A quick but impactful trip highlights the region's main attractions.

Weekend Plan

Day 1: Arrival & Cusco Acclimatization: Arrive at Cusco airport (CUZ). Transfer to your hotel. Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Take a gentle walk around the Plaza de Armas, visit the Cusco Cathedral, and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Stay hydrated.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Day Trip: Take an early morning train from Ollantaytambo (or Poroy, if available) to Aguas Calientes. Board the bus to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour of the citadel, exploring its iconic sections. Allow ample time for photos and soaking in the atmosphere. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then take the train back to Ollantaytambo and a transfer back to Cusco in the evening. This day is long but rewarding.
Day 3: Cusco Exploration & Departure: In the morning, visit Sacsayhuaman, the impressive Inca fortress just outside Cusco. Enjoy a final Peruvian lunch. Depart from Cusco airport.
Book experiences easily through GetYourGuide.

One-week comprehensive experience Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

This itinerary a exploration of the region.

Weekly Outline

Day 1-2: Cusco Arrival & Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco. Spend your first two days acclimatizing to the altitude. Explore the historic center, including Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, and the charming San Blas district. Visit the Museo Inka or Museo de Arte Precolombino.
Day 3: Sacred Valley Tour: Take a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Visit Pisac (market and ruins), Ollantaytambo (fortress and town), and Chinchero (weaving demonstration). Consider staying overnight in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba to avoid backtracking and enjoy the valley at a slower pace.
Day 4: Machu Picchu Visit: From Ollantaytambo (or Cusco if you returned), take an early morning train to Aguas Calientes. Board the bus to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the citadel. Spend several hours exploring. Return to Aguas Calientes. Overnight in Aguas Calientes for convenience.

Two-week in-depth exploration

For a longer trip, combine the one-week itinerary with multi-day treks or extensions to other regions.

Extended Options

Option 1 (Trekking Focus): Incorporate a 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek (permits booked far in advance) or a 5-day Salkantay Trek into your itinerary. This replaces the standard Machu Picchu visit from the one-week plan. Add more time in Cusco before and after the trek for acclimatization and recovery.
Option 2 (Regional Extension): After the one-week Cusco/Machu Picchu itinerary, add a 3-day/2-night extension to the Amazon Rainforest (e.g., Tambopata National Reserve from Puerto Maldonado, accessible by flight from Cusco). Or, travel south to Lake Titicaca (Puno) for 2-3 days, exploring the Uros floating islands and Taquile Island. This diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
Long-term stay recommendations: For stays exceeding two weeks, a more immersive experience.
Apartment Rentals: Focus on renting apartments in Cusco (e.g., via Airbnb) for a more local living experience and cost savings.

Long-term stay recommendations

For stays exceeding two weeks, consider a more immersive experience.

Immersive Stay

Apartment Rentals: Focus on renting apartments in Cusco (e.g., via Airbnb) for a more local living experience and cost savings.
Language Classes: Enroll in a Spanish language school in Cusco to your language skills.
Extensive Exploration: Use local transport (colectivos) to explore the Sacred Valley and other smaller towns more extensively. Take slower, dives into specific archaeological sites or engage with community-based tourism initiatives.
Cultural Exchange: Participate in workshops or local events.

Suggested routes for longer regional travel

Southern Peru Highlights

Lima > Cusco (Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley) > Puno (Lake Titicaca) > Arequipa (Colca Canyon) > Lima. This route a comprehensive experience of Peru's diverse landscapes and cultures.

Northern Peru Archaeology

Extend to Trujillo (Chan Chan), Chiclayo (Lord of Sipan), Chachapoyas (Kuélap) for pre-Inca cultures.

Deep Dive Treks

Integrate multi-day treks like the Inca Trail or Salkantay for an immersive outdoor adventure combined with Machu Picchu.

Optimizing Your Route

Match your itinerary to your available time and interests. Multi-day treks and regional extensions deepens your Peruvian journey.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your trip to specific passions and pursuits.

Historical and heritage focus

Dive deep into the ancient Inca and colonial past.

Heritage Journey

Cusco Historic Center: Concentrate your time on Cusco's historic center, exploring the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, and Qorikancha.
Boleto Turístico: Purchase the full Boleto Turístico to visit all the Inca and colonial sites around Cusco (Sacsayhuaman, Q'enqo, Pukapukara, Tambomachay) and in the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero).
Machu Picchu: Allocate ample time for Machu Picchu, considering a guide focused on its historical and architectural details.
Lesser-Known Sites: Visit less-explored sites like Tipón and Pikillaqta.

Food and culinary experiences

Savor the rich and diverse flavors of Peruvian cuisine.

Culinary Delights

Cooking Classes: Take multiple cooking classes in Cusco, often including a market visit (Mercado San Pedro).
Food Tours: Go on guided food tours to sample street food and local eateries.
Fine Dining: Seek out fine dining establishments in Cusco that modern Peruvian cuisine.
Local Beverages: Explore regional variations and try traditional beverages like chicha morada and pisco sour.

Adventure and outdoor activities

Thrill-seeking awaits in the Andean landscapes.

Outdoor Thrills

Multi-day Treks: Prioritize a multi-day trek like the 4-day Classic Inca Trail or the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
High-altitude Hikes: Include day trips to challenging high-altitude hikes like Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) or Humantay Lake.
River Activities: Consider white water rafting on the Urubamba River, ziplining, or via ferrata in the Sacred Valley.
Fitness Check: Ensure your fitness levels align with these activities.

Family-friendly itinerary

Designed for comfort and engagement for all ages.

Family Fun

Slower Pace: Plan a slower pace, for rest and acclimatization, especially in Cusco.
Family Accommodation: Choose hotels with family rooms or consider apartment rentals for more space.
Interactive Tours: Look for interactive tours, like visits to alpaca farms or weaving demonstrations where children engage directly.
Machu Picchu Pace: Machu Picchu can be tiring for young children, so plan a full day with breaks and use the bus.

Art and architecture emphasis

Explore the blend of Inca and colonial design.

Art & Design

Colonial Churches: Explore Cusco's colonial churches, like the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús.
Museums: Visit museums like the Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP) and the Museo Inka to appreciate ancient Peruvian art.
San Blas: Walk the streets of San Blas, known for its artisan workshops and galleries.
Architectural Blend: Observe the unique blend of Inca and Spanish architecture evident throughout Cusco's historic center and at sites like Qorikancha.

Spiritual and wellness journey

Find serenity and spiritual connection in the Andes.

Wellness Path

Retreats: Focus on yoga and meditation retreats available in the serene Sacred Valley.
Sacred Sites: Visit sacred Inca sites like Machu Picchu, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo with a spiritual focus, perhaps hiring a guide who explain the spiritual significance of these places.
Nature Connection: Engage with the natural environment for grounding and reflection.
Local Traditions: Explore local shamanic or healing traditions with respectful guidance.

Tailored Experiences

History Buff

Focus on archaeological sites, museums, and colonial architecture. Purchase the Boleto Turístico for comprehensive access.

Foodie

Indulge in cooking classes, market tours, and local eateries. Discover Peru's gastronomic heritage.

Adrenaline Seeker

Embark on challenging treks, rafting, or ziplining. Ensure physical readiness for high-altitude activities.

Personalized Journeys

Design your trip around your interests, whether it is history, food, adventure, or spiritual exploration. Options are abundant.

Budget-Based Plans

Your budget guides choices in accommodation, dining, and activities.

Backpacker's guide

Maximize your experience on a tight budget.

Budget Traveler Tips

Accommodation: Stay in hostels, opting for dorm beds or the most basic private rooms. Look for hostels with communal kitchens to cook some of your own meals.
Food: Rely on local 'Menu del Día' eateries for lunch and street food for cheap and authentic meals. Buy snacks from local markets.
Transportation: Use local combis and colectivos for inter-city travel (e.g., Cusco to Ollantaytambo). Choose the most budget-friendly train options (Expedition class on PeruRail, The Voyager on Inca Rail) for Machu Picchu.
Activities: Focus on free walking tours in Cusco, exploring markets, and utilizing the partial Boleto Turístico if visiting only a few sites. Choose treks that do not a permit (e.g., Salkantay, Lares) for better value.

Mid-range traveler's itinerary

Balance comfort and value with varied options.

Balanced Travel

Accommodation: Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels or reputable private rooms in hostels.
Food: Enjoy a mix of local 'Menu del Día' restaurants and mid-range tourist restaurants.
Transportation: Use taxis for convenience within Cusco and organized group tours for day trips to the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, or Humantay Lake.
Activities: Purchase the full Boleto Turístico. Choose Vistadome or 360° train services to Machu Picchu for a comfortable experience. Include guided tours of major attractions.

Luxury experience plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive encounters.

Premium Comfort

Accommodation: Stay in 4-5 star luxury hotels or boutique hotels, often located in restored colonial buildings in Cusco or with stunning views in the Sacred Valley.
Food: Experience fine dining at Cusco's top restaurants. Enjoy gourmet meals and exclusive culinary experiences.
Transportation: Arrange private transfers from airports and between destinations. Use premium train services like the Hiram Bingham (PeruRail) or The First Class (Inca Rail) to Aguas Calientes.

Exclusive Activities

Guided Tours: Hire private guided tours for personalized experiences at archaeological sites.
Unique Access: Seek out unique and exclusive activities not available to larger groups.
Aerial Views: Consider a private helicopter flight over Machu Picchu (if available and feasible).

Value-focused recommendations

Smart strategies for a cost-effective trip without compromising experience.

Smart Savings

Shoulder Season Travel: Travel during the shoulder season (April, May, September, October) for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds/lower prices.
Book in Advance: Secure flight tickets, Machu Picchu entry, and train tickets well in advance to better rates.
Student Discounts: If you are a student, obtain an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for discounts on Machu Picchu tickets and some other attractions.
Water Purification: Bring a water filter bottle to avoid constantly buying bottled water.

Mix and Match Strategies

Combine budget-friendly choices with occasional splurges for a customized experience.

Flexible Budgeting

Balance Paid & Free: Balance paid attractions and guided tours with free walks, market visits, and exploring local neighborhoods.
Occasional Splurges: Budget for one or two premium experiences, like a special meal or an unique tour.
Meal Variety: Enjoy local street food and markets for daily meals, then treat yourself to a nicer restaurant occasionally.
Souvenir Smart: Shop for souvenirs in local markets where prices are generally better than tourist shops.

Seasonal Specialties

Dry Season June-August

Best for trekking, clear views. Expect more crowds and higher prices. Book well in advance.

Wet Season November-April

Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, misty views. Inca Trail closes February. Pack rain gear and be flexible.

Budget Mindset

Align your travel style with your budget. From backpacking to luxury, Peru offers options for every financial plan, with savvy choices making a difference.

Machu Picchu Itineraries