12-Day Adventure Itinerary in Cusco: Explore the Heart of the Inca Empire

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Cusco, Peru

10:00AM

Arrival in Cusco

Welcome to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, where you'll adjust to the altitude and soak in your new surroundings.
Taxitize to your accommodation.
PEN150, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Green Point

Enjoy a delicious plant-based meal in one of the top vegetarian restaurants while acclimatizing to the local environment.
Walk 15 minutes to Green Point.
PEN40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Plaza de Armas

Stroll around the main square and visit the stunning Catedral del Cusco.
Walk to Plaza de Armas, 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Qorikancha

Explore the site of the Temple of the Sun, where Inca architecture meets colonial Spain.
Walk 10 minutes to Qorikancha.
PEN15, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cicciolina

Savor local Peruvian flavors with an Italian twist at this popular eatery.
Walk 10 minutes to Cicciolina.
PEN70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Sacred Valley Adventure

Sacred Valley, Peru

7:00AM

Breakfast at Jack's Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of pancakes or quinoa porridge.
Take a taxi to Sacred Valley.
PEN30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Pisac Market

Explore the vibrant local market, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
30 minutes by taxi to Pisac.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hike to Pisac Ruins

Take a short hike to the impressive archaeological site with panoramic valley views.
Short hike from the market.
PEN10, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Awanakancha

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch while learning about the local culture and wildlife.
15 minutes by taxi.
PEN50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Ollantaytambo

Explore this iconic Inca fortress, a grand testament to Inca engineering and architecture.
20 minutes by taxi.
PEN70, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hearts Cafe

Dine on delicious local dishes while supporting a good cause.
Walk 10 minutes.
PEN60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Inca Trail Preparation

Ollantaytambo, Peru

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe del Sol

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, perfect for an active day.
Nearby the hotel.
PEN25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Guided Tour of Ollantaytambo

Learn about the fascinating history and culture of this remarkable fortress while enjoying the lush landscape.
Meet your guide at the base of the fortress.
PEN100, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Recoleta

Indulge in local dishes at this charming restaurant in town, featuring Andean flavours.
Walk 10 minutes.
PEN50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Inca Trail Briefing

Attend a crucial briefing for everything you need to know about the Inca Trail trek.
Organized by your trekking company.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax and Explore Ollantaytambo

Take the time to wander through the charming streets and soak in the local culture.
Self-guided stroll.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Final Dinner in Ollantaytambo

Share a farewell dinner with your trekking group, preparing to take on the adventure ahead.
At your lodging.
PEN70, 2 hours
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Day 4: Inca Trail Day 1

Inca Trail, Peru

6:00AM

Early Breakfast

Have an early bite to eat to kick-off your trek with enough energy.
At your lodging.
PEN30, 1 hour

7:00AM

Start Hiking

Embark on your first day of the Inca Trail, starting from km 82 with breathtaking views all around.
Transfer by bus to trailhead.
Free, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Trail

Enjoy a delicious packed lunch amidst the stunning backdrop of the Andes.
Provided by your trekking group.
Included, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Hike

Continue your trek while enjoying various scenic spots along the way.
Continue hiking.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Settle in at Campsite

Arrive at the campsite to unwind and relax after a rewarding day on the trail.
Camp set by guides.
Included, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Campsite

Savor a warm dinner prepared by your trekking team around a campfire.
At the campsite.
Included, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Inca Trail Day 2

Inca Trail, Peru

5:30AM

Early Wake and Breakfast

Rise early to fuel up for the challenging day ahead.
At the campsite.
Included, 1 hour

6:30AM

Hike to Dead Woman's Pass

Trek to the highest point on the trail at 4,215 meters - an achievement worth the climb.
Continue hiking.
Free, 5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on Trail

Relax and recharge with a packed lunch at one of the scenic views.
Take a break at designated area.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Continue to Winay Wayna

Descend towards the ruins of Winay Wayna, another highlight of the trail.
Continue hiking.
Free, 4 hours

5:00PM

Settle at Campsite

Find a comfortable spot at your final campsite before reaching Machu Picchu.
Camp set by guides.
Included, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Campsite

Enjoy a hearty meal while sharing stories with fellow trekkers.
At the campsite.
Included, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Peru

4:00AM

Wake Up and Breakfast

Rise early to make the final trek to the iconic Machu Picchu.
At the campsite.
Included, 1 hour

5:00AM

Hike to Machu Picchu

The final ascent to Machu Picchu provides incredible sunrise views over this ancient wonder.
Follow trails to the entrance.
Free, 2 hours

7:00AM

Explore Machu Picchu

Take your time exploring the magnificent ruins and learning about the history and significance of each structure.
Self-guided or with a tour guide.
PEN150, 3 hours

10:30AM

Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge

Take a break at the nearby lodge and enjoy refreshments while soaking in the views.
Walk to the lodge.
PEN90, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Return to Aguas Calientes

Head down to Aguas Calientes via the bus for a relaxing afternoon.
Bus service down the mountain.
PEN25, 30 minutes

1:00PM

Check in at Hotel

Settle in at your hotel and refresh after an eventful morning.
Walk to the hotel.
PEN200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Aguas Calientes

Wander around this charming town with its artisan shops and beautiful hot springs.
Self-guided exploration.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Indio Feliz

Celebrate the end of the trek with a festive meal offering a mix of Peruvian and French cuisine.
Walk to Indio Feliz.
PEN80, 2 hours
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Day 7: Relax in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes, Peru

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up with a convenient breakfast at your accommodations.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hot Springs

Relax in the therapeutic hot springs and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Short walk to hot springs.
PEN20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tree House

Enjoy a healthy meal with an incredible view, overlooking the lush valley.
Walk to the restaurant.
PEN40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shop for Souvenirs

Take time to find the perfect mementos to remember your trip to Aguas Calientes.
Explore local shops.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Huacatay

End the day with a flavorful meal featuring fresh ingredients from the Sacred Valley.
Walk to the restaurant.
PEN60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Return to Cusco

Cusco, Peru

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Take one last breakfast in Aguas Calientes before heading back to Cusco.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Cusco

Enjoy a scenic train ride back to Cusco, taking in the breathtaking views of the Andes.
Train station.
PEN150, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Pedro

Experience the flavors of Peru with a lively lunch at this great food market.
Taxi or walking distance.
PEN30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sacsayhuamán

Explore this impressive archaeological site right outside of Cusco, known for its massive stone walls.
Taxi from the market.
PEN20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mapacho Craft Beer Garden

Sample some local craft beers and dine on delicious Peruvian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Taxi back to Cusco.
PEN70, 2 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Immersion in Cusco

Cusco, Peru

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Isla

Indulge in a delightful breakfast featuring fresh juices and traditional options.
Walking distance.
PEN35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Qenqo

Explore the unique limestone formations and ancient ceremonial site.
Taxi from Cusco.
PEN15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Puca Pucara

Discover the military outpost built by the Incas with stunning views of the valley.
Short drive from Qenqo.
PEN15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Museo del Pisco

Enjoy a delicious lunch while exploring Peru's national drink, pisco, and its history.
Return to Cusco.
PEN60, 2 hours

3:30PM

Workshop on Traditional Weaving

Participate in a weaving workshop and learn about the ancient techniques passed down through generations.
At a local training center.
PEN75, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dona Clara

Savor a traditional Peruvian meal in a local restaurant known for its warm ambiance.
Walking distance.
PEN50, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Day Trip to Maras and Moray

Maras and Moray, Peru

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Ayllu

Fuel up for the day with traditional Peruvian breakfast options.
Nearby your accommodation.
PEN30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Maras Salt Mines

Explore the famous salt pans of Maras, an ancient method still in use today.
Taxi from Cusco.
PEN20, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Moray Agricultural Terraces

Discover the terraced circular platforms that the Incas used for agricultural experimentation.
Short drive from Maras.
PEN15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Grano de Oro

Enjoy a delicious lunch back in the town of Maras with a local twist.
Return to Maras.
PEN50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Cusco

Head back to Cusco to relish the invaluable experiences of the day.
Taxi drive back.
PEN30, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Cusquerna

End your day with an authentic dinner at this local favorite restaurant.
Walking distance.
PEN60, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Excursion to Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca, Peru

3:30AM

Early Departure

Begin your journey to the stunning Rainbow Mountain – an experience of a lifetime.
Pick-up from your accommodations.
PEN100, 1 hour

5:00AM

Breakfast in Palcoyo

Enjoy breakfast en route to the mountain, fueling up for the trek ahead.
Vending on the bus.
PEN20, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Hike to Rainbow Mountain

Embark on the hike to the surreal landscape of Rainbow Mountain, a breathtaking site to behold.
Continue hiking.
Free, 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Area

Take pictures and soak in the stunning views from the mountain’s peak.
At the top.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch picnic

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking landscape.
At the mountain.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return Hike

Start your descent back, taking in views along the way.
Continue hiking back.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Transportation back to Cusco

Catch a ride back to Cusco to rest after a long day.
Bus from the base.
PEN100, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Chola

Wrap up the day at La Chola, savoring typical dishes of the region.
Walking distance.
PEN70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Final Day in Cusco

Cusco, Peru

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel’s restaurant to start your day.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit a Local Artisan

Spend your last morning purchasing some unique artisan products.
Walk to the nearby artisan's workshop.
Variable, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sumaq

Indulge in a farewell lunch at this great spot featuring regional flavors.
Walking distance.
PEN60, 2 hours

3:00PM

Prepare for Departure

Return to your accommodation to get ready for your journey home or onwards.
Self-guided preparation.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Departure from Cusco

Bid farewell to Cusco while cherishing the memories of your adventure.
Taxi to the airport.
PEN100, 1 hour
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