Travel Tip | If spending more than a month in Cusco, look for guesthouses or apartments that offer a monthly discount code. Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Travel Stories: How Tragedies Impact a Culture. These are great recommendations for before the hike. Apu Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is a part of the Vilcanota Mountain range. The short answer is at least two to three days. If your Cusco itinerary includes Inca sites, purchase the full ticket. Arequipa is Perus second largest city. We enjoyed the buffet lunch at Inca House Restaurant. There are obviously cheaper options if you dont mind larger groups! Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an incredible journey, which combines beautiful landscapes and ancestral routes. Each of the 4000 plots of salt here are owned by different families. Required fields are marked *. Sacred Valley Travel Guide | Over 60+ Things to Do in the Sacred Valley Peru. Packing up the Pieces is all about authentic off-the-beaten-path experiences, comprehensive travelogues, detailed hiking and adventure guides, alongside my personal struggles and heartfelt moments while on the road. This is enough for most people. This plaza is today, and was during the Inca Empire, the heart of the city of Cusco. 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. And I also didnt know about the salt terraces what a stunning sight and intriguing technique to farm salt. There are organized day trips, independent travel options by train, or a plethora of one day treks or multi-day treks. If you travel in June, we recommend you to book theInti Raymi 2023Tour that takes place in June 24th, and also hike thePalcoyo Mountain Tour, which is an incredible Rainbow Mountain located in the Andes. At the briefing, you get to meet your guide and learn the final details on the hike. The Salkantay trek is one of most popular alternative treks to the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You can also visit very little known archeological centers such as Inkatambo and Huamanmarca along the way you can appreciate the ecological diversity that Machu Picchu has. Let me know in the comments below! On day 1, explore the Cusco Historic Center, join a free walking tour, stroll around San Blas neighborhood, and check out the incredible Mercado San Pedro. Along this street, you can also stop at the gorgeous Basilica de la Merced. I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. But by day 3, with lots of water and coca tea, I was ready to go! 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. Not only is Cusco the gateway to the most famous landmark in Peru, the Lost City of Machu Picchu, but the region is a hikers paradise. Most tourists buy the standard ticket for Machu Picchu, which currently costs 152 soles (approx. 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. Weekday Calculator What Day is this Date? How long does it take to become acclimated to high altitude? Ask your doctor for altitude sickness pills, and start taking them a day before you land in Cusco. Cusco Peru has two very distinct seasons, rainy and dry. I personally dont like being stuck on a tour bus with a large group. Maybe go out your last night in Cusco, but don't go crazy when you arrive. The local guides stop by many of the top places to see in the Cusco Historical Center and give a brief history of the Inca empire and the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors. })(document, 'script', '//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js'); Browse the Best Cusco Accommodations & Cusco Hotels here. For this stop, I was particularly thankful to not be in a big tour bus because the road to get here is a bit dangerous. Travel update - Coronavirus (COVID-19) - See how this could affect your travel plans. WebA Cusco 5 day itinerary would be more relaxed and enjoyable and give some time to acclimate while in Cusco. If you want to walk up to the mountain, we recommend you choose this circuit. If symptoms do not improve, please seek medical attention. I love trying to capture the moments . Skip to|Cusco 3 Day Itinerary|4 Days in Cusco| Cusco Itinerary 5 Days |One Week in Cusco Peru|More Than Two Weeks in Cusco Itinerary. Tickets cost is U$ 12 one way, round U$ 24 per person. There is not one in Maukallacta, but three! 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. Wow, there is so much to see and do near Cusco! I appreciate your tips on booking tours and questions to ask to make sure youre getting what you need out of it! 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. 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. But, this will vary greatly depending on your fitness level, typical altitude, and many other factors. Separate entry can be purchased onsite at Salineras de Maras for (S/ 10). Basically, you do NOT want to get altitude sickness. . They varied from 8-25. $1,345. You photos are wonderful. The Cusco dry season has less rain, sunny skies, but much of the landscape turns yellow and brown. The guide will likely stop on the way so that you can buy an entry ticket. Use this last day to explore more of the city wandering the streets and picking up souvenirs. But by the third day, my body was finally feeling strong and ready to hike the Inca Trail. The terraces shown above are called the Fortress, each taller than most humans to give you a sense of scale. Set up camp along the shores of the lake that is said to resemble the shape of Peru. 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. Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket worth it? Be sure to drink coca tea at your hostel/ hotel before bed! Obsessed with travel? However, depending on the hike you do, you could potentially be at high elevation (the traditional 4-day, 3-night Inca trail hike reaches almost 15,000 ft). I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes around an hour and a half. Pro Tip: Verify the check-in time where youre staying. All organized treks have porters, guides and meals included, so that the weight you must carry is significantly reduced. You'll have to pee a lot, but that's better than feeling like you've been hit by a train. There are two main ways: Classic Inca Trail (26 miles, four days, 3-night trek) Train + bus ride from Ollantaytambo (1 day) Once arriving in Cusco, youll need at least one day to acclimate to the higher elevation. However, I have seen Cusco in the rainy season and everything is so lush and full of life, it truly is remarkable. Remember, if utilizing the buses, the roads will be windy with drastic altitude changes. 4) VERY IMPORTANT!!! Ollantaytambo is a popular stop on any tour of the Sacred Valley but its also a common starting point for hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. At the top of the Fortress youll find the Temple of the Sun, perfectly crafted from six monoliths each weighing more than 50 tons. Three days in Cusco allows to see the best of the city, but also allows for time to truly appreciate the Sacred Valley. Or maybe you just want to see some llamas and alpacas. I still think the San Pedro Market has the best budget friendly options. It's basically like having a hangover from hell after a night of too many tequila shots. Nobodys got time for altitude sickness on the trail! In Kenko we can tour the mysterious underground room carved into the rock and follow the path of the channels that transported the chicha for the ceremonies that took place there. for this exact reason. The short answer is at least two to three days. It is advisable to be 30 minutes before the scheduled travel time. I hope to visit the Inca Trail in the near future so will definitely try to plan a few days in Cusco to get acclimated. But, this will vary greatly depending on your fitness level, typical altitude, and many other factors. You will see incredible landscapes on that old path. The rest of the day we can visit one of the main points of the citadel but surely we will run out of time. If you find yourself getting altitude sickness, try to go down to a lower elevation. One day is simply not enough time to explore this massive site. I would love to visit the plaza. The path then leads downhill and across the citadel built on artificial terraces. Loved it! In Peru, altitude sickness is commonly known as Soroche, which may come in handy if heading to a local pharmacy or Botica. Altitude sickness symptoms can include: dizziness, loss of appetite, sleepiness, shortness of breathe, headaches, and nausea. }); Do you identify as a female and blog about the outdoors? In the main tourist spots and popular Cusco restaurants you will likely hear English spoken. 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. Please do not drink the tap water. There are different levels to altitude sickness and how it affects each person you can read more about that here. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. The main Rainbow Mountain viewpoint sits at a shocking 17,060 feet (5200 meters). Youre welcome! With three days in Cusco, its best to stick to the historic city center and enjoy the four main Cusco ruins. 3) Drink lots of water because you may become dehydrated. Assuming that those who visit the Sanctuary will seek to climb at least one of the two mountains (Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu), almost half a day is lost between entry, ascent and descent back to the complex. 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. Webpension fund investopedia. Dont forget about the Sacred Valley, just over the hillside, filled with charming hamlets, snow-capped peaks, hidden lakes, and so much more. After the walking tour, head over to San Pedro Market and sample the local Peruvian cuisine with a menu del dia, a two course menu that includes a drink. It's a can of oxygen you can take when you arrive in Cusco. Planning to acclimate to the altitude in Cusco before. Probably the most important things to do while acclimating in Cusco is to do your final preparation for the Inca Trail hike (read all about my lessons learned on the Inca Trail). All roads really do lead to Machu Picchu. After going to the archaeological centers on the outskirts of the city, start with Sacsayhuaman then Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Planning an epic Cusco itinerary can be overwhelming, but hopefully all the Cusco travel tips help, too. The best view of Cusco comes from its tallest mountain peak, Cerro Picol. With one week in Cusco, spend 3 days in Cusco and 4 days in the Sacred Valley. The once heart of the mighty Inca Empire, today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with magic, dotted with sacred Inca sites all while tucked cozily in the high altitude of the Andes Mountains. However, dont try to bring them into another country or the US, they are illegal! I loved the beautiful colored dresses too! For those who have more time in Cusco, make sure to check out my recommended multi-day treks from Cusco. Despite the short distance, the price from Ollantaytambo is hardly cheaper and starts at around U$ 65 US dollars. Another great thing to do in Cusco is browse the many artisan shops. The Inca ruins of Pisac will give you an idea of the advanced architecture achieved by the Incas, it is a kind of royal hacienda that apparently belonged to the Inca Pachacutec; here you can see andenera, residences, ceremonial places, canals and aqueducts. Most Lares treks include a stop at the local Lares Hot Springs. Thanks so much! The Salkantay trek does not require a guide, but many hikers chose an organized guided tour. Circuit #4only through the lower part and is therefore the shortest. You can watch family members harvesting the salt by shoveling it out of the water into piles and then transferring it into large bags as it dries. It is advisable to do this tour with an excursion since there is no transport that takes from one place to another. We were one of the first people there and practically had the place to ourselves! : Slow and steady wins the race. I am always fascinated when I see images of Inca culture: The precision with which they were able to form the landscape is mind boggling. Those trekkers that are up for an incredible adventure and have time to play with their Cusco itinerary, can hike all the way to Machu Picchu. Select. How many days to spend in Cusco Peru? In the end, it comes down to time vs. money. Walk for 4 days to enter the Inca City of Machu Picchu. With such an early pickup, its best to organize your pack the day before and arrange to leave extra items behind. Theres much debate on how these stones were brought here from a nearby quarry. This process is known as acclimatization and generally takes 1-3 daysat that altitude. Ukukus, another favorite spot, includes live bands and Minimize or avoid alcohol and try to get to bed at a reasonable time. This ultimate guide will help plan for the best Cusco itinerary, incorporates Cusco day trips ideas, inspires Cusco trekking options, and more! Try to also book a tour that visits the Maras Salt Mines and one that highlights the beautiful Chinchero weavers. Things to Do in Cusco While Acclimating (Before Hiking the Inca WebTake 1 prior to boarding the plane to cuzco and take 1 after that every 8 hours for about 1-2 days. The short answer is at least two to three days. Just climbing is not enough, and climbing leaves you tired for the rest of the day. The first day, I was huffing and puffing just walking up the steps in Cusco. I walked around Plaza De Armas for a little, and then napped, ate dinner out, and hung out at the Airbnb. Cusco is well connected to the rest of South America with a busy Cusco Terminal Terrestre, collectivo stations (small vans), and the Cusco Airport. However, hiking from Maras to Moray feels a little more authentic. In general, dry season runs from May to September, while dry season is October to April. The company Peru Hop is the most popular option to get from Lima to Cusco. Drink plenty of coca tea, this will prevent you from getting sick of altitude sickness. Be mindful that due to the altitude of Cusco, drinking alcohol will affect you differently here than most places. Youll be trail ready in the morning! 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. 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. Especially the first day you arrive. The nights during dry season are much colder than rainy season. Maukallacta may actually be the birthplace of the Incas. You can have breakfast at the hotel, at the airport or wherever you want, in Cusco there are hundreds of restaurants, just be sure to be an hour before at the airport. I dont think Id want less than 3 days to explore Cusco and the surrounding area. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. In general, Cusco is safe city to visit even for solo travelers. One of the most notable features of Maukallacta is the three triple hinged doors. I highly recommend it. The way back is made by the town of Chinchero, known as the city of the rainbow; It is a colonial town that houses the church of Nuestra Seora de Monserrat, which began to be built in 1607, on what was the Tupc Yupanqui Palace. And its not how I roll. However, if looking for more things to do in Cusco check out the ideas below. Most people plan their Cusco itinerary around hiking the Inca Trail. Organized Cusco tours depart early from Cusco city. The Sacred Valley is so beautiful. LATAM Airlines offers frequent departures from Lima to Cusco. Cusco is a great homebase to explore from. It has a central location, authentic markets, and some the best Sacred Valley day hikes all within reach. If you only have 3 days in Cusco, spend the final day on an organized tour to the Sacred Valley. Please make an appointment with your doctor if you have legitimate concerns before traveling to high elevations. Another thing that can not be missed in Pisac, is its handicraft market, with unique and authentic products. WebAusangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain Without Guide From 4 to 6 Days Ausangate To Rainbow Mountain Trek Comprehensive Hiking Guide in Cusco Peru. Yes, cocaine can be extracted from coca leaves. As someone who has lived most of my life at sea level, I know altitude will affect me. The Inca trail to Machu Picchu passes by multiple and incredible Inca ruins. To get to Machu Picchu by train you must book tickets online in advance. Of appetite, sleepiness, shortness of breathe, headaches how many days to acclimate in cusco and was during the Trail. Generally takes 1-3 daysat that altitude Cusco itinerary around hiking the Inca,. A little, and start taking them a day before and arrange to leave extra items behind planning acclimate. For time to truly appreciate the Sacred Valley but, this will vary greatly depending your. 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