🇵🇪 Your Tailored 3-Day Peru Itinerary

Upon arriving at Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ), take a pre-booked taxi to your hotel. The most important activity for the first few hours is to rest and acclimatize. Drink plenty of water and the local remedy, coca tea (mate de coca). Eat a light lunch. In the mid-afternoon, when you feel ready, embark on a gentle walking tour of the historic center. Begin at the Plaza de Armas, the city’s beautiful main square. Admire the facade of the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus, and take a moment to sit on a bench and people-watch.

From the plaza, take a slow walk down the Avenida El Sol to Qorikancha (Coricancha). This was the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god, Inti. The Spanish colonists built the Church of Santo Domingo on top of its ruins, creating a stunning and stark architectural contrast. Inside, you can see the incredible Inca masonry that withstood centuries and earthquakes. Afterward, wander through the charming, narrow cobblestone streets of the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops and bohemian vibe, before settling in for an early dinner.

Young Travelers: After acclimatizing, young travelers might enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around San Blas, exploring its independent shops and cafes. In the evening, they could sample a Pisco Sour at one of the lively bars near the Plaza de Armas. A visit to the San Pedro Market offers a bustling, authentic slice of local life, with its exotic fruit juice stalls and hearty food stands, providing a great, budget-friendly lunch option.

Seniors: The key for seniors is to take acclimatization very seriously. Do not over-exert on the first day. A very slow, flat walk around the Plaza de Armas and a visit to the Cathedral may be sufficient. Consider hiring a taxi even for short distances to conserve energy. Choose a hotel that offers oxygen supplementation if you are concerned about the altitude. A quiet dinner at the hotel or a nearby high-quality restaurant is recommended.

Families: Families can make acclimatization more fun by settling in with some local snacks and watching a movie. When exploring, kids will be fascinated by the giant Inca stones and the many llamas and alpacas (often with their traditionally dressed owners) in the Plaza de Armas. A visit to the ChocoMuseo (Chocolate Museum) near the city center offers a fun, hands-on workshop where kids can make their own chocolate, a perfect and gentle activity for the first day.

Travelers with Disabilities: Cusco’s old streets are cobblestoned and hilly, which can be very challenging for wheelchair users. The Plaza de Armas is flat and relatively easy to navigate. Qorikancha and the Cathedral have some accessible areas, but are not fully accessible. It is highly recommended to work with a specialized accessible travel company in Peru to arrange appropriate transportation and assistance. Many modern hotels have accessible rooms.

Luxury Travel: Stay at a converted monastery or colonial mansion like the Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, which offers oxygen-enriched rooms to help with acclimatization. Arrange for a private, slow-paced historical tour with a local expert guide. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet tasting menu at a world-class restaurant like Chicha por Gastón Acurio, which elevates traditional Peruvian ingredients to fine-dining status.

Adventure Travel: While day one must be calm, adventurers can use the time to plan. Double-check gear for future treks, visit a local outfitter, and perhaps take a walk up to the San Cristobal viewpoint (very slowly!) for a rewarding view of the city. The evening can be spent at a casual eatery trying local specialties like alpaca steak or cuy (guinea pig) to fuel up for the days ahead.

Nature & Eco-Travel: The focus today is history, but nature lovers can appreciate the unique high-altitude environment. In the evening, visit the Cusco Planetarium (with a tour operator) to learn about Inca astronomy and the importance of the constellations in their worldview. It’s a fantastic way to connect the culture you’re seeing with the natural world and the night sky of the Southern Hemisphere.

Luxury: Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco – A stunningly restored historic mansion built on Inca foundations, located directly opposite the Qorikancha. It offers opulent rooms, a beautiful colonial courtyard, a luxurious spa, and an atmosphere steeped in 500 years of history. It’s an unforgettable and indulgent base for exploring the city.

Mid-Range: El Retablo – A vibrant and artistic boutique hotel just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas. Each room is decorated with traditional folk art (“retablos”), creating a colorful and cheerful atmosphere. It offers excellent service, comfortable rooms, and a unique cultural feel, providing outstanding value for money.

Budget: Kokopelli Hostel Cusco – A popular and highly-rated hostel known for its social atmosphere, clean facilities, and central location. Housed in a 200-year-old building, it offers both dormitory beds and private rooms. With its own bar and regular social events, it’s a perfect choice for budget travelers looking to meet fellow adventurers from around the world.

The single most important tip for your first day in Cusco is to respect the altitude. Altitude sickness, or “soroche,” is a common issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. The best prevention is to take it very slow on your first day. Avoid strenuous activity, large meals, and alcohol. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Embrace the local remedy: mate de coca (coca tea). This mild stimulant is legally and widely consumed throughout the Andes and is believed to help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. Your hotel will likely offer it for free upon your arrival. Sip it slowly throughout the day. Listen to your body; if you feel unwell, rest. Proper acclimatization on day one is the key to a successful and enjoyable trip to Machu Picchu.

The weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, with a strong sun, cool shade, and chilly nights. Layering is the solution. For your gentle exploration, wear a comfortable t-shirt, a warm fleece or sweater, and a light windproof or waterproof jacket. You can easily add or remove layers as you move between sun and shade. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll be navigating cobblestone streets.

The sun at high altitude is incredibly strong, even when it’s cloudy. A sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable to protect your skin. In the evening, the temperature drops significantly, so you will definitely need your fleece and jacket for your walk to dinner. A light scarf can also be a versatile and welcome accessory for extra warmth.

On your first day, it’s best to eat light to help with acclimatization. For a casual and authentic lunch, find a local “picantería” or a restaurant serving a “menú del día,” a fixed-price lunch that usually includes a soup, a main dish, and a drink. This is a great way to sample traditional Peruvian home cooking. The San Blas neighborhood is full of charming cafes and restaurants that are perfect for a light meal.

For dinner, consider trying a nourishing quinoa soup or a simple dish of grilled chicken (“pollo a la brasa”). For a more upscale experience that still honors traditional flavors, make a reservation at Chicha por Gastón Acurio, one of Peru’s most famous chefs. If you’re feeling adventurous and well-acclimatized, you could try a classic Andean specialty like grilled alpaca steak, which is lean, tender, and flavorful. Many excellent restaurants surround the Plaza de Armas, offering beautiful views of the illuminated square at night.

From Cusco’s airport (CUZ), the easiest and safest way to get to your hotel in the historic center is by taking one of the official airport taxis. Agree on the fare before you get in the car. Once you are in the historic center, the best way to explore is on foot. The Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and the San Blas neighborhood are all within a comfortable walking distance of each other. Walking allows you to appreciate the city’s unique architecture and atmosphere at a slow, acclimatization-friendly pace.

For any longer distances or if you are feeling tired due to the altitude, taxis are readily available and affordable. You can hail one on the street or use ride-sharing apps like Uber, which also operate in Cusco. Always make sure the taxi is a registered, official vehicle and agree on the fare to your destination before starting the journey, as taxis in Cusco do not use meters.

The best way to explore the Sacred Valley is by hiring a private driver for the day or joining a small-group tour from Cusco. Start your day by traveling to the town of Pisac. Here you will find two highlights: the famous Pisac Market, a bustling hub where you can find beautiful handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry; and the spectacular Pisac archaeological site, perched high on a mountain overlooking the valley. The agricultural terraces carved into the mountainside here are among the most impressive in the region. Allocate time for both the market and the ruins.

After Pisac, continue your journey along the Urubamba River through the heart of the valley. Stop for lunch in the town of Urubamba, which has many excellent restaurants. Your final destination for the day is Ollantaytambo, a remarkable town that is still laid out on its original Inca street plan. The main attraction is the formidable fortress-temple that rises steeply from the edge of town. Climb the massive stone terraces for breathtaking views and to admire the stunning stonework of the unfinished Temple of the Sun at the top. Tonight, you will stay in Ollantaytambo, which is not only charming but also the main departure point for trains to Machu Picchu.

Young Travelers: Young travelers can make the day more active. They could arrange to be dropped off above Pisac and hike down through the ruins to the town, a much more rewarding experience than just driving to the top. In Ollantaytambo, they can hike up to the Inca granaries on the opposite hillside for a fantastic sunset view of the main fortress. The town’s plaza has a few cozy bars for a relaxing evening beer.

Seniors: A private car is highly recommended for seniors, allowing for a flexible, comfortable pace. At the Pisac market, focus on the main square rather than the crowded side streets. The ruins at Pisac require some uphill walking, so take it slow or admire them from a lower vantage point. At Ollantaytambo, climbing the main fortress can be strenuous. It’s perfectly fine to climb only part of the way to a comfortable level, as the views are excellent from any height. Staying in the lower-altitude Sacred Valley helps with acclimatization.

Families: The Pisac market is a sensory feast for children, with its bright colors, interesting foods, and friendly llamas. They will love picking out their own souvenirs. The vast open spaces and impressive terraces at both Pisac and Ollantaytambo are like giant historical playgrounds. The town of Ollantaytambo, with its original Inca water channels still running alongside the streets, is fascinating for all ages. It feels like stepping back in time.

Travelers with Disabilities: The Sacred Valley presents significant accessibility challenges. The archaeological sites are not wheelchair accessible due to steep stone steps and uneven paths. The Pisac market is crowded and has cobblestone streets. However, a scenic drive through the valley is still a beautiful experience. Working with a specialized tour operator is essential; they can arrange accessible vehicles and suggest the most feasible viewpoints and stops, such as a visit to a more accessible textile weaving center on the valley floor.

Luxury Travel: Charter a private vehicle and an expert guide for a personalized tour. Include a visit to a private, high-end weaving cooperative like the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco’s Chinchero branch. Enjoy a gourmet lunch at a stunning hacienda-style property, such as Hacienda Huayoccari. Stay overnight at a luxury hotel in the valley, like Tambo del Inka, which has its own private train station for the journey to Machu Picchu.

Adventure Travel: Instead of a car, explore the valley by mountain bike, riding from the highlands down to the valley floor. Or, arrange for a thrilling via ferrata climb on the valley’s sheer rock walls, followed by a zipline ride back down. These activities offer a unique, adrenaline-fueled perspective of the stunning landscape. The historical sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo can be visited at the beginning or end of the adventure.

Nature & Eco-Travel: Arrange for the tour to include a visit to the Maras salt pans, a stunning mosaic of thousands of individually-owned, ancient salt pools, and Moray, the mysterious concentric agricultural terraces thought to be an Inca experimental farm. For lunch, visit an organic farm that offers a farm-to-table experience. In Ollantaytambo, visit the El Albergue organic farm, which is located right next to the train station and showcases sustainable agricultural practices.

Luxury: Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Sacred Valley – The only hotel in the Sacred Valley with its own private train station to Machu Picchu. This stunning resort offers luxurious rooms, a beautiful riverside setting, a world-class spa, and exceptional service, providing the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

Mid-Range: El Albergue Ollantaytambo – A historic and charming hotel located right at the Ollantaytambo train station. Known for its beautiful gardens, excellent organic farm-to-table restaurant, and cozy atmosphere, it’s a beloved institution in the valley. It offers a perfect blend of convenience, character, and quality for your night before Machu Picchu.

Budget: Hostal Iskay – A simple, clean, and friendly family-run guesthouse with beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Ollantaytambo ruins from its terrace. It offers basic but comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere, providing excellent value in a fantastic location just a short walk from the main plaza and the fortress.

When shopping at the Pisac Market or other local craft markets, it is acceptable and expected to bargain. However, always do so with a smile and a sense of respect. The goal is to agree on a fair price, not to devalue the artisan’s work. Start by offering a price that is a bit lower than what you are willing to pay, and work towards a mutually agreeable figure. Learning a few words in Spanish or Quechua can go a long way. Remember that many of these items are handmade and represent a significant source of income for local families.

Stay hydrated throughout the day. Although you are at a lower altitude than Cusco, the sun is strong, and you will be doing a lot of walking and climbing at the archaeological sites. Carry a reusable water bottle with you. Also, be sure to have cash (in Peruvian Soles) on hand, especially for the markets, smaller shops, and for tipping your driver or guide. While larger restaurants will accept credit cards, cash is king in the more rural parts of the valley.

Today is another day for layering. The morning can be crisp and cool, but the sun will warm things up quickly, especially when you are walking around the ruins. A t-shirt, a warm fleece, and a light waterproof/windproof jacket is the perfect combination. The Sacred Valley is known for its intense sun, so a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are absolutely essential. Comfortable walking shoes or trail runners with good grip are crucial for navigating the uneven stone steps at the archaeological sites.

You’ll be visiting markets and towns, so comfortable, practical travel clothes are ideal. There is no need for formal wear. If you plan on buying textiles, you might want to bring a small, foldable bag or leave some extra space in your daypack. The weather can change in an instant in the Andes, so having that waterproof jacket handy, even on a sunny morning, is always a wise precaution.

The Sacred Valley is dotted with excellent lunch spots that cater to day-trippers. Many tours will stop at a buffet-style restaurant in Urubamba, which offers a wide variety of Peruvian and international dishes. For a more memorable experience, book lunch at a place like Hacienda Huayoccari or El Albergue’s restaurant in Ollantaytambo, both of which offer delicious food in a beautiful, tranquil setting, often using ingredients from their own gardens.

For dinner in Ollantaytambo, the main plaza and the surrounding streets have a great selection of cozy restaurants. Apu Veronica Restaurant is a popular choice for its Peruvian dishes and great views. For a fantastic meal with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients, the restaurant at El Albergue is one of the best in the valley (even if you are not staying there, reservations are recommended). It’s the perfect place for a delicious and satisfying meal before your early start to Machu Picchu.

The best and most common way to see the Sacred Valley is to hire a private car and driver for the day. This provides maximum flexibility, allowing you to set your own pace and decide how long you want to spend at each site. The cost is reasonable, especially when shared between a few people. You can arrange this through your hotel in Cusco. Alternatively, you can join a small-group bus tour, which is a more economical option and a good way to meet other travelers, although the itinerary will be fixed.

The tour will typically end in Ollantaytambo in the late afternoon. By staying the night here, you position yourself perfectly for the next day. Ollantaytambo is a small, walkable town, so once you arrive, you will not need any transportation. You can easily walk from your hotel to the fortress and to the restaurants in the main plaza. The train station for Machu Picchu is also within walking distance of most hotels in town.

Your day starts early in Ollantaytambo. Walk to the train station to catch one of the first trains to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The scenic train journey takes about 90 minutes and winds its way through the dramatic Urubamba river valley. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, walk directly to the bus station to take the 25-minute shuttle bus up the winding road to the entrance of the citadel. It is essential to have your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and your original passport with you, as you cannot enter without it.

It is highly recommended to hire a private guide or join a small group tour for your first couple of hours within the site. A good guide will bring the history and purpose of the various structures to life, explaining the significance of the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows. After your guided tour, you will have some free time to explore the citadel at your own pace, find a quiet spot to sit and contemplate the view, or take that perfect iconic photo. Afterward, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch before catching your return train to Ollantaytambo or directly to Cusco.

Young Travelers: For the ultimate view, adventurous young travelers should book a ticket to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain well in advance (permits are very limited). These are strenuous, steep climbs but offer unparalleled panoramic views of the entire citadel. After the visit, they can explore the bustling market in Aguas Calientes before heading back.

Seniors: Opt for a more comfortable and scenic train, like the Vistadome, which has panoramic windows. At the site, walk slowly and stick to the main circuits on the lower levels, which are relatively flat. There is no need to climb to the highest points to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the site. A private guide can tailor the tour to a comfortable pace. Ensure you have a reserved seat on the train for the return journey.

Families: The sheer scale and mystery of Machu Picchu are captivating for children. They will love spotting the resident llamas that graze on the terraces. The train ride itself is an exciting part of the adventure. Keep the guided tour concise and engaging, focusing on interesting stories rather than dry facts. Remember to pack snacks and water, as there are no food vendors inside the site.

Travelers with Disabilities: Machu Picchu is a challenging site for visitors with mobility issues. However, a “lower circuit” route has been designed to be wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enter the main part of the citadel and see the iconic views from the agricultural sector. This requires the assistance of strong helpers to navigate some ramps and uneven surfaces. It is absolutely essential to arrange this visit through a specialized accessible tour operator in Peru.

Luxury Travel: Travel to Machu Picchu in ultimate style aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham train. This luxurious 1920s-style train offers brunch on the way there, a private guided tour of the citadel, afternoon tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (the only hotel at the entrance), and a gourmet dinner with live music on the return journey. It is the most exclusive and seamless way to experience the world wonder.

Adventure Travel: Forgo the train and hike the final section of the classic Inca Trail. A “Short Inca Trail” tour starts at Kilometer 104 and involves a full day of hiking that culminates in arriving at Machu Picchu via the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the afternoon. You then stay overnight in Aguas Calientes and return to the citadel for a full tour the next morning (this would require adjusting the itinerary to 4 days).

Nature & Eco-Travel: After your tour of the main citadel, take a walk from Aguas Calientes to the Mandor Waterfalls, a peaceful nature hike that takes you through the cloud forest environment. You can also visit the Machu Picchu Museum and Botanical Garden to learn more about the local flora, fauna, and the research conducted at the site. This provides a wonderful natural context to the stone city.

Tonight you will travel back to Cusco after your day at Machu Picchu, so your accommodation will be in Cusco. It’s wise to book the same hotel you stayed at on your first night to make logistics with your luggage simple and easy.

Luxury: Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco

Mid-Range: El Retablo

Budget: Kokopelli Hostel Cusco

Booking everything for your Machu Picchu day trip far in advance is absolutely critical. Entrance tickets, especially those that include climbs to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, can sell out 3-6 months in advance, particularly during the high season (June-August). Train tickets also sell out weeks or months ahead. Do not assume you can buy these upon arrival in Peru. Use the official government website or a reputable tour agency to purchase your tickets as soon as you have your travel dates confirmed. This is the single most important piece of planning advice.

You must bring your original passport to enter Machu Picchu. Photocopies are not accepted. The name on your ticket must match the name on your passport exactly. Inside the site, there are no restrooms or food stalls past the entrance. Use the facilities before you go in. You are allowed to bring in a small backpack with water in a reusable bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear. Large bags, tripods, and drones are not permitted.

The weather at Machu Picchu is highly unpredictable and can change in minutes. It’s located in a subtropical cloud forest, so you can experience intense sun, rain, and mist all in the same morning. Layering is essential. Wear a lightweight t-shirt, a fleece, and a good quality waterproof rain jacket. Comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip are crucial for the stone paths, which can be slippery when wet.

Insect repellent is another must-have item, as there are small biting sandflies at the site. Apply it to any exposed skin. Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is vital as the sun is very strong. Long, lightweight trousers are a better choice than shorts to protect against both the sun and insects. In short, be prepared for all four seasons in one day.

There are no food vendors inside the Machu Picchu citadel. It is best to pack some high-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, and fruit to eat during your visit (be sure to pack out all your trash). For lunch, after you have taken the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, the town offers a huge variety of restaurants catering to all budgets. One of the most highly-regarded and charming restaurants is El Indio Feliz, known for its French-Peruvian fusion cuisine and quirky, colorful decor. It’s a great place for a celebratory post-Machu Picchu meal.

Many people opt for a late lunch in Aguas Calientes before catching their afternoon train. If you are taking a later train directly back to Cusco, you will arrive late in the evening. Most train services offer a small snack on board, but you will likely want to have a proper dinner upon your return. The restaurants around the Plaza de Armas in Cusco stay open late, making it easy to find a satisfying meal after your long but rewarding day of travel and exploration.

The journey to Machu Picchu is a multi-step process. First, you will take a train from the station in Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. There are two main train companies, PeruRail and Inca Rail, both offering various classes of service. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will walk a short distance to the bus station. Here, you will take a 25-minute tourist bus up a series of switchbacks to the main entrance of Machu Picchu.

It is highly recommended to buy your bus tickets the day before in Aguas Calientes, or online in advance, to avoid long queues in the morning. After your visit, you will repeat the process in reverse: bus from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes, and then the train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, most people take a pre-arranged taxi or “colectivo” (shared van) for the 2-hour road journey back to their hotel in Cusco.

In Andean culture, wellness is deeply connected to the natural world. The most famous plant is the coca leaf, a sacred plant for the Incas that is still widely used today. Chewing the leaves or drinking it as a tea (mate de coca) is a cultural tradition and is the most common local remedy for the symptoms of altitude sickness. It acts as a mild stimulant, similar to coffee. You can buy coca leaves at any local market. It is legal to consume and possess in Peru, but it is illegal to take leaves or tea out of the country. Embracing this ancient tradition is a unique way to connect with the local culture.

Packing for the Peruvian Andes requires preparing for all weather conditions. Layering is crucial. Your packing list should include: comfortable hiking shoes or boots, several pairs of moisture-wicking socks, t-shirts, a warm fleece jacket, a waterproof and windproof outer jacket, and comfortable trousers (hiking pants are ideal). Sun protection is vital at high altitude, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Other essentials include insect repellent (for Machu Picchu), a portable power bank, any personal medications, and a reusable water bottle.

Peru is famous for its exquisite textiles, particularly those made from baby alpaca wool, which is incredibly soft and warm. You can find high-quality sweaters, scarves, hats, and blankets. The Pisac Market in the Sacred Valley and the artisan markets in Cusco are great places to shop. Look for intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Silver jewelry, often with Inca-inspired designs, and colorful woven blankets (“mantas”) are also popular souvenirs. Remember to bargain politely and respectfully at the markets. For certified high-quality alpaca goods, visit dedicated boutiques like Sol Alpaca.

The best way is to acclimatize slowly. Spend your first day in Cusco resting, drink plenty of water and coca tea, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals. If symptoms persist or are severe, local pharmacies sell altitude sickness medication (“soroche pills”).

Yes, absolutely. This is critical. Tickets can sell out months in advance, especially for the high season (June-August) and for climbs like Huayna Picchu. Book your tickets and train tickets as soon as you know your travel dates.

The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While US Dollars may be accepted for large purchases like tours, it is best to use Soles for daily expenses like food, taxis, and shopping. ATMs are widely available in Cusco.

Peru is generally safe for tourists, especially in the main tourist areas of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Take standard precautions against petty theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.

While staff in hotels and tour operators will speak English, learning some basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. In more remote communities, Quechua is also spoken. A translation app can be very helpful.

The best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from April to October. This period offers sunny days and clear skies, although the nights are cold. The wet season runs from November to March, with the heaviest rains in January and February.

Credit cards are widely accepted in mid- to high-end hotels and restaurants in Cusco. However, you will need cash (Peruvian Soles) for local markets, small cafes, and taxis. It’s best to have a mix of both.

No specific vaccinations are required for visiting the Cusco and Machu Picchu area. However, if your trip includes a visit to the Amazon rainforest, a Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended. Always consult with your doctor or a travel clinic before your trip.

The “Boleto Turístico” is a tourist ticket that provides access to multiple sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley (including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, but NOT Machu Picchu or Qorikancha). Buying this integrated ticket is often more economical than paying for individual site entries.

Your original passport (essential!), your ticket, a reusable water bottle, high-energy snacks, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a good waterproof rain jacket. All in a small backpack.