Your 7-Day Peru Itinerary!Begin your trip in Cusco—the gateway to Machu Picchu! Before jetting off, spend at least 2 days exploring the city and its surroundings. Acclimating to the altitude is key before starting that bucket-list trek! Soak in the vibrant culture and experience the majestic Andes. 🌄✨AuthorsSquirrelMustTravel
DestinationsCuscoItinerary

Stay

Hotel Rumi Punku
We stayed in an AirBnB, but this highly rated hotel was recommended by friends we met on the trek. They were able to leave their bags for the entire Salkantay trek, free of charge. The location is ideal!
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Eat & Drink

Green Point Restaurant
Lunch stop! A vegetarian heaven that everyone will love. We returned twice and still dream of the steak-like mushrooms—it lives up to the massive hype.
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Govinda Lila
The (super casual) spot is inside the San Blas market located in the food stalls on the corner. A must try if you want to experience local atmosphere, and we enjoyed the vegetarian options. Grab a fresh juice from Stall 101, after!
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Morena Peruvian Kitchen
Make reservations! Rellenos de papa is so delish! There ceviche is supposed to be incredible.
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Day 1

City walking tour by the Magical Cusco
Cusco is situated at an extremely high elevation--11,100 feet (3,400 meters), so it’s essential to prepare yourself. A walking tour was an ideal way round begin— gain local tips, meet fellow travelers, and see where you want to return. This is where we fed baby alpacas! 🦙
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Trip Highlight
Get lost in this charming city!
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Cusco Cathedral
Cusco is an UNESCO World Heritage site, and you'll find historic locations on every corner.
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Plaza de Armas
Be sure to return in the evening to see the vibrant square come to life with lights, local musicians, and dancers!
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Mercado Central de San Pedro
Don’t miss: handmade alpaca souvenirs (real alpaca feels heavier & cool to the touch); cocoa leaves for high altitude adventures. Why we returned: 20+ fresh smoothie & juice vendors—Stall 101 is the best!
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Day 2

Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco
Visit first thing to miss the crowds! A steep, scenic walk from the main center. Bring your camera and spot epic views of the historic district below.
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Saqsaywaman
A short walk from Cristo Blanco—An ancient fortress overlooking the city, and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. We loved exploring here!
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Horseback Riding Cusco
Horses are located directly outside of Sas Saqsaywan — a guided Horsebacriding tour through the vivid green hilltops above Cusco, and stopping to explore ancient ruins—10/10.
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Green Point Vegan Restaurant
You’ve worked up an appetite! The food here is so delicious and entirely vegetarian. We had heard so much abour this spot and it 100% lived up to the hype! BONUS: you’ll be perfectly situated to explore the colorful San Blas area, after.
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Cuesta de San Blas
Do not miss this trendy and vibrant neighborhood. San Blas is fun to walk around, window shop, and take in the stunning views of the city below. TIP: there are so many rooftop bars—stop in to enjoy a Pisco Sour; often BOGO during happy hour!
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Day 3:

Full Day-rainbow Mountain
Now that you’re acclimated to the high elevations — you’re ready for this gorgeous one-day trip. This is a great way to prepare for the big Salkantay Trek, and while a 3am wake up call may seem atrocious, it’s well worth the views!
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APUTREK
TIP: bring coins to take a fun pic with the alpacas at the top!
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Days 4-8 Salkantay Trek to Macchu Picchu!

Salkantay Trek 4 days 3 nights
It’s time! On Day 4 you’ll set off early for what’s to become one of your greatest adventures! NOTE: we booked with Salkantay Trekking and it was amazing, allowing us to stay in epic glass domes. This tour is very highly rated 👌
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Humantay Lake
You’ll sleep nearby this gorgeous lake after Day 1.
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Machupicchu Cusco AJ
On your 4th Day you’ll arrive to Machu Picchu—one of the 7 Wonders of the World!
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Trip Highlight
TIP: before setting out on the trek, be sure to plan ahead and reserve a permit to hike Huayna Picchu at Machu Picchu! This is an add-on, and only 200 permits are alloted each day. (If you’re afraid of heights, you want to may pass—the stairs are tummy turning.)
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