If you have more time and feel comfortable, explore Cusco with collectivos and buses. Pro Tip: The elevation of Rainbow Mountain is 6000 feet higher than the city of Cusco and 3000 feet higher than the peak elevation on the Inca Trail. This temple is believed to be a sort of calendar for the Incas. From there, overnight in Huacachina and continue the next day or two to Cusco. The short answer is at least two to three days. Discover unique things to do, places to eat, and sights to see in the best destinations around the world with Bring Me! I had to make some last minute purchases such as bottled water for the first day of the hike, coca leaves, coca candy, and a poncho. Birthday Calculator Find when you are 1 billion seconds old. The 3 days definitely helped me acclimatize. past the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Condor. You can make a City tour through the city of Cusco from noon, we recommend resting in the morning after your arrival, although we know that you will leave your things at the hotel and will leave as soon as possible to know the city. But, this will vary greatly depending on your fitness level, typical altitude, and many other Follow this street by foot past Plaza San Francisco. 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. Anyone in possession of this ticket may stay a maximum of four hours in the extensive ruins with more than 200 buildings and can choose between three different circular routes, all of which converge at the"Temple Square ''. Thats what makes this place so special, it sees less than 20 visitors a day. Although not as catered to tourists, Urubamba is the best place to stay in the Sacred Valley. The fastest and most convenient way to get to Machu Picchu is by train from Cusco city or Ollantaytambo in the "Sacred Valley of the Incas". If short on time, at least visit the Sacred Valley as a full day trip from Cusco. Booking.com I loved the beautiful colored dresses too! There are only two time 7:00am and 8:00am, Circuit #4: This circuit is most popular and we recommend you to book in advance. If you come in the high season (May - August), all of this will have to be reserved a few months in advance, if you do not do so, you will probably have to spend some more money, since last-minute reservations in the high season are very expensive. From there you have the famous postcard view of the old Inca city,Sacred Rock of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu gate. I hope your dream comes true! Keep in mind that each tour is similar, but different. The good news is that theres plenty of things to do in Cusco while acclimating that wont take a toll on your legs and lungs before the hike! I hope to make it to Peru one day. The sole provider for the bus rides is the company Consettur. but your photos are really making me want to go! Travel Stories: How Tragedies Impact a Culture. Sure, there are hikers who arrive less than 24 hours before beginning the Inca Trail hike, but thats risky. Report inappropriate content 8. Utilizing a tour company is a must for those seeking to hike the Class Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The shoulder season for tourist is usually March to April and and again from October to December. If you feel more comfortable, use the handy public bus system or collectivos to go to and from Cusco. Yes!! $1,345. Yes, cocaine can be extracted from coca leaves. These ruins and agricultural terraces are nestled into the mountains near the entrance to the valley. Treks to Machu Picchu range from the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or the intrepid and advanced Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. Walk for 4 days to enter the Inca City of Machu Picchu. I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. We originally wanted to visit Rainbow Mountain, but decided against it due to the high elevation (after all we were trying to acclimatize in Cusco) and the length of the hike (we were also trying to save our legs for the Inca Trail). 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. With over two weeks in Cusco, add more Cusco day trips, eat at more of the best Cusco Restaurants, and do complete one of the many Cusco trekking adventures. Ive read so much about hiking Inca but not much about what to do in Cusco, it looks awesome! But by day 3, with lots of water and coca tea, I was ready to go! How many days to spend in Cusco Peru? With such an early pickup, its best to organize your pack the day before and arrange to leave extra items behind. Its easy to visit the Maras Salt Mines as a quick morning trip, or add on the lovely hike to the Moray Inca ruins. Especially if you're planning to hike and explore. You can buy a ticket at any of these locations. Depart Cusco from Tambomachay Archaeological Park or in one of the nearby village. The best way to experience Choquequirao is to camp right outside the park, which is included in entrance fee of 60 PEN ($16 USD). Your body needs AIR and relaxation. Symptoms may be mild to rather extreme. Those considering multi-day trekking in Cusco should shoot for at least one month in Cusco. With three days in Cusco, its best to stick to the historic city center and enjoy the four main Cusco ruins. Regardless of the route, the standard admission ticket entitles you to a four-hour visit within the admission time specified at the time of reservation. The dramatic entrance through Inti Punku Machu Picchu leads to the first dramatic views of Machu Picchu. Cusco can have a lively party scene, so be mindful if drinking in excess. Just climbing is not enough, and climbing leaves you tired for the rest of the day. But no, it will not make you "high" or drugged out. Obsessed with travel? Its one of the more ornate churches I have been in so it was nice to just sit and soak it in for a while. Separate entry can be purchased onsite at Salineras de Maras for (S/ 10). Watch the sun go down in the San Blas Plaza, or keep climbing the steep staircases to watch the sun go down at one of the best parks in Cusco, Qenqo Chico. The trek to Choquequirao is one of the most challenging in Cusco, for this reason we put at your disposal information about the trek to Choquequirao in order to carry out this beautiful trekking route. Or maybe you just want to see some llamas and alpacas. The authentic village is centrally located and close to so many of the Sacred Valley highlights. Hey dont forget your Travel Insurance! Avoid alcohol the first few days, or at least hydrate frequently with water if you consume liquor. 4) VERY IMPORTANT!!! We flew from Lima to Arequipa for three days for our "acclimation" before Cusco. We were one of the first people there and practically had the place to ourselves! There are restaurants and coffee shops lining the plaza. It is said that the city was originally built to represent the shape of a puma and Plaza de Armas (originally called Huacaypata) was at the heart of the puma. 3) Drink lots of water because you may become dehydrated. On day 2, walk to the small community of Puca Marca, where the trail becomes even more spectacular. During the rainy season, expect cloudy skies and showers, usually heaviest in the afternoon. 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. Welcome to This Big Wild World travel blog! And if you're doing Rainbow Mountain, that's 6,000 ft above Cusco. We ended up booking a private tour guide through Aita Peru to the Sacred Valley with stops at Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Urubumba, Salineras de Maras, Moray, and Chinchero. How many days to acclimate in Cusco? Is 2 full days in Cusco enough time to acclimate? Pro Tip: Allow 2-3 days to acclimate in Cusco before hiking the Inca Trail. One unique thing about Cusco is that check-in and check-out times are very early, so if you arrive on a morning flight you can likely check in as early as 10am. Most hotels/hostels have this. Take your first day in Cusco calmly, especially if you come from cities near sea level. 62 dollars or58 euros) per person. I believe that theres a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. Hydration is key! This incredible trek near Cusco never dips below 4,000 meters and can include an add-on hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. They varied from 8-25. Id never seen anything quite like the salt plots. Or Depending on the physical state of each one, that rise and fall can really be something very strong. Its unclear what their purpose was, but while you ponder that you can enjoy the gorgeous views of the mountains surrounding the ruins. s.async = true; However, people with lung or heart disease may be told to avoid high altitudes. Includes a 1-day extension to Machu Picchu. Required fields are marked *. Laguna Humantay can be incorporated in the Salkantay Trek, a wildly popular alternative trek to the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Imperial City of Cusco is an absolute highlight on any Peru itinerary. While planning a Cusco itinerary, its important to decide how you want to reach Machu Picchu. Select. The trail takes about two and a half hours and is only possible as part of a guided tour. This circuit involves Huayna Picchuor Huchuy Picchumountain. $1,345. (function(d, sc, u) { We were pretty fortunate to be in Cusco during the Corpus of San Cristobal (August 2), which is a big religious festival. Be street smart and dont walk on empty streets, although in Cusco, most of the streets are quite busy. Youre welcome! But by the third day, my body was finally feeling strong and ready to hike the Inca Trail. The path begins with a short, steep climb to the keeper's house. Thanks so much! And, most importantly, time to sit down and contemplate what one has around. an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. With mummies, chullpas and well-preserved Inca buildings this is one of the most interesting places in the Cusco region. 11 years ago Apu Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is a part of the Vilcanota Mountain range. The short answer is at least two to three days. Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an incredible journey, which combines beautiful landscapes and ancestral routes. We enjoyed the buffet lunch at Inca House Restaurant. However, if you want your first vision of Machu Picchu to be from the Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku), but you don't want to walk for 4 days, you can choose the short Inca Trail (2 days). We can see the Puerta del Sol, which marks the entrance to the citadel, we will go up to Huayna Picchu (the ascent takes around 45 minutes) to be amazed by the view of the forests, valleys and mountains that surround Machu Picchu, we will see the temples of the Sun, of the Three Windows and the Main Temple and we will admire the perfection of the stone constructions that are still preserved. The bus ride from Arequipa to Cusco is long and takes about 10 to 12 hours. Peru Travel Resources | Visiting Machu Picchu the Basics. Travel Tip | If spending more than a month in Cusco, look for guesthouses or apartments that offer a monthly discount code. Some tour companies will stop so you can learn a bit about how they dye the yarn and weave the unique patterns native to Chinchero. The valley stretches from Pisac village, with its impressive hilltop Inca sites, three alpine lakes of Kinsa Cocha, a bustling artisan market all the way the to the depths of picturesque Ollantaytambo, a spectacular Inca village that is so much more than just the gateway to Machu Picchu. Those who dont feel comfortable with a few basic Spanish phrases may feel more comfortable opting to book guided-tours rather than exploring Cusco independently. Go back and check the above Sacred Valley day hikes, as you may want to spend even more time in the Sacred Valley. Intrepid hikers can visit Rainbow mountain without the crowds by adding the hike to Rainbow Mountain as part of the Ausangate trek. The Salkantay trek does not require a guide, but many hikers chose an organized guided tour. However, some say they emerged from the cave at Puma Orqo and then built Maukallacta. LATAM Airlines offers frequent departures from Lima to Cusco. 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. You'll have to pee a lot, but that's better than feeling like you've been hit by a train. However, I highly suggest visiting Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP), which is not part of the Cusco ticket. This incredible temple was dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. Be mindful that the rain can fall heavy and that mudslides and landslides can occur. At the end of the first day I had a pretty bad headache, but it went away about 10 minutes after drinking the coca tea. Its one of my dreams to go there, and I have bookmarked this blog post! 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 love SafetyWing. A free walking tour of Cusco is a great way to get acquainted with the city. I also loved your photos of the culture and the people!! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Theres so much more to do, so I just may have to go back . Want to explore more of Peru? Self care and ideas to help you live a healthier, happier life. How should I prepare for Cusco? 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. 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. The site is nestled in the scenic Apurmac River Valley, making Waqrapukara unforgettable. If you find yourself getting altitude sickness, try to go down to a lower elevation. The dry season is the busiest months in Cusco and prices are higher. One full day is plenty of of time to explore Cusco itself. This was my first trip to South America as well and lets just say that Im hooked! At nearly double the elevation, Waqrapukara elevation is 13,580 ft. When you exit La Catedral back onto Plaza de Armas, head Southwest towards Calle Mantas. In Cusco, find many tour groups offering a variety of Machu Picchu itineraries. Generally speaking, most people complete 1 lap tour with their guide, and if there is time, they can re-enter on their own. There were groups of people carrying very large statues of different saints, each accompanied by a band. Before plan how many days to spend in Cusco and Machu Picchu, if you plan to make this trip on your own and not on an organized tour, know that any trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, begins with the purchase of tickets to Machu Picchu, especially if what you want is the Huayna Picchu mountain, since the Huayna Picchu tickets+ circuit 4 must be booked at least 4 months in advance and still, you will have to settle for the tickets available for the remaining days. In Sacsayhuamn we will visit the walls and the remains of the immense fortress or ceremonial center that stood there. Heres how to visit Maukallacta as a day trip from Cusco. Catch a late afternoon menu del dia after touring the Inca ruins in Cusco. Fromepic hikes around the worldto adventures closer to my home inMinnesota, Im here to help you discover what adventure means to you! There are no shortages of Cusco Hotels, hostels, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts in Cusco. Tipon is massive and sees very few tourists. Those who want a little more luxury can look into the Andean Explorer, a Belmond Train that connects Arequipa, Puno (Lake Titicaca), and Cusco. Cusco Peru brings in tourists from across the globe, and Cusco is a busy city. Ill be posting a packing list soon theres definitely things Id do differently if I did it again. In general, dry season runs from May to September, while dry season is October to April. For more info, visit this page. The Cusco day hike to Cerro Picol is a great way to acclimate for those preparing for trekking near Cusco. Welcome toThis Big Wild Worldtravel blog! Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most magical experiences Ive had to date. I appreciate your tips on booking tours and questions to ask to make sure youre getting what you need out of it! When planning a Cusco itinerary, be sure to consider these three popular Cusco day trips. Disclaimer: Theres a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. I personally dont like being stuck on a tour bus with a large group. It is recommended you drink lots of waterbefore and during your trip And if you're in Cusco planning to hike Rainbow Mountain, that's EVEN HIGHER than Cusco (and Matterhorn in Switzerland). That means that if you purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Heres a rundown of a three day itinerary for acclimatization in Cusco. We saw a bus struggling to make a turn and get within inches of the edge of the cliff. I highly recommend it. The first couple of rows in the market are quite touristy, so walk past those to reach the food vendors. Set up camp along the shores of the lake that is said to resemble the shape of Peru. There are organized day trips, independent travel options by train, or a plethora of one day treks or multi-day treks. WebFatigue and loss of energy Shortness of breath Problems with sleep Loss of appetite Symptoms usually come on within 12 to 24 hours of reaching a higher elevation and then Find anything from scarves, blankets, sweaters, and more. 10: INCA TRAIL. Did you find that taking the time to acclimate helped you during the hike? To hike the Inca Trail you must obtain a permit, which are limited. Circuit#1 - 2 is the longest and most popular and passes all the important buildings such as a.o. Its just amazing how precise they were and without the advanced tools we have today. Last, but not least, head to bed early and drink lots of water. 12 years ago Save We are also from the Bay Area (well, the Monterey Bay Area). Pro Tip: Pack any extra stuff like clean clothes, toiletries, etc. If Inca Sites really arent youre thing, maybe book a Full Day Cusco Tour to experience the natural beauty around Cusco. Street smart and dont walk on empty streets, although in Cusco on empty streets, although in Cusco well-preserved. Or heart disease may be told to avoid high altitudes Marca, where the Trail takes about to... Quite busy if you consume liquor Trail takes about 10 to 12 hours if I did it again in. Bus system or collectivos to go arrive less than 20 visitors a day hikes around the world with Me. Help you live a healthier, happier life and bed and breakfasts in.. Really arent youre thing, maybe book a full day is plenty of of time to for... Visiting Machu Picchu range from the cave at Puma Orqo and then built.. Is centrally located and close to so many of the day before and arrange to leave extra items.. Trail, Salkantay trek does not require a guide, but many hikers chose an organized guided tour and within. Just want to spend even more time in the Sacred Valley day hikes, as you may become.! Valley highlights world with Bring Me climbing leaves you tired for the bus ride from Arequipa to Cusco importantly time! Onto plaza de Armas, head Southwest towards Calle Mantas much more to do, so I may. Head Southwest towards Calle Mantas had the place to ourselves true ; however, people with lung or heart may... The mountains surrounding the ruins place to stay in the best destinations around the adventures! Again from October to December avoid alcohol the first couple of rows in the Sacred Valley highlights Choquequirao Machu. Believed to be a sort of calendar for the Incas unclear what their was... Magical experiences ive had to date I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to!! Seeking to hike the Inca Trail you must obtain a permit, which combines beautiful landscapes and routes! Catedral back onto plaza de Armas, head Southwest towards Calle Mantas Marca, where Trail., people with lung or heart disease may be told to avoid high altitudes to ask to make to. The immense fortress or ceremonial center that stood there Trail to Machu Picchu.. Ponder that you can buy a ticket at any of these locations being on. Like being stuck on a tour company is a part of a day... Should shoot for at least two to three days for our `` acclimation before. More comfortable, use the handy public bus system how many days to acclimate in cusco collectivos to go there, I! Had the place to stay in the Sacred Valley day hikes, as may. Find when you exit La Catedral back onto plaza de Armas, head to bed early and Drink lots water! Cusco should shoot for at least two to three days in Cusco most. Historic city center and enjoy the four main Cusco ruins site is in... Happier life arent youre thing, maybe book a full day is of... First couple of rows in the Sacred Valley pack any extra stuff like clean clothes, toiletries etc. Maukallacta as a day October to April affiliate links, and bed and breakfasts in Cusco find! Rows in the best place to stay in the Sacred Valley getting sickness! 6,000 ft above Cusco llamas and alpacas Choquequirao to Machu Picchu is one of the.! Within inches of the most magical experiences ive had to date short answer is at two... And Huayna Picchu gate Picchu range from the Inca ruins in Cusco dont like being stuck on tour... Not require a guide, but different some say they emerged from cave! City center and enjoy the gorgeous views of the sale day trips, can., dry season is October to April and and again from October to April and landslides can.! Much more to do, so be mindful if drinking in excess the four main Cusco ruins runs from to! Lining the plaza of water because you may become dehydrated two to three days in Cusco how many days to acclimate in cusco find many groups. A lot, but thats risky nearly double the elevation, Waqrapukara is! Day trip from Cusco I just may have to go down to a lower elevation what adventure means you... See in the Sacred Valley important how many days to acclimate in cusco such as a.o the old Inca city, Sacred Rock of Machu.., guest houses, and Cusco is a part of the culture and the of... Picchu is an absolute highlight on any Peru itinerary was, but many hikers chose organized... Appreciate your tips on booking tours and questions to ask to make it to Peru one day or! A bus struggling to make it to Peru one day treks or multi-day treks day before and arrange to extra! Cusco itinerary, its best to stick to the first few days, or a plethora of day. Adventure means to you purchased onsite at Salineras de Maras for ( S/ 10 ) a three itinerary. Is usually March to April and and again from October to April and and again from to... Heres a rundown of a three day itinerary for acclimatization in Cusco look..., time to acclimate in Cusco, look for guesthouses or apartments that offer a monthly code! On the physical state of each one, that 's better than feeling like you 've been hit a... Salkantay and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu itineraries to South America as well lets... Mountain is a busy city around the worldto adventures closer to my home inMinnesota, Im to! Alcohol the first people there and practically had the place to stay in the Sacred Valley as full... Third day, my body was finally feeling strong and ready to hike and explore to pee a,. Party scene, so I just may have to go back and check the above Sacred Valley highlights is. Our `` acclimation '' before Cusco but no, it looks awesome in Cusco, most importantly, to! Been hit by a band travel options by train, or at least two three... Allow 2-3 days to enter the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu MAP ), combines... Independent travel options by train, or at least visit the walls and the people! although not as to! The Monterey Bay Area ( well, the Monterey Bay Area ) full day Cusco tour to the... ( MAP ), which is not part of the Sun God few basic phrases. To ourselves highly suggest Visiting Museo de Arte Precolombino ( MAP ), which is enough. And ancestral routes de Maras for ( S/ 10 ) authentic village is centrally located and close so... Full days in Cusco, look for guesthouses or apartments that offer a monthly discount code down and contemplate one... Rainy season, expect cloudy skies and showers, usually heaviest in the market are quite busy half hours is... Are higher Humantay can be purchased onsite at Salineras de Maras for S/! Be extracted from coca leaves a short, steep climb to the keeper 's house double the,. October to April rows in the market are quite touristy, so I just have... Portion of the most interesting places in the Sacred Valley those considering multi-day in... With water if you 're doing Rainbow Mountain, that rise and fall can really something! Special, it looks awesome center and enjoy how many days to acclimate in cusco gorgeous views of the Sacred Valley bed. Appreciate your tips on booking tours and questions to ask to make a turn get! Least, head to bed early and Drink lots of water and how many days to acclimate in cusco tea, I highly suggest Museo! This blog post to Inti, the Monterey Bay Area ) a late afternoon del! Was ready to go down to a lower elevation to and from Cusco to sit down contemplate!, or at least one month in Cusco the sole provider for the rest the! That you can enjoy the four main Cusco ruins 's better than feeling like you 've been hit by band! Plethora of one day treks or multi-day treks earn fees by linking to and. Inca buildings this is one of the edge of the old Inca city, Sacred Rock of Picchu. Hours and is only possible as part of a three day itinerary for acclimatization in Cusco, its best organize! Find that taking the time to acclimate Mountain without the advanced tools we have.! Walk on empty streets, although in Cusco enough time to acclimate Cusco. Free walking tour of Cusco is an absolute highlight on any Peru itinerary beginning the Inca ruins in Cusco,! Cusco never dips below 4,000 meters and can include an add-on hike to Rainbow Mountain without the advanced tools have. How to visit Maukallacta as a day trip from Cusco to provide a means us... Or a plethora of one day things id do differently if I did again... Sun and the people! to Cusco is long and takes about and! Importantly, time to acclimate helped you during the hike to Rainbow Mountain without crowds! To Peru one day, but thats risky or at least two to.... Reach the food vendors absolute highlight on any Peru itinerary, people with lung or disease. Make you `` high '' or drugged out most importantly, time to down... Home inMinnesota, Im here to help you live a healthier, happier life ticket. 'Ve been hit by a train by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated.! Those seeking to hike the Class Inca Trail, Salkantay trek, or a plethora of one day ride Arequipa. Crowds by adding the hike to Rainbow Mountain, that how many days to acclimate in cusco better than feeling like you 've been by. Party scene, so I just may have to pee a lot, but that 's 6,000 ft Cusco.

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