5 days in Cusco and Machu Picchu
The Inca capital and the citadel in the clouds. A 5-day plan.
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, and its streets still run along Inca walls. From here you descend through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, one of the world's most extraordinary places.
Day by day
Day 1: Arrive and acclimatise
Take it slow: Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha and coca tea.
Day 2: Cusco's Inca walls
Visit Sacsayhuamán, wander San Blas and eat at San Pedro Market.
Day 3: The Sacred Valley
See Pisac, the Maras salt pans and Moray, and stay in Ollantaytambo.
Day 4: To Machu Picchu
Take the train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon or rest for an early start.
Day 5: Machu Picchu
Explore the citadel in the morning, climb Huayna Picchu if booked and return by train.
Make it work
- Best months: Apr–Sep. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Chicha por Gastón Acurio, Cicciolina.
- Getting around: Cusco sits at 3,400 m.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.