The question we get asked most is how many days in Cusco you need. The answer depends on your pace, but there is one fixed rule: the first days should be gentle because of the altitude (3,399 m). We suggest three proven itineraries.
3-day itinerary: the essentials
- Day 1: arrive in Cusco, rest, Plaza de Armas and San Pedro market. Coca tea and a light dinner.
- Day 2: Sacred Valley (Pisac, Moray, Maras and Ollantaytambo) and train to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3: guided Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
It is exactly the route of our 2-day Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley tour plus your arrival day.
5-day itinerary: the most recommended
- Day 1: arrival and rest; a short walk around the center.
- Day 2: city tour: Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo and San Blas.
- Day 3: acclimatization outing: Humantay Lake or the Sacred Valley.
- Day 4: Machu Picchu by train (or the Sacred Valley with a night in Aguas Calientes).
- Day 5: visit to Machu Picchu and return.
7-day itinerary: with a trek or Rainbow Mountain
- Days 1 to 3: Cusco, city tour and the Sacred Valley to acclimatize.
- Day 4: Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m) or Humantay Lake.
- Days 5 to 7: Short Inca Trail, or 5 days of Salkantay starting earlier.
If your plan is the 4-day Inca Trail, add 2 days of acclimatization before and 1 rest day after. Read Inca Trail vs. Salkantay to decide.
Why the order matters
Do the lower places first and finish with the highest: the Sacred Valley (2,800 to 3,700 m) before Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m). And do not schedule anything demanding on your arrival day. More tips in acclimatization in Cusco.
Planning tips
- Book Machu Picchu and the train early (July and August fill up).
- Leave a free day before your return flight in case of weather changes or strikes.
- If you have few days, prioritize the Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu and leave the trek for another visit.
Want us to build your itinerary? Tell us your dates and we will propose the best plan.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Cusco and Machu Picchu?
With 3 days you see the essentials (Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu). With 5 to 7 days you enjoy it at an easy pace and can add Humantay, Rainbow Mountain or a trek.
How many days before should I arrive if I am doing a trek?
Ideally 2 days before, to acclimatize to Cusco’s 3,400 m before hiking higher.
Can you do Machu Picchu in one day?
Yes, by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, but it is a very long day. We recommend sleeping at least one night in Aguas Calientes or the Sacred Valley.