CUSCO
An Old World Feel
The high altitude city of Cusco is an incredible throwback to the time of the Spanish conquest. Most of the buildings here are still the old Spanish style, with many actually sitting on ancient Inca foundations. In the old parts of town the streets are still narrow cobblestone and packs of feral dogs roam freely. The average altitude here is over 3000m so altitude sickness is a real concern for first-time visitors. If you are planning a trip here and are not sure how your body will react to the altitude, you may want to consider Diamox (ask your doctor before you go).
How Much Time to Spend Here
If you are going to Machu Picchu it is almost a guarantee you will be spending time in Cusco. Cusco is the starting point for the Inca railway and the Inca trail which are the two ways to get to Machu Picchu. Make sure you allot enough time to spend at least 3-4 days here. If you can, an entire week can easily be packed with adventure while staying in Cusco. Within a short drive, or in some cases walk, there are dozens of sites of Inca ruins including the Sacred Valley. Cusco is the perfect base to explore this area.
Food and Drink
Cusco is home to some amzing bars and restaurants. Make sure you go to Jack's Cafe for at least one breakfast and at least one lunch - it is one of our favorite all-time places to eat! The main old city square is Plaza de Armas, you will find all sorts of cool spots to drink around here, including the world's highest Irish pub named Paddy's. If you have an iron stomach, try the food trucks!
SACRED VALLEY
Expect Stunning Scenery
The Sacred Valley is in the foothills of the Peruvian Andes, and some truly massive mountains. The valley floor is lush green while the hills are dry and hot. There is some really great hiking here, and you can't go very far without stumbling upon Inca ruins. In contrast to Cusco, the valley is quiet and relaxing.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is an old Inca town and is the site of the old Inca imperial palace. It is worth spending a few nights in this tiny town to relax or do some hiking. The Inca rail stops here on the way to or from Machu Picchu so it is really easy to get to.
The Inca Railway
There are two main options for getting to and from Machu Picchu and one is the train. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train trips in the world, we recommend taking this option. The trip begins in the high altitude desert of Cusco and descends through the Sacred Valley into the canyons along the Urumbamba river before arriving in the rain forest. If you book far enough in advance you can pick the first row of seats which have an unobstructed view.
MACHU PICCHU
Aguas Calientes
The little town at the base of Machu Picchu is named after a hot spring in the area. The hot spring is a short walk up river and is open to the public with a modern bathhouse. This little town is incredibly picturesque and a common mistake is not spending any time here. Most tourists take the train in and out in the same day, only seeing Machu Picchu. Spend at least 2-3 nights here.
Rain Forest
Surrounding Aguas Calientes is a lush rain forest conservation area. In stark contract to the Sacred Valley and Cusco, here you will feel like you are in the jungles of Costa Rica. There are plenty of trails with amazing hikes near the town, although they are not well marked. You should see all kinds of exotic wildlife if you venture out of the town.
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