CUSCO CLASSIC 3D-2N
Cusco, known as the “Archaeological Capital of the Americas” and the ancient capital of the Inca Empire (Tahuantinsuyo), is a fascinating city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial architecture.
Architectural Syncretism: The historic center is famous for its cobblestone streets and buildings that demonstrate the superposition of Spanish culture over Inca stone foundations, as seen in the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), upon which the Convent of Santo Domingo was built, and the Inca walls of the Twelve-Angle Stone.
Plaza de Armas: This is the heart of the city, surrounded by the imposing Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption and the Church of the Society of Jesus, both built on ancient Inca palaces.
Historical Significance: It was the political, administrative, and religious center of the vast Inca empire and preserves a profound mystical and cultural atmosphere.
Introduction
cusco
Cusco, known as the “Archaeological Capital of the Americas” and the ancient capital of the Inca Empire (Tahuantinsuyo), is a fascinating city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial architecture.
Architectural Syncretism: The historic center is famous for its cobblestone streets and buildings that demonstrate the superposition of Spanish culture over Inca stone foundations, as seen in the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), upon which the Convent of Santo Domingo was built, and the Inca walls of the Twelve-Angle Stone.
Plaza de Armas: This is the heart of the city, surrounded by the imposing Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption and the Church of the Society of Jesus, both built on ancient Inca palaces.
Historical Significance: It was the political, administrative, and religious center of the vast Inca empire and preserves a profound mystical and cultural atmosphere.
Difficulty and Preparation
- Difficulty: Moderate to high due to altitude and uneven terrain
- Preparation: It is essential to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
- Equipment: Thermal clothing, trekking boots, hiking poles, sunscreen and camping gear
3 DAYS- 2 NIGTHS
Here is the itinerary for the “Classic Cusco 3 Days / 2 Nights” tour in English.
This is a popular but highly intensive package designed for travelers who need to see the absolute essentials—the Imperial City and Machu Picchu—in a short timeframe.
CLASSIC CUSCO ITINERARY: 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS
This program concentrates the main visits to optimize your time, requiring a very long day for the Machu Picchu excursion.
DAY 1: Arrival in Cusco & Afternoon City Tour
Morning (Acclimatization): Arrive at Cusco Airport (CUZ). Transfer to your hotel. It’s crucial to take the morning free to rest and acclimate to the high altitude of 3,400 m.a.s.l. (11,152 ft.).
Afternoon (1:00 PM – 6:30 PM): CITY TOUR
Visit the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the Cusco Cathedral.
Tour the main archaeological sites just outside the city: the fortress of Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
Night: Overnight in Cusco.
DAY 2: Full-Day Excursion to Machu Picchu
Early Morning (Intense Start):
3:30 AM – 5:00 AM: Hotel pickup and transfer to the train station (Ollantaytambo or Poroy, depending on the service).
Train Journey to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). The ride is scenic but long (2 to 3.5 hours).
Mid-Morning:
Arrive in Aguas Calientes and take the shuttle bus (25 minutes) up to the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
Enjoy a Guided Tour of the citadel (approx. 2 hours), covering the main areas.
Afternoon:
Free time for photos at Machu Picchu (within your ticket time/circuit).
Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
Evening (Late Return):
Board the return train.
Transfer by bus or van from the train station back to Cusco.
Arrive in Cusco: Typically between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM.
Night: Overnight in Cusco.
DAY 3: Free Morning or Optional Tour & Departure
Morning (Options):
Classic Option (Relaxed): Free morning for resting, exploring the San Blas neighborhood, or visiting the San Pedro Market.
Intense Option: Take a half-day tour to Maras and Moray (unique Inca agricultural sites and salt ponds). Note: The full Sacred Valley tour is typically too long to fit comfortably before an afternoon flight.
Afternoon: At the scheduled time, transfer to the Cusco Airport for your departing flight.
INCLUDES + ROUTE DETAILS
Transportation
Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
Transportation to the trek start.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
Snacks (tea, hot water, cookies).
Cook and assistants during the trek.
Safety
First aid kit.
Emergency oxygen.
Not included:
Admission (15-20 soles)
Tips
Before the Hike
Acclimatize: Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days early to acclimatize to the altitude.
Pre-training: Hiking, running, or light cardio to build endurance.
Sleep well: Avoid staying up late or drinking alcohol the day before.
Equipment and Clothing
Small backpack (30–40 L): To carry water, snacks, a camera, a coat, and daily essentials.
Large backpack (60–70 L): If you don’t hire additional porters (mules usually carry some of the weight).
Layered clothing:
Quick-drying t-shirts.
Fleece jackets or a mid-layered coat.
Waterproof and windproof jacket.
Thermal clothing for the evenings (it gets very cold in Soraypampa).
Trekking footwear: Sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots.
Sandals/light sneakers: For resting at camp.
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses (strong sun at high altitudes).
Gloves, hat, and scarf (it can get cold in the early morning).
Headlamp with extra batteries.
Sleeping bag with a temperature of -10°C (if not, rent one).
Food and Hydration
Bring a reusable bottle or camelback (minimum 1.5–2 L).
Water purification tablets or a personal filter.
Energy snacks: nuts, chocolate, cereal bars.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the trip.
Health and Safety Tips
Walk at your own pace, without rushing (especially on the climb to Salkantay Pass, 4,650 m).
Use coca leaves or sorojchi pills if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
Protect yourself from the cold at night and from the sun during the day (sudden changes in weather).
Bring a personal first-aid kit: pain relievers, band-aids, and your own medications.
Always follow the guide’s instructions.
Extras to Consider
Cash in soles (for swims, extra snacks, tips, and the Cocalmayo hot springs).
Swimsuit and a light towel if you plan to go to the hot springs.
Camera with extra battery (there’s not always electricity to charge).
