✨ 3 Days in Cusco: My Luxury Escape Before Machu Picchu

This May, I’m heading to one of South America’s most iconic destinations: Cusco, Peru. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is more than just a gateway to Machu Picchu — it’s a cultural powerhouse nestled high in the Andes. For this three-day escape, I’ve curated a mix of history, indulgence, and adventure.

🛌 Where I’m Staying: Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel

My home base for this journey is Palacio del Inka, located right in the heart of Cusco’s historic district. It’s part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, and it delivers everything I’m looking for — from oxygen-enriched rooms (a game changer at this altitude) to authentic Andean spa treatments and direct access to Cusco’s best sights.

Expect:

• Elegant colonial design mixed with Incan architecture
  
• Relaxing spa and wellness offerings
  
• Gourmet dining on-site
  
• Top-tier service with a strong sense of place
  

🗓️ My Curated 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Altitude Adjustment

The first day is all about arriving in style — and acclimating.

• Check-in at Palacio del Inka, with coca tea on arrival
  
• Light walking tour through Plaza de Armas and San Blas District
  
• Sunset visit to Qorikancha (just steps from the hotel)
  
• Dinner reservation at Cicciolina for creative Andean tapas and excellent wines
  

Keeping it low-key but luxe to allow the body to adjust to the 11,000+ ft elevation.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Day Trip

The highlight of the trip. I’ll be doing a full-day excursion to Machu Picchu, traveling via train (not Belmond, but still premium seating). The journey includes stunning Andean scenery along the Urubamba River before arriving in Aguas Calientes.

What’s planned:

• Early morning transfer from Cusco to the train station
  
• Vistadome or First Class train through the Sacred Valley
  
• Private guide for a deep-dive tour of the Machu Picchu citadel
  
• Leisure time for photos and exploration
  

Optional upgrade (client-facing tip): Lunch or overnight at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel at the gates of Machu Picchu, for those seeking even more exclusivity.

Evening return to Cusco — and a quiet evening to reflect and recharge.

Day 3: Spa, Shopping & Farewell Flavors

On my final day, I’m keeping things elegant and restorative:

• Morning spa ritual at Palacio del Inka — hydrotherapy, coca leaf wrap, or massage
  
• Stroll through San Pedro Market or visit Sol Alpaca for high-end Peruvian knitwear
  
• Lunch at MAP Café, inside the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
  

Then it’s time to head back to Lima — fully recharged, culturally enriched, and ready for the next chapter of the trip.

🎒 Packing Smart for Cusco

The weather flips fast, so here’s what’s going in my bag:

• Warm layers (alpaca sweater + puffer)
  
• Stylish waterproof boots for uneven terrain
  
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and SPF lip balm
  
• Elevated but comfortable dinner outfits
  
• Hydration essentials for high altitude
  

🎯 Final Thought

Cusco isn’t just a launchpad for Machu Picchu — it’s an experience in its own right. I’ve built this trip to balance heritage and high-end comfort, keeping things rooted, intentional, and unforgettable. Whether you’re heading to Peru soon or adding it to your 2025 bucket list, don’t sleep on Cusco.

You don’t need the Belmond train to do it in style. You just need a good plan — and the right perspective.