🌟 Why Spend 7 Days in Cusco?
Most people pass through Cusco in 24 hours on their way to Machu Picchu — and miss everything that makes this city so exceptional. With 7 days, you can experience Incan history, high-end dining, luxe wellness, and adventure — all wrapped in a setting that feels ancient and alive.
Whether you’re a luxury traveler, culture lover, or just want to go beyond the typical Peru itinerary, this week-long journey is built to immerse you.
🛎️ Where You’ll Stay
- Days 1–4: Palacio del Inka (Cusco) – history, comfort, location
- Day 5: Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (Machu Picchu) – right at the gates
- Days 6–7: Monasterio by Belmond or Inkaterra La Casona (Cusco) – heritage and elegance
🗓️ Day-by-Day Itinerary
🧭 Day 1 – Arrive in Cusco + Acclimate in Style
- VIP airport transfer and coca tea welcome at Palacio del Inka
- Light afternoon walk through San Blas, Plaza de Armas, and nearby artisan shops
- Visit the Qorikancha Temple just steps away
- Dinner at Cicciolina — an upscale take on Andean flavors
🏛️ Day 2 – Incan Heritage & City Culture
- Private guide for a deep-dive into Sacsayhuamán, Tambomachay, and Q’enqo
- Local lunch at Chicha by Gastón Acurio
- Optional: visit Museo Inka or MAP (Pre-Columbian Art Museum)
- Dinner at MAP Café — glass-walled fine dining in a museum courtyard
🏔️ Day 3 – Sacred Valley Exploration
- Full-day private tour: Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo fortress, and local markets
- Lunch with a view at Hacienda Huayoccari or Sol y Luna
- Return to Cusco for a low-key evening — optional in-room massage
💆♂️ Day 4 – Wellness & Shopping
- Morning spa ritual at Palacio del Inka — coca leaf wrap, hydrotherapy, andean stone massage
- Visit to Centro de Textiles Tradicionales for artisanal textiles
- High-end alpaca shopping at Sol Alpaca or KUNA
- Dinner at Limo Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar, with city views and Nikkei fusion
🚂 Day 5 – Machu Picchu in Ultimate Style: The Belmond Day
- Board the Belmond Hiram Bingham train: champagne, live music, fine dining, and panoramic views
- Arrive at Machu Picchu for a private guided tour of the citadel
- Late lunch and overnight at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge — the only hotel at the entrance to the ruins
- Optional sunset walk or just enjoy the mountain quiet after crowds leave
🌄 Day 6 – Sunrise at the Citadel & Return to Cusco
- Optional early morning hike to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate
- Return to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Cusco (Belmond or Vistadome)
- Check-in at Hotel Monasterio by Belmond or Inkaterra La Casona
- Farewell dinner at Mil (if open) or Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse
🎁 Day 7 – Leisure, Last Looks & Departure
- Brunch in the courtyard of your hotel
- Final stroll through Cusco’s artisan districts or pick up any final gifts
- Private airport transfer with optional VIP departure lounge access
🧳 What to Pack for 7 Days in Cusco
- Alpaca layers & outerwear (weather swings quickly)
- Smart-casual outfits for upscale dining
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Sunglasses, hat, SPF 50, and lip balm
- Hydration drops, electrolytes, or altitude aid (like Sorojchi pills)
🎯 Final Thoughts
Cusco isn’t just a stop on the way to Machu Picchu — it’s a destination that deserves time, thought, and intention. This 7-day itinerary blends luxury with legacy, balancing Peru’s rich history with world-class comfort.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or designing a dream trip for your top-tier clients, this is how to do Cusco right.