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7 Days in Cusco: A Curated Luxury Itinerary Through the Andes
Dramatic aerial view of Machu Picchu with sunrays, capturing its ancient beauty and mountainous landscape.

🌟 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.