How many days do I need to acclimatize to Cusco's altitude?

Plan for 2-3 full days of acclimatization before attempting strenuous activities like Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain. Some people adjust faster, but rushing leads to severe altitude sickness that can ruin your trip.

Can I book Machu Picchu tickets last minute?

Very unlikely during peak season (June-August). Huayna Picchu mountain slots sell out 3-4 months ahead. Even basic Machu Picchu tickets can be unavailable with less than 1 month notice during high season.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Cusco?

No. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing teeth. The altitude and different bacteria can cause stomach issues on top of altitude sickness. Most hotels provide bottled water, and it's cheap to buy.

What's the weather like in Cusco?

Dry season (May-September): Days 65-70°F, nights 35-40°F. Rainy season (October-April): Warmer but daily afternoon storms. Pack layers regardless of season - temperature swings are dramatic.

How do I get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

Train only. Drive or bus to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours), then train to Aguas Calientes (1.5 hours), then bus up to Machu Picchu ruins (20 minutes). Total journey: 4+ hours each way. No direct road access to Machu Picchu.

How to Plan a Perfect Week in Cusco

A perfect week in Cusco requires 2-3 days for altitude acclimatization before attempting Machu Picchu, booking train tickets 2-3 months ahead, and mixing high-altitude activities with rest days. Plan for 4 days in Cusco city, 2-3 days for Machu Picchu, and budget $80-120 per day including accommodation.

Book your Machu Picchu tickets first. Reserve Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets 2-3 months in advance. Choose between Huayna Picchu mountain (400 people daily) or Machu Picchu mountain (800 people daily) add-ons. Book the earliest train departure (5:05 AM from Ollantaytambo) to reach Machu Picchu by 8 AM and avoid crowds.
Plan your altitude strategy. Fly into Cusco 2-3 days before any strenuous activities. Spend your first day resting, drinking coca tea, and staying hydrated. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Book accommodations in San Blas neighborhood (lower altitude) rather than the main plaza area.
Structure your 7 days. Day 1-2: Arrive and acclimatize in Cusco city. Day 3: Sacred Valley day trip to Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Day 4: Rainbow Mountain or Sacsayhuamán ruins. Day 5-6: Machu Picchu overnight in Aguas Calientes. Day 7: Return to Cusco for departure or extend.
Book accommodations strategically. Stay in Cusco's San Blas neighborhood for character and slightly lower altitude. Book one night in Aguas Calientes before Machu Picchu to catch the earliest bus up the mountain. Avoid staying near the main plaza - it's touristy and noisy.
Reserve key experiences early. Book a Sacred Valley tour for day 3, including Ollantaytambo and Pisac markets. Reserve dinner at Central Restaurante or Chicha por Gastón Acurio 1 week ahead. Book a cooking class for your final day to learn about local ingredients.

How many days do I need to acclimatize to Cusco's altitude?: Plan for 2-3 full days of acclimatization before attempting strenuous activities like Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain. Some people adjust faster, but rushing leads to severe altitude sickness that can ruin your trip.
Can I book Machu Picchu tickets last minute?: Very unlikely during peak season (June-August). Huayna Picchu mountain slots sell out 3-4 months ahead. Even basic Machu Picchu tickets can be unavailable with less than 1 month notice during high season.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Cusco?: No. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing teeth. The altitude and different bacteria can cause stomach issues on top of altitude sickness. Most hotels provide bottled water, and it's cheap to buy.
What's the weather like in Cusco?: Dry season (May-September): Days 65-70°F, nights 35-40°F. Rainy season (October-April): Warmer but daily afternoon storms. Pack layers regardless of season - temperature swings are dramatic.
How do I get from Cusco to Machu Picchu?: Train only. Drive or bus to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours), then train to Aguas Calientes (1.5 hours), then bus up to Machu Picchu ruins (20 minutes). Total journey: 4+ hours each way. No direct road access to Machu Picchu.