12 days in Cusco Region Itinerary

Capital of the Inca Empire for three centuries, World Heritage-listed Cusco is now a major tourist destination, drawing nearly 2 million annual tourists with its well-preserved colonial architecture and proximity to Machu Picchu.

ITEP Eco Travel has been added to your itinerary. There's still lots to do: steep yourself in history at Sacsayhuaman, explore the ancient world of Tambomachay, get the lay of the land with Walking tours, and take in the spiritual surroundings of Qorikancha.

For ratings, traveler tips, where to stay, and tourist information, read Cusco trip itinerary builder site.

Use the Route module to see travel options from your home to Cusco. In September, daily temperatures in Cusco can reach 25°C, while at night they dip to 5°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 25th (Wed) so you can go by car to Maras.

Maras is a town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, 40 kilometers north of Cuzco, in the Cuzco Region of Peru. On the 26th (Thu), delve into the distant past at Moray and then explore the striking landscape at Salinas de Maras.

To find maps, where to stay, photos, and other tourist information, go to the Maras trip planner.

Drive from Cusco to Maras in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of bus and taxi. In September in Maras, expect temperatures between 25°C during the day and 5°C at night. On the 26th (Thu), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can travel to Machu Picchu.

A symbol of the Incan civilization, the abandoned city of Machu Picchu represents a must-see on a Peru vacation.

Change things up with a short trip to Zipline in Santa Teresa (about 32 minutes away). Next up on the itinerary: contemplate the long history of Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu, delve into the distant past at Winay Wayna, stop by Mapi Art, and take in nature's colorful creations at Mandor.

For other places to visit, more things to do, photos, and other tourist information, refer to the Machu Picchu trip itinerary builder tool.

Getting from Maras to Machu Picchu by combination of taxi and train takes about 3 hours. Other options: drive. Cap off your sightseeing on the 30th (Mon) early enough to travel back home.