Discover the magic of Machu Picchu with a trip that starts in Cuzco, the gateway to this incredible site. The city’s historic charm and rich culture make it a must-visit destination.

Cuzco is often the starting and ending point for adventures to Machu Picchu because of its proximity to the site. But don’t rush through—there’s plenty to explore within this vibrant city.

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains at over 11,000 feet, Cuzco’s altitude can be challenging. To help you acclimate, consider staying at the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco. This heritage hotel, built around a 16th-century colonial convent, offers warm comfort with added perks: a cup of mate de coca, herbal tea to ease altitude sickness, and extra oxygen in all 153 guest rooms for easier breathing.

The hotel’s location is perfect—just a short walk to Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square. Here, you’ll find Cuzco Cathedral, museums, cozy cafés, and tasty restaurants. Immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and flavors.

Plan your journey to fully enjoy Cuzco’s historic sites and vibrant streets. Whether exploring or relaxing, this city is an essential part of your Machu Picchu experience.

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Experience Cuzco: A Perfect Start to Your Machu Picchu Adventure

JW Marriott El Convento Cusco is a beautifully restored heritage hotel. It combines historic charm with modern comfort, providing an ideal base for your exploration.

Day One in Cuzco

Start your day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel, energizing you for the day ahead. Afterward, take a short walk through Cuzco’s narrow streets to reach Qorikancha, the ancient Incan temple of the sun. Today, you can see the ruins partly beneath the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo, built by the Spanish in the 1500s on top of the Inca structure.

On site, explore the Inca rooms on the edges of the colonial courtyard, and enjoy paintings that illustrate both Incan and Spanish heritage. Don’t forget to relax in the beautiful gardens around the site.

Next, visit Mercado San Pedro, Cuzco’s bustling central market. Wander through aisles filled with fresh fruit juices, spices, and religious objects. It’s a vibrant spot to immerse yourself in local culture.

For lunch, head to Chicha, a restaurant linked to celebrity chef Gastón Acurio. The menu showcases Andean ingredients prepared in creative ways. Sample cuy (guinea pig) served like Peking duck on a purple corn pancake with rocoto pepper hoisin sauce. Or try alpaca carpaccio, a tender, flavorful meat with a bright pesto-style sauce.

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Explore Mercado San Pedro

Start your afternoon at Mercado San Pedro, Cuzco’s central market. It’s filled with fresh flavors—from fruits and spices to local delicacies. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and vibrant local life.

Visit Museums to Prep for Machu Picchu

Next, visit two museums to learn more about Inca culture and Machu Picchu.

• The Museo Inka offers insightful exhibits about Incan history and heritage.
• The Museo de Machu Picchu boasts the world’s largest collection of artifacts from the site. It details the discovery of Machu Picchu by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, which brought worldwide attention. Both museums provide captions in English and Spanish.

Evening Activities at the Hotel

Return to your hotel in time for a pisco sour lesson, Peru’s most famous cocktail. Or join a tour of the hotel, which explores its restoration, its history as a convent, and even pre-Inca ruins visible on the lower level.

Dinner at Organika

For a light supper, walk to Organika. Many ingredients used in salads, soups, and plates—like quinoa and grilled vegetables—are sourced from their own Sacred Valley gardens. Try the tiradito de trucha, made with local trout and served with sweet potato chips—a delicious choice!

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Day Two in Cuzco

Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, visit the hotel courtyard, where women from Chinchero in the Sacred Valley will demonstrate traditional textile weaving. You might also get a photo with Panchita, the adorable baby alpaca.

Next, take an Uber, taxi, or guided tour to Sacsayhuamán. This ancient archaeological site dates back to the 1400s and is situated at over 12,000 feet elevation. Spend a few hours exploring the massive stone walls and gates, built without mortar, fitting together with incredible precision. From various viewpoints, enjoy breathtaking views of the Cuzco region.

After your visit, walk down stone staircases and through narrow lanes decorated with colorful street art to reach the San Blas neighborhood.

For lunch, visit Green Point, a garden-style restaurant. Enjoy plant-based dishes like vegetarian quinoa soup or the “Vegan Cusco Grill”—stuffed rocoto pepper, grilled oyster mushrooms, fresh greens, and local potatoes topped with a creamy huancaína sauce made from aij amarillo peppers. Be sure to try their fruity kombuchas or the purple corn variety, which is slightly fermented and tangy.

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Explore Sacsayhuamán and More in Cuzco

Visit Sacsayhuamán, an incredible archaeological site built in the 1400s. Marvel at the massive stone walls crafted with remarkable precision—a true testament to Incan engineering.

Close by, relax at Xapiri Ground, an art gallery and café near Plaza San Blas. Sip a coffee or dark hot chocolate while viewing contemporary Peruvian Amazon art.

Return to your hotel for some rest or enjoy the relaxation pool at the spa. As evening falls, visit Planetarium Cusco—a cozy, family-run star-gazing spot. They offer presentations on Incan astronomy, including the names of constellations and differences between northern and southern skies.

Weather permitting, you can look through the telescope to spot celestial bodies. The planetarium offers presentations in English and provides transportation to and from the city center.

Finish your day with a pisco sour at the JW Marriott bar, a perfect way to celebrate your Cuzco adventure.

Ready for your dream vacation? Book now with MWR LIFE and explore Cuzco and Machu Picchu for an unforgettable experience!