One of my FAVORITE places in the world - been there 5 times and each time was magical. I keep taking more friends and family members with me. The best way to go once you've discovered all of Cusco is to travel by private van through the Sacred Valley on your way to Machu Pichu making stops in Pisac and Ollantaytambo. My tips: Stay at one of the boutique hotels that are actually lovely cultural gems; definitely get a tour guide to take you everywhere as they are relatively inexpensive and completely change the experience with their fine education in the history and culture of Peru. Stay a night at Aguas Calientes and try to get a room with a view of the river. You will be able to make an early morning trip to Machu Pichu when it is almost deserted since the train from Cuzco arrives later in the day with all the tourists. Don't bother with the hot thermal baths in Aguas Calientes, they are large and overcrowded and the water is like dirty pool water. Try to have this experience on the way to Huancayo instead at one the many places where the thermal springs rise from natural pools instead of being directed into man-made concrete ones. Do have a Pisco Sour in one of the restaurants in Cusco; it's the national alcoholic drink, is delicious and packs a punch! Careful though, you'll already be feeling light headed from the altitude. Try the mate tea for that - renowned for heading off altitude sickness it's actually coca leaves steeped in hot water. A little bitter so add sugar and make sure you walk slowly your first afternoon in Cusco. Llamas, artisans, folkloric dress, cobblestone streets, Incan ruins, cathedrals...buy your ticket now!
