The Perfect Getaway: Spend spring break in Cusco with friends
Head to Peru to discover Sacred Valley sights, Rainbow Mountain, and Cusco nightlife.
Edited by Kaitlyn Dreyling | January 29, 2026
Cusco is the gateway to the Andes Mountains and the ultimate spring break destination for adventurous travelers looking for something outside of the standard beach vacation. Steeped in Incan history and colonial charm, this high-altitude city offers the perfect mix of ancient wonders and modern energy. Base your spring break at Hilton Garden Inn Cusco near Plaza de Armas, with courtyard, city, and mountain views that inspire you to venture outside. Between treks, enjoy easy dinners at the on-site Garden Grille and the 24-hour Pavilion Pantry for snacks and essentials. Follow this five-day itinerary to capture the region’s best sights and nightlife while prioritizing a comfortable mountain pace.
Day 1
Morning
Arrive in Cusco and allow yourself an easy day before your adventures. Drop your bags at the hotel, then get a Boleto Turistíco pass for access to numerous Cusco attractions — they’re available at the COSITUC office, or landmarks that are part of the pass. Wander through town with a sense of curiosity.
Afternoon
Head to San Blas for artistry, architecture, and a bohemian vibe. Discover Andean textiles with geometric designs, plus pottery and metalwork created for both functional and ceremonial uses. Consider a half-day craft workshop to learn the basics. If wet weather arises, cafés and museums await you.
Evening
Reunite for an early dinner at Hilton Garden Inn Cusco’s Garden Grille and Bar, where you can sample Andean-inspired dishes while the sun sets over the red-tiled roofs. Afterward, head back down to the Plaza de Armas to see the cathedral and colonial arches illuminated against the night sky.
Day 2
Morning
Start your day trip to Sacred Valley early. Consider hiring a private driver so that your plans can pivot to accommodate weather if needed. Begin in Pisac, exploring ruins and shopping the Pisac Market for local creations. Don’t miss the chance to try Andean gastronomy — like traditional empanadas baked in clay ovens — from local restaurants or vendors.
Afternoon
Next, move on to the circular terraces of Moray, an ancient agricultural laboratory included in your Boleto Turístico. From there, it’s just a short drive to the Maras salt mines, where thousands of shimmering white ponds terraced into the mountainside create a stunning visual contrast. These two iconic sights are geographically adjacent, you can easily fit both in one afternoon.
Evening
Back in Cusco, choose an easy dinner near the historic center — you’ll discover restaurants for every budget and palate, with influences ranging from traditional Peruvian flavors to "Nikkei" (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) and Mediterranean fare. After your meal, wander the narrow, cobblestone streets near the Plaza de Armas, where the local nightlife comes to life.
Day 3
Morning
Start the day with a high-octane ATV circuit in the Maras and Moray countryside, where the open trails deliver unforgettable views of the snow-capped Andes. Craving something calmer? There are plenty of Insta-worthy strolls in the area if you’d rather explore on foot.
Afternoon
For more excitement, head to the Urubamba River for a whitewater rafting excursion with a local guide. They’ll help you navigate the river’s varying rapids while sharing insights about the surrounding landscape. Come prepared for a cold and wet ride, including dry layers for your return.
Evening
Go out for a Cusco nightlife sampler at the rooftop Limbus Restobar, where you can experience Peruvian cuisine accompanied by craft cocktails or alcohol-free alternatives. Stock up on water and snacks from The Pavilion Pantry on your way back to the room, then rest up for your active day tomorrow.
Day 4
Morning
Wake up early — most Rainbow Mountain tours leave Cusco before sunrise. Plan for a a demanding but rewarding day as you trek toward the Vinicunca summit. Conditions are rustic, so show up with thermal, waterproof layers, sunscreen suited to the rainy spring season and high UV index, and wear sturdy hiking boots for the steep terrain.
Afternoon
As you reach the higher elevations, trust your guides to set a pace that is adventurous yet safe for the entire group. The final ascent reveals the mountain’s famous multi-colored mineral stripes, offering a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding glaciers and grazing llamas. After capturing your photos at the summit, the afternoon is spent on a steady descent back to the trailhead.
Evening
Build in plenty of downtime for recovery this evening with a soak in the tub or a yoga flow to soothe sore muscles. Because you’re based in the epicenter of Cusco, you have easy access to almost anything you want for dinner, whether that’s a basic burger or local cuisine inspired by Andean and Spanish influences.
Day 5
Morning
Slow down on your final day to admire the architectural artistry of Sacsayhuamán, an Incan fortress that’s easily accessible and included in your Boleto Turístico. If your group prefers a quieter morning, use your pass to visit the city’s various site museums, including the Museo de Sitio del Qorikancha or the Regional Historical Museum for a look into the region’s complex Incan and colonial history.
Afternoon
Spend your final afternoon at Centro Artesanal Cusco, the city’s largest craft market. With more than 300 vendors, it is the perfect place to find high-quality alpaca knits, hand-painted ceramics, and silver jewelry to take home. Stop for coffee or lunch to trade photos, compare memories, and talk through what you loved most, before everyone heads home.
Until next time!
Five days fly by in the Andes, especially with friends. As you leave the high-altitude magic of Cusco behind, head home with photos, shared stories, and inspiration for your next spring break adventure.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
Explore more
Picture-perfect places to visit in Peru this year
With its standout historical architecture, ancient cultural heritage and globally admired gastronomy, Peru stands tall as a trending travel destination.
Global destinations for a spring break group getaway
Grab your besties and take the trip of a lifetime to one of these spring break destinations around the world.
Top destinations for adventure lovers
From hiking and biking to surfing and snorkeling, get ready to escape with these incredible travel adventures across the globe.
Treasured travels: Best last-minute getaways for friends
A spontaneous vacation with friends can create memories that will last a lifetime.
Read more:
Find travel inspiration