Explore Cusco, Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain in 5 Days

Home » Explore Cusco, Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain in 5 Days

Starting from $ 699.00

Per person in group Service

Duration:

5 Days / 4 Nights

Max. Altitude:

5200 m /17060.3 ft.

Team:

Driver Team + Local Guides

Style:

Hotel/Hiking

Physical Level:

Moderate

Group Size:

Maximum 12 people

Our booking service offers a low deposit option that is fully refundable, providing you with added flexibility and peace of mind.

Embark on a 6-day adventure to explore the hidden gems of Peru’s stunning high mountains, tropical valleys, canyons, and its people. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Peru as you discover the awe-inspiring ancient ruins of Cusco and Machu Picchu, witness the vibrant wildlife, and marvel at the legendary landscapes of the Andes. This journey promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Trip Summary

Tour Location: Cusco city, Sacred Valley, 2 day Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley.
Tour Type: Hiking, cultural, adventurous
Good For: Those in moderate shape, families.
Difficulty: Moderately challenging hike. It’s not a technical hike but the altitude may affect some individuals.
Consideration: Permit is required for 2 day Inca trail.
Season: Opened March through January. Closed February.

Highlights

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the historic center and iconic landmarks of Cusco with the expert guidance of Peru Hikers’ local guides. Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain while enjoying the benefits of small group travel and meeting friendly locals.

Itinerary at a Glance:

DAY1

Cusco City – Inca Ruins

Join a knowledgeable guide today to explore some of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites. You’ll visit the breathtaking Cusco Cathedral, the revered Temple of the Sun, also known as Qoricancha, and the stunning Sacsayhuaman fortress. Additionally, you’ll see the Qenqo Pachamama Temple and the Tambomachay Water Temple. After an eventful day, you’ll return to your Cusco hotel in the late afternoon.

DAY2

Sacred Valley Tour (Small group)

Discover the stunning Peruvian countryside with a complete day trip to the enchanting Sacred Valley of the Incas, which boasts various royal estates of Incan civilization. Begin your adventure with an 8:00 am pick-up and visit the Alpaca Farm, Taray Viewpoint, Pisaq ruins, Urubamba, Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo Inca site. Spend the night in Ollantaytambo, also known as “The Last Inca Town.””

DAY3

Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

We will begin our journey from Ollantaytambo at around 6:10 am, taking the first train to the Short Inca Trail – Km 104. The hike to Machu Picchu will take approximately 7 hours, and we will arrive in the afternoon through the Sun Gate. As a result of the early arrival, we will be able to enjoy Machu Picchu with fewer crowds. Afterward, we will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. Dinner will be served in a nearby restaurant, and we will spend the night in a hotel.

DAY4

Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco

Today, we will rise early and enjoy breakfast at the hotel before taking the first buses to Machu Picchu for a 3-hour guided tour of the citadel. Following our exploration of this incredible site, we will board the Panoramic Vistadome train for our return journey. We are expected to arrive back in Cusco around 7.00 pm where we will return to our hotel.

DAY5

Rainbow Mountain full Day

We will begin our journey from Cusco in the early morning and explore the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the captivating Red Valley. This is an exclusive tour that includes breakfast and lunch.

DAY 1

Cusco City – Inca Ruins

We will meet you at 1 p.m. in the hotel lobby to start your tour. First, we’ll head to Cusco’s Plaza de Armas to visit the famous cathedral. Then, we’ll walk through an ancient Inca-built street to reach Q’oricancha, the Temple of the Sun. Here, you can compare and contrast the construction methods of the Incan culture and Catholicism. This was the main spiritual center of the Incas that led to all four quarters of the Inca Empire. You can also see a bronze, high altar.

After Qoricancha, we’ll walk down Avenida El Sol and take a 25-minute bus outside of the city to reach the stunning Inca site, Sacsayhuaman. Here, your tour guide will show you around and tell you about the fascinating history of the Sacsayhuaman fortress.

Next, we’ll take a short bus ride to the Qenqo Inca site to observe some altars from Incan times. Then, we’ll drive to Puca Pucara, a small circular Inca site, before finishing the tour with a visit to Tambomachay, the temple of water. We will drive you back to your hotel in Cusco after the tour.

Meals Included: None
Entrance Tickets: Included

DAY 2

Sacred Valley Tour (Small group)

Your Sacred Valley Tour starts promptly at 8 a.m. when your guide meets you in the hotel lobby. We will embark on a scenic route that winds around the mountains north of Cusco. Our first stop is at the Alpaca Farm where we will feed and interact with four types of South American camelids. Here, we will also learn about ancient weaving techniques, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

Next, we will proceed to El Mirador, a famous viewpoint from where you can behold the breathtaking Sacred Valley. From this vantage point, you will also gain insights into Inca history, as the Sacred Valley was one of their main settlements. In this high-altitude area of the Andes, there is an unusual abundance of fertile plains, and you will witness vast contour terracing and irrigation channels left behind by the Incas.

Afterward, we will drive towards the ruins of Pisac, where you will witness and learn about Inca culture, including amazing works of stone art and impressive agricultural terraces. We will then head back to the lower town of Pisac to visit a bustling handicraft market, where you can spend some time bargaining and shopping.

For lunch, we will dine at a local Andean restaurant, before continuing our journey along the Urubamba River, towards the town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we will visit the ruins, an important area of Incan construction, built during their heydays. This is a remarkable Inca site because you can find rock formations representing the Inca god, Wiracocha.

Finally, we will drop you off at your hotel in Ollantaytambo town, completing the memorable Sacred Valley Tour.

Accommodations: pakaritampu (or similar)
Meals Included: Yes
Entrance Tickets: Included

DAY 3

Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

At 5:40 a.m., we’ll meet you at your hotel for your short Inca trail hike. From there, we’ll head to the train station and catch the 6:10 a.m. train from Ollantaytambo. This train ride is one of the most magnificent in the world, with breathtaking views of the rough-and-tumble Urubamba River, snow-capped mountain peaks, and cornfield farms. As we descend, you’ll notice micro-climate changes, from mountains and cornfields to green jungle valleys with ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, as the temperature starts to get warmer. We’ll disembark at Km 104, where we’ll enjoy some snacks before starting the trek. Don’t forget to bring your original passport, as this is the first checkpoint along the Inca Trail. After some preparation time, we’ll explore the first Inca site, Chachabamaba, which was the first ancient Incan checkpoint for entering the trail. Your expert guide will provide some historical background on this ruin, followed by a three-hour climb up to the most famous Inca site along the trail, Wiñay Wayna. Along the way, you’ll see amazing views of Machu Picchu cannon and the Urubamba River, as well as the flora and fauna native to the area. There are also waterfalls and spectacular views of Machu Picchu Mountain. The trail itself has some flat areas, as well as some short uphill and downhill hikes, with steps arranged in sections that can be narrow in some areas, but not dangerous. Once we arrive at the Wiñay Wayna Inca site, you’ll have time for a guided tour of the temples, waterfalls, gardens, storehouses, watchtowers, and farming terraces. After a short walk, we’ll enjoy a pack lunch before a nap break. Then, we’ll embark on a one-hour gradual up-and-downhill hike to the Sun Gate, where you’ll have spectacular views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding valleys. The Sun Gate was used by the Incas to observe the sunrise from Machu Picchu during the summer solstice. From here, it’s another hour hike to the Machu Picchu ruins. Once in Machu Picchu, you can explore the watchtower area where you can get charming pictures of Machu Picchu without crowds. Afterward, we’ll take a 30-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have a nice hotel and hot shower waiting for you. Later in the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the nice restaurants.

Highlight: Trekking the Inca Trail, enjoying the views from the Sun Gate, sunset views from Machu Picchu

Walking Distance: 15 km / 8 miles
Meals: Included
Elevations: Trek starting point is 2,000 m, the highest point is Sun Gate at 2,720 m, and the camp is at 1,900 m
Weather: Hot and humid

DAY 4

Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco

Your adventure continues on the fifth day with an early morning departure at 5:30 AM. You will board a bus in the charming town of Machu Picchu, which will take you on a scenic route to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The ascent to the peak, located at an altitude of 2450 m / 8.038 ft., promises to be a unique adventure. The journey will offer breathtaking panoramic views that will leave a lasting impression on your memory.

Upon arrival, you can use your entrance tickets to explore the world-famous Inca citadel. The tour guide will lead you through the key areas of interest within Machu Picchu, offering insightful information about each site’s historical and cultural significance. You will walk through the impressive Inca terraces, admiring the intricate stone constructions of the Temple of the Sun and Pachamama.

After the tour, you will have time to explore independently. If you have tickets to Huayna Picchu, you can climb the mountain, which takes about an hour and a half round-trip. Later, you will descend back to Aguas Calientes. From there, you will catch the train back to the city of Cusco, arriving around 7:30 PM. This concludes your three-day Cusco, Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Tour.

Highlight: Arrive early to Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise
Temperature: Warm and humid
Meals: Breakfast Only
Train: Expedition tourist class

DAY 5

Rainbow Mountain full Day

We will collect you from your hotel, Airbnb, or hostel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 am. It will take us around 3 hours to reach the trailhead, arriving at approximately 7 am. During the journey, our chef will prepare a delicious breakfast including hot drinks, bread, fruit salad, eggs, and more. The trailhead, Phulawasipata, is located at an elevation of 4700m/ 15.41995 ft, which is much colder than Cusco, where the elevation is 3300m / 11,300ft. It’s best to bring warm clothing such as a jacket, scarf, hat, and gloves. The hike to Rainbow Mountain will take about 2 hours uphill at a moderate pace, but it may take longer if you prefer to go slower. Our guide will take some short breaks to explain the mountains’ geography and share some interesting information about the area. You may even spot some local creatures like llamas and alpacas. The trail is wide and safe, making it ideal for those with vertigo or a fear of heights. It’s best to visit during the dry season, as the trails are not paved and can be dusty or slippery during the rainy season. With the right equipment, such as waterproof hiking shoes and trekking poles, you’ll be fine.

Once at the top of Rainbow Mountain, you’ll have around an hour to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding areas, including valleys, mountains, and the highest glacial mountain in Cusco, Ausangate. Our guide will share intriguing facts about the place, including why the colors are so vibrant, and share some information about Incan history. Afterward, we’ll descend via a different route than other groups, taking you to a lookout point to see the Red Valley, which many people find even more beautiful than Rainbow Mountain itself! The hike downhill will take around 2.5 hours, and we’ll then drive you to a lunch spot where you can enjoy a freshly prepared meal with cold drinks, soup, and the main course. After lunch, we’ll drive you back to Cusco, which takes around 2.5 hours, and drop you off at your hotel between 5:30 and 6:00 pm. Enjoy your magical adventure!

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Entry fees: included
Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco

Included:

Professional Guides Our guides at Cusco National University have studied English and tourism. They are all natives of this region and have a deep passion for sharing their cultural heritage with others. They are both friendly and professional and prioritize your safety and satisfaction.
HotelsThe package includes a three-night stay in a hotel with a private room and bathroom. Breakfast is also included if you choose the hotel option. Please note that this applies only if you select the price that includes hotel accommodations.

This tour package may includes a one-night stay in Cusco, one night in Ollantaytambo, and another night in Aguas Calientes. In case you require additional nights before or after the tour, kindly inform our team, and we will provide you with a quote. Rooms are designed for double occupancy, and a surcharge applies for a single room. We offer the possibility of upgraded hotels upon request. Moreover, if you prefer to book your hotels separately, we can arrange the tour without including any accommodations.
Transportation
Transportation During this tour, you don’t have to worry about transportation as Peru Hikers provides a comprehensive door-to-door service that includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel. They will ensure that you are accompanied throughout the day until you are returned safely to your hotel in the evenings.
Tickets The cost of admission to all attractions is covered, including the BTG boleto turistico for the city tour, Qoricancha Temple of the Sun, Cathedral, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail tickets, Machu Picchu fee, bus tickets for a round trip to/from Aguas Calientes, and Rainbow Mountain entrance fees.
Train Tickets The train tickets for the Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes route are available in Inka Rail or Expeditions tourist class. The departure time for this train is at 6:00 am. For the return journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, the Vistadome Train is available at 2:55 pm or 4:20 pm respectively.
Transfers Regardless of which train you take from Machu Picchu to Cusco, your transfer back from the train station to your hotel is included.
First Aid At Peru Hikers, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our travelers. Our guides are highly trained professionals in First Aid, Altitude Sickness, and CPR. We require all of our guides to undergo First Aid, Altitude Sickness, and CPR training and be certified in emergency first aid and CPR. Additionally, our guides always carry rescue oxygen to help alleviate altitude sickness.
Meal Peru Hikers offers a unique variety of Peruvian cuisine that reflects the country’s rich history. Sweet and savory flavors can be found in every corner of the country, from the North Coast to the Amazon and Novo-Andean regions. Our restaurant invites you to indulge in an unparalleled gastronomic experience. Your meals are included from day 2 to day 5, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

No Included:

Huayna Picchu There is a mountain called Huayna Picchu located close to Machu Picchu. It takes about 45 minutes to hike to the top, but if you are afraid of heights, the descent can be challenging. You will need to make this climb on your own after completing your Machu Picchu tour, without a guide. The cost is $75 per person, and you must make arrangements at least one month in advance due to high demand. Please note that the weather is beyond our control.
Flights Traveling to Cusco can be challenging due to frequent flight delays and cancellations. To avoid any inconvenience, it is advisable to arrive in the city at least two days before your trek start date. Among the airlines, LAN Peru is the most reliable, but Avianca and Peruvian Airlines are also acceptable options. Please note that you will not be back from your trek until approximately 8 p.m. on the last day, so it’s important to schedule your return flight for the following day.
Gratuities When traveling, showing your appreciation for good service through tipping is highly valued by those who take care of you. While it may not be part of your usual custom, it is important to consider the effort and service provided when deciding on the amount to tip. Remember, your satisfaction should be the basis for the tip amount.
Travel Insurance While not obligatory, it is highly recommended that you prepare for the altitude adjustment if you live at sea-level and plan to land in Cusco. Generally, it takes around one or two days for most people to adjust. However, if you experience difficulty adjusting, it is advisable to consider having contingency plans in place for any missed tours.
Meals On day 1, meals are not included, but our guides will suggest some great places to eat.

What to Take

Original Passport
Walking/Hiking boots
Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
Warm jacket
Hat and gloves
4-5 T-shirts
Comfortable trousers
Sun hat
Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
Insect repellant
Toiletries and hand sanitiser
Personal medication
Camera and film with extra batteries
Extra money for souvenirs
25L Daypack recommended

Price per person:

$ 1450 USD

Private tour from 2 travelers with 3*** hotels(3 nights 1 Cusco, 1 Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Calientes)

Price per person:

$ 1250 USD

Group service with Hotel 4**** hotels 3 nights(1 night 4* Cusco, 1 night Ollantaytambo 3* and at Aguas Callientes 4*)

Price per person:

$ 810 USD

Group service with 3*** hotels 3 nights(1 night Cusco 1 night Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Callientes)

Price per person:

$ 699 USD

Group service without hotels(booked by yourself)

Price per person:

$ 1450 USD

Private tour from 2 travelers with 3*** hotels(3 nights 1 Cusco, 1 Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Calientes)

$ 1250 USD

Group service with Hotel 4**** hotels 3 nights(1 night 4* Cusco, 1 night Ollantaytambo 3* and at Aguas Callientes 4*)

$ 810 USD

Group service with 3*** hotels 3 nights(1 night Cusco 1 night Ollantaytambo and 1 at Aguas Callientes)

$ 699 USD

Group service without hotels(booked by yourself)

Optional Services

Huayna Picchu: Did you know that Huayna Picchu is the mountain located adjacent to Machu Picchu? It takes about 45 minutes to hike to the top, and although you’ll be going solo, your guide will show you where to start. If you’d like to explore this area, we can arrange for an extra entrance ticket with prior notice.
Price: $75 Per Person
Additional Items : Please find below a brief overview of the prices. For further information, kindly refer to our Additional Options section.
Machu Picchu Mountain : There is another mountain, Machu Picchu, which towers above the ruins and provides breathtaking views that surpass even those of Huayna Picchu. However, reaching the top takes about an hour and a half. It is possible for us to obtain an additional entrance ticket for you, which must be used between 9-10 AM. Since this is within the time of your Machu Picchu tour, we can help secure it for you.
$75 Per Person
Vistadome Train : Our tours come with the Expeditions (Tourist) Train. This train usually departs from Aguas Calientes at 4:22 p.m. If you opt for an upgrade, the Vistadome train is available. It offers bigger seats, windows, and even some entertainment. The Vistadome train is usually booked for 4:43 p.m. and travels to Poroy, a train station that is closer to Cusco. Although there is an extra fee for the upgrade, we will still provide transportation back to your hotel.
$75 Per Student

1. What is Cusco, Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu + Rainbow Mountain 6 Days?

You will explore the best of Cusco and its surroundings in just 6 days with this adventure tour. You’ll get to experience the Sacred Valley, hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and witness the magnificent sights of the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

2. How challenging is the tour?

On this tour, you’ll get to experience the breathtaking beauty of Cusco and the Sacred Valley with the guidance of an experienced tour guide. The first part of the tour will span two days and will involve traveling in a van and taking brief hikes to explore various locations. The final days of the tour will present a challenge as you undertake the Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain hikes, but the reward is truly unforgettable – the stunning views and memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

3. When would be the best time to take this tour?

If you plan to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, hike the Short Inca Trail, or take the Rainbow Mountain Tour, the months between April and October are the best time to go. During this period, the weather is usually dry and stable, which makes it perfect for hiking. However, since Rainbow Mountain is situated at high altitudes, it can get quite cold, so it’s essential to pack appropriate clothing.

4. Do I need a permit for this tour?

To embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure by hiking the Short Inca Trail. You’ll need to secure your Inca Trail permits beforehand, as they can only be obtained through authorized tour companies. It is important to note that these permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. A visit to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of nature. Entry tickets can be purchased on-site, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world’s wonders entirely

5. What is the food like?

A tour guide will accompany you for the Short Inca Trail, but there will be no porters or chefs. We will ensure you have an organic, packed lunch and dinner at a local restaurant in Machu Picchu Pueblo.

During the Rainbow Mountain tour, a tour guide and chefs will accompany you and prepare delicious meals using fresh local ingredients. We will provide breakfast and lunch as part of the tour package.

6. What is the weather like on this tour?

When hiking the Short Inca Trail or exploring Machu Picchu, expect humid and hot weather since both are in the cloud forest. The weather during the Rainbow Mountain Tour can be unpredictable. There may be rainy days during the rainy season, but the temperature won’t drop below 5°C.

On the other hand, Rainbow Mountain itself is cold and dry. It’s situated in the Andes at an altitude of over 5000 meters. The weather up there is usually windy and chilly, and it may even snow during certain seasons.

7. After the Machu Picchu tour, will transportation be provided to take us to our hotel?

All your transportation is included on this tour. Peru Hikers offers a door-to-door service (pick up and drop off at your hotel) and will ensure you are escorted until you are returned to your hotel in the evenings. What is the schedule of my train? A recommended itinerary is to depart from Ollantaytambo on day four at 6:10 am and reach km 104 to hike the short Inca trail. On day 5, after exploring Machu Picchu, you can take a train back to Cusco at 2:55 pm, 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm, depending on availability.

8. What are the essential items that you need to pack for this trip?

When embarking on an adventure to explore the wonders of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Don’t forget to bring your passport, some extra cash, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. It’s best to leave heavy equipment behind and opt for a camera to capture your memories. Be prepared for the elements by packing bug spray and sun protection, and dressing appropriately for the heat and cold. Comfortable shoes and a light waterproof layer will keep you comfortable in case of unexpected rain showers. Lastly, don’t forget to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes. With these essentials, you can enjoy your adventure and create unforgettable memories without any worries.

Explore Cusco, Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain in 5 Days