Cusco Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain tour 4 Days

Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After a brief orientation, the morning is yours to relax and acclimate. In the afternoon, we’ll delve into Cusco’s vibrant blend of Andean and Spanish cultures.

Begin with a visit to the Santo Domingo Convent, built over the Koricancha, the former main temple of the Sun God. We’ll continue to the remarkable archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman, known for its impressive Inca military architecture. The tour also includes the archaeological sites of Qenqo, Puca Pucará, and Tambomachay, located northeast of the city. We’ll return to your Cusco hotel by early evening.

Meals: Not Included

Our day starts at 7:30am with a pickup from your Cusco hotel in our private van. We head towards the Sacred Valley, beginning with Pisac. We’ll stop at the Taray Mirador for panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley and its traditional agricultural communities.

Next, we explore the Pisac archaeological site, featuring an extensive Inca cemetery with over 2,000 tombs and impressive mountain terraces. After about 2 hours at Pisac, we visit the vibrant Pisac market for around 20 minutes before proceeding to Urubamba for lunch (not included).

Next, we visit Moray, known as the “Greenhouse of the Incas,” a fascinating site of concentric terraces carved into a large bowl, which may have been used for agricultural experimentation. Continuing to Maras, we observe the pre-Inca salt pans or “salineras,” which have been used for salt extraction for centuries.

We then travel to Ollantaytambo, exploring the well-preserved Inca village and ruins, including the Sun Temple and its formidable terraces. After dinner, board your train to Aguas Calientes, departing at 7:04pm and arriving at 8:45pm.

Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Dinner

The day you’ve anticipated has arrived! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to experience the sunrise. The guide will lead a two-hour tour of the citadel, showcasing its three main sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious.

After soaking in the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure, you might have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the local museum or hot springs.

Take the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo at either 2:55pm or 3:20pm, enjoying views of the Urubamba River and the steep canyon walls, including Wiñay Wayna. At Ollantaytambo, our driver will meet you and transfer you to your Cusco hotel, arriving by around 7:00pm.

Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel

IMPORTANT: For those who have booked the extra hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain, please note that this portion of the tour does not include a guide.

You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same departure times (2:55pm, 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm) at an additional cost of $67 USD. Early train departures can be arranged upon request at the time of booking.

We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 4:00am for our Rainbow Mountain Trek Adventure. After a 3-hour drive through the South Valley, we reach the trailhead at Llacto (4,638m / 15,216 ft). Enjoy the scenic views of Inca terraces, traditional villages, and high Andean peaks along the way.

At the trailhead, we’ll start our hike along a stream, with views of Ausangate Mountain and glaciers. Engage with local people, learn about their Quechua culture and traditional attire. Your guide will teach you a few Quechua words if you ask!

After a 1.5-hour hike, we arrive at Rainbow Mountain (5,020m / 16,466 ft). Spend approximately 30 minutes taking in the unique landscape. There’s also an optional hike to the top of the Red Valley, adding about 45 minutes to your return trip.

We’ll hike back to the trailhead in about an hour and enjoy a lunch prepared by our cook.

We’ll then drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 6:00pm.

Meals Included: Hot breakfast & lunch