From Cusco: Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 2-Day Tour

Exploring the heart of Peru’s Andes, this captivating 2-day tour takes travelers on an unforgettable journey. Discover the iconic Machu Picchu, a wonder of the ancient world, and ascend the vibrant Rainbow Mountain for breathtaking vistas. With a seamless combination of guided excursions and free time, the tour ensures an immersive experience of the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. Whether a seasoned adventurer or first-time visitor, this itinerary promises an exceptional opportunity to unveil the hidden gems that make Peru truly spellbinding.

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Key Points

Explore two of Peru’s iconic natural wonders, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, on a comprehensive two-day tour from Cusco.
Experience a guided tour of Machu Picchu, including round-trip transportation, train tickets, and entry fees.
Set out on a scenic train journey through the Andes to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Hike to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, accompanied by a guided tour and a buffet lunch.
Enjoy included meals catered to various dietary needs, ensuring travelers are energized throughout the two-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This two-day tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore two of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders – Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.

Starting from Cusco, the tour includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, entry tickets, and guided tours at both sites.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, train tickets, entry tickets, and guided tours at both Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.

On the first day, visitors will visit the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, followed by free time in Aguas Calientes.

The second day features an early morning hike to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, with a buffet lunch and return to Cusco in the evening.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience of these remarkable destinations.

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Machu Picchu Exploration

The first day of the tour begins with a pickup from the hotel in Cusco’s Historic Center.

Travelers board a bus to Ollantaytambo, then take the train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, they embark on a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, lasting approximately 3 hours. The guide provides educational insights into the history and mysteries of this iconic Inca citadel.

After the tour, guests enjoy a lunch in Aguas Calientes and have free time to further explore the site.

In the afternoon, they return by train to Ollantaytambo and then by bus back to their hotel in Cusco, arriving around 8:30 PM.

Train Journey

After being picked up from their hotel in Cusco’s Historic Center, travelers board a bus that takes them to Ollantaytambo, where they then catch the train to Aguas Calientes.

The train ride offers stunning views of the Andes mountains and the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, the group takes a bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

After the guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, travelers return to Aguas Calientes by bus, then board the train back to Ollantaytambo, and finally take a bus to their hotel in Cusco.

Aguas Calientes Experience

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, the group takes a bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Their guided tour lasts around 3 hours, providing insights into the history and mysteries of this iconic site.

Afterward, they enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes, with free time to explore the town’s markets and shops. The group then boards the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus ride to their hotel in Cusco, arriving around 8:30 PM.

This seamless transition between transportation and activities ensures a well-paced and comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.

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Rainbow Mountain Hike

Early the next morning, the tour group departs Cusco for the drive to Tintinco. After breakfast, they begin the hike to Rainbow Mountain.

The guided tour provides insights into the vibrant, multicolored landscape. Trekking at high altitude, the group takes in the stunning views of snow-capped peaks and the rainbow-hued mountainside.

They’ve free time to explore and capture photos. Following the hike, the group enjoys a buffet lunch in Tintinco before returning to Cusco in the early evening.

The Rainbow Mountain experience offers a unique perspective on Peru’s diverse and dramatic natural scenery.

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Scenic Vistas

Though challenging at high altitudes, the hike to Rainbow Mountain rewards visitors with stunning, panoramic vistas.

As trekkers reach the summit, they’re greeted by:

Vibrant hues of red, yellow, and green painted across the mountain slopes.
Breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes, with snowcapped peaks in the distance.
A unique geological phenomenon, with the multicolored strata a result of mineral deposits and erosion over millennia.

These scenic wonders make the effort of the hike well worth it, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and photographs of this natural masterpiece.

Included Meals

The tour package includes several meals to ensure travelers are well-fed during the excursion.

On day one, lunch is provided in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. This allows hikers to refuel after exploring the iconic ruins.

On day two, breakfast is served in Tintinco before the hike to Rainbow Mountain. A buffet lunch is also included in Tintinco after the mountain visit.

These meals cater to different dietary needs and preferences, keeping guests energized throughout the two-day adventure.

Booking Information

When booking this tour, travelers can check availability for starting times on the tour provider’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

The meeting point details are available on Google Maps, making it easy for participants to find the designated pickup location.

The tour offers:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The option to reserve a spot without upfront payment, allowing travelers to book now and pay later.
A guided experience with live tour guides available in both Spanish and English, providing educational insights into the history and mysteries of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Upgrade the Train Tickets to the Vistadome Class?

Yes, you can upgrade the train tickets to the Vistadome class. This premium option provides panoramic windows and superior amenities for an enhanced travel experience to Machu Picchu. Additional cost applies for the Vistadome upgrade.

Can I Bring My Own Food to the Tour Sites?

Yes, you can bring your own food to the tour sites. The tour includes specified meals, but you’re free to pack snacks or additional items to consume during the free time at Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.

What Type of Hiking Gear Is Recommended for Rainbow Mountain?

For the Rainbow Mountain hike, it’s recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots, dress in layered clothing, and bring sun protection, a light backpack, snacks, and trekking poles. These essentials will help ensure a comfortable and safe experience on the trail.

Is There an Option to Visit Huayna Picchu Instead of Machu Picchu?

There’s no option to visit Huayna Picchu instead of Machu Picchu on this tour. The itinerary specifically includes a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, which is the main highlight of the 2-day experience from Cusco.

Can I Book This Tour for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, this tour can accommodate groups larger than 4 people. The tour operator offers flexible group sizes and can tailor the experience to suit your party’s needs. Pricing may vary for larger groups, so it’s best to inquire about specifics.

The Sum Up

This two-day tour from Cusco offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s most iconic landmarks. Travelers will marvel at the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, then embark on a challenging hike to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, both showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. With all transportation, guided tours, and select meals included, this is an unforgettable adventure for any visitor to the heart of the Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here: