Cusco: 5-Day Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain & Sacred Valley

Set out on a captivating 5-day journey through the heart of Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the historic wonders of Cusco, explore the enchanting Sacred Valley, and witness the majestic Machu Picchu. Then, challenge yourself with a hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, showcasing nature’s breathtaking artistry. This immersive adventure promises to leave you awestruck and eager to uncover more of Cusco’s hidden gems.

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Key Points

Explore the historic Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a private guided tour, visiting iconic landmarks like Plaza de Armas and Korikancha.
Discover the ancient Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, learning about their history and culture from local guides.
Enjoy a scenic train journey from the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, with various class options available.
Spend a full day exploring the Machu Picchu citadel with a private guide, learning about the Incan sanctuary and its key features.
Set out on a challenging hike to Humantay Lake and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, experiencing the stunning natural landscapes of the region.

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Cusco Exploration

After arriving in the historic city of Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, travelers embark on a private guided tour to explore its rich cultural legacy and vibrant atmosphere.

They’ll wander through the charming Plaza de Armas, admiring the Spanish colonial architecture and the imposing Cusco Cathedral.

The tour continues to the Korikancha, the "Temple of the Sun," where visitors learn about the Inca’s advanced engineering and religious beliefs.

Throughout the exploration, the guide shares insights into Cusco’s history, from its Inca origins to the Spanish conquest, providing context for the remarkable sites.

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Chinchero, Moray, and Maras

The tour then ventures into the Sacred Valley, where travelers explore the Inca archaeological sites of Chinchero, Moray, and Maras.

In Chinchero, they discover an ancient Inca town with colonial influences, including a vibrant textile market.

Next, they visit Moray, an intriguing archaeological site featuring enormous concentric terraces, believed to have been an Inca agricultural research station.

Finally, they explore the stunning Maras salt mines, where salt has been harvested from underground springs for centuries.

Throughout, guides provide insights into Inca history and culture, enriching the experience.

Train to Aguas Calientes

From the Sacred Valley, the tour then heads to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Travelers board a train for the scenic journey, passing through the Andes mountains and along the Urubamba River. The train ride takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Once in Aguas Calientes, guests have time to explore the quaint town before taking a shuttle bus up the winding road to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.

| ——————— | —— | —— | —— |

| Duration | 1.5 hrs | 2 hrs | |

| Price | $50 | $70 | $90 |

Machu Picchu Citadel

Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, visitors take a shuttle bus that winds up the mountainside to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.

This Incan sanctuary, perched atop a ridge, offers unparalleled views of the surrounding Andes.

With a private guide, travelers explore the ruins, learning about the site’s history, architecture, and the Inca’s remarkable engineering feats.

From the Sun Gate to the Inca Bridge, each corner of the citadel reveals more about the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

After a full day of discovery, visitors return to Aguas Calientes, satisfied with their immersion in the wonders of Machu Picchu.

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Hiking to Humantay Lake

After exploring the iconic Machu Picchu citadel, travelers embark on a scenic hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake.

The trail winds through stunning alpine landscapes, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. The approximately 4-hour hike gains 1,200 feet in elevation, challenging but rewarding those who make the trek.

At the lake, travelers can take in the breathtaking colors and serene atmosphere before returning the same way.

This excursion provides a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of the Andes, complementing the archaeological wonders of the tour.

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Visiting Rainbow Mountain

What concludes this comprehensive 5-day Machu Picchu tour is a visit to the renowned Rainbow Mountain. Known for its vibrant mineral layers, Rainbow Mountain offers a breathtaking experience. The hike can be challenging due to the high altitude, but the panoramic views make it well worth the effort. Proper preparation is essential, including appropriate gear and gradual acclimation. Visitors should also be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms and pack snacks and water. Though not wheelchair accessible, the trail is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 10.

| Rainbow Mountain Details | | |

|————————-|–|–|

| Duration | 6-8 hours | |

| Difficulty | Moderate-Difficult | |

| Altitude | 5,200 m (17,060 ft) | |

Accommodations and Meals

The tour package includes 4 nights’ accommodations at carefully selected hotels and lodges throughout the journey.

You’ll stay in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and have private bathrooms.

The tour provides 4 breakfasts and 2 lunches, giving you a taste of local Peruvian cuisine. Breakfasts typically include a variety of items like eggs, breads, fruits, and beverages.

Lunches feature regional dishes, often featuring ingredients from the Sacred Valley.

With all logistics handled, you can focus on enjoying the incredible sights and experiences on this tour.

Tour Inclusions and Information

This tour package includes a comprehensive set of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enriching travel experience.

Travelers will enjoy:

4 nights’ accommodations and 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches
All private transportation, including round-trip train and bus to Machu Picchu
Private tours of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with an English-speaking guide
Entrance fees to top attractions like Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain
Travel insurance and a dedicated Travel Concierge for support

The tour is limited to 15 participants and not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Inca Sites?

Yes, you can extend the tour to visit other Inca sites. The tour operator offers customizable itineraries, allowing you to add more destinations like Choquequirao or Salkantay to explore more of Peru’s rich Inca heritage.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cusco?

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, from May to September. This offers ideal weather for exploring the region’s ancient Inca sites and hiking activities. Crowds are also smaller compared to the rainy season.

Are There Any Optional Activities During the Tour?

Yes, the tour offers an optional Vistadome Train Upgrade for the journey to Machu Picchu, providing a more scenic and comfortable train experience. Travelers can select this upgrade when booking the tour.

Can I Book Private Transportation for Airport Transfers?

Yes, you can book private transportation for airport transfers. The tour includes round-trip private transportation, so you can arrange for a private transfer to and from the airport as part of your booking.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Hike Rainbow Mountain?

No, a special permit is not required to hike Rainbow Mountain. The tour includes entrance fees, so travelers can access the mountain as part of the guided excursion without needing to obtain any additional permits.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Cusco adventure provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the historic grandeur of Cusco to the natural wonders of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, this itinerary offers a well-balanced and immersive experience. Travelers can expect comfortable accommodations, scenic transportation, and expert local guidance throughout the journey, making it an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Peru.