Cusco: 5-Day Tour With Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain

Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, beckons with its captivating history and jaw-dropping natural beauty. This 5-day tour offers travelers a chance to experience the region’s iconic sites, from the majestic Machu Picchu to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. With a mix of guided exploration and independent discovery, the itinerary ensures an immersive and personalized journey through Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Cusco’s secrets.

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Key Points

A 5-day tour package covering Cusco city, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain, with prices starting from $560 per person.
Includes airport/bus terminal transfers, professional guides, entrance fees, select meals, and personalized advice throughout the journey.
Group size limited to 15 participants with bilingual live tour guides.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option available.
Recommended to wear comfortable shoes, carry a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water, and take precautions against altitude sickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day tour of Cusco and its surrounding areas offers travelers an immersive experience, with prices starting from $560.00 per person.

The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now & pay later option.

Group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with live tour guides available in Spanish and English.

Travelers can expect airport pickup, hotel transfers, and transportation throughout the tour, along with entrance fees to all archaeological sites.

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Itinerary

The tour begins on Day 1 with a Cusco City Tour. Guests will be picked up from the airport or bus terminal and transferred to their hotel. They’ll visit iconic sites like Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, Qenqo, and Puca Pucara, guided by a knowledgeable local. On Day 2, they’ll explore the Sacred Valley, visiting Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, before heading to Machu Picchu Pueblo for the night. Day 3 is dedicated to the main event – experiencing the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel. The tour continues with a visit to Rainbow Mountain on Day 4, before concluding with airport or bus terminal transfers on Day 5.

| Day | Location | Key Activities |

| — | — | — |

| 1 | Cusco | City Tour |

| 2 | Sacred Valley | Pisaq, Ollantaytambo |

| 3 | Machu Picchu | Machu Picchu Citadel |

| 4 | Rainbow Mountain | Rainbow Mountain Visit |

| 5 | Departure | Airport/Bus Terminal Transfers |

Inclusions

The tour package includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and comprehensive experience.

This tour package offers a seamless and comprehensive experience with a range of included services.

It covers airport or bus terminal pickup, transportation and professional guides for the city tour, Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain.

Entrance fees to all archaeological sites, a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, and a tourist train and bus transportation to and from Machu Picchu are included.

Travelers will also enjoy a professional guide at Machu Picchu, a lunch in Machu Picchu town, and meals during the Rainbow Mountain tour.

The tour provides constant personalized advice throughout the journey.

Important Information

Travelers should come prepared for the tour with comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water.

Pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users can’t join this tour.

Passport is required for entry to Machu Picchu. Visitors should be ready for varying weather conditions and take precautions against altitude sickness.

Meals not mentioned in the itinerary aren’t included, and travel insurance and tips are also not covered.

Smoking is prohibited during the tour. Participants should follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience throughout the 5-day tour.

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Getting to Cusco

Getting to Cusco is relatively straightforward, as the city boasts an international airport that receives flights from major hubs across the Americas and beyond. Visitors can also reach Cusco by bus, with regular services connecting it to other major cities in Peru. The journey by bus can take several hours, but it offers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking Andean scenery along the way.

| Airport | Distance | Travel Time |

| — | — | — |

| Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport | 5 km | 15 minutes |

| Cusco Bus Terminal | 2 km | 10 minutes |

| Plaza de Armas | 1 km | 5 minutes |

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Exploring Cusco City

Once visitors arrive in Cusco, they can embark on a captivating city tour to uncover the rich cultural heritage of this iconic Inca capital.

The tour takes them to the Koricancha, the former Inca temple of the sun, and Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca fortress with towering stone walls.

They’ll also visit Tambomachay, Qenqo, and Puca Pucara, ancient archaeological sites that showcase the engineering prowess of the Incas.

Throughout the day, a knowledgeable guide provides insights into Cusco’s history and significance, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

Afterward, visitors can relax and enjoy an overnight stay in the city.

Adventure in the Sacred Valley

What awaits visitors on the second day of the tour is an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley.

The day begins with a transfer to this iconic region, where they’ll visit the ancient Inca ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo.

At Pisaq, they’ll marvel at the intricate terraced farming structures and browse the colorful local market.

In Ollantaytambo, they’ll wander the narrow cobblestone streets and witness the impressive stone fortress.

After a buffet lunch, the tour continues to Machu Picchu Pueblo, the gateway to the iconic Incan citadel, where they’ll overnight before their visit the following day.

Conquering Rainbow Mountain

On the fourth day, tour participants embark on an exhilarating journey to conquer the majestic Rainbow Mountain. The trek takes them through stunning scenery, as they ascend nearly 5,200 meters (17,000 feet) above sea level. To prepare for the challenge, the tour provides the following recommendations:

| Tips for Rainbow Mountain | Important to Bring | Expect During the Trek |

| — | — | — |

| Acclimate to the altitude | Warm, layered clothing | Challenging terrain |

| Pace yourself on the climb | Hiking poles | Breathtaking views |

| Stay hydrated | Snacks and water | Altitude sickness prevention |

The Rainbow Mountain trek is a highlight of the Cusco tour, offering an unparalleled experience amidst the awe-inspiring Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take a Day Tour to Machu Picchu Instead of Staying Overnight?

Yes, you can take a day tour to Machu Picchu instead of staying overnight. This option allows you to visit the iconic site and return to Cusco the same day, without the need for an overnight stay.

Is There an Option to Hike to Machu Picchu Instead of Taking the Train?

There are multi-day hiking tours that allow travelers to hike to Machu Picchu instead of taking the train. However, this 5-day tour does not include a hiking option and only offers the train transfer.

Can I Add Additional Activities or Excursions to the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, you can add additional activities or excursions to the tour itinerary. The tour operator offers customization options, so you can tailor the experience to your interests and preferences.

Is It Possible to Extend the Stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley?

Yes, the tour can be extended. Travelers can add extra nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to explore more sites and activities at their own pace. Additional costs may apply for the extended stay.

Do You Provide Any Recommendations for Local Restaurants or Cultural Experiences?

The tour company can provide recommendations for local Cusco restaurants serving traditional Peruvian cuisine as well as suggestions for cultural experiences like visiting artisan markets, attending a Peruvian folk music performance, or taking a cooking class.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of Cusco and its surroundings. From the iconic Machu Picchu to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. With personalized service, comfortable transportation, and all necessary inclusions, it’s a must-experience for anyone seeking to discover the essence of this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: