Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Tour 5 Days

Trip Details

• Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
• Starting and ending point: Cusco Airport
• Tour type: Cultural, historical and adventure
• Service: Group and private options
• Guide languages: English and Spanish
• Accommodation: 3-star hotels
• Train options: Expedition, Vistadome and Vistadome Observatory.

Why Choose Our 5-Day Machu Picchu Tour?

• Three iconic destinations: Explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.

• Complete travel arrangements: Enjoy organized transportation, train journeys, accommodation and guided excursions.

• Explore Machu Picchu: Discover the history and architecture of the Inca citadel with a professional bilingual guide.

• Scenic train experience: Choose between Expedition, Vistadome and Vistadome Observatory services.

• Comfortable accommodation: Stay in selected 3-star hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.

• Flexible travel options: Ask about group and private service.

• Local assistance: Receive support from our Cusco-based travel team before and during your trip.

Tour Highlights

Discover Machu Picchu

Explore the extraordinary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological destinations. Learn about its history, architecture and cultural significance during a guided visit.

Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Discover the impressive archaeological site of Pisac, browse its traditional market and visit the historic Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Sacred Valley before boarding your train to Aguas Calientes.

Experience Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Hike through the spectacular high-altitude landscapes of the Andes to reach the famous Rainbow Mountain. Admire its naturally colored slopes and enjoy impressive views of the surrounding mountains, including Ausangate.

Enjoy a Scenic Train Journey

Travel through the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. Choose the train category that best suits your travel preferences and budget.

5-Day Machu Picchu Explore Tour – Short Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
Airport pickup, hotel transfer, and free time to acclimatize and explore Cusco.

Day 2: Sacred Valley & Train to Aguas Calientes
Discover Pisac Market, Pisac archaeological site, and Ollantaytambo before taking the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Explore the legendary Inca citadel with a professional guide and enjoy its breathtaking mountain scenery.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain Adventure
Hike through the spectacular Andes to discover the colorful landscapes of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).

Day 5: Departure from Cusco
Enjoy your final morning before your scheduled transfer to Cusco Airport.

Optional Experience: Huayna Picchu Mountain

Add an unforgettable challenge to your Machu Picchu visit with an optional hike to Huayna Picchu, famous for its steep trails and spectacular panoramic views. An additional entrance ticket is required and must be reserved in advance, subject to availability.

5-Day Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Airport Transfer & Acclimatization

Welcome to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire!

Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is dedicated to resting and gradually adjusting to the altitude.

Cusco is located approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level. We recommend taking it easy, drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activities on your first day.

If you feel comfortable, explore the historic center, walk around Plaza de Armas and admire the beautiful combination of Inca stonework and colonial architecture.

In the evening, receive information about the upcoming excursions and prepare for your journey through the Andes.

Highlights:

• Airport pickup and hotel transfer.
• Time for acclimatization.
• Explore Cusco’s historic center independently.
• Visit Plaza de Armas.
• Tour briefing.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cusco.

Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Pisac, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo – Train to Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, begin your journey through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Your excursion includes a visit to the traditional Pisac Market, where you can discover colorful textiles, handicrafts and local products. Continue to the impressive Pisac archaeological site, famous for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures and panoramic views.

Travel through the valley to Urubamba, where you can enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery and experience the region’s traditional atmosphere.

Later, visit Ollantaytambo, an extraordinary Inca archaeological complex featuring massive stone terraces and impressive architectural remains.

In the afternoon, board your scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the town located below Machu Picchu. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the Urubamba River as you travel through the mountains and cloud forest.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Highlights:

• Pisac traditional market.
• Pisac archaeological site.
• Scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
• Ollantaytambo Inca fortress.
• Train journey to Aguas Calientes.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

Today is the highlight of your journey: visiting the legendary Machu Picchu.

After breakfast, take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the archaeological sanctuary.

Meet your professional guide and begin exploring this extraordinary Inca city. Discover its impressive stone architecture, agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas and sacred spaces while learning about the history and engineering of the Inca civilization.

Your Machu Picchu visit includes the entrance ticket and assigned circuit confirmed at the time of booking. Circuit 2 is requested when available.

After your guided experience, enjoy time for photographs according to the entrance route and visitor regulations.

Later, return to Aguas Calientes and board your scheduled train to Ollantaytambo. From there, continue by tourist transportation to Cusco.

Highlights:

• Round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Guided visit to Machu Picchu.
• Explore important archaeological sectors.
• Learn about Inca history and architecture.
• Scenic train journey back.
• Transfer to Cusco.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cusco.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain Trek – Vinicunca

Today, experience one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Peru: Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca.

Travel through the beautiful Andean countryside, passing traditional villages and mountain landscapes with views of the impressive Ausangate region.

Upon reaching the trailhead, begin your hike through the high-altitude landscape. Along the way, you may see alpacas and llamas grazing in the surrounding valleys.

The final viewpoint is approximately 5,020 meters (16,466 feet) above sea level, where you can admire the famous colorful mineral formations and panoramic views of the Andes.

The round-trip hike takes approximately 5–6 hours, depending on walking pace and trail conditions.

Need a little extra assistance? Horses are available for local rental during part of the ascent, offering an alternative for travelers who prefer additional support. Horse rentals are optional and paid locally.

After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, descend and return to Cusco.

Highlights:

• Visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
• Panoramic views of the Andes.
• Mountain scenery and Ausangate views.
• Opportunity to see alpacas and llamas.
• High-altitude hiking experience.

Maximum altitude: Approximately 5,020 m / 16,466 ft.

Hiking time: Approximately 5–6 hours round trip.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cusco.

Important: Rainbow Mountain is a demanding high-altitude excursion. A reasonable level of physical fitness and proper acclimatization in Cusco are strongly recommended. Horse rentals cover only part of the ascent and do not eliminate the physical challenges of high altitude.

Day 5: Cusco – Airport Transfer & Departure

Enjoy your final breakfast in Cusco and take some time to relax before your departure.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore the historic center, visit local artisan shops or purchase souvenirs.

At the appropriate time, our team will transfer you from your hotel to Cusco Airport.

Your five-day journey through the Peruvian Andes comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain.

Highlights:

• Breakfast at your hotel.
• Free time depending on your flight schedule.
• Hotel-to-airport transfer.
• End of your Machu Picchu Explorer Tour.

Machu Picchu Explorer Tour – What’s Included?

Your five-day package is organized to make traveling around Cusco and Machu Picchu convenient and comfortable.

Transportation & Transfers

• Airport pickup and drop-off in Cusco.
• Hotel and excursion transfers included in the itinerary.
• Tourist transportation for the Sacred Valley excursion.
• Tourist transportation for Rainbow Mountain.
• Round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
• Round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.

Entrance Tickets

• Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
• Sacred Valley entrance fees for the included archaeological sites.
• Rainbow Mountain entrance fee.
• Machu Picchu circuit confirmed according to ticket availability.

Accommodation

• Three nights in a 3-star hotel in Cusco.
• One night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Double or triple room occupancy.
• Hotel upgrades available upon request.

Professional Guides

• Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
• Guided Machu Picchu experience.
• Guided Sacred Valley excursion.
• Guided Rainbow Mountain excursion.
• Assistance from our local travel team.

Meals

Please refer to the confirmed meal schedule provided with your booking, as meals vary by excursion and accommodation arrangements.

What’s Not Included?

The following services are not included unless specifically confirmed in your booking:

• Lunches and dinners not specified in the final itinerary.
• Personal expenses and souvenirs.
• Tips for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
• Travel insurance.
• Optional Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
• Additional hotel nights.
• Hotel upgrades or additional services.

Machu Picchu Explorer Tour Prices

Choose the train service that best matches your travel preferences.

All prices are per person in US dollars, based on double or triple occupancy.

Single Room Supplement

For travelers who prefer a private room:

US$25 per night – US$100 for four nights.

Hotel Upgrades

Superior and luxury hotel categories are available upon request for an additional cost.

Child and Student Discounts

The published tour information offers a US$35 discount for eligible travelers under 18 years old. Please confirm eligibility and documentation requirements when requesting your quotation.

Accommodation During Your Journey

Your package includes four hotel nights: three in Cusco and one in Aguas Calientes.

Cusco – San Agustin International Hotel or Similar

Three nights in Cusco.

Enjoy a convenient location in the historic center, close to Plaza de Armas, restaurants, shops and local attractions.

Aguas Calientes – Yanay Collection Hotel or Similar

One night in Aguas Calientes.

Stay in the gateway town to Machu Picchu, providing convenient access to the bus station and the archaeological sanctuary.

Hotel Upgrades

If you prefer additional comfort, ask us about available superior and luxury hotel options.

Accommodation is subject to availability and final confirmation at the time of booking.

Important Travel Information

Altitude and Acclimatization

Cusco is located approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, while Rainbow Mountain reaches approximately 5,020 meters (16,466 feet).

We recommend allowing time to acclimatize before participating in strenuous activities.

Helpful recommendations include:

• Rest after arriving in Cusco.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Walk at a comfortable pace.
• Avoid strenuous exercise on your first day.
• Seek medical advice if you have concerns about traveling at high altitude.

Physical Requirements

This tour combines archaeological visits, walking through historic streets and a high-altitude hike.

Rainbow Mountain is the most physically demanding excursion. Travelers should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven terrain and at high elevations.

No technical climbing experience is required.

What Should You Pack?

We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable hiking boots or walking shoes.
• Waterproof jacket.
• Warm fleece or sweater.
• Comfortable trekking trousers.
• Hat and sunglasses.
• Sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Personal medications.
• Small daypack.
• Original passport.

Luggage for Machu Picchu

For the train journey to Aguas Calientes, we recommend carrying a small overnight bag with the essentials for your stay. Leave your main luggage at your Cusco hotel when luggage storage is available.

Best Time to Visit

The Cusco region can be visited throughout the year.

The dry season generally runs from April to October, while November to March is typically wetter, with greener landscapes and a greater chance of rain.

Weather conditions can change quickly in the Andes, particularly at high elevations.

Travel Insurance

We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip interruption, cancellations and personal belongings.

Frequently Asked Questions – Machu Picchu Explore Tour

How many days do I need to visit Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain?

Our itinerary takes five days and four nights, combining Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.

How much does the Machu Picchu Explore Tour cost?

The published price starts at US$690 per person with Expedition Train service. Vistadome costs US$760, and Vistadome Observatory costs US$830 per person.

Does the tour include Machu Picchu entrance tickets?

Yes. The package includes the official entrance ticket. The assigned circuit depends on ticket availability and must be confirmed during booking.

Is Circuit 2 included?

Circuit 2 is requested when available. If it cannot be secured, we will communicate the available alternatives before confirming the applicable ticket arrangements.

Does the tour include Huayna Picchu?

No. Huayna Picchu is an optional additional experience requiring a separate entrance ticket and advance reservation, subject to availability.

How difficult is Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is a moderate-to-challenging high-altitude hike. The summit reaches approximately 5,020 meters (16,466 feet), and the round-trip walking time is approximately 5–6 hours.

Do I need hiking experience?

Technical hiking experience is not required. However, a reasonable level of physical fitness and proper acclimatization are recommended.

What hotels are included?

The package includes three nights in Cusco and one night in Aguas Calientes in standard 3-star accommodation, based on double or triple occupancy.

Can I upgrade the train service?

Yes. You can choose Expedition, Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory service, subject to availability.

Can I book a private tour?

Private service can be requested. Contact our team for availability and a personalized quotation.

What language do the guides speak?

The published tour includes professional guides in English and Spanish.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend reserving as early as possible, particularly during the high season, because Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train seats and hotels have limited availability.

What documents are required to book?

We require the passenger information shown on the passport, including full name, passport number, nationality and date of birth. A valid original passport is required for Machu Picchu entry.

How do I reserve the tour?

Contact our travel team with your preferred travel date and number of passengers. We will check availability, provide the final quotation and explain the payment and confirmation process.