Itinerary
Day 1 – Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes
Your experience begins with a morning pickup in Cusco. From there, you’ll travel through the fertile landscapes of the Sacred Valley, where Inca civilization once thrived.
You’ll visit iconic sites such as:
- Pisac ruins and terraces, perched high above the valley and offering sweeping views of terraced agricultural landscapes.
- Traditional Pisac Market, where local artisans display handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and Andean crafts.
- Ollantaytambo Fortress, an outstanding example of Inca military architecture with massive terraces and sculpted stone walls.
After exploring the Sacred Valley, you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes — the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Enjoy scenic views as the train winds along the Vilcanota River toward the cloud forest foothills. Once in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 2 – Machu Picchu Guided Visit & Return to Cusco
This is your Machu Picchu day.
You’ll rise early and take a short shuttle bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where your professional guide will lead you through the citadel’s most important sectors:
- The Main Plaza
- The Temple of the Sun
- The Intihuatana stone
- The Temple of the Three Windows
- Agricultural terraces and residential complexes
You’ll learn about Inca cosmology, architectural genius, and theories about the purpose of this ancient site. After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore, photograph, and absorb the atmosphere before descending to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
In the afternoon, board the return train to Ollantaytambo, then enjoy private ground transportation back to Cusco. Arrival back in Cusco is typically in the evening.
Day 3 – Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Hike
Your final day begins early with a hotel pickup in Cusco. You’ll head southeast toward the high Andean plains where Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) awaits — one of Peru’s most striking natural formations with striped hues of red, orange, gold, and turquoise.
From the trailhead, you’ll embark on a hike through sweeping high-altitude landscapes. The highest point of the route reaches around 5,200 meters (17,060 ft), so sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and good acclimatization are essential.
Once you reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks and valleys. After time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the scenery, you’ll return to Cusco, typically arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco (door-to-door service)
- Overland transportation for all transfers and tours
- 2 nights accommodation in twin/double or single rooms
- Daily breakfast
- Sacred Valley guided tour with professional guide
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Train tickets (Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes)
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Professional English-speaking guides for Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain
- Entrance ticket for Rainbow Mountain
- One lunch during the Rainbow Mountain day (varies by operator)
Not Included
- International or domestic flights
- Additional meals and drinks not specified
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Optional upgrades (train class upgrades, Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain permits)
- Personal expenses and extra services
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour physically demanding?
Yes. Because this itinerary involves high altitudes — especially at Rainbow Mountain, which reaches over 5,000 m (17,000 ft) — a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Prior acclimatization in Cusco can help make the experience more comfortable.
Do I need special gear?
You’ll want sturdy walking shoes, layered clothing for temperature changes, sun protection, a hat, water, snacks, and a small daypack. Trekking poles can be helpful for the Rainbow Mountain ascent.
Is Machu Picchu included?
Yes — entrance tickets, round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, guided tour of the site, and train tickets are included.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but permits are limited and must be booked in advance. Ask us about availability during booking.
How long is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
The trail typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way depending on pace and acclimatization, with gradual ascent at high altitude.
When is the best time to do this tour?
This itinerary is available year-round, but dry season months (May through September) often offer clearer skies and more comfortable hiking on Rainbow Mountain.
