Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days / 4 Nights
Discover the best of the ancient Inca Empire with our Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights, a carefully crafted journey that combines history, culture, breathtaking landscapes, and two of Peru’s most iconic destinations—Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Explore the fascinating city of Cusco, visit its remarkable Inca archaeological sites, travel through the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas, and experience one of the New Seven Wonders of the World on an unforgettable adventure through the Peruvian Andes.
Our Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights includes visits to the Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo before boarding the scenic train to Machu Picchu.
Your adventure concludes with an unforgettable excursion to the colorful Rainbow Mountain, making this itinerary the perfect choice for travelers seeking the ultimate Cusco experience with expert local guides, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable memories.
Tour Overview
Our Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights combines Peru’s most iconic destinations into one unforgettable journey. Explore the historic city of Cusco, discover the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, visit the legendary Machu Picchu, and hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Carefully designed for comfort and unforgettable experiences, this itinerary offers the perfect combination of history, culture, breathtaking landscapes, and adventure.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Cusco’s most important Inca and colonial landmarks.
- Visit the impressive archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
- Discover the breathtaking Sacred Valley, including Taray Viewpoint, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo.
- Enjoy a scenic train journey through the Andes to Aguas Calientes.
- Experience a professionally guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain and admire its colorful mineral landscapes.
Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights at a Glance
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City Tour – Cathedral – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Qenqo – Puka Pukara – Tambomachay
Begin your adventure by exploring Cusco’s fascinating Inca and colonial heritage. Visit the city’s most important archaeological sites and discover the remarkable history, architecture, and traditions of the former capital of the Inca Empire.
Day 2: Sacred Valley – Taray Viewpoint – Pisac – Ollantaytambo – Train to Aguas Calientes
Journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, stopping at the panoramic Taray Viewpoint, the colorful Pisac Market, and the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo before boarding the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Experience the magic of Machu Picchu on a professionally guided tour as you explore its temples, terraces, and spectacular viewpoints before returning to Cusco through the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Day 4: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca – Cusco
Travel through the stunning Peruvian Andes and hike to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain. Admire its vibrant mineral-colored slopes while surrounded by snow-capped peaks and unforgettable mountain scenery.
Day 5: Cusco – Transfer to the Airport
Enjoy your final morning in Cusco before your scheduled airport transfer. Take with you unforgettable memories of Peru’s extraordinary history, breathtaking landscapes, and the incredible legacy of the Inca civilization.
Why Choose This Tour
- Visit Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in one complete itinerary.
- Discover Peru’s most iconic archaeological sites and breathtaking natural landscapes.
- Enjoy a carefully organized itinerary with experienced local guides.
- Travel comfortably with tourist transportation and scenic train service.
- Stay in carefully selected hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
- Receive personalized assistance before and throughout your journey.
Included
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure in Cusco.
- Round-trip transfers between your hotel and Ollantaytambo Train Station.
- Round-trip Expedition train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip shuttle bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Tourist transportation for all scheduled tours and excursions.
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and all archaeological sites included in the itinerary (except Cusco Cathedral).
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout all scheduled tours.
- 3 nights accommodation in Cusco with daily breakfast.
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes with breakfast.
- Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- 24/7 assistance and personalized customer support throughout your journey.
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket (optional – US$65 per person, subject to availability).
- Domestic and international flights.
- Meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal medications and items, including medication for altitude sickness.
- Travel insurance.
- Entrance fee to the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (optional – approximately S/10 per person).
- Excess baggage fees.
- Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and bottled water.
- Snacks and additional refreshments.
- Laundry service.
- National and international telephone calls.
- Personal expenses.
- Optional gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City Tour – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Qenqo – Puka Pukara – Tambomachay
Highlight of the Day: Discover the rich history of Cusco as you explore its most iconic Inca and colonial landmarks, including the magnificent Sacsayhuaman Fortress and the sacred Temple of the Sun.
Welcome to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to relax and acclimatize before your Cusco City Tour, which begins at 12:00 PM.
Your first stop is the impressive Cusco Cathedral, located on the Plaza de Armas, followed by a visit to Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), once the most important religious center of the Inca Empire. Continue to the impressive archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, famous for its enormous stone walls and spectacular panoramic views over Cusco.
The journey continues to Qenqo, an important ceremonial site, Puka Pukara, believed to have served as a military outpost, Tambomachay, known as the Temple of Water, and finally Cristo Blanco, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city before returning to your hotel around 6:00 PM.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
- Meals: None
- Entrance Tickets: Included
Day 2: Sacred Valley – Taray Viewpoint – Pisac – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the Day: Explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley, discover the colorful Pisac Market, visit Ollantaytambo Fortress, and enjoy a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes.
After breakfast, begin your full-day adventure through the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of Peru’s most beautiful regions. Your first stop is the Taray Viewpoint, where you’ll admire panoramic views of the fertile valley surrounded by majestic Andean mountains.
Continue to Pisac, famous for its vibrant artisan market and impressive Inca heritage. Browse colorful textiles, alpaca products, handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and traditional souvenirs before enjoying a delicious buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
In the afternoon, visit the remarkable fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved living Inca towns. Explore its impressive terraces, temples, and stone streets before boarding the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night preparing for your visit to Machu Picchu.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Breakfast & Buffet Lunch
- Entrance Tickets: Included
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Highlight of the Day: Witness the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu and explore the Lost City of the Incas with an expert guide before returning to Cusco through the spectacular Sacred Valley.
Start your day early with breakfast at your hotel before boarding one of the first shuttle buses to Machu Picchu, giving you the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas. As the morning mist slowly lifts, admire one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites surrounded by the majestic Andes.
Upon arrival, enjoy a professionally guided tour of Machu Picchu Citadel, where you’ll discover its fascinating history, remarkable architecture, and the mysteries that continue to captivate visitors from around the world. Explore the agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, residential quarters, and sacred plazas while learning how this magnificent sanctuary became one of the greatest achievements of the Inca civilization.
After your guided visit, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch (not included), browse the local artisan market, visit the Machu Picchu Museum, or simply relax before your return journey.
In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, traveling alongside the beautiful Urubamba River through the spectacular Sacred Valley. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery and, if conditions permit, catch a glimpse of the fascinating Wiñay Wayna archaeological site nestled high on the mountainside.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco.
Important Note: Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain requires a separate entrance ticket and is subject to limited availability. If you’d like to include either hike, please let us know at the time of booking.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast
- Entrance Tickets: Included
Day 4: Llactoc – Rainbow Mountain – Llactoc – Cusco
Highlight of the Day: Hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain and admire one of Peru’s most extraordinary natural landscapes surrounded by the breathtaking Andes.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up at approximately 4:30 AM. Travel through the beautiful South Valley to Cusipata, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing to Llactoc, the starting point of your hike.
After a short briefing from your guide, begin the scenic hike across the Andean highlands surrounded by herds of alpacas, llamas, and snow-capped mountains. Along the trail, you’ll pass traditional Apachetas before reaching the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at 5,020 m (16,466 ft).
Spend time enjoying the spectacular scenery, taking photographs, and admiring one of Peru’s most colorful natural wonders. Afterwards, descend along the same trail to Llactoc before returning to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch.
In the afternoon, travel back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM.
Optional: Horses are available for rent directly from local residents at the beginning of the hike.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
- Entrance Tickets: Included
Day 5: Transfer to Cusco Airport
Highlight of the Day: Enjoy your final moments in Cusco before your comfortable transfer to the airport.
After breakfast, enjoy some free time until your scheduled transfer to Cusco Airport. At the appropriate time, our representative will accompany you to the airport for your flight, bringing your unforgettable journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain to a close.
If you’d like to continue exploring Peru, our travel specialists will be happy to help you arrange additional tours or create a personalized itinerary for your next adventure.
- Accommodation: None
- Meals: Breakfast
Cusco Tours 5 Days / 4 Nights Prices
Hotel Category |
Single |
Double |
Triple |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard ★★ | US$ 789 | US$ 669 | US$ 609 |
| Superior ★★★ | US$ 889 | US$ 699 | US$ 649 |
| First Class ★★★★ | US$ 1,549 | US$ 1,059 | US$ 909 |
| Luxury ★★★★★ | On Request | On Request | On Request |
All prices are per person and based on room occupancy. Please contact us for private departures, holiday rates, luxury accommodations, or tailor-made travel packages.
Booking Information
Hotel Categories
- Standard: Affordable group tours with comfortable accommodations, perfect for travelers seeking excellent value and memorable experiences.
- Superior: Comfortable accommodations combined with well-organized group tours, offering the ideal balance between quality, service, and affordability.
- First Class: Private tours with personalized service, carefully selected hotels, and greater flexibility throughout your itinerary.
- Luxury: Exclusive private tours featuring premium accommodations, personalized attention, and tailor-made travel experiences.
Please Note: Hotel reservations are subject to availability at the time of booking. If your preferred hotel is unavailable, a similar hotel of the same category will be provided.
Student & Child Discounts
- Students: Receive a US$25 discount for eligible students. Please send us a copy of your valid passport and current student ID at the time of booking. Student discounts are subject to the current regulations established by the Peruvian authorities.
- Children (Under 18 years): Receive a US$25 discount. A copy of the child’s passport is required at the time of booking.
- Children (Under 11 years): Receive a US$30 discount. A copy of the child’s passport is required at the time of booking.
Optional Add-ons
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Entrance: US$65 per person (advance reservation required and subject to availability).
- Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance: US$65 per person (advance reservation required and subject to availability).
- Vistadome Train Upgrade (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): US$65 per person (one way). Available for Standard and Superior Packages. Advance reservation required.
- Domestic Flights (Lima – Cusco – Lima): Available upon request. Airfares vary depending on the travel season, airline availability, and booking date. Our team will be happy to provide the best available fare and arrange your flights as part of your travel package.
Cusco Tours 5 Days / 4 Nights Packing List
To help you make the most of your Cusco Tours 5 Days / 4 Nights, we recommend packing the following essential items for a comfortable and enjoyable journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.
- Original passport.
- Original International Student Identity Card (ISIC), if applicable.
- Travel insurance documents.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
- Warm jacket or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings.
- Lightweight clothing for warmer daytime temperatures.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes.
- Extra clothing for changing weather conditions.
- Sun hat or cap.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Insect repellent.
- Personal toiletries.
- Camera or smartphone for photos.
- Small day backpack for daily excursions.
- Earplugs (optional, for a more comfortable night’s sleep).
- Snacks for the journey.
- Sandals or flip-flops.
- Swimsuit (optional, if you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
- Personal medications, including altitude sickness medication if required.
- Extra cash for personal expenses, souvenirs, or optional activities.
Important Travel Information
Make the Most of Your Peru Adventure with Info Machu Picchu
At Info Machu Picchu, we’re committed to making your journey through Peru safe, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable. This guide provides essential travel information to help you prepare for your adventure, including important details about your tour briefing, balance payment, luggage storage, Machu Picchu entry regulations, transportation, and useful travel tips.
We recommend reading this information carefully before your tour begins. Being well prepared will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable experience while exploring Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the world-famous Machu Picchu.
Pre-Tour Briefing
Before your tour begins, one of our representatives will meet you at your hotel in Cusco for a personalized pre-tour briefing. You will also receive your final travel information and itinerary confirmation after your reservation has been confirmed.
During the briefing, we’ll review your complete itinerary, explain important travel recommendations, deliver your entrance tickets and transportation details, and answer any questions you may have before your adventure begins.
Outstanding Balance Payment
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least two days before your tour to ensure all services are confirmed.
Whenever possible, we recommend paying the remaining balance in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing in Cusco. Several ATMs are available along Avenida El Sol where both currencies can be withdrawn.
Payments by credit card, debit card, or PayPal are also accepted either online or in person. Please note that a 5% service fee applies to electronic payments through our payment providers.
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept personal checks or traveler’s checks.
Luggage Storage
Travel light during your adventure.
You may safely store your main luggage free of charge either at the Info Machu Picchu office (upon prior arrangement) or at your hotel while visiting Machu Picchu.
We recommend carrying only a small day backpack with the essentials you’ll need during your tour. Please avoid leaving valuables inside stored luggage. Whenever possible, use your hotel’s safety deposit box and request a receipt for valuable items.
Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits
To help preserve the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, all visitors must enter according to a designated circuit and scheduled entry time established by the Peruvian authorities.
Main Visitor Circuits
- Circuit 1: Panoramic viewpoints and upper terraces.
- Circuit 2: Classic route through the main temples and plazas.
- Circuit 3: Lower terraces and agricultural sector.
The circuit assigned to your visit will depend on ticket availability and current government regulations. Once you complete your designated route, re-entry to the archaeological site is not permitted.
If you would like to visit an additional circuit or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, please let us know when booking. Additional permits are subject to availability and extra cost.
Hotel Pick-Up
All scheduled pick-ups are available from hotels located within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed one day before your tour. Please note that traffic conditions and hotel locations may result in a variation of approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Some hotels and Airbnb properties are located on narrow pedestrian streets where vehicles cannot enter. In these cases, we’ll arrange the nearest convenient meeting point.
Returning from Machu Picchu
After your guided tour of Machu Picchu, you’ll board the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes.
From there, you’ll take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our transportation will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco.
All transportation included in your itinerary has been carefully coordinated by Info Machu Picchu, allowing you to relax and enjoy your journey without worrying about logistics.
Group Tours
Our group tours welcome travelers from different countries, ages, and fitness levels.
Everyone is encouraged to enjoy the experience at a comfortable pace while our professional guides ensure the group remains well organized throughout the tour.
Should operational adjustments become necessary, your guide will always make decisions based on the safety and comfort of the entire group.
Strikes and Demonstrations
Occasionally, strikes or demonstrations may occur in Peru and could affect roads, railway services, or transportation schedules.
Should this happen, Info Machu Picchu will make every reasonable effort to maintain your itinerary or arrange suitable alternatives whenever possible. Your safety will always remain our highest priority.Â
Lost & Forgotten Items
Guests are responsible for their personal belongings throughout the tour.
Before leaving any vehicle, hotel, restaurant, or attraction, please double-check that you have all your personal items with you. Avoid leaving valuables unattended at any time.
Although our team will gladly assist whenever possible, Info Machu Picchu cannot be held responsible for lost or forgotten personal belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rainbow Mountain is considered a moderate hike due to its high altitude of 5,020 m (16,466 ft) rather than its distance. The trail is relatively straightforward, and most travelers complete the hike at a comfortable pace with plenty of time to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Absolutely. Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights is one of the best itineraries for first-time visitors because it combines Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in a single, well-organized trip.
We always prioritize Circuit 2, as it offers the most complete experience of Machu Picchu. If Circuit 2 is unavailable for your travel date, we’ll reserve the best available alternative, usually Circuit 3 or Circuit 1, according to ticket availability and government regulations.
Yes. Horses are available for rent directly from local residents at the beginning of the hike. This is an excellent option for travelers who would like extra assistance during the ascent. Horse rental is optional and paid directly to the local horse owners.
The dry season, from April to October, offers the clearest skies and the best mountain views. However, Rainbow Mountain can be visited throughout the year, and each season offers a unique experience.
Cusco and Rainbow Mountain are located at high altitude, so some travelers may experience mild symptoms while acclimatizing. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least one day before the hike, staying well hydrated, and taking it easy during your first day.
We recommend booking several weeks or months in advance, especially during the high season. Early reservations provide the best opportunity to secure Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu, preferred train schedules, and your preferred hotel category.
Absolutely. While Machu Picchu showcases Peru’s extraordinary history and archaeological heritage, Rainbow Mountain offers a completely different experience with spectacular colorful landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes.
Yes. You may upgrade your return train journey to the Vistadome Train, which features panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Advance reservation is recommended.
Yes. This itinerary is available as both a shared group tour and a private service, allowing you to enjoy a more personalized experience with greater flexibility throughout your journey.
Yes. After your guided visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch, explore the artisan market, visit the local museum, or relax in the famous hot springs before boarding your return train.
Info Machu Picchu offers carefully designed itineraries, experienced local guides, comfortable accommodations, reliable transportation, and personalized assistance from the moment you book until your journey comes to an end.
Our goal is to provide an unforgettable travel experience while discovering the very best of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.
Starting From: USD 609 per person
Trip details:
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