Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
7 Day
Experience the Heart of Peru: A Journey Through Inca History and Natural
Wonders
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Stepping into the Inca Empire
Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, the adventure
begins the moment you land. Our
Machupicchu Latin America representative will be
waiting to greet you and whisk you away to your hotel in the heart of
the city. As we drive through the historic streets, take in the sights
of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. The
rich energy of this city, nestled in the Andes, still
vibrates with the stories and legends of its ancient past.
Curious Fact: Did you know that Cusco was designed in the shape of a puma, one of the most sacred animals in Inca cosmology? It symbolized power and strength, and you'll see its influence as you explore the city.
Once at your hotel, you'll have time to relax and acclimatize to the
altitude, or if you're feeling adventurous, you can opt for an
afternoon city tour (extra cost) to visit iconic sites
like the Qorikancha Temple and the
San Pedro Market.
Myth: Locals believe that the Qorikancha, once covered in gold, was so bright it could reflect the sun's rays, and it served as the most important temple in the Inca world.
Overnight: Cusco
Welcome to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, where your adventure begins of your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Wonders - From Pisac to Ollantaytambo, and On to
Aguas Calientes
After a delicious breakfast, your journey through the
Sacred Valley begins. Between
7:00 am and 7:30 am, our guide will pick you up to
explore the ancient lands that were once the heart of Inca civilization.
As we pass through the Sacsayhuaman and
Puca Pucara ruins, you'll get your first glimpse into
the advanced engineering and artistry of the Incas.
Our first stop is at Manos de la Comunidad, where
you'll meet alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas—animals
revered by the Incas for their wool. We then head to
Taray lookout, offering some of the most breathtaking
views of the valley below, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
Legend: The Sacred Valley is said to have been protected by the goddess Pachamama, the Earth Mother, who blessed its lands with fertility and abundance.
Capture stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, an important center of Inca agriculture.
Next, we arrive at the Pisac Inca site, a stunning
archaeological wonder where you'll witness the ingenuity of Inca
agriculture and water management systems. After visiting the traditional
Pisac market, we head to Urubamba for
a buffet lunch surrounded by towering mountains.
Our final stop is the Ollantaytambo fortress, an
ancient citadel where you'll hear tales of the legendary Inca god
Wiracocha. As you explore the stone terraces, imagine
the Inca warriors standing here, defending their empire from invaders.
Curious Fact: The stones used to build Ollantaytambo were transported from a quarry across the Urubamba River—an engineering feat that still puzzles historians today.
In the afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes,
following the Vilcanota River through lush valleys and
soaring mountains.
Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
Day 3: Machu Picchu - A Journey to the Lost City of the Incas
Today is the day you've been waiting for. After breakfast, we'll head to
Machu Picchu, one of the
New Seven Wonders of the World. A short bus ride will
take us up the mountain, where you'll finally set your eyes on the
Inca citadel that has captivated travelers for
centuries.
Myth: According to Inca legends, Machu Picchu was not just a royal estate but a spiritual center. It's believed that this city was built to harness the energy of the surrounding mountains and the stars.
Accompanied by our expert guide, you'll explore its sacred temples,
agricultural terraces, and ceremonial altars, learning about the
mysteries that still surround this ancient site. After the tour, take
some free time to soak in the atmosphere or snap some photos before we
head back to
Aguas Calientes for lunch and a little shopping.
In the afternoon, board the train back to
Ollantaytambo, where we'll transfer you back to
Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Overnight: Cusco
Experience the majesty of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Day 4: Hiking the Rainbow Mountain - A Spectacle of Nature
Rise early today, as we embark on an unforgettable journey to
Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain.
Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, our guide will pick you up
for a scenic drive through the Andes. Along the way, we
stop for breakfast in the village of Cusipata before
continuing to the trailhead at Fulawasipata.
The hike takes about 1.5 hours, but the reward is beyond words. As you
reach the summit, the striking colors of the
Rainbow Mountain will unfold before you—a natural
wonder caused by mineral deposits in the soil.
Myth: The locals believe that the mountain's vibrant colors were painted by the gods as a gift to the people of the Andes, representing the diversity and richness of the land.
After enjoying the spectacular views, we'll descend and stop for lunch
in
Cusipata before heading back to Cusco.
Overnight: Cusco
Marvel at the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder formed by mineral deposits.
Day 5: Scenic Bus Ride to Puno - Exploring the Incan Legacy
Today, we head to Puno, but not before experiencing a
journey full of cultural treasures. Our bus departs at
6:20 am, taking you through the breathtaking landscapes
of the Andes. Along the way, you'll visit the
Andahuaylillas Church, known as the
Sistine Chapel of the Andes, and
Raqchi, the Wiracocha Temple dedicated
to the god of creation.
We stop for lunch in Sicuani before continuing to
La Raya, the highest point of the route, offering
magnificent views of the mountain range. Finally, we visit
Pucara, a museum filled with ancient relics from
pre-Inca civilizations, before arriving in Puno by the
shores of Lake Titicaca.
Overnight: Puno
Day 6: Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island - Discover Lake Titicaca
After breakfast, set sail on Lake Titicaca, the highest
navigable lake in the world. We first visit the
Uros Floating Islands, where the locals still live on
islands made entirely of reeds, preserving their unique way of life.
Legend: The Uros people believe they are the guardians of Lake Titicaca, which they consider to be the birthplace of the sun, and their islands are a reflection of the harmony between man and nature.
Explore the unique Uros Floating Islands, made entirely of reeds, where locals continue their ancient way of life
Next, we continue to Taquile Island, known for its
world-renowned weavers. Enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family
while taking in the views of the sparkling blue lake. Afterward, we sail
back to Puno for an afternoon of leisure.
Visit Taquile Island and meet the renowned weavers who have kept their traditions alive for centuries.
Overnight: Puno
Day 7: Departure from Puno
After breakfast, we'll transfer you to
Juliaca Airport for your flight back to
Lima, marking the end of your unforgettable journey
through the wonders of Peru.
This journey through Peru offers the perfect balance of
ancient history,
breathtaking landscapes, and
cultural immersion. Every day brings a new adventure,
revealing the secrets and splendor of the
Inca civilization and the beauty of the
Andes.
This 7-day journey will take you deep into the heart of Peru, exploring
the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire, hiking through the breathtaking
Rainbow Mountain, and sailing on the mystical Lake Titicaca. Let’s break
down the details of your adventure:
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Explore the Inca Capital
Quick itinerary:
Arrival in Cusco: You’ll be greeted at Cusco Airport by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Briefing: Learn all the details of your tour while enjoying the scenic ride through Cusco.
Optional city tour: Explore Cusco’s landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, and the vibrant San Pedro Market (extra cost).
Why it’s important?
This day allows you to settle into Cusco, get acclimated to the
altitude, and get your first taste of the city that was once the capital
of the Inca Empire.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour - Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Train to Aguas
Calientes
Quick itinerary:
Hotel pick-up: Between 7:00 am and 7:30 am.
Manos de la Comunidad Rescue Center: Meet alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas.
Taray Lookout: Take in panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Pisac Ruins and Market: Explore the Pisac Inca site and visit the traditional market.
Lunch in Urubamba (not included): Enjoy a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley.
Ollantaytambo Fortress: Visit this impressive Inca citadel.
Train to Aguas Calientes: Travel by train along the Vilcanota River, enjoying the stunning scenery.
Why it’s special?
This day offers a deep dive into the Sacred Valley, blending ancient
Inca ruins with local culture and incredible landscapes.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Return to Cusco
Quick itinerary:
Hotel pick-up: Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am.
Bus to Machu Picchu: Take a 30-minute bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu: Explore the mystical Inca citadel with your expert guide, visiting key sites like the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone.
Return to Aguas Calientes: Enjoy free time in town and have lunch (not included) before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo.
Transfer to Cusco: Arrive back in Cusco by around 6:30 pm.
Why it’s unforgettable?
Visiting Machu Picchu is the highlight of the tour, offering a unique
opportunity to experience one of the world’s most iconic archaeological
sites.
Day 4: Hiking Rainbow Mountain - A Day of Adventure
Quick itinerary:
Hotel pick-up: Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am.
Drive to Cusipata: Stop for breakfast in the village of Cusipata before continuing to the trailhead.
Hike to Rainbow Mountain: A 1.5-hour hike to the summit of Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the vibrant, multicolored landscape.
Return to Cusipata: After hiking back, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to Cusco.
Why it’s an adventure?
This hike through the Andes is a thrilling experience, with the striking
colors of Rainbow Mountain providing a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Day 5: Scenic Bus Ride to Puno - Exploring Inca and Pre-Inca Treasures
Quick itinerary:
Hotel pick-up at 6:20 am: Drive to the bus station for your journey to Puno.
Andahuaylillas: Visit the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.”
Raqchi: Explore the Wiracocha Temple, dedicated to the god of creation.
Sicuani: Stop for a buffet lunch.
La Raya Pass: Take in panoramic views at the highest point of the route.
Pucara Museum: Learn about ancient pre-Inca cultures before arriving in Puno around 5:00 pm.
Why it’s unique?
This scenic journey provides a deeper understanding of Inca and pre-Inca
history while offering stunning mountain views along the way.
Day 6: Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island Tour on Lake Titicaca
Quick itinerary:
Hotel pick-up at 7:00 am: Sail across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Visit Uros Floating Islands: Explore the unique lifestyle of the Uros people, who live on islands made entirely of reeds.
Taquile Island: Enjoy lunch with a local family and discover the traditional weaving techniques of the island’s renowned artisans.
Return to Puno: Arrive back at your hotel by 4:00 pm.
Why it’s fascinating?
This day offers a rare opportunity to experience the rich cultural
heritage of the indigenous communities of Lake Titicaca, living in
harmony with nature.
Day 7: Departure from Puno
Quick itinerary:
Hotel pick-up: Transfer to Juliaca Airport for your flight to Lima.
Why it’s convenient?
After an amazing week of exploration, you’ll be smoothly transferred for
your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure
through Peru.
Includes / Does not Include
Includes:
Airport/Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service).
6 Night hotel with private bathrooms and breakfast included (at your selected hotel in Twin/Double - Single - Triple rooms).
Lunches on Days 4, 5, 6.
Sacred valley guided tour.
Machupicchu guided tour.
Rainbow Mountain hiking tour.
Guided sightseeing bus tour from Cusco to Puno (Sun Route).
Uros floating and Taquile Island tour on the Lake Titicaca .
Round trip bus tickets in Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes).
Admission tickets to Machupicchu, Rainbow Mountain, Sun route to Puno, Lake Titicaca Islands .
Professional English-speaking tour guide.
Overland transportation for all transfers during the 7-day program.
1 Bottle of Water.
Does not Include:
International air tickets.
Domestic air tickets (Lima - Cusco / Juliaca - Lima).
Waynapicchu admission ticket US$ 65, it must be requested at the time of your booking and will be provided if available .
One-way Vistadome train upgrade US$ 55.
Optional tours: Cusco city tour or Moray - Salt Mines half day tours.
Admission tickets if you take the optional tour not included on the itinerary.
Meals (Lunch, Dinner).
Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
Additional and personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, snacks).
Gratuity (optional).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The hike to Rainbow Mountain is moderately challenging due to the high altitude (5,200 meters or 17,060 feet). The ascent takes about 1.5 hours, with gradual inclines. It's important to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed. For those who find the hike difficult, horseback rides are available for an additional cost.
Absolutely! The Sacred Valley offers a rich introduction to Inca history and stunning landscapes, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the picturesque villages that were crucial to the Inca Empire. Visiting these sites before Machu Picchu provides valuable context and deepens your appreciation for the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
Since Cusco and Rainbow Mountain are located at high altitudes, it’s recommended to spend your first day in Cusco adjusting to the elevation. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and eat light meals. Many travelers find coca tea or coca leaves helpful in easing altitude symptoms. If you’re concerned, consult your doctor about medication like acetazolamide.
For the Lake Titicaca tour, it’s essential to bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) as the sun can be intense at this high altitude. Dress in layers since the mornings and evenings are chilly but the afternoons can get warm. Don’t forget your camera to capture the unique lifestyle of the Uros people and the beauty of Taquile Island.
Please complete our BOOKING FORM carefully with your correct personal information.
a special one-day excursion
Select the experience that best suits your travel style
Sacred Valley via Chinchero Salt Mines Moray and ollantaytambo tour
1 Day Moderate
Discover Inca ingenuity on a half-day tour from Cusco: Chinchero's traditional textiles, Moray's agricultural terraces with microclimates, and Maras salt mines' 3,000 pools. Small group up to 12, hotel pick-up, moderate difficulty for enriching 2025 Peru cultural experiences.
Hike to vibrant Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) on a full-day tour from Cusco. Early pick-up, breakfast in Cusipata, 1.5-hour ascent to 5200m summit with panoramic views and Andean legends, descent, lunch, and return. Moderate difficulty, small group up to 12, includes guide and meals for enriching 2025 Peru nature experiences.
Sacred Valley Classic Pisac and Ollantaytambo tour
1 Day Moderate
Discover Peru's Sacred Valley on a 9-hour guided tour from Cusco. Explore Pisac ruins, artisan market, and Ollantaytambo fortress with massive terraces and Wiracocha rock. Small group up to 12, includes transport and cultural insights for enriching 2025 experiences.
Explore Cusco's highlights on a half-day tour: Plaza de Armas Cathedral, Koricancha Temple of the Sun, massive Sacsayhuaman fortress, Qenqo altars, Puca Pucara checkpoint, and Tambomachay water temple. Small group up to 12, moderate difficulty at 4630m, includes transport and guide for immersive 2025 Peru cultural journey.
South Valley Cusco Tour: Tipon Pikillaqta Andahuaylillas
Half day Moderate
Discover Cusco's South Valley on a half-day tour: Tipon's Inca water channels and terraces, Pikillaqta's pre-Inca Wari ruins, Andahuaylillas' baroque Sistine Chapel of the Americas. Includes Oropesa bread and Saylla chicharrones stops, small group up to 12, moderate difficulty for enriching 2025 cultural experiences.
Sacred Valley Machu Picchu and Home stay at Lake Titicaca
6 Day Easy to Moderate
6-Day Tour: Experience Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the Uros Floating Islands. Includes a unique home-stay with a local family for deep culture.
Best of Peru: Cusco, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca Tour
6 Day Moderate
6-Day tour covering Peru`s highlights: Cusco, Sacred Valley, the wonder of Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca, traveling via the scenic Sun Route (Andahuaylillas, Raqchi).
Explore Lima, Cusco with Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
7 Day Easy to Moderate
The essential 7-Day Peru tour: Explore Lima (Colonial & Modern), Cusco, the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo), and the world wonder of Machu Picchu.
5-Day tour focusing on Cusco`s main highlights: Sacred Valley, the wonder of Machu Picchu, and the breathtaking adventure to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Discover the treasures of Cusco and Machu Picchu on this 5-day adventure. Explore Sacred Valley, Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo, and the iconic Machu Picchu with guided tours, train rides, and hotel stays. Perfect for history lovers and Peru travelers in 2025.
Cusco to Puno Sun Route Lake Titicaca - Uros and Taquile Islands
3 Day Moderate
Experience Lake Titicaca on a 3-day tour from Cusco. Scenic Andean bus to Puno with stops at Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, and La Raya Pass. Visit Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island with guided tours, traditional lunch, and hotel stays. Ideal Peru cultural trip in 2025.
Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
3 Day Moderate
Hike the Short Inca Trail from Km 104 to Machu Picchu via Wiñay Wayna and Sun Gate. Explore Sacred Valley, Pisac ruins, Ollantaytambo, and guided Machu Picchu tour. 3-day adventure with train, hotels, and expert guides for 2025 Peru travelers.