Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain tour

A 3-Day Adventure Through the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain

Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes via Pisac and Ollantaytambo – Explore the Sacred Valley

Then after you enjoy a delicious breakfast, your 3-day adventure starts with our Machupicchu Latin America guide picking you up between 7:00 am and 7:30 am.

We drive from Cusco through the Sacsayhuaman and Puca Pucara Inca sites, making our first stop at the “Manos de la Comunidad Rescue Center”.

Here, you get the chance to meet Alpacas, Llamas, and Vicuñas up close.

Descending towards the Taray lookout, we pause for one of the best panoramic shots of the Sacred Valley.

This viewpoint offers a stunning view of the valley’s lush agricultural terraces and towering Andean peaks.

From there, we continue to the Pisac Inca site, where you explore ancient temples, altars, and terraces while discovering the Inca Empire’s advanced agricultural innovations.

Moreover after visiting the Pisac traditional market, a bustling hub where you can interact with locals and find beautiful handmade souvenirs, we head to Urubamba for a buffet lunch (not included).

Then, we continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the most remarkable Inca citadels.

The fortress, with its massive stone terraces and a rock formation representing the Inca god Wiracocha, provides a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Finally, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying a scenic journey along the Vilcanota River.

As we pass through stunning valleys and towering mountain landscapes, the serene ride offers breathtaking views.

Upon arrival, our representative welcomes you and escorts you to your hotel.

• Fun Fact: The Vilcanota River, which flows through the Sacred Valley, held deep significance for the Incas, symbolizing the connection between Earth and the Milky Way.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

Thus after breakfast, get ready for the highlight of your trip: exploring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, your guide meets you at the hotel and takes you to the bus station for a scenic 30-minute ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Therefore as you step into the sacred citadel, your guide takes you through its most significant landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows.

In any case along the way, you’ll uncover fascinating stories about Inca history, religious beliefs, and the remarkable architectural techniques behind Machu Picchu’s construction.

• Legend: Many believe Machu Picchu served as a retreat for Incan nobility, though its true purpose remains a mystery. The energy of its stones is said to enhance spiritual strength.

After the tour, we descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and some free time to explore the town or shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, we board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport awaits to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Overnight: Cusco

Day 3: Rainbow Mountain Hiking Tour – Vinicunca (B, L)

On your final day, we start early! Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, your guide picks you up from your hotel, and we drive to Cusipata for breakfast.

In summary after refueling, we continue to the Rainbow Mountain trailhead at Fulawasipata, located at the base of the Ausangate Mountain range.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, immersing you in the breathtaking Andean landscape.

As we ascend, the mountain’s vibrant colors gradually appear, revealing the mineral-rich soil that creates its famous rainbow-like effect.

• Legend: According to Andean mythology, the gods painted the stripes of Rainbow Mountain as a symbol of the Earth’s diversity and abundance.

At the summit, take your time to rest, capture stunning photos, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views.

After enjoying the scenery, we begin our descent back to the trailhead and drive to Cusipata for lunch. In the afternoon, we return to Cusco, arriving at your hotel by 4:00 pm.

• Optional: If you have a flight departing after 6:00 pm, we can arrange a direct drop-off at the Cusco airport.

Overnight: Cusco (or optional airport transfer)

This 3-day adventure perfectly blends Inca history, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling hikes.

From exploring the ancient Pisac and Ollantaytambo Inca sites to marveling at the world-renowned Machu Picchu and the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain, this journey offers an unforgettable experience for travelers eager to immerse themselves in Peru’s natural and historical wonders.

This 3-day tour combines the beauty of the Sacred Valley, the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, and the colorful splendor of Rainbow Mountain. Here’s the detailed breakdown of your adventure:

Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac and Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: Between 7:00 am and 7:30 am, start your journey from Cusco.
• Sacsayhuaman & Puca Pucara: Pass by these iconic Inca sites on the way to the Sacred Valley.
• Manos de la Comunidad: Visit this rescue center to see Alpacas, Llamas, and Vicuñas.
• Pisac Inca Site: Explore Inca temples and terraces and learn about their advanced agricultural techniques.
• Pisac Market: Enjoy time to shop for souvenirs and interact with local artisans.
• Lunch in Urubamba (not included): Stop for a buffet lunch in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
• Ollantaytambo Inca Citadel: Visit this majestic Inca fortress with incredible terraces and a Wiracocha rock formation.
• Train to Aguas Calientes: Board the train to Aguas Calientes, admiring the views of the Vilcanota River along the way.
• Arrival in Aguas Calientes: Check in at your hotel and enjoy your evening at leisure.

Why it’s special?
The day provides a rich journey through the Sacred Valley, offering a mix of Inca history and spectacular landscapes, finishing with a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Day 2: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, head to the bus station for the 30-minute ride to Machu Picchu.
• Machu Picchu guided tour: Explore the citadel with your expert guide, visiting landmarks like the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, and more.
• Return to Aguas Calientes: Free time for lunch and shopping before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo.
• Private transfer back to Cusco: Arrive at your Cusco hotel in the evening.

Why it’s unforgettable?
A full-day guided exploration of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, offering a deep dive into the mysteries and history of the Inca Empire.

Day 3: Hike Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Quick itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: Early morning pick-up between 4:30 am and 5:00 am.
• Breakfast stop in Cusipata: Stop for breakfast before continuing to the trailhead.
• Hike to Rainbow Mountain: Start your 45-hour ascent to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain summit.
• Summit views: Enjoy panoramic views of Rainbow Mountain and the surrounding Andes.
• Lunch in Cusipata: After descending, stop for a traditional lunch before heading back to Cusco.
• Return to Cusco: Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon (Optional drop-off at the airport).

Why it’s an adventure?
The hike to Rainbow Mountain provides one of the most stunning visual experiences in Peru, with its colorful mineral-rich soil and breathtaking Andean views.

Includes / Does not Include

Includes:

• Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service).
• 2 Night hotel with private bathrooms and breakfast included (at your selected hotel in Twin/Double – Single – Triple rooms).
• 1 Lunch during the Rainbow Mountain.
• Sacred valley guided tour.
• Machupicchu guided tour.
• Rainbow Mountain Hiking tour.
• Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
• Round trip bus tickets in Machupicchu (Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes).
• Machupicchu and Rainbow mountain admission ticket.
• Professional English-speaking tour guide.
• Overland transportation for all transfers during the 2-day program.
• 1 Bottle of Water.
• Airport pick up (up to request).

Does not Include:

• International and domestic air tickets.
• Sacred valley admission ticket (70 Peruvian sol cash).
• 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.
• Saddle a horse during the rainbow mountain (120 Peruvian sol cash).
• Meals (Lunch, Dinner).
• Travel insurance (Highly recommended).
• Additional and personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, snacks).
• Gratuity (optional).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS