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6 Day Cusco Tour, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain

Discover the best of the Peruvian Andes on this 6-day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain tour. Designed for travelers seeking a perfect mix of Inca culture, breathtaking landscapes and adventure, this carefully planned itinerary takes you from the historic streets of Cusco to the Sacred Valley, the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu, and two of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude destinations.

Begin with a relaxed Cusco City Tour, visiting impressive Inca and colonial landmarks before exploring the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Moray, Maras and Ollantaytambo. Travel through the Andes aboard the Expedition train to Machu Picchu, then experience the dramatic beauty of Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain on unforgettable guided hikes.

This premium small-group Peru tour combines Peru’s most iconic attractions with comfortable hotel accommodations, experienced local guides, organized transfers, train tickets, entrance fees and daily assistance. From ancient Inca archaeological sites and traditional Andean communities to turquoise glacial lakes and vibrant mountain landscapes, every day is thoughtfully organized so you can enjoy Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Andes with comfort and confidence.

Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour

The 6-Day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour is an ideal way to discover the highlights of the Cusco region and experience some of Peru’s most iconic destinations in less than a week. With TreXperience, a 100% local Cusco tour operator, your hotels, train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance, transportation, guided excursions, entrance fees, and daily logistics are carefully arranged from your arrival in Cusco until your departure.

Begin your journey at a relaxed pace while exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley, then enjoy a guided visit to the legendary Machu Picchu. After discovering the region’s history and culture, take on two unforgettable high-altitude adventures: Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, each on a separate day. This carefully planned Peru itinerary balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, allowing you to acclimatize gradually while making the most of your time in the Cusco region.

Tour Highlights:

Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour: Executive Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco & Cusco City Tour

Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, our team will meet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, discover the highlights of the Cusco City Tour with a professional guide. Visit the impressive Qoricancha Temple, explore the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, and enjoy panoramic views of Cusco from the surrounding hills.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes

Explore the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas on a full-day guided tour. Visit a local alpaca farm and the Taray viewpoint before discovering the archaeological site and traditional market of Pisac. Continue to the fascinating agricultural terraces of Moray, the famous Maras Salt Mines, and the historic Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

In the evening, board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes, just below the famous Inca citadel.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco

Take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, where your professional guide will lead you through the ancient Inca citadel. Discover its remarkable temples, terraces, and stone structures while learning about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After your Machu Picchu guided tour, return by Expedition train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will take you comfortably back to Cusco.

Day 4: Humantay Lake Hiking Tour

Start your day early with a scenic journey toward the Salkantay region and begin your hike to Humantay Lake, one of the most spectacular natural attractions near Cusco. The trail leads through the high Andes to a stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped and rugged mountain peaks.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cusco after this unforgettable Humantay Lake tour.

Day 5: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour

Depart early from Cusco for your Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour. After breakfast at a local restaurant, continue toward the trailhead and begin your hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain, known for its striking layers of natural colors.

Reach the viewpoint for spectacular panoramic views of the Andes and, when weather and trail conditions permit, continue to the nearby Red Valley, another impressive high-altitude landscape. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cusco.

Day 6: Cusco Airport or Bus Station Transfer

Enjoy your final breakfast in Cusco before our team provides a convenient private transfer to Cusco Airport or the bus station, according to your departure schedule. Your 6-day Peru adventure comes to an end with unforgettable memories of Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake, and Rainbow Mountain.

Important Booking Information

Please note that the Machu Picchu tour itinerary and estimated travel times may change depending on weather and road conditions, official Machu Picchu entrance schedules, train availability, and the pace of the group. Our professional guides and local operations team will coordinate any necessary adjustments to ensure a safe, comfortable, and well-organized travel experience throughout your Cusco and Machu Picchu adventure.

Machu Picchu Circuit Included

Optional post-tour hiking experiences following your visit to Machu Picchu:

What makes Travel On Green the smart choice for your next journey?

Full Itinerary: 6-Day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour

Day 1: Cusco Airport Transfer & Cusco City Tour

Welcome to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire! Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, our team will welcome you and provide a comfortable transfer to your centrally located hotel. If you arrive early, you’ll have time to relax, stay hydrated, and gradually acclimatize to the high altitude before your afternoon sightseeing tour.

At approximately 1:00 p.m., your professional guide will meet you at your hotel and begin the Cusco City Tour. Start your exploration in the historic center, where you’ll discover the impressive Plaza de Armas, traditional Inca streets, Loreto Street, the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, and Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), one of the most important religious sites of the Inca civilization.

After exploring central Cusco, continue by tourist transportation to the archaeological sites located in the hills above the city. Visit the monumental Sacsayhuaman, the ceremonial site of Qenqo, the Inca military complex of Puca Pucara, and the water temple of Tambomachay.

Depending on the available time and local conditions, we may also make a short stop near Cristo Blanco, offering spectacular panoramic views over Cusco and the surrounding Andean mountains.

After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in Cusco, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac, Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo – Train to Aguas Calientes

After breakfast at your hotel, your Sacred Valley tour begins with a convenient pickup at 7:00 a.m. From Cusco, we travel through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by impressive Andean mountains and traditional villages.

Our first stop is a local alpaca farm, where you can see llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos up close. You will also learn about traditional Andean weaving techniques and the production of handmade textiles using local alpaca and llama fibers.

We then continue to the Taray viewpoint, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, the surrounding Andes, and the winding Urubamba River. From here, we travel to Pisac, one of the most important archaeological sites in the valley, where you can explore the impressive Pisac Inca ruins and browse the colorful local handicraft market.

Our journey continues to Moray, an extraordinary Inca agricultural site famous for its concentric circular terraces. We then visit the Maras Salt Mines, where hundreds of salt ponds are still maintained by local families using traditional methods passed down through generations.

Around midday, we stop in Urubamba for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, with time to enjoy regional flavors and the beautiful scenery of the Sacred Valley.

In the afternoon, we visit Ollantaytambo, a remarkable living Inca town and one of the most important archaeological attractions in the Sacred Valley. After exploring its ancient streets, terraces, and impressive Inca fortress, we head to the train station to board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your selected hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you can relax and prepare for the following day’s unforgettable Machu Picchu tour.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco

After breakfast at your hotel, we take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, allowing you to start your visit early and enjoy the citadel with your professional guide. At the entrance, you must present your original passport and official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

Your guide will lead a 2 to 3-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, following the official circuit assigned to your reservation. During the visit, discover the most important archaeological sites and viewpoints permitted by your circuit, including ancient terraces, temples, sacred areas, royal sectors, and key viewpoints. Along the way, learn about Inca history, architecture, culture, and daily life from your knowledgeable local guide.

Whenever tickets are available, we request Machu Picchu Circuit 2, one of the most comprehensive options for exploring the historic sanctuary. If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we will secure the best official circuit available for your travel date, typically Circuit 1 or Circuit 3, according to current ticket availability.

If you have reserved Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance, you may complete the hike after your guided tour, subject to your official ticket, assigned circuit, entrance time, and available schedule. Please note that only one optional mountain hike can be selected.

After your Machu Picchu tour, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at your own expense. In the afternoon, board the Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.

You can expect to arrive in Cusco at approximately 7:30 p.m., although the exact arrival time may vary depending on train schedules, road conditions, and operational circumstances.

Day 4: Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco

Your Humantay Lake tour begins with an early 4:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel toward the Salkantay region, stopping in Mollepata for breakfast at a local restaurant before continuing to Soraypampa, the starting point of the Humantay Lake hike.

From Soraypampa, we begin a challenging uphill trek toward the spectacular Humantay Lake, located at approximately 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level. The ascent takes around 2 hours, depending on your pace and altitude conditions. Once you reach the lake, take time to admire its striking turquoise waters, capture memorable photos, and enjoy panoramic views of Humantay Mountain and Salkantay Mountain.

After exploring Humantay Lake, we hike back down to Soraypampa, where our transportation will take you to a local restaurant for lunch. Afterward, we begin the journey back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:00 p.m.

This Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco combines an adventurous high-altitude hike with some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the Peruvian Andes.

Day 5: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour from Cusco

Your Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour from Cusco begins with an early 4:00 a.m. hotel pickup. Travel through the scenic Andean countryside toward the Ausangate region, one of the most spectacular areas in the Peruvian Andes. Before starting the hike, enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant near the trailhead.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) starts with a steady uphill walk through the high-altitude Andean landscape. Once you reach the summit, take in the famous multicolored mountain slopes, panoramic views of the surrounding Andes, and spectacular scenery overlooking the Ausangate region.

After exploring Rainbow Mountain, continue for approximately 25 minutes to Red Valley, weather and trail conditions permitting. Known for its striking red and terracotta-colored landscapes, Red Valley offers a quieter and less crowded experience while providing excellent opportunities for photographs.

After visiting Red Valley, return to the trailhead and enjoy lunch at the local restaurant before beginning the journey back to Cusco. You can expect to arrive at your hotel at approximately 6:00 p.m., completing an unforgettable day exploring Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in Peru.

Day 6: Cusco Departure & Airport Transfer

Enjoy your final morning in Cusco after completing your 5-day journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain. After breakfast at your hotel, you may have some free time to relax, explore the city, or enjoy a final coffee, depending on your scheduled flight or bus departure.

At the agreed time, our Travel On Green representative will meet you at your hotel and provide a comfortable private transfer to Cusco Airport or the bus station, ensuring you arrive with plenty of time for your departure.

Thank you for choosing Travel On Green for your Peru adventure. We hope you leave Cusco with unforgettable memories of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the Andes.

6-Day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow

Join our premium small-group 6-day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain tour and experience the highlights of the Cusco region in one carefully planned Peru itinerary. This complete tour package combines cultural experiences, breathtaking Andean landscapes, and unforgettable visits to Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and Red Valley.

Your journey includes selected hotel accommodations, professional guided tours, entrance tickets, scenic train travel to Machu Picchu, the official Machu Picchu bus, airport transfers, and local assistance throughout your stay. From your arrival in Cusco to your final departure, our local team coordinates each part of your itinerary so you can enjoy your Peru adventure with confidence and comfort.

Prices are listed per person in USD and may vary according to hotel availability, room category, train schedule, Machu Picchu ticket availability, and optional upgrades. Private services, hotel upgrades, and premium train options are also available upon request. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your travel preferences.

Group tour: Price per person

Group tour: Price per person

A private tour is the perfect choice for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a more flexible and personalized travel experience. Enjoy a private guide, a customized itinerary, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, with a schedule adapted to your interests and travel preferences.

Booking and payment

Student Discount

Important Booking Information

Important Booking Information

Cusco & Machu Picchu 6-Day Packing List

The 6-Day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour is an unforgettable Peru adventure combining cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and some of the country’s most iconic destinations. Explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley, enjoy a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes, spend one night near Machu Picchu, and discover the spectacular Machu Picchu citadel, Humantay Lake, and Rainbow Mountain.

For a comfortable journey, pack light and dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the high-altitude mountain destinations. When traveling by train to Machu Picchu, bring a small overnight bag or carry-on with your essential belongings. Your main luggage can remain securely stored in Cusco during your excursion to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.

This Cusco and Machu Picchu 6-day itinerary is designed to make your Peru vacation easier and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on exploring the Andes without carrying unnecessary luggage throughout the trip.

Essentials

Keep these essential travel items with you throughout your Peru trip, especially during the Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour, train journey to Machu Picchu, and your visit to the iconic Inca citadel.

What should you wear to make the right impression?

For this 6-day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain tour, pack comfortable clothing, suitable walking shoes, a light jacket, sun protection, personal toiletries, and any medication you may need. Weather conditions can change throughout the day, so dressing in layers is highly recommended.

Daypack Essentials: What You Should Carry for the Day

Travel smart by keeping your daypack light and comfortable. Please note that entry to Machu Picchu allows backpacks up to 40 × 35 × 20 cm (16 × 14 × 8 inches). We recommend leaving any extra belongings at your hotel.

Trekking poles can be very helpful for navigating stairs and downhill sections. If you plan to use them, they must be equipped with rubber tips. Please keep in mind that trekking poles are not permitted inside Machu Picchu.

What can you rent with Travel On Green?

Forgot an essential item? No problem—we offer a selection of camping gear available for rent at an additional cost, ensuring you’re fully equipped without any hassle.

What to Pack in Your Daypack for the Cusco & Machu Picchu 6-Day

Your daypack will be your essential companion throughout your 6 Day Cusco Tour, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain. Since you will be walking and exploring throughout the day, we recommend keeping your backpack lightweight and carrying only the essentials you may need along the way.

Here is a practical Machu Picchu daypack packing list to help you prepare for your trip:

Keep Your Daypack Light

You do not need to carry everything you packed for your trip. For your Cusco & Machu Picchu 6-Day , a small and comfortable daypack is usually the best option. Pack the essentials, keep your belongings organized, and leave unnecessary items at your hotel or designated luggage storage.

Being well-prepared will allow you to enjoy the 6-day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain tour comfortably and without carrying unnecessary weight.

What to Pack for an Overnight Stay in Aguas Calientes

If your Machu Picchu tour includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, it is best to pack light and bring only the essentials you will need for one night and your visit to Machu Picchu the following morning. Your small carry-on luggage will travel with you by train and can be safely left at your hotel in Aguas Calientes while you explore the Machu Picchu citadel.

For your overnight stay, we recommend bringing:

Packing only the essentials will make your overnight trip to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu more comfortable, especially when traveling by train and visiting the archaeological site early in the morning.

6-Day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour - Travel Information

Below, you’ll find essential travel information to help you prepare for your cultural adventure in Cusco and Machu Picchu, including altitude, entrance tickets, Machu Picchu circuits, train travel, luggage requirements, weather conditions, optional upgrades, and responsible tourism tips.

Cusco City Tour

Begin your Peru adventure with a Cusco City Tour through the historic heart of the city, where impressive Inca stonework blends with Spanish colonial architecture. Explore the Main Square and visit Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) before heading into the hills above Cusco to discover some of the region’s most important Inca archaeological sites, including Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.

Sacred Valley: Pisac, Moray, Maras & Ollantaytambo

Discover the highlights of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on a full-day journey combining Andean culture, spectacular landscapes, traditional markets, and remarkable Inca engineering. Visit a local alpaca farm and the Taray viewpoint, explore the archaeological site and market of Pisac, admire the agricultural terraces of Moray, and discover the famous Maras Salt Mines. Continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru, before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

Experience one of Peru’s most iconic attractions with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel surrounded by spectacular Andean mountains. From Aguas Calientes, take the official shuttle bus to the entrance, where your professional guide will lead you through the Machu Picchu archaeological site according to the official circuit assigned to your ticket. Discover ancient temples, agricultural terraces, royal sectors, ceremonial areas, water channels, and remarkable examples of Inca architecture and engineering.

Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise glacial lake near Soraypampa, surrounded by the impressive Humantay and Salkantay mountains in the Peruvian Andes. The Humantay Lake hike from Cusco is a shorter day trek compared with multi-day routes, making it a popular adventure for travelers seeking breathtaking mountain scenery. However, the trail reaches a high altitude, so acclimatization, a steady hiking pace, comfortable clothing, and warm layers are recommended for a more enjoyable experience.

Rainbow Mountain

Complete your Peru adventure with an unforgettable Rainbow Mountain hike in the high Andes near the Ausangate mountain range. The trek reaches elevations of more than 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the distinctive colorful mineral formations of Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain. The challenging high-altitude trail combines dramatic Andean scenery with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.

This 5-day Cusco tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Peru in one well-organized journey, combining Cusco’s history and local culture, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the breathtaking landscapes of Rainbow Mountain.

Designed especially for first-time visitors, this complete Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain tour includes the essential arrangements for a stress-free trip, including selected hotels, airport and tour transfers, entrance tickets, train transportation, professional guides, and coordinated daily services. You can focus on enjoying the sights while our local team takes care of the logistics throughout your journey.

Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level, so it is common for visitors to notice the high altitude shortly after arrival. To make the transition easier, the first day of this itinerary is intentionally relaxed. It includes airport pickup, hotel check-in, and a half-day Cusco City Tour in the afternoon, allowing you time to rest and gradually adjust to the elevation.

The Sacred Valley is situated at a lower altitude than Cusco, which many travelers find more comfortable during the first days of their trip. When arriving in Cusco, stay well hydrated, choose light meals, avoid excessive alcohol, and take your time when walking or climbing stairs. These simple precautions can help your body adjust to the high altitude in Cusco.

If you have concerns about altitude sickness or traveling to high elevations, consult a qualified healthcare professional before your trip and review official high-altitude travel recommendations.

Machu Picchu visits are organized according to the official Machu Picchu circuits and designated entry times. Your admission ticket specifies the circuit, route, and entry time assigned to you, and your professional guide will follow the official route included with your ticket.

When available, we request Machu Picchu Circuit 2, one of the most comprehensive options for exploring the archaeological site with a guide. If Circuit 2 is no longer available, we secure the best available alternative, typically Circuit 1 or Circuit 3, depending on official ticket availability.

For a detailed explanation of each route, visit our [Machu Picchu Circuits Guide] or check the [Official Machu Picchu Circuits and Routes] published by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

Enhance your Machu Picchu experience with an optional hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, subject to official ticket availability, designated entry times, and your train schedule. These mountain hikes are not included in the standard tour price and must be requested and booked in advance.

Please note that only one mountain hike can be selected per visitor. If hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is an essential part of your trip, we recommend contacting us before booking. Our local team can check the available Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train schedules to help coordinate the best combination for your travel date.

The Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco) provides access to several of the most important archaeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, including Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray.

All entrance fees for the attractions included in this itinerary are covered, so you can explore these historic sites without purchasing additional tickets during the tour. For the latest official information about the Cusco Tourist Ticket, included attractions, and admission policies, please visit the official COSITUC Cusco Tourist Ticket website.

The Humantay Lake hike in Peru is a moderately challenging trek, with the main difficulty coming from the high altitude rather than technical terrain. The uphill hike generally takes around 2 hours, followed by approximately 2 hours downhill, depending on your pace and acclimatization. You do not need to be an experienced hiker, but you should feel comfortable walking uphill at high elevation.

Located at approximately 4,200 m (13,779 ft) above sea level, Humantay Lake offers spectacular views of turquoise waters surrounded by the Andes. Because of the altitude, it is important to walk at a steady pace and stay hydrated. We recommend bringing warm layers, plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun protection for a more comfortable Humantay Lake trek from Cusco.

The Rainbow Mountain hike in Peru is not technically difficult, but the high altitude makes it a challenging experience. The trail involves a steady uphill climb across exposed terrain and reaches approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft) above sea level. The main challenge is the altitude rather than the technical difficulty of the trail.

We place Rainbow Mountain toward the end of the itinerary to give you more time to acclimatize to the high elevation in Cusco and the surrounding Andes. Wearing comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers, sun protection, and carrying enough water can make a significant difference. Taking the hike at a steady pace, with regular breaks and time to adjust to the altitude, helps you enjoy the spectacular landscapes and colorful mountain scenery more comfortably.

During your Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain tours, breakfast and lunch are served at carefully selected local restaurants, giving you the opportunity to enjoy fresh, comforting meals before and after your high-altitude hikes. These local dining stops provide a relaxing break and a more authentic experience while exploring the Cusco region.

If you have any dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, food allergies, or other special requests, please let us know in advance. We will coordinate your meals accordingly to help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain tour experience.

Red Valley is included in the Rainbow Mountain tour whenever weather, trail, visibility, and safety conditions are suitable. On the day of the tour, your professional guide will assess local conditions, group pace, trail accessibility, and visibility before confirming the visit to Red Valley. This approach helps ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience at high altitude.

The weather in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu can vary considerably because each destination has its own microclimate. During your trip, you may encounter chilly mornings and cool evenings in Cusco, warmer and sunnier conditions in the Sacred Valley, and warm, humid weather in Aguas Calientes and around Machu Picchu.

Dry Season (April to October): This is generally the drier period, with more frequent clear skies, sunny days, and cooler temperatures at night. These conditions can be ideal for sightseeing and hiking, although early mornings in Cusco and higher-altitude areas can still feel cold.

Rainy Season (November to March): Rain showers become more frequent, while the surrounding mountains and valleys become especially green and lush. Rainfall can vary from day to day, so it is still possible to enjoy periods of sunshine during your visit.

Because of these changing conditions, we recommend dressing in layers and carrying a lightweight rain jacket or waterproof protection in your daypack. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and extra layers are also useful when exploring Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.

For additional trip-planning information, read our Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu guide and check the latest Machu Picchu weather forecast before your journey.

Our standard Machu Picchu package includes the Expedition train and comfortable 3-star hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. For travelers looking for a more scenic and immersive journey to Machu Picchu, you can upgrade to the Vistadome Train or Vistadome Observatory, subject to availability.

You can also request hotel upgrades in Cusco or Aguas Calientes for a more comfortable stay. If you are looking for an elevated travel experience with premium accommodations, upgraded train services, and personalized arrangements, explore our Luxury Machu Picchu Tours.

At Travel On Green, we are a 100% Peruvian local tour operator committed to creating premium travel experiences while supporting responsible and sustainable tourism in Peru. We encourage every traveler to respect local communities, ask permission before taking close-up photos of local people, reduce the use of single-use plastics, remain on designated trails, and always follow your guide’s instructions when visiting archaeological sites.

When visiting Machu Picchu, please follow your assigned visitor circuit, arrive within your scheduled entry time, respect restricted areas, and help preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site for future generations. By traveling responsibly, you contribute to the conservation of Machu Picchu and Peru’s cultural heritage while enjoying a more meaningful travel experience.

For complete information about visitor regulations, entrance requirements, and responsible travel recommendations, please read our Machu Picchu Rules Guide.

6-Day Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake & Rainbow Mountain Tour: Frequently Asked Questions

This 6-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is ideal for travelers looking to experience the best of Cusco and the Andes in one unforgettable journey. Explore ancient history and local culture, discover the Sacred Valley, visit the iconic Machu Picchu, and hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and Red Valley.

This 6-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour package includes airport pickup and departure transfers, carefully selected hotels, and guided experiences at Cusco’s main attractions, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and Red Valley, weather and trail conditions permitting. The package also includes all entrance tickets specified in the itinerary, Expedition train tickets, the official Machu Picchu bus, professional bilingual guides, and meals indicated in the itinerary, providing a convenient and well-organized way to explore the highlights of Cusco and Peru.

The standard package includes 4 nights of accommodation in Cusco at San Agustin Hotel or a similar property, plus 1 night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) at Ferre Machu Picchu Hotel or a comparable option. Your exact hotels will be confirmed based on availability for your selected travel dates, while maintaining the same accommodation category and service standards.

The standard package includes the Expedition train to Machu Picchu. For a more scenic and comfortable journey through the Sacred Valley and Andes, you can request an upgrade to the Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train, subject to availability and an additional fee.

When available, we request Machu Picchu Circuit 2, one of the most comprehensive official circuits for exploring the ancient Inca citadel. If Circuit 2 is sold out, we arrange the best available official alternative, typically Circuit 1 or Circuit 3, depending on availability at the time of booking.

We recommend booking your Machu Picchu tour in advance to increase your chances of securing your preferred circuit and entrance time, especially during the high season.

For a detailed explanation of the different routes and what each one includes, read our Machu Picchu Circuits Guide.

Yes, optional mountain hikes at Machu Picchu are available subject to ticket availability. These hikes must be reserved in advance and are scheduled after your guided tour of Machu Picchu, depending on your itinerary and available time. Please note that you can select only one optional mountain hike per visit.

The Humantay Lake hike from Cusco is considered a moderate trek, with the high altitude being the main challenge rather than the distance. The uphill hike generally takes around 2 hours, followed by approximately 2 hours downhill. Maintaining a steady pace, staying hydrated, wearing comfortable hiking shoes, and bringing warm layers are essential for enjoying the Humantay Lake trek safely and comfortably.

The Rainbow Mountain hike, also known as Vinicunca, is a moderate to challenging trek due to its extreme altitude of approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft) above sea level. Although the trail is not technically difficult, the high elevation can make the hike physically demanding. For a more comfortable experience, we schedule the Rainbow Mountain tour toward the end of your itinerary, giving you additional time to acclimatize to the altitude in Cusco and the surrounding Andes.

Red Valley is included as part of the Rainbow Mountain tour when weather, trail, visibility, and safety conditions are suitable. Your professional local guide will assess the conditions on the day of the tour and make the final decision based on trail conditions, visibility, group pace, and overall traveler safety.

Yes. This 6-day Cusco and Machu Picchu itinerary is designed to allow gradual acclimatization before the higher-altitude hikes to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain. Spending time in Cusco, exploring the Sacred Valley, and visiting Machu Picchu first gives your body time to adjust to the altitude. We recommend arriving well rested, staying hydrated, eating light during your first days, and avoiding excessive alcohol. If you experience any discomfort or altitude-related symptoms, inform your guide immediately so the appropriate assistance can be provided.

Yes. Hotel upgrades are available on request, depending on availability. You can request boutique, 4-star, 5-star, or luxury hotel options in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.

The dry season in Cusco, from April to October, is generally considered one of the best times to visit Rainbow Mountain, offering clearer skies and more stable weather conditions. For the best chance of enjoying clear views of the colorful mountain landscape, May through September are particularly favorable. April and October are also excellent shoulder-season months, with fewer visitors while still offering good conditions for a Rainbow Mountain hike.

Yes, this 5-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is a great option for families traveling with active children and teenagers. The main consideration is Rainbow Mountain, located at a high altitude of approximately 5,100 meters (16,732 feet), so the hike can be physically demanding. Families traveling with children, older adults, or travelers with health considerations should contact us before booking. Our local Cusco travel team can recommend the most suitable itinerary, pace, and tour options for a safer and more comfortable experience.

Yes, this 5-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is a great option for families traveling with active children and teenagers. The main consideration is Rainbow Mountain, located at a high altitude of approximately 5,100 meters (16,732 feet), so the hike can be physically demanding. Families traveling with children, older adults, or travelers with health considerations should contact us before booking. Our local Cusco travel team can recommend the most suitable itinerary, pace, and tour options for a safer and more comfortable experience.

Price per person

From:
$ 750
USD
  • Tour Type: Small Group Experience
  • Duration: 6 Days / 5 Night
  • Activities: Hiking & Adventure Experiences
  • Average Group: Size Up to 12 travelers
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel Stay
  • Languages Available: English & Spanish

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