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Discover the best of Peru on a 5-day Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain tour, carefully designed for travelers who want to experience the region’s most iconic attractions without the hassle of organizing every detail.
Begin your journey with a Cusco City Tour, exploring historic landmarks and Inca sites before discovering the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo. Continue by Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy a guided visit to the legendary Inca citadel.
After allowing time to adjust to Cusco’s high altitude, end your adventure with a spectacular visit to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), famous for its naturally colorful landscapes and dramatic Andean scenery.
This 5-day Peru tour package includes carefully coordinated hotels, entrance tickets, train transportation, transfers, tour schedules, and local assistance. With a premium small-group experience and support from a local Cusco team, you can explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain comfortably while focusing on the experiences that make your trip to Peru unforgettable.
The Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 5-Day Tour is an ideal way to discover the highlights of Cusco and the surrounding Andes in a well-organized short trip. With Travel On Green, a 100% local Cusco-based tour operator, every essential detail is carefully arranged, including hotels, train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance, transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and local assistance throughout your journey.
Your 5-day Cusco itinerary begins with a relaxed arrival and a guided Cusco City Tour, giving you time to explore the city and adjust to the altitude. You then travel through the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas, visit the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu with a professional local guide, and complete your adventure at the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain in Peru.
This carefully designed Cusco, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain tour combines culture, history, nature, and gradual acclimatization. The itinerary allows you to explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley before reaching the higher elevations of Rainbow Mountain, creating a balanced experience for travelers who want to see the best of the region in just 5 days.
Arrive in Cusco and enjoy a convenient airport transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, begin your Cusco City Tour with your professional guide. Explore the historic center and visit the impressive Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), followed by the famous Inca archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views over Cusco and begin your journey through the history and culture of the Inca capital.
Discover the highlights of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on a full-day tour from Cusco. Visit a local alpaca farm and enjoy panoramic views from Taray before exploring the archaeological site and traditional market of Pisac. Continue to the fascinating circular terraces of Moray and the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, then visit the historic Inca town and archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. In the evening, board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you will spend the night.
Travel by bus from Aguas Calientes to the legendary Machu Picchu citadel. With your expert guide, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover its remarkable temples, terraces, and ancient Inca architecture. After your Machu Picchu guided tour, return to Aguas Calientes for your Expedition train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a private vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Set off early from Cusco for an unforgettable Rainbow Mountain tour. Enjoy a scenic journey through the Andes, followed by breakfast at a local restaurant before beginning your high-altitude hike to Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain of Peru. Walk at a steady pace while taking in dramatic Andean landscapes and spectacular views from the mountain summit. After the hike, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cusco in the evening.
Enjoy your final breakfast in Cusco before your scheduled transfer to Cusco Airport or the bus station. Your private transfer will be arranged according to your departure schedule, marking the end of your 5-day Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain tour.
Important Booking Information
The itinerary and estimated travel times may vary depending on weather conditions, road conditions, official Machu Picchu entrance schedules, train availability, and the pace of the group. Your guide and local operations team will coordinate the itinerary to ensure the safest and smoothest possible experience.
Welcome to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival at the airport, our team will meet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel in the city center. If you arrive early, you’ll have time to relax, settle in, and begin acclimatizing to the high altitude before your afternoon sightseeing tour.
At approximately 1:00 p.m., your professional guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin your Cusco City Tour. Start by exploring the historic center of Cusco, including the Main Square, traditional Inca streets, the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, Loreto Street, and Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), one of the most important religious sites of the Inca Empire.
The tour then continues by vehicle to the impressive Inca archaeological sites surrounding Cusco. Visit Sacsayhuaman, renowned for its enormous precisely fitted stone walls and spectacular views of the city. Continue to Qenqo, an ancient ceremonial and religious site, followed by Puca Pucara, a former Inca checkpoint, and Tambomachay, an important site associated with water, fountains, and Inca rituals.
If time and local conditions allow, we may also make a brief stop at Cristo Blanco, offering panoramic views across Cusco and the surrounding mountains.
At the end of the Cusco City Tour, we’ll return you to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free for you to relax, have dinner at your own pace, and prepare for the next day’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu adventure.
After breakfast at your hotel, your guide and private transportation will pick you up at approximately 7:00 a.m. to begin your Sacred Valley tour from Cusco. Today, you will explore ancient Inca sites, traditional Andean communities, spectacular mountain landscapes, and some of the most fascinating attractions in the Sacred Valley before continuing by train to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Your first stop is an Andean alpaca farm, where you can see llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos at close range. Learn about traditional Andean weaving techniques and discover how local artisans transform natural fibers into colorful textiles.
Continue to the Taray Viewpoint, a scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River. It is an excellent place to appreciate the dramatic mountains and agricultural landscapes that surround this historic region.
Next, explore Pisac, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Walk among its impressive Inca terraces and learn from your guide about the role of Pisac in agriculture, ceremonies, administration, and the protection of the valley. You will also have time to visit the Pisac local market, where you can browse traditional textiles, handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local Andean products.
The journey continues to Urubamba, where you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the remarkable Moray Inca terraces, a series of circular agricultural terraces built into a natural depression. Your guide will explain the theories surrounding their agricultural and experimental significance.
From Moray, continue to the Maras Salt Mines, an extraordinary network of thousands of small salt pools built into the mountainside. Local families continue to harvest salt using traditional techniques, making Maras one of the most unique cultural attractions in the Cusco region.
Your final Sacred Valley destination is Ollantaytambo, a remarkable Inca archaeological site and one of the best-preserved living Inca towns in Peru. Explore its ancient streets, terraces, temples, and impressive stone structures while learning about its importance during the Inca Empire.
Later, board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, your local representative will assist you with the transfer to your selected hotel. Check in, relax, and prepare for your Machu Picchu visit the following morning.
Today, enjoy one of the main highlights of your Peru adventure: a guided visit to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, we head to the bus station to take the shuttle bus up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site. At the entrance, you must present your original passport together with your official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Once inside, your professional guide will lead you on a 2- to 3-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, following the official circuit assigned to your ticket. During the visit, you’ll discover the ancient Inca citadel and learn about its impressive agricultural terraces, temples, royal sectors, ceremonial areas, water channels, and finely carved stone architecture. Your guide will also explain the history, culture, and engineering behind one of the most iconic archaeological sites in South America.
Whenever availability allows, we request Machu Picchu Circuit 2, as it provides one of the most comprehensive routes for exploring the citadel. If Circuit 2 is unavailable for your travel date, we arrange the best official circuit available according to your ticket and entrance time.
Travelers who have purchased Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets in advance may complete their hike according to the official entry schedule and ticket conditions. The timing of the hike must be coordinated with your Machu Picchu entrance and guided tour.
After exploring Machu Picchu, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at a restaurant of your choice. Later, board the Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and enjoy the scenic journey through the Sacred Valley.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you directly back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel. The rest of the evening is free to relax after your Machu Picchu experience and prepare for your upcoming Rainbow Mountain tour.
Your Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco begins with an early morning hotel pickup, followed by a scenic drive of approximately three hours toward the Vinicunca area. As you travel through the high Andes, enjoy spectacular views of remote communities, traditional landscapes, and the impressive Ausangate mountain range.
Before starting the trek, stop at a local restaurant for breakfast with your guide. Afterward, begin the approximately 2.5-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain, one of the most iconic natural attractions near Cusco. Also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, the trail reaches a high altitude, so we recommend walking at a comfortable pace, maintaining steady breathing, and taking breaks whenever needed.
Once you reach Rainbow Mountain, take time to admire its distinctive multicolored mineral layers surrounded by the vast Andean landscape. Enjoy the panoramic views, take memorable photos, and rest at the viewpoint before beginning the descent.
After hiking back to the trailhead, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before starting the drive back to Cusco. You will arrive in the city in the evening and be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and spend your final night in Cusco.
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.
Experience the highlights of Peru on our 5-Day Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain Tour, designed for travelers who want to explore the region’s most iconic destinations in one carefully organized itinerary. Enjoy a premium small-group experience with selected hotel accommodations, professional guided tours, entrance tickets, scenic train travel, the Machu Picchu bus, Rainbow Mountain excursion, airport transfers, and local assistance throughout your trip.
From the historic streets of Cusco and the ancient archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley to the unforgettable landscapes of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, this 5-day Peru tour combines culture, history, adventure, and comfortable travel with the support of a local team from arrival to departure.
Prices are per person in USD and may vary according to hotel availability, room category, train schedule, Machu Picchu entrance availability, and optional upgrades. For travelers looking for a private Cusco and Machu Picchu tour, upgraded hotels, or premium train services, contact us for a personalized quotation tailored to your travel dates and preferences.
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.
Preparing for a 5-day Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain tour is easier when you pack for different climates and altitudes. Your itinerary includes Cusco sightseeing, the Sacred Valley, train travel to Machu Picchu, an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, a visit to Machu Picchu, and a high-altitude Rainbow Mountain hike. We recommend packing light, dressing in layers, and keeping your travel essentials easy to access.
You can travel to Peru with your main suitcase or larger luggage. However, for the Machu Picchu train journey and overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, it is best to take only a small overnight bag or carry-on with the essentials you need. Your larger suitcase can remain safely at your Cusco hotel or designated luggage storage, making your trip to Machu Picchu more comfortable and convenient.
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.
For this 2Machu Picchu 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.
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 before your Day 2 visit.
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.
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.
Your daypack will be your essential companion throughout your 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Car Hidroelectrica. 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 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Car Hidroelectrica , 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 Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the incredible landscapes of the Peruvian Andes comfortably and without carrying unnecessary weight.
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.
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.
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 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 Rainbow Mountain tour, breakfast and lunch are served at a local restaurant, providing a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience before and after your high-altitude hike. Enjoy a warm, freshly prepared meal and take a break before continuing your Rainbow Mountain adventure in Peru.
If you have any dietary requirements, please inform us in advance. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, food allergies, and other special dietary needs whenever possible.
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.
This 5-day Peru tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in one well-organized itinerary. It combines the classic Cusco and Machu Picchu experience with an unforgettable adventure to the colorful Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.
It is a great choice for first-time visitors, couples, families, and independent travelers who prefer to have their hotels, train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance, professional guides, transportation, and transfers arranged in one convenient package. This carefully planned itinerary allows you to explore the main attractions around Cusco while enjoying a smooth and hassle-free trip through the Peruvian Andes.
The package includes airport pickup and departure transfer, carefully selected 3-star hotels, a Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley tour, guided Machu Picchu visit, and Rainbow Mountain tour. It also includes the entrance tickets specified in the itinerary, round-trip Expedition train to Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu shuttle bus, professional English-speaking guides, 4 breakfasts, and 2 lunches.
With transportation, accommodation, tours, and key entrance tickets arranged in advance, this 5-day Cusco and Machu Picchu itinerary allows you to focus on discovering the history, culture, and spectacular landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
Standard Hotel Accommodation
The standard package includes carefully selected 3-star hotels for a comfortable stay throughout your journey. You will spend 3 nights in Cusco at San Agustin Hotel or a similar 3-star property, plus 1 night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) at Ferre Machu Picchu Hotel or a similar hotel.
Hotel assignments are subject to availability for your travel dates. If the listed hotel is unavailable, we will provide accommodation of a similar category and standard.
Machu Picchu Train Options
The standard package includes travel aboard the Expedition train to Machu Picchu. For a more scenic and comfortable journey, 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 Rainbow Mountain hike is considered a moderate trek, mainly due to the high altitude rather than the trail difficulty. Located in the Peruvian Andes, Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) reaches approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft) above sea level. To enjoy the hike safely and comfortably, it is important to walk at a steady pace, stay well hydrated, and wear warm layers to protect against the cold and changing mountain weather. No advanced trekking experience is required, but you should be comfortable walking uphill and hiking at high altitude.
Yes. This 5-day itinerary is designed to support gradual acclimatization to the high altitude of Cusco. Rainbow Mountain is scheduled after exploring Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, giving your body more time to adjust before reaching higher elevations. We recommend arriving well rested, staying hydrated, eating light meals during your first days, and avoiding excessive alcohol. If you experience any discomfort or altitude-related symptoms, inform your guide immediately so the team can assist you.
The 5-day tour includes 4 breakfasts and 2 lunches, with breakfast and lunch served at a local restaurant during the Rainbow Mountain tour. Other meals not specifically listed in the itinerary are not included, allowing you the flexibility to explore a variety of restaurants and enjoy the local cuisine in Cusco and Aguas Calientes at your own preference.
Yes. Hotel upgrades in Cusco and Aguas Calientes are available upon request and are subject to availability. Choose from boutique hotels, 4-star hotels, 5-star accommodations, or luxury hotels to enhance your stay during your Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu tour.
Yes. Our Cusco and Machu Picchu itinerary can be customized whenever availability allows. You can add extra nights, request a private tour, upgrade your train or hotel, or replace Rainbow Mountain with another popular Cusco experience, such as Humantay Lake. Custom itinerary options depend on your travel dates, ticket availability, hotel availability, and selected services.
You can travel to Cusco with your main luggage, but for your overnight stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), we recommend bringing only a small overnight bag. Train luggage restrictions apply, so large suitcases should be safely stored at your hotel in Cusco while you travel to Machu Picchu. Pack only the essentials you will need for your night in Aguas Calientes and your Machu Picchu visit.
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.
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