Description
This 6-day package is the definitive expedition through the heart of the Andes. We have designed a progressive itinerary that allows for proper acclimatization, starting with the historical elegance of the city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, followed by the mystical energy of Machu Picchu, and culminating with the visual challenge of the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). It is the ideal trip for those who do not want to miss anything: from Inca agricultural laboratories and ancient salt mines to high mountain landscapes above 5,000 meters. Everything is organized with first-class logistics so that you only have to worry about enjoying.
Resume
- Day 1: Arrival in Cusco and City Tour (Cathedral, Qoricancha, and 4 archaeological sites).
- Day 2: Sacred Valley (Pisac and Ollantaytambo) with a train journey to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3: Encounter with the wonder: Guided tour in Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
- Day 4: Maras and Moray: Salt mines and agricultural laboratories + Textile tradition in Chinchero.
- Day 5: Adventure at the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and views of Ausangate.
- Day 6: Farewell and transfer to the Cusco airport.
Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CUSCO AND CITY TOUR We receive travelers at the airport or terrestrial terminal and transfer them to their hotel in Cusco. In the afternoon, around 1:00 p.m., we will start a City Tour: Return to the historical center of Cusco at approximately 6:00 p.m.
DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY – PISAC – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES Early departure to the Sacred Valley of the Incas: In the afternoon, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying the landscape of the Vilcanota River. Upon arrival, assistance to the hotel and free time to explore the town.
DAY 3: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO In the morning, transfer by bus to Machu Picchu (approx. 25 minutes) for a guided tour of the citadel: temples, plazas, terraces, and aqueducts. After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and exploration, and then take the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, transfer back to Cusco.
DAY 4: MARAS AND MORAY Departure from Cusco around 7:30 a.m. toward the Moray Archaeological Center, with its circular terraces used as an Inca agricultural laboratory. Then, a visit to the Maras Salt Mines, with its more than 3,000 salt pools. Returning to Cusco, a stop in Chinchero to visit a textile center and observe the elaboration of garments in alpaca fiber.
DAY 5: HIKE TO THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (VINICUNCA) Very early, transfer to the district of Cusipata – Paucarpata for breakfast. We continue toward the starting point of the hike. The hike lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, crossing Andean landscapes, alpacas, and llamas. Upon reaching the summit of Vinicunca (5,080 m / 16,667 ft), we will enjoy time for photos and to appreciate the unique colors of the mountain and the majesty of the snow-capped Ausangate. Return to the starting point for lunch and transfer to Cusco.
DAY 6: TRANSFER HOTEL – AIRPORT Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the airport for your return flight. Depending on the schedule, you can take advantage of one last walk through Cusco or buy souvenirs.
Include
Transfers: Pickup and return to the airport; tourist transportation for all the mentioned circuits.
Entrance fees: All entry tickets (Tourist Ticket, Qoricancha, Cathedral, Salt Mines, Machu Picchu, and Vinicunca Community). Train and Bus: Round-trip train tickets to Aguas Calientes and ascent bus to the citadel.
Accommodation: 4 nights in Cusco and 1 night in Aguas Calientes (with breakfast).
Guide: Certified professional bilingual guide for all excursions.
Meals: Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, breakfast and lunch on the Rainbow Mountain tour.
Not include
- International or domestic flights.
- Meals not detailed (dinners and some lunches).
- Tips and personal expenses.
Recommendations
- Comfortable and non-slip footwear; many hikes involve stairs and slopes.
- Small backpack with water, snacks, hat, sunscreen, and repellent.
- For Machu Picchu: arrive 30 min early at the train station; maximum 5 kg of luggage per person.
- For the Rainbow Mountain: carry a rain poncho and warm clothing.
- Carry cash in soles and dollars; some areas do not accept cards.
- Take advantage of the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
The visual experience
Important
Health and Acclimatization: The tour to the Rainbow Mountain reaches 5,080 meters above sea level. It is fundamental that this tour is performed at the end (Day 5) so that your body is already adapted to the altitude of Cusco. Luggage on the Train: Only one backpack or handbag of maximum 5 kg is allowed for the night in Aguas Calientes. Large luggage stays in your hotel in Cusco. Documentation: You must carry your physical and original Passport or ID at every checkpoint. Without the original document, you will not be able to board the train or enter Machu Picchu. Weather: On the Rainbow Mountain, the weather is unpredictable and cold; always carry warm clothing and a rain poncho, even if the day seems sunny.
