Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days / 4 Nights

This Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights takes you through the most incredible sights of Cusco, including a guided city tour, the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, the vibrant agricultural market in Pisac, the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, and the stunning Rainbow Mountain.

The final highlight of this unforgettable experience is a visit to the world-famous Machu Picchu.

• Explore the historic city of Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire.
• Visit the Sacred Valley, where you’ll discover the famous Pisac market and the ancient Ollantaytambo fortress.
• Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of Seven Colors.
• Journey to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most remarkable archaeological wonders in the world.
• Travel in a small group of 2-8 people for a more intimate and immersive experience with expert local guides.
• Enjoy a tour designed for those who want both rich Inca history and outdoor adventure.

By booking Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 4 Nights, you’re choosing the best. Check out our Tripadvisor reviews. Join one of the top-rated tours in Cusco and experience Peru like never before. Let Cusco Journeys make your Machu Picchu adventure unforgettable.

Day by Day Experience

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Puca Pucara – Tambomachay

Arrive in Cusco and transfer to your hotel. After a brief orientation of your tour, at 12:10 p.m., begin your exploration of the city’s top sites: Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun). From there, a 25-minute drive takes you to the ancient Inca site of Sacsayhuaman. The tour continues to Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, before returning to Cusco’s main square or your hotel if you have a private service.

Day 2: Sacred Valley – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Start your Sacred Valley tour with a visit to Pisac, known for its Inca ruins and vibrant artisan market. Continue to Urubamba for a traditional lunch. Then, explore Ollantaytambo, the only Inca town still inhabited, and its ancient fortress. In the afternoon, take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll rest and prepare for an early visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise. Your guided tour will cover the agricultural, residential, and religious sectors of the site. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and enjoy some free time to explore the town or visit the hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to Cusco by private vehicle.

Day 4: Llactoc – Rainbow Mountain – Llactoc – Cusco

Leave Cusco early at 4:30 a.m. for a scenic drive to Cusipata, where you’ll enjoy breakfast. Continue to Llactoc (3887 meters) to begin your hike to Rainbow Mountain (5020 meters). After a 1.5-hour walk, you’ll have 30 minutes to enjoy the stunning views before descending back to Cusipata for lunch. In the afternoon, return to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 p.m.

Day 5: Cusco – Transfer to the Airport

End your tour with a transfer to Cusco’s airport for your departure. If you wish to extend your trip, visit our tailor-made tours section for additional travel options.

Important:

Machu Picchu tickets, including Circuit 2, are subject to availability at the time of booking. If Circuit 2 is sold out, we will provide Circuit 1 or 3. To secure your preferred circuit and schedule, we highly recommend booking as early as possible, as tickets sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuaman – Puca Pucara – Tambomachay.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and meet your guide for a briefing on your upcoming Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights adventure. Today, you’ll start with a guided tour around Cusco to explore the city’s blend of Inca and colonial heritage.

At 12:10 p.m., we’ll meet you in the hotel lobby and head to Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Here, you’ll visit the famous Cathedral of Cusco, followed by a walk along an ancient Inca-built street to Q’oricancha, the Temple of the Sun. This site was the spiritual center of the Inca Empire, and you’ll be able to observe the contrast between Incan and Catholic architecture.

Next, we’ll take a 25-minute bus ride to Sacsayhuaman, an impressive Inca site known for its massive 200-ton monoliths. After a guided explanation, you’ll have time to explore.

We’ll then visit Q’enqo, a site with fascinating Inca altars, followed by a quick stop at Puca Pucara, a circular military site. The final stop is Tambomachay, an Inca water temple used for ceremonial bathing.

The tour ends back in Cusco at the main square, or we will return you to your hotel if you’re on a private tour.

*Optional Buffet Dinner with Folkloric Show: Adding $39 per person.

• Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco.
• Meals Included: None
• Entrance Tickets: Included

Day 2: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Pisac – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.

Begin your journey through the Inca heartland with a full day Sacred Valley tour. The Sacred Valley of the Incas, just outside of Cusco, is a gorgeous sprawling span of green farms, lofty terraced mountains along with numerous quaint towns unmoved by time. The Sacred Valley is the center of lively festivals and the best handicrafts in Peru.

Our first stop is the artisanal capital of Peru, the small village of Pisac; It’s famous for its craft market in the main plaza, busiest on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, where local natives come to sell their colorful woven cloth, alpaca wool ponchos and fashions, reproductions of ancient jewelry, engraved gourds and much, much more.

Pisac is the best stop in Peru for mementos of your trip to bring home to family and friends and then drive to Urubamba for lunch.

After a delicious lunch in Urubamba, we’ll travel Ollantaytambo, the only Inca town that remains inhabited. This traditional town is a wonderful example of pre-Colombian architecture. Here we will explore the expansive ruins overlooking the town and discuss their history and traditional beliefs of the people of the Sacred Valley.

Later in the afternoon in Ollantaytambo we’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes to get ready to explore Machu Picchu early the next morning.

• Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
• Meal Include: Breakfast and Buffet Lunch.
• Entrance Ticket: Included.

Day 3: Aguas calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Begin your morning with an early breakfast before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, arriving just in time to witness the golden sunrise illuminating this ancient wonder. Watching the mist lift above the iconic citadel is an experience that captures the true spirit of the Andes.

Once inside, your professional guide will take you on a comprehensive two-hour exploration of the most remarkable areas within the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Discover the harmony between stone, sky, and nature as you visit the agricultural terraces, royal residences, and sacred temples, each revealing a different aspect of Inca ingenuity and spiritual devotion.

After your guided visit, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included). You’ll also have some free time to explore the small town, browse its local craft market, or unwind in the soothing thermal baths that gave the town its name.

Later in the afternoon, board your return train, following the winding course of the Urubamba River as it flows through steep valleys and green mountainsides. Along the way, keep an eye out for Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca site nestled high above the tracks.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a private transfer will take you back to Cusco, where your memorable Machu Picchu journey concludes with wonderful stories and unforgettable memories.

Important Note: Machu Picchu archeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The mountain requires a separate permit for those wishing to hike it. If you are interested in adding this experience, please let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.

• Overnight in Cusco.
• Meals Include: Breakfast.
• Entrance Tickets: Included.

Day 4: LLactoc – Rainbow Mountain – Llactoc – Cusco.

Our team will pick you up from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. and travel by private van for 2 hours toward the town of Cusipata (3310 m / 10,858 ft), where we’ll make our first stop for breakfast at a rustic restaurant.

After breakfast, we’ll continue our journey, passing through small towns nestled in the heart of the Andes. The drive takes about 1 hour to reach Llactoc (3887 m / 12,749 ft), the starting point of our trek. Upon arrival, your guide will provide a brief talk about the hike and give you a walking stick for assistance.

The hike begins on a flat path through the Andean plain, with some gentle inclines. The altitude may make each step a little more challenging, but the beautiful scenery of the Andes will keep you motivated.

After a 1.5-hour hike, we’ll reach Rainbow Mountain (5020 m / 16,466 ft). You’ll have time to explore the area, take photos, and enjoy the stunning views. We’ll stay at the top for about 30 minutes before beginning the descent.

The return hike takes about 1 hour, after which we’ll take our transport back to Cusipata for lunch. Afterward, we’ll drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 p.m.

****There is the option to rent a horse from local people right at the starting point of the hike!

• Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
• Meals Include: Breakfast and Lunch.
• Entrance Tickets: Included

Day 5 : Cusco – Transfer to the Airport.

As your journey in Cusco comes to an end, we will transfer you to the airport for your departure. However, your adventure doesn’t have to stop here! If you’d like to explore more, visit our tailor-made tours section or choose from our wide range of exciting travel experiences to extend your trip.

Please note: A return flight to Lima can be arranged upon request. Let us know if you’d like us to handle the booking for you.

• Accommodations: None
• Meals Included: Breakfast

Included:

• Round trip transfers between airport and hotel (Cusco).
• Round trip transfers between hotel and train station.
• Tourist transport for all the mentioned tours.
• Tourist ticket for the Sacred Valley.
• Round trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
• Round trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Ground transportation for scheduled tours.
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu & all scheduled attractions (except Cusco Cathedral).
• English speaking guide for all scheduled tours.
• Rainbow Mountain Tour.
• Accommodations 1 night in Aguas Calientes (breakfast included).
• Accommodations 3 nights in Cusco (breakfast included).
• Buffet Lunch at Urubamba Town.
• Permanent telephone assistance.

Not Included:

• Entrance to the Cusco Cathedral (40 Peruvian Soles).
• Entrance to Salt mines (15 Peruvian Soles).
• International and domestic flights.
• Airport taxes.
• Additional nights for bad weather o flight cancellation.
• Meals not detailed in itinerary.
• Alcoholic drinks, soda or bottled mineral water.
• Hotel and train upgrades are available upon request.
• National or international calls.
• Travel insurance.
• Optional tips for guides and drivers.

Packing List:

After spending a lot of time travelling around Cusco we have come up with our definitive list of what to pack for a trip to Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 days 4 nights.

• Worn in hiking boots or walking shoes.
• Light weight rain poncho.
• Down or thermal jacket and fleece.
• Sun protection; sunscreen and providing hat.
• Layerable clothing: t- shirts, heavy shirts and jackets, thermals, hiking pants, shorts.
• Toiletries pack with toilet paper, tissues and a lightweight towell.
• Day pack.
• Reusable water bottle to help reduce plastic waste.
• Personal first aid kit with prescriptions, pain relievers, antihistamine & stomach aids.
• Spare prescription glasses, contacts & lens solution plus a copy of prescription.
• Small flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
• Ear plugs for sleeping comfort.
• Warm hat, scarf & gloves (these are abundant in Cusco if you’d prefer to purchase here.
• Extra zip lock bags of various sizes always come in handy.
• Insect repellent.
• Camera with extra batteries and SD cards.
• Combination locks to protect luggage, useful while traveling & in hotel rooms.

Price per person:

Important note about Cusco Journeys service categories:

• Standard: Affordable group tours for a social and budget-friendly travel experience.
• Superior: Comfortable group tours with well-organized itineraries and immersive experiences.
• First Class: Exclusive private tours with personalized service and flexible itineraries.
• Luxury: Premium private tours offering ultimate comfort, exclusivity, and tailor-made experiences.

Please: note that hotel reservations are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Discounts:

• 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
• Under 18 years old: $25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: $30 USD.  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

• Machu Picchu Mountain climbing:  USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
• Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
• Vistadome Train Aguas Calientes-Cusco: USD65.00 – One way (Need to book in advance, that is only for Standard and Superior Packages).
• Flight Tickets:  Lima – Cusco – Lima to be quoted on the day of enquiry (prices vary from US$185 to US$289) per person depending on the season. can be booked by Cusco Journeys is you wish.

5 Star Hotels4 Star Hotels3 Star Hotels

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Cusco Tours and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days / 4 Nights

1.- Is the Circuit 2 for visiting Machu Picchu included in the tour?

Yes, the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights package includes access to Circuit 2 of Machu Picchu, which allows you to explore some of the most important areas of the sanctuary, including agricultural terraces, residential zones, and key temples. This circuit is ideal for getting a complete view of the site and making the most of your Machu Picchu experience.

2.- How long is the tour of Machu Picchu?

The tour of Machu Picchu lasts approximately 2 hours. During this time, a professional guide will take you through the most significant areas of the citadel, including the agricultural terraces, temples, and royal residences, offering a deep dive into the site’s history and architecture.

3.- Can I hike Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu during this tour?

The hike to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu requires a separate permit and is not included in the standard itinerary. If you’re interested in hiking either of these peaks, please let us know in advance so we can secure the necessary permits for you. These hikes are very popular and require early booking.

4.- Are meals included in the Cusco Tours 5 Days 4 Nights package?

Yes, meals are included as part of the tour. You’ll enjoy breakfast at your hotel each day and a buffet lunch in Urubamba during your Sacred Valley tour. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, like lunch in Aguas Calientes, are not included.

5.- How physically demanding is this tour, especially with the high-altitude hikes?

The tour involves some moderate walking, particularly on Day 4 when visiting Rainbow Mountain. While it’s not extremely strenuous, we recommend being prepared for high-altitude conditions (up to 5,020 meters/16,466 feet) and taking it slow to acclimatize. The pace is manageable, but we advise doing some physical preparation if you’re concerned about the altitude.

6.- Will I have free time to explore Cusco and Aguas Calientes on my own?

Yes, you will have free time to explore both Cusco and Aguas Calientes. In Cusco, you’ll have evenings free to discover the city’s vibrant nightlife or visit local restaurants. In Aguas Calientes, after your Machu Picchu tour, you can explore the town, shop at its artisan market, or visit the nearby hot springs.

7.- What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley?

The best time to visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, from April to October. During this time, the weather is clear and more predictable, offering better views of the Andes and Machu Picchu. November to March is the rainy season, but the sites are less crowded, and the scenery is lush and green.

8.- Are transportation and transfers included in the price?

Yes, all transfers are included in the price. You’ll have private transport for your hotel-to-train station transfers, and the round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes are also covered. Additionally, bus transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are provided for the tour.

9.- Can I extend my stay or book additional tours after the package ends?

Absolutely! If you’d like to extend your stay or book additional experiences, we can help customize your travel plans. Our Cusco Journeys team offers a wide range of optional tours and activities throughout Peru, from visits to Sacred Valley sites to adventure tours in the Amazon. Let us know, and we’ll assist with your arrangements.

10.- Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

No, travel insurance is not included. We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage. It’s always a good idea to be prepared.

Make the Most of Your Peru Adventure with Cusco Journeys

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour — from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips.

Take a moment to read it carefully; it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence.

Briefing Before the Tour

All informational meetings for traditional tours are held in person at your hotel in Cusco upon your arrival, and you will also receive a detailed program in advance once your booking is confirmed.

During this briefing, our guide will review the full itinerary, provide your tickets, and answer any final questions to ensure you are fully prepared for your adventure.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed.

Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies.

You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person; however, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal).
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Main Circuits

• Circuit 1: Upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces 
• Circuit 2: Central area of the citadel 
• Circuit 3: Lower sector and agricultural terraces 

For our groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 1-3, around 7:00 or 8:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit — re-entry is not allowed.

If you wish to explore another route or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket (subject to availability and extra cost).

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property.