



Explore Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in 5 Days
Join Qoricancha Expeditions on a 5-day immersive journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. This professionally guided tour, "Exploring Cusco", combines rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient history. Visit iconic destinations like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, the 2-day Inca Trail, and the stunning Rainbow Mountain.
Begin your adventure in Cusco with visits to historic Inca sites: Sacsayhuamán, Pisac, and Tipón. On Day 2, discover the agricultural ingenuity of the Incas at Moray and Maras Salt Mines, then explore the ancient fortress of Ollantaytambo.
Day 3 leads you on the Short Inca Trail—a remarkable trek through cloud forests and archaeological sites, ending at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) with your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. On Day 4, enjoy a fully guided tour of Machu Picchu, revealing its secrets and spiritual significance. Your adventure concludes on Day 5 with a scenic hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), where colorful mineral peaks await.
Experience the best of cultural exploration and natural beauty in just five unforgettable days. Book now with Qoricancha Expeditions and let the magic of Peru transform your journey!
OVERVIEW
Peruvian Wonders: Inca Trails, Sacred Valleys & Rainbow Mountain
This 5-day adventure is crafted for travelers who want to experience the essence of Peru in a short time. From the historic capital of the Inca Empire to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in South America, this tour offers a seamless blend of cultural immersion, archaeological wonder, and outdoor adventure.
You’ll explore the ancient sites of Sacsayhuamán, Pisac, and Tipón, learning about Inca engineering and religious customs. Then, discover the Sacred Valley’s agricultural heart through the circular terraces of Moray and the unique Maras Salt Mines, finishing with a guided walk through the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo.
The highlight continues with the 2-day Short Inca Trail—an accessible trek through cloud forests and hidden ruins that culminates in a dramatic entrance to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. This route is perfect for those who want to hike a portion of the legendary trail without committing to a full multi-day trek.
After your in-depth guided exploration of Machu Picchu, the adventure concludes with a journey to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), where mineral-rich layers have painted the landscape in surreal colors. This final hike is invigorating, photogenic, and a perfect capstone to a dynamic and fulfilling journey.
- Frequency: Available year-round (Inca Trail closed in February)
- Group Size: Small groups up to 8 travelers
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, accessible for most fitness levels
ITINERARY
Day 01: Sacred Valley Highlights: Sacsayhuaman - Pisac - Tipon
your adventure begins with an 8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, and the journey to the Sacred Valley starts. First, visit Sacsayhuamán, an incredible Inca site renowned for its massive stone walls, which were carefully crafted without mortar. As you explore the site, your guide will share fascinating insights into its historical and ceremonial significance, along with breathtaking views of Cusco from above.
Next, enjoy a visit to a local alpaca farm, where you can interact with these beloved Andean animals and learn about their role in Peruvian culture. Discover the traditional process of making textiles from alpaca wool, a practice that has been passed down for generations.
Your journey continues to Pisac, where you’ll explore the impressive Inca archaeological site, with its expansive agricultural terraces and the sacred Intihuatana stone—an astronomical tool used by the Incas to track celestial events. After touring the ruins, you’ll have time to wander through the vibrant Pisac market, where local artisans sell everything from colorful textiles to handmade jewelry and pottery.
In the afternoon, head to Tipon, a lesser-visited gem known for its stunning terraces and advanced irrigation systems, still in use today. The intricate water channels and fountains highlight the Incas’ mastery in agricultural engineering and water management. After a full day of exploration, you’ll return to Cusco by 5:30 PM, having visited some of the most iconic and beautiful sites in the Sacred Valley, filled with new knowledge and unforgettable memories of Peru’s ancient heritage and natural beauty.
Acomodation: Tierra Viva Hotels or Similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.
Day 02: Chinchero - Morays - Salt Mines - Ollantaytambo
Our guide will pick you up at 8:00 AM from your hotel in Cusco as you head to Chinchero, a traditional Andean village known for its vibrant textiles and Inca ruins. Visit a local weaving cooperative to learn about ancient textile techniques and see how the community continues to preserve this tradition. Explore the Chinchero Inca ruins, featuring agricultural terraces and colonial-era structures.
Next, travel to Moray, an intriguing Inca site with concentric terraces believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation. Marvel at the unique landscape and the Inca’s advanced understanding of farming.
Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, a striking site with thousands of salt ponds still in use today, where you can learn about traditional salt extraction methods and capture amazing photos of the terraced pools.
In the afternoon, visit Ollantaytambo, a spectacular Inca fortress with impressive terraces and temple structures perched on the hillside. The site is a key historical location and offers breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. After exploring, enjoy some free time to stroll through the town’s charming cobbled streets.
Return to your hotel by late afternoon, having experienced more of the Sacred Valley’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
Acomodation: Sol Natura or similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.
Day 03: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
your adventure begins with an early start, with a pick-up at 5:30 AM from your hotel in Ollantaytambo. After a quick transfer to the train station, you’ll board the scenic train to KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, and lush cloud forests.
Once you arrive at KM 104, your hike begins. The Short Inca Trail is a shorter version of the classic Inca Trail, but it still offers stunning views, fascinating Inca ruins, and a sense of the Inca Empire’s spiritual path. You’ll pass through ancient archaeological sites, including Chachabamba, an Inca village and religious center, before continuing along the trail towards Wiñay Wayna, a breathtaking Inca site perched on a cliff with terraced agricultural fields and temples.
The final stretch takes you to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), where you’ll be treated to a spectacular first view of Machu Picchu. After a brief break to take in the awe-inspiring sight, you’ll descend to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Once at the Lost City of the Incas, you’ll enjoy a guided tour, exploring its most iconic structures, including the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone, and Main Plaza, while your guide explains the history, architecture, and mystery surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site.
After your tour, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own or simply relax and take in the views. In the late afternoon, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo in the evening, where you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.
Acomodation: Tara Hotel or Similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.
Day 04: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
Today is set to be the most significant day of your journey. After an early breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and accompany you to catch one of the early buses heading up to Machu Picchu.
Once you are there, your guide will lead you through the fascinating and iconic ruins, explaining the history, culture, and mystery of this ancient Inca city. all while learning about the spiritual and architectural significance of each site. Your guide will share the secrets of how the Incas built and used these structures, providing a deeper understanding of this awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site.
Once you’ve completed the tour, if you’ve secured a Huayna Picchu ticket, you can embark on the famous mountain hike. This adventure will take approximately 2 hours for the round trip and costs $75 per ticket. Please note that you need to book your Huayna Picchu ticket in advance. If you don’t have this ticket, it’s time to bid farewell to the Lost City of the Incas until next time.
You’ll then take a bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. Lunch is not included but can be enjoyed on your own. In the afternoon, you’ll board a train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be ready to pick you up and return you to your hotel in Cusco. You can expect to arrive back in Cusco at around 8:00 PM.
Acomodation: Tierra Viva Hotels or Similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.
Day 05. Rainbow Mountain in ATV.
ur day begins early with a 5:00 AM departure from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. From there, we’ll head toward the majestic Rainbow Mountain, standing over 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level. As we ascend through the Peruvian highlands, you’ll witness the changing landscape of rugged peaks, valleys, and wide-open skies.
Before the adventure begins, we’ll stop for a delicious breakfast to fuel up. This will prepare you for the adrenaline-filled ride ahead and give you a taste of local culture to start the day.
With your spirits high, we’ll embark on a 45-minute ATV ride through the stunning Andes terrain. The winding trails, lush valleys, and towering peaks will offer breathtaking views of Peru’s diverse landscapes, and riding a quad bike makes the journey faster and more thrilling, giving you more time to enjoy the beauty of Rainbow Mountain.
Once near the base, the ATV ride ends, and we’ll take a short, 35-40 minute hike to the viewpoint. As you reach the top, the vibrant, multi-colored slopes of Rainbow Mountain will take your breath away. The striking reds, oranges, greens, and purples, created by mineral deposits, form a natural masterpiece like no other. Your guide will share the fascinating geological and cultural history of this UNESCO-listed site.
After soaking in the stunning views and capturing photos, we’ll head back down and enjoy a hearty lunch. As we return to Cusco, you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s adventure. We’ll arrive in Cusco by 4:00 to 5:00 PM.
Acomodation: Tierra Viva Hotels or Similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: NA.
PACKING LIST
Essential Gear for Your Andean Journey
Here’s what to bring to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and comfortable experience throughout your tour:
Documents & Miscellaneous
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Credit card & cash (Peruvian soles)
- Camera memory & batteries, Ziplocs, snacks
- Notebook/journal
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Quick-dry pants, long-sleeve shirts, fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket/poncho, insulating layer
- Hat, sunglasses, buff or neck gaiter
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Sandals or sneakers, trekking socks
- Optional: gaiters
Accessories & Health
- Daypack (20–30L), hydration system, trekking poles (optional)
- Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent, hand sanitizer
- Small first aid kit, personal medication
- Altitude medication (optional), water purification tablets
Optional
- Portable charger, binoculars, rain cover for backpack
INCLUSIONS
What's Included
- ✅ Pre-tour briefing at your hotel
- ✅ English-speaking certified guides
- ✅ 3-star hotel accommodation
- ✅ Round-trip Expedition train tickets
- ✅ All entrance fees (including Machu Picchu & Inca Trail permits)
- ✅ Breakfasts and select meals
- ✅ Private transportation for all tours
- ✅ Daily guided tours at each location
What’s Not Included
- ❌ Lunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary
- ❌ International or domestic flights
- ❌ Tips (optional)
- ❌ Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Optional Upgrades
- ❌ Huayna Picchu hike: $75 (book in advance)
- ❌ Vistadome Train: $65 one way / $120 round trip
- ❌ 4-star or 5-star hotel upgrade (contact us for pricing)
When to Travel
Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain
April to October (Dry Season): Ideal weather, clear views, great trail conditions—perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Be sure to book early due to peak season demand.
November to March (Rainy Season): Lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, though trail conditions can be slippery. Expect some rain and cloud cover.
PRICE
Adults, Group service
$ 975 USD
per person (Min. 2 people)