Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 4D/3N

We begin the day at 7:30 am, when your guide picks you up from your hotel in Cusco in a private vehicle. Our journey leads into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, starting with a stop at the Taray Viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley and its traditional agricultural communities—landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

We then continue to the Pisac Archaeological Site, home to an impressive Inca cemetery with more than 2,000 tombs. Explore the beautifully engineered agricultural terraces carved into the mountainside, the Inca tunnel, and the ceremonial sector of this important citadel. Approximately two hours are dedicated to exploring the site before descending to the vibrant Pisac Market, rich in local culture and handicrafts.

Next, we drive to Urubamba to enjoy lunch.

In the afternoon, we visit the remarkable archaeological site of Moray, often referred to as “The Greenhouse of the Incas.” This unique complex consists of concentric circular terraces carved into a deep basin, creating distinct microclimates that archaeologists believe were used for agricultural experimentation and crop adaptation.

Continuing on, we arrive at the colonial town of Maras, overlooking the ancient Salt Mines (Salineras). Thousands of salt pools have been used continuously since pre-Inca times, fed by a natural underground saltwater spring. This is one of the few places in the world where naturally occurring pink salt is produced.

Our final destination of the day is Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns still inhabited today. With your guide, explore the impressive Inca ruins and ascend the massive terraces to the Temple of the Sun, learning about the site’s strategic importance during the early Spanish conquest.

After some time for dinner, board the train to Aguas Calientes.

Train Schedule: Ollantaytambo (19:04) → Aguas Calientes (20:45)

Accommodations

• 3★: Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu
• 4★: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (Superior Room) or El Mapi

Meals Included: Breakfast

After an early breakfast at the hotel, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to experience the magic of sunrise over this world-renowned citadel.

Enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours, exploring the most important sectors of Machu Picchu and learning how the site is divided into agricultural, residential, and religious areas. Your guide will share insights into Inca engineering, spirituality, and daily life within this extraordinary sanctuary.

Following the visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may have free time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the local museum or hot springs.

In the afternoon, board the Vistadome Train back to Ollantaytambo (departure options: 4:22 pm, 4:43 pm or 6:20 pm), enjoying scenic views along the Urubamba River and glimpses of Wiñay Wayna high on the canyon walls. Upon arrival, our private driver will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.

Estimated arrival in Cusco: Between 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm.

Note: During the rainy season (January–April), the Vistadome Train operates only to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transportation to Cusco is provided.

Accommodations

• 3★: Maytaq Wasin or Waman Qorikancha
• 4★: Costa del Sol Ramada, Casa Andina Private Collection or Novotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Optional: Huayna Picchu Mountain hike (unguided, must be booked in advance)

Early morning pickup at 4:00 am to begin the unforgettable Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Trek. We travel approximately three hours through the South Valley, passing traditional villages, farming terraces, and high Andean landscapes, arriving at the trailhead in Llacto (4,638 m / 15,216 ft).

Enjoy a hot breakfast surrounded by herds of alpacas and llamas before beginning the hike. The trail follows a gentle stream and offers spectacular views of Ausangate Mountain and its glaciers. Along the way, interact with local communities who preserve traditional Quechua culture, learning about their clothing, customs, and way of life.

After approximately 1.5 hours of hiking, reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m / 16,466 ft). Spend time exploring the area, taking photographs, and admiring the striking natural colors of the mountain. There is also an optional hike to the Red Valley, adding approximately 45 minutes to the trek.

Descend along the same trail, followed by a freshly prepared lunch by our chef. In the afternoon, return to Cusco by private transportation, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 pm.

Optional: Horse rental available at the trailhead, arranged directly with local residents.

Meals Included: Hot breakfast & lunch

Accommodations

• 3★: Maytaq Wasin or Waman Qorikancha
• 4★: Costa del Sol Ramada, Casa Andina Private Collection or Novotel

Optional: Huayna Picchu Mountain hike (unguided, must be booked in advance)

After breakfast, enjoy free time in Cusco to explore the city or relax at your hotel. In the afternoon, private transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima.

Meals Included: Breakfast