Discover Inca wonders on this all-inclusive 5-day small-group adventure from Cusco. Explore the ancient capital on a city tour, hike to stunning Humantay Lake, take a guided visit to Machu Picchu citadel, and trek colorful Rainbow Mountain.
The high-altitude highlights of the Southern Andes are consolidated into this five-day expedition.
You won't just see the Incan capital; you will navigate the three most distinct landscapes in the region: the turquoise glacial waters of Humantay Lake, the granite corridors of Machu Picchu, and the mineral-striped ridges of Rainbow Mountain.
The journey begins with the stone mysticism of Qorikancha and the massive fortifications of Sacsayhuaman before pushing into the thin air of the peaks.
You move from the dry highland air of Cusco to the humid cloud forest of the Citadel, and finally to the 5,000-meter summit of Vinicunca.
This is a logistics-heavy circuit where we handle the airport transfers, train permits, and expert guiding, allowing you to focus on the physical reality of the climb.
Permits for the Citadel are strictly regulated, so you should book your 5-day Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain tour early to ensure your entry dates are locked in.
This is a high-intensity itinerary. You will be waking up at 4:00 AM for multiple days and hiking at altitudes that exceed 5,000 meters. The weather is unpredictable. You will experience the biting cold of the mountain summits and the tropical humidity of Machu Picchu. You should be in good physical condition and have spent at least one day in Cusco prior to the city tour to manage the oxygen levels.
Our clients suggest that for Rainbow Mountain, you should bring a few small Soles (local currency) to use the restrooms along the trail, as they are managed by the local community.
Travellers who booked tours with us recommend buying a bag of coca leaves or lemon candies at the San Pedro market on Day 1. They help manage the metallic taste in your mouth caused by the high altitude on the later hike days.
If the climb to Humantay Lake feels too steep, our past travellers note that local horsemen usually offer rides up for a fee paid directly in cash. It saves your lungs for the photo session at the top.
For the city tour, keep your "Boleto Turistico" (tourist ticket) in a safe, dry place. You will need to scan it at every single archaeological site you visit on the first afternoon.
The Southern Andes have a very sharp divide between the dry mountain sun and the heavy summer rains.
Recommended Start Time: 4:00 AM for mountain days. Arriving at the trailheads early is the only way to beat the massive tour bus convoys that arrive from Cusco by mid-morning.
No, but you need stamina. The walks are 90 minutes each, but the altitude makes them feel twice as long.
No. This package allows you to choose your own accommodation in Cusco based on your budget and preference.
We provide buffet-style breakfasts and lunches on the mountain days. They focus on high-carbohydrate Andean grains and fresh vegetables to help with energy.
Your guide will have all the physical or digital tickets for Machu Picchu and the other sites. You just need your original passport.
Yes. Since you are based in Cusco, you can opt to stay in the city for a rest day, though missed tour portions are generally non-refundable.
Book it today with Machu Picchu Guided Tours or simply following this link.
