Cusco in 5 Days – Machu Picchu – Rainbow Mountain – Humantay

Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, beckons adventurers to uncover its captivating wonders. In just five days, one can embark on a journey that blends ancient Inca sites, breathtaking natural landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences. From the iconic Machu Picchu to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, this carefully curated itinerary promises to leave lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking a challenge or a chance to bask in the region’s beauty, this Cusco adventure has something truly special in store.

Key Points

• This 5-day, 4-night tour in Cusco includes visits to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lagoon, with transportation, guides, and select meals covered.

• The tour starts with a city tour of Cusco’s iconic landmarks, followed by a guided exploration of Machu Picchu and lunch in Aguas Calientes.

• Hikers can experience the stunning turquoise Humantay Lagoon at an altitude of 4,250 meters and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain at 5,020 meters.

• The tour has a group size limit of 15 participants and is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Essential items to bring include a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and appropriate clothing for the hikes, while pregnant women and wheelchair users are advised against joining.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a 5-day, 4-night experience in Cusco, with prices starting from $558.00 per person.

It includes a free cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also reserve their spot now and pay later.

The group size is limited to 15 participants, and the tour is available in both English and Spanish.

The included services cover transportation, professional guides, entrance fees, and select meals, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized experience.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and international flights, certain meals, and personal expenses are excluded.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, visitors arrive in Cusco and enjoy a city tour, exploring the ancient sites of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, PucaPucara, and Tambomachay.

The next day, they visit the iconic Machu Picchu, with a guided tour lasting 2 hours, followed by lunch in Aguas Calientes and a return to Cusco.

On the third day, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon, situated at an altitude of 4,250 meters.

The fourth day is dedicated to the challenging but rewarding Rainbow Mountain hike, which takes approximately 2.5 hours at an elevation of 5,020 meters, concluding with a buffet lunch.

Included Services

This tour includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Travelers will be picked up from the airport or bus terminal, and all transportation for the city tour and site visits is provided.

Professional guides will lead the tours of Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lagoon, and Rainbow Mountain, and all entrance fees are covered.

Meals like lunch in Machu Picchu village and breakfast and buffet lunch at Rainbow Mountain are included.

Accommodation in Cusco is also provided.

Travelers will have constant personalized advice throughout the tour.

The tour excludes international flights, some meals, personal expenses, and isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Exclusions

While the tour includes a comprehensive set of services, there are certain exclusions travelers should be aware of.

International flights aren’t covered, so guests must book their own airfare. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, such as dinner, are also at the traveler’s expense. Personal purchases, like souvenirs, aren’t included either.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the strenuous hiking involved. Participants should come prepared with the recommended items, as the tour prohibits alcohol and drugs.

It’s crucial to check availability and participant limits before booking to ensure a smooth experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Preparation and Important Information

Travelers planning to join the "Cusco in 5 Days" tour should bring essential items like their passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, and cash for personal expenses.

It’s important to dress in comfortable clothing as the tour includes several hikes. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour.

Participants should check availability for starting times and group size limits. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Following these preparation guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all travelers.

Arrival and City Tour

Upon arrival in Cusco, the tour begins with a city tour, allowing participants to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The tour takes visitors to Sacsayhuaman, a well-preserved Inca fortress with impressive stone walls. Next, they’ll visit Qenqo, an ancient archaeological site known for its unique rock formations and religious ceremonies.

Puca Pucara, a former Inca administrative and military center, is also on the itinerary, followed by Tambomachay, a site believed to have been used as a spa or place of ritual bathing.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guides provide insights into the rich history and cultural significance of these remarkable sites.

Machu Picchu Visit

Visiting Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, is the highlight of this 5-day tour.

On day 2, travelers will take a guided tour of the ancient ruins for 2 hours, exploring its wonders with an expert guide.

After the tour, they’ll have time to wander the site independently and soak in the breathtaking views.

Lunch will be provided in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, before returning to Cusco.

With included entrance fees and transportation, this seamless experience allows visitors to make the most of their time at one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.

Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain

After their Machu Picchu experience, the tour moves on to explore the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Cusco.

Day 3 takes travelers to the Humantay Lagoon, a breathtaking turquoise lake nestled at an altitude of 4,250 meters. The 1.5-hour hike to the lagoon offers panoramic views of the Andes.

On Day 4, the group embarks on a challenging but rewarding journey to Rainbow Mountain, reaching an elevation of 5,020 meters. The 2.5-hour hike rewards hikers with the sight of the mountain’s vibrant, multicolored striations.

Both excursions are led by professional guides and include entrance fees and a buffet lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like in Cusco During the Tour?

The weather in Cusco can vary greatly throughout the year. Daytime temperatures typically range from mild to cool, with cool nights. Visitors should pack layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions during their visit.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Nearby Attractions?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit other nearby attractions. The tour provider offers customization options to add extra days and activities based on the traveler’s interests and availability. This allows for a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Requirements for the Hikes?

The tour doesn’t have any age or strict fitness level requirements, but the hikes to Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain are strenuous and not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious health conditions.

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Group Size?

Yes, the group size for the tour can be adjusted. The tour itinerary accommodates group sizes up to 15 participants. Travelers can check availability and book the tour for their desired group size at the time of booking.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later if you need to change your travel dates.

Recap

In this 5-day Cusco adventure, travelers will enjoy the ancient Inca legacy, witnessing the breathtaking wonders of Machu Picchu, Humantay Lagoon, and Rainbow Mountain. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and cultural insights, this comprehensive itinerary offers an unforgettable exploration of Cusco’s natural and historical treasures, leaving visitors with lasting memories of Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: