Nestled in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley, Cusco beckons travelers with its rich Inca heritage and breathtaking natural wonders. This 4-day, 3-night guided tour offers an immersive exploration of the region’s cultural and scenic highlights. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain, this journey promises an unforgettable adventure. With seamless transfers, professional guides, and a flexible booking policy, travelers can embark on this once-in-a-lifetime experience with ease. As the tour unfolds, it becomes clear why Cusco and its surroundings remain one of the most captivating destinations in South America.
Key Points
- A 4-day/3-night tour of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain, offering guided visits and hikes with transportation and admission tickets.
- Explore Inca landmarks in Cusco, including Qoricancha and Qenco amphitheater, on the first day’s city tour.
- Take a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site on the second day, learning about its historical and cultural significance.
- Hike to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain on the third day, reaching an elevation of 5,080m.
- The tour includes airport transfers, professional guides, and a comprehensive itinerary, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The "Cusco | Machu Picchu + Rainbow Mountain | 4D/3N" tour offers an immersive exploration of Cusco and its iconic Inca sites. Priced from $565 per person, this 3-day adventure includes a guided city tour, a visit to the wonder of Machu Picchu, and a trek to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. Conducted in Spanish and English, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking with no upfront payment required. Highlights include the Qoricancha temple, Qenco amphitheater, and the stunning landscapes of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. With airport transfers, transportation, and select meals included, this comprehensive package delivers an unforgettable Peruvian experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguas Calientes.
Itinerary Breakdown
On the first day, guests arrive in Cusco and embark on an afternoon city tour showcasing the region’s rich Inca heritage. They visit the Qoricancha, Qenco amphitheater, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay sites. The second day is dedicated to the highlight of the tour – Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, travelers take a bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour, then return to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. On the third day, the group departs early for the Rainbow Mountain hike, ascending to an elevation of 5,080 meters. The tour concludes on the fourth day with a transfer to the airport.
| Day | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | City Tour | 4 hours |
| 2 | Machu Picchu | 1 day |
| 3 | Rainbow Mountain | 1 day |
| 4 | Departure | N/A |
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Guests arrive in Cusco and are met at the airport for a private transfer to their hotel.
The afternoon begins with a city tour, showcasing the most significant landmarks of the ancient Inca capital. Visitors explore the impressive Qoricancha, the former Inca temple now partially converted into a Catholic church.
They then venture to the Qenco amphitheater, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay, all located just outside the city center.
This comprehensive tour provides an excellent introduction to Cusco’s rich cultural heritage and helps set the stage for the upcoming adventures.
At the end of the day, guests return to their hotel in Cusco to rest and prepare for the next day’s exploration of Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Machu Picchu
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, travelers board a bus that takes them to the trailhead for the iconic Machu Picchu.
The guided tour of this ancient Incan citadel lasts for approximately 3 hours, allowing visitors to explore its stunning architecture, terraced gardens, and panoramic views.
Highlights of the tour include:
- Discovering the iconic structures like the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone
- Marveling at the precise stonework and engineering that went into building this remarkable site
- Learning about the Incan empire and the significance of Machu Picchu as a religious, political, and administrative center
- Enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Andes mountains that surround the site
- Experiencing the serene atmosphere and feeling the connection to the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site
Day 3: Rainbow Mountain
Departing the hotel before dawn, travelers are picked up between 4:30 am and 5:00 am for the journey to Cusipata. After arriving, the group embarks on a hike to Rainbow Mountain, ascending 5,080m in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. At the summit, a briefing is provided, and ample time is given to capture stunning photographs of the vibrant, multicolored mountain. The descent back to Phulawasipata follows, before returning to Cusco, where the tour concludes around 5:00 pm.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Time | 4:30 am – 5:00 am |
| Hike Duration | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Elevation | 5,080m |
| Briefing & Photos | At the summit |
| Return to Cusco | Around 5:00 pm |
Day 4: Departure
On the final day of the tour, the hotel staff transfers guests to the airport based on their scheduled flight times, ensuring a seamless departure.
This convenient arrangement allows travelers to focus on their journey home without the hassle of coordinating transportation.
The tour package includes:
- Airport transfer from the hotel to the Cusco airport
- Assistance with check-in and luggage handling
- Guidance on navigating the airport and boarding procedures
- Confirmation of flight details and departure times
- Farewell well-wishes from the tour guide, wishing guests a safe journey home.
With the tour’s comprehensive itinerary complete, guests depart Cusco with unforgettable memories of their Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain adventure.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Cusco and Machu Picchu tour package includes a comprehensive range of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.
Airport transfers, tourist transportation, admission tickets, and professional guides are all covered. Travelers will be able to explore Cusco’s highlights, marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu, and hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain.
However, the package excludes international and domestic flights, as well as any meals and drinks not explicitly mentioned. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own flights and covering the cost of additional food and beverages during the tour.
Booking Information
Travelers can check the availability of participants and dates for the Cusco and Machu Picchu tour package on the provider’s website. The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy for participants to find the starting location.
The tour package offers:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Option to reserve now and pay later
- Detailed itinerary with transportation, entrance fees, and meal inclusions
- Professional guides for all excursions
- Flexibility to accommodate individual needs and preferences
Booking the Cusco and Machu Picchu tour is a straightforward process, allowing travelers to secure their spot and experience the wonders of this iconic destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Tour Suitable for Travelers With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour’s inclusions don’t specifically mention accommodating dietary restrictions. Travelers with dietary needs should contact the tour operator to inquire about their ability to provide appropriate meals or make necessary arrangements.
Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco after the tour. The tour provider allows for flexible arrangements, and guests can coordinate additional nights in Cusco through the booking process or with the local travel agent.
What Is the Weather Like During the Rainbow Mountain Hike?
The weather during the Rainbow Mountain hike can be quite chilly, with temperatures typically ranging from 20-30°F (-7 to -1°C). Hikers should pack warm layers and be prepared for potential snowfall, as the high elevation makes the conditions quite cold and unpredictable.
Is Travel Insurance Required for This Tour?
Travel insurance is not required for this tour, but it’s highly recommended to protect against unexpected events. The tour operator advises travelers to consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other potential risks.
Can I Upgrade My Train Tickets to the Vistadome Service?
Yes, travelers can upgrade their train tickets to the Vistadome service for this tour. The Vistadome offers panoramic windows and more amenities, providing a more comfortable and scenic journey to and from Machu Picchu.
Recap
This 4-day, 3-night guided tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s cultural and natural wonders. Discover the rich Inca heritage of Cusco, marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu, and witness the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain. With seamless transfers, professional guides, and a flexible booking policy, this journey promises an extraordinary experience in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
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