Sacred Valley, Machupicchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour / 3 Days

Unlock the secrets of Peru’s Inca heritage and witness nature’s awe-inspiring wonders on this captivating 3-day tour. Enjoy the rich culture of the Sacred Valley, stand in awe before the majestic Machupicchu citadel, and embark on an adventure to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. With expert guidance and small group sizes, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable experience, blending Inca history, stunning landscapes, and an unparalleled sense of discovery. Prepare to be captivated as you explore the heart of this enchanting Andean region.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Cusco.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 3-day tour exploring Peru’s cultural and natural highlights, including Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, Machupicchu, and Rainbow Mountain.
• Priced from $570, with guided tours, site admissions, and scenic train transport.
• Offers convenient pickup, accessibility for most, and small group experience.
• Highlights include Inca engineering, colonial architecture, and vibrant natural landscapes.
• Tour has an average rating of 4.5/5 from previous travelers.

Tour Overview

This tour, titled ‘Sacred Valley, Machupicchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour,’ offers a comprehensive 3-day exploration of some of Peru’s most iconic cultural and natural wonders.

Priced from $570, it includes admission to all sites, a knowledgeable tour guide, and scenic train transportation to Machupicchu.

Featuring an average rating of 4.5/5 from past travelers, the tour covers highlights like the ancient Inca ruins of Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo, as well as the stunning Rainbow Mountain.

Logistics-wise, the tour provides convenient pickup, accessibility for most travelers, and a small group setup for an intimate experience.

Whether you’re seeking culture or breathtaking landscapes, this 3-day adventure has it all.

Day 1: Sacred Valley Exploration

The tour embarks on its first day with a captivating exploration of the Sacred Valley region, offering visitors a glimpse into Inca history and the region’s natural wonders. The day begins with a visit to the archaeological complex and colonial church of Chinchero, followed by an exploration of the Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray. Next, the group descends into the valley to witness the salt wells and springs of Salinas de Maras. After a lunch stop in Urubamba, the tour culminates in Ollantaytambo, where travelers can visit the main temple of the Sun and the Inca town before boarding the train to Machupicchu.

Site	Admission	Duration
Chinchero	Free	2 hours
Moray	Included	40 minutes
Salinas de Maras	Included	2 hours
Ollantaytambo	Included	1 hour

Chinchero Archaeological Complex and Church

Chinchero’s archaeological complex boasts impressive Inca and colonial structures, inviting visitors to explore the blending of cultures that defines this historic site.

The Inca ruins feature terraced agricultural platforms and foundations of an ancient palace, while the colonial church showcases Spanish architectural influences from the 17th century.

Here are four highlights of Chinchero:

1. Admire the intricate Inca stonework and imagine the grandeur of the former palace.

2. Step inside the colonial church to marvel at its ornate altars and vibrant frescoes.

3. Wander through the terraced agricultural platforms, a testament to the Incas’ advanced farming techniques.

4. Soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains from the site.

Inca Agricultural Laboratory at Moray

At Moray, visitors can explore the remarkable Inca agricultural laboratory, a series of concentric terraces that showcase the Incas’ advanced understanding of microclimates and crop cultivation.

These unique terraces were constructed in a circular pattern, creating distinct temperature zones that allowed the Incas to experiment with growing a variety of crops.

Visitors can descend into the central depression and observe the different growing conditions among the terraces.

This fascinating site provides insight into the Incas’ sophisticated agricultural practices and their ability to adapt to the challenging Andean environment.

With a guided tour, travelers can appreciate the ingenuity and innovation of this Inca engineering marvel.

Salinas De Maras Salt Wells and Springs

Visitors to the Sacred Valley can explore the remarkable Salinas de Maras, a sprawling network of salt wells and springs that have been in use since Inca times.

Descending into the verdant valley, travelers will witness the intricate system of salt evaporation ponds, where salt-laden water bubbles up from underground springs and is channeled into individual wells to be harvested.

This captivating site offers a glimpse into the Incas’ ingenious salt production methods, which continue to be practiced by local communities today.

The highlights of visiting Salinas de Maras include:

1. Observing the centuries-old salt harvesting process.

2. Marveling at the vibrant colors of the salt ponds.

3. Purchasing locally-produced salt as a unique souvenir.

4. Hiking along the picturesque trails overlooking the valley.

Day 2: Machupicchu Visit

On the second day of the tour, travelers embark on the journey to the iconic Machupicchu citadel. From Aguas Calientes, they’ll take a short bus ride up to the ancient Inca site, where a guided tour awaits, exploring key areas such as the Guardians’ House, the main square, and the Temple of the Sun. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Inca civilization, with the opportunity to witness the incredible engineering feats and the harmonious integration of the structures with the surrounding mountainous landscape. The guided tour provides valuable insights into the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, leaving visitors awestruck and deeply inspired.

Emotion	Description
Awe	The sheer scale and architectural marvel of Machupicchu
Wonder	The intricate workmanship and engineering accomplishments of the Incas
Reverence	The historical and cultural significance of this ancient citadel
Inspiration	The harmonious integration of the structures with the natural environment

Vinicunca Mountain Adventure

Typically, the third day of the tour begins with an early morning departure for the majestic Vinicunca Mountain, also known as the ‘Rainbow Mountain.’

After a hearty breakfast in Cusipata, the group embarks on a scenic drive to the trailhead.

The hike to the top of Vinicunca offers several highlights:

1. Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Ausangate peak, the highest mountain in the Cusco region.

2. Vibrant, multicolored layers of sedimentary rock that give the mountain its distinctive appearance.

3. The opportunity to explore the unique flora and fauna of this high-altitude environment.

4. A sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic vistas.

This full-day adventure culminates with the return trip to Cusco, leaving participants with lasting memories of the tour’s stunning finale.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

The tour provides a convenient pickup service from select locations in Cusco, with an early departure time of 6:30 AM to ensure ample time for the day’s activities.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s suitable for those with strollers. Plus, it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions due to the physical demands of the hike on Rainbow Mountain.

The tour is led by trained guides who aim to enhance the visitor experience, and the small group organization ensures a more personalized and engaging experience.

Travelers should keep in mind the potential for issues with organization and time management based on previous feedback, but the overall consensus is positive, with highlights including the informative guides and breathtaking views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Single Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a single traveler. The tour operator typically accommodates solo travelers and provides the same level of service and experience as for larger groups. Single travelers may incur a slightly higher per-person rate.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour company doesn’t specify a maximum group size, but they organize the tours in small groups to enhance the visitor experience. Travelers can expect an intimate group setting to explore the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for the Rainbow Mountain Hike?

Hikers should wear sturdy hiking boots, dress in layers, and bring plenty of water and snacks for the Rainbow Mountain hike. Trekking poles may also be helpful to navigate the steep terrain.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?

The tour provider may offer options to extend the itinerary and include additional destinations, such as the Inca Trail or Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. Travelers should inquire about customizable tour packages or add-on experiences to suit their interests and schedule.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Personal Interests and Preferences?

Yes, the tour operator typically allows customers to customize the itinerary to fit their personal interests and preferences. They can work with you to adjust the destinations, duration, or activities included in the tour.

Recap

This captivating 3-day tour of Peru’s Sacred Valley, Machupicchu, and Rainbow Mountain offers an immersive experience into Inca history and stunning natural landscapes.

Guests will explore archaeological sites, agricultural wonders, and the iconic Machupicchu citadel, culminating in an adventure to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain.

With small group sizes and expert guides, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s most awe-inspiring destinations.