4-Day City Tour in Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain
PRICE FROM:
$ 390,00 USD
Per person
- GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
The Cusco tour is perfect for those arriving in the city who want to explore it up close. It begins at 1:00 p.m. at our office, followed by a 10-minute walk to Koricancha, where a specialized guide will explain its significance. Then, we’ll take a bus to Sacsayhuamán, known for its impressive Inca stonework.
We’ll continue to the Qenqo caves, a site for Inca rituals, and then visit Pucapucara, an ancient checkpoint. Finally, we’ll explore Tambomachay, famous for its water fountains. We return to Cusco around 6:00 p.m. This tour provides a comprehensive view of Cusco’s history and is ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Exploration
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Inca Empire by visiting some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley:
- Chinchero: Famous for its textile tradition and charming market.
- Moray: Discover the mysterious circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experiments.
- Maras Salt Mines: Explore the ancient salt mines still in operation since Inca times.
- Ollantaytambo: Marvel at the impressive fortress and its perfect Inca urban planning.
- Buffet Lunch in Urubamba: Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, including vegetarian options, in a carefully selected restaurant.
Train Journey to Aguas Calientes: Experience an unforgettable train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, passing through the majestic Urubamba Canyon.
Day 3: Visit to Machu Picchu
The day culminates with a visit to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu:
- Circuits 1, 2, or 3: Enjoy the best panoramic views and the classic Machu Picchu photo from the upper circuits.
- Circuits 4 or 5 (alternative): Explore from the lower part of the citadel.
Regardless of the chosen circuit, all include a guided tour of 2 to 2.5 hours with expert guides, providing an in-depth understanding of this architectural and cultural legacy.
Day 4: Visit to the Rainbow Mountain
The Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is one of the most impressive and unique landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. In just one day, you can marvel at this natural phenomenon, famous for its vibrant colors that resemble a rainbow. At Explore Peru 360, we are direct tour operators, ensuring a high-quality experience with bilingual guides (Spanish and English), modern transportation, and included meals, all designed for you to enjoy to the fullest.
Additionally, this tour includes a visit to the Red Valley, a fascinating area that simulates a reddish desert, complementing the magic of Vinicunca. Don’t miss the chance to live an unforgettable experience with our exclusive tour to the Rainbow Mountain. Join Explore Peru 360, the direct operators, and discover the true colors of this spectacular destination.
What’s included in the tour:
- Tickets: Entrance to all archaeological sites on the City Tour, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
- Train and bus tickets: Round-trip train ride to Machu Picchu and bus ticket to the citadel’s entrance.
- Buffet lunch: In Urubamba.
- Hotel pick-up: Between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m.
- Free storage service: Leave your luggage in our office in Cusco while you enjoy the tour.
- Professional guides: Groups of 14-16 people in the Sacred Valley and 6-8 people in Machu Picchu, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.
Additional Information:
- Advance booking: It is essential to book at least 3 months in advance to secure your spot on the most popular circuits of Machu Picchu.
- Cancellation policy: Check the policies and available dates on our platform.
Prepare for an immersive and unique experience in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, where Inca history blends with stunning natural landscapes.
Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain
- ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco Exploration: Koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay
- 1:00 p.m.: Start your City Tour in Cusco by arriving at our office.
- 1:10 p.m.: A 10-minute walk to the Koricancha Temple.
- 1:20 p.m.: Guided tour at Koricancha for about an hour, learning about its history and significance.
- 2:30 p.m.: Board the vehicle to Sacsayhuaman.
- 2:45 p.m.: Visit Sacsayhuaman, renowned for its impressive stonework.
- 4:00 p.m.: Continue to Qenqo, an Inca ritual site.
- 4:30 p.m.: Explore Tambomachay, known for its beautiful water fountains.
- 5:00 p.m.: Visit Pucapucara, an ancient red-colored Inca construction.
- 6:00 p.m.: Return to Cusco’s center, concluding the City Tour.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Exploration and Train Journey to Machu Picchu
Morning Start and Hotel Pickup:
- 6:30 to 7:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.
- Transfer to Chinchero: A 45-minute drive to the picturesque village of Chinchero.
Visit to Chinchero:
- Archaeological site exploration: Discover the colonial temple and impressive Inca ruins with a knowledgeable guide.
- Textile Artisan Center: Learn traditional weaving techniques directly from local artisans, offering a unique cultural insight and the chance to purchase authentic textiles.
Tour of Moray:
- Transfer to Moray: Continue the journey to the circular terraces of Moray, about 40 minutes from Chinchero.
- Site exploration: Discover the mysterious Inca agricultural terraces while the guide explains their significance. Free time for photos.
Visit to the Salt Mines of Maras:
- 45-minute drive from Moray to Maras: Travel to the famous salt mines.
- Exploration of the salt mines: Learn about the ancient salt extraction technique still used today. Free time to purchase souvenirs made from Maras salt.
Buffet Lunch in Urubamba:
- 1:00 PM: Stop for a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options.
Visit to Ollantaytambo:
- 30-minute drive from Urubamba: Transfer to the monumental Inca archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
- Guided tour: Discover the history and architecture of one of the best-preserved Inca sites in the Sacred Valley.
Train Journey to Aguas Calientes:
- 3:30 PM or 4:30 PM: Departure from Ollantaytambo train station.
- Duration: Enjoy a panoramic 1-hour and 45-minute train ride through the stunning Urubamba Canyon.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes:
- Reception at the train station: Hotel staff will meet you and escort you to your accommodation.
- 7:30 PM: Meet with the guide at the hotel to go over the details for the next day’s Machu Picchu tour.
- Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes: Rest and recharge before the exciting visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 3: Guided Visit to Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Morning Start and Breakfast at the Hotel:
- 5:00 AM: Wake up early to enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to the bus station.
Bus Transfer to Machu Picchu:
- 5:30 AM: Depart from the bus station in Aguas Calientes to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus ride lasts approximately 25 minutes.
Entry and Exploration of Machu Picchu:
- 6:00 AM: Enter the Inca citadel with the group and guide.
- Classic viewpoint: First, head to the upper part of Machu Picchu for the iconic panoramic view, and, if the weather allows, enjoy the spectacular sunrise.
- Photos and Views: Take time to capture stunning photos and marvel at the landscape from the viewpoint.
Guided Tour in Machu Picchu:
- 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Guided tour within the citadel of Machu Picchu. The guide will provide detailed explanations about the history, architecture, and mysteries of this sacred site.
- Highlights: The Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Rock, agricultural terraces, and other points of interest will be included in the guided tour.
Free Time for Personal Exploration:
- 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: You will have around 30 additional minutes to explore the areas of Machu Picchu that interest you most before concluding your visit. The total time allowed in the park is 3 hours.
Return Bus to Aguas Calientes:
- 9:30 AM: Bus transfer back to Aguas Calientes, lasting 25 minutes.
Optional: Ascent to Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain:
- If you have reserved tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you can take these additional hikes. The ascent must be coordinated in advance, as spots are limited.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes:
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM: Free time to explore Aguas Calientes. Enjoy lunch, visit the local market, or simply relax in this quaint town.
Train Journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- 2:30 PM or 3:20 PM: Board the panoramic train back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Duration: The journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes, again traversing the beautiful Sacred Valley.
Transfer to Cusco:
- Reception at Ollantaytambo station: Agency staff will be waiting for you at the station with your name for the transfer back to Cusco.
- Vehicle trip: Private vehicle transfer to Cusco, taking approximately 2 hours.
Arrival in Cusco:
- 6:30 PM: Arrival in Cusco. The final drop-off point will be at Plaza Regocijo, one block from the Plaza de Armas.
Day 4: CUSCO - CUSIPATA - RAINBOW MOUNTAIN - RED VALLEY - CUSCO
Detailed Itinerary for the Rainbow Mountain Excursion
Early Pickup: Our team will pick you up from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Alternatively, you can meet us directly at our office at 5:00 a.m.
Departure from Cusco: Once all participants are gathered, we will depart Cusco at 5:15 a.m. to begin the two-hour journey to the village of Cusipata.
Breakfast in Cusipata: Upon arrival in Cusipata, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant, with enough time to relax before continuing.
Journey to the Entrance Point: After breakfast, we will continue by vehicle for approximately one more hour to the access point for Rainbow Mountain, where an entrance fee of 30 soles must be paid.
Hike to Rainbow Mountain: The hike begins at the checkpoint and lasts about 1.5 hours, gradually ascending from 4,700 m to reach 5,100 m at the summit. Here, you will have time to take photos, listen to the guide’s explanations, and interact with local residents. You will enjoy approximately one hour at the summit.
Optional Red Valley: After taking in the views of the Rainbow Mountain, you can choose to explore the stunning Red Valley. The entrance has an additional cost of 20 soles. Alternatively, you can return via the same trail you ascended. The hike back through the Red Valley takes between 1 and 1.5 hours to reach the vehicle meeting point.
Lunch in Cusipata: Once everyone is back in the vehicle, we will head to Cusipata to enjoy a buffet lunch around 1:30 p.m.
Return to Cusco: After lunch, we will begin the journey back to Cusco, estimating our arrival between 4:30 and 5:00 p.m.
This itinerary offers a complete experience that combines spectacular landscapes, cultural interactions, and flexible options for your comfort.
Summary of the Hike to Rainbow Mountain:
- Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch.
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers.
- Estimated Trekking Duration: Between 3 and 4 hours.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,100 meters above sea level.
- Expected Weather: Cold and windy conditions.
Additional Note: At the checkpoint, before starting the hike, horses are available for rent to facilitate the ascent to Rainbow Mountain. The average cost varies between 80 and 100 soles, and the price can be negotiated
- INCLUDES / EXCLUDED
- INCLUDED
Day 01: City Tour Cusco
- Professional Guide: Enjoy the experience of expert guides who will provide valuable information about each site and its historical context.
- Comfortable Transportation: Travel to each location in our well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience.
- Entrance Fees: Access to all archaeological sites.
Day 02: Sacred Valley Tour
- Professional Guide: Enjoy a guided tour by experts who will provide detailed explanations about each site you visit in the Sacred Valley, ensuring an enriching experience.
- Buffet Lunch in Urubamba: Savor a wide variety of dishes in a buffet lunch at a selected restaurant, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Entry to Sacred Valley Attractions: Access to the main tourist sites in the Sacred Valley, such as Chinchero, Moray, the Salineras de Maras, and Ollantaytambo.
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes: A picturesque and relaxing train ride to Aguas Calientes, featuring stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a night in a comfortable, selected hotel in Aguas Calientes, perfect for relaxing before the visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 03: Machu Picchu
- Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with a nutritious and energizing breakfast at the hotel.
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu: A bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, with spectacular views along the way.
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu, Circuit 02: Guaranteed access to Machu Picchu to explore the historical site via Circuit 02.
- Guided Tour in Machu Picchu: A guided tour inside the citadel, where our expert guide will provide rich insights into Inca culture and the mysteries of the site.
- Return Bus to Aguas Calientes: After the visit, return by bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: Train ride back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Valley once again.
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Comfortable and safe transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, concluding your incredible 3-day experience.
Day 04: Rainbow Mountain
Round-trip Transportation: Travel comfortably from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain and back. We have a modern fleet of Mercedes Benz vehicles, specially designed for tourist services.
Meals Included:
- Breakfast: Enjoy a selection of natural juices, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, and your choice of bread or pancakes with butter and jam.
- Buffet Lunch: We offer a varied buffet with options to satisfy all tastes.
Tour Guide: All our tours are led by professional bilingual guides who speak English to enhance your experience.
Safety Measures: We are equipped with first aid supplies and carry an oxygen bottle for emergencies, ensuring that all participants enjoy a safe experience.
- EXCLUDED
Meal Coverage: Meals not mentioned in the inclusions must be organized and paid for separately.
Day 2 Breakfast: Breakfast on Day 2 is not included in the package.
Dinner on the Second Day: You will need to arrange your dinner in Aguas Calientes.
Lunch on the Third Day: Lunch after the visit to Machu Picchu is not included.
Dining Options in Aguas Calientes: Aguas Calientes offers a wide variety of restaurants and dining options, including local and international cuisine, ensuring there are choices for all dietary preferences.
Red Valley Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for the Red Valley is 20 soles. Please ensure to bring cash to cover this fee.
- WHAT TO PACK
Detailed Packing List for the City Tour, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain Excursion
Essential Items:
- Original Passport: Absolutely necessary for entry to Machu Picchu, so carry it with you at all times.
- Original Student ID: If you have applied for a student discount, make sure to bring your original student ID for validation.
Recommended Equipment:
- Small Backpack: Ideal for carrying essentials during the tour, such as water, snacks, and personal items.
- Warm Jacket or Coat: The weather in the Andes is unpredictable; bring something warm, especially for cold mornings and nights.
- T-Shirts: Two t-shirts for the two days should be sufficient, but bring an extra if you sweat a lot.
- Comfortable Shoes: Footwear with good traction, such as sneakers or hiking boots, is essential for walking at archaeological sites.
- Rain Poncho: The Andean weather can change rapidly, and a poncho is useful in case of rain.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day by bringing your own bottle to reduce plastic use.
- Insect Repellent: To protect against insects, especially in areas like Aguas Calientes.
Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen: Altitude increases the intensity of the sun, even on cloudy days, so it’s important to apply sunscreen.
- Hat or Cap: Helps protect your head and face from the sun.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright sun at high altitudes.
Extras:
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone with enough battery to capture the stunning views of Machu Picchu.
- Water and Snacks: Bring some light snacks for consumption during the tour, as opportunities to buy food may be limited.
- Cash in Peruvian Soles: For purchasing souvenirs, food, or tips, bring some cash in local currency.
This list ensures that you are prepared to handle any weather changes and enjoy a comfortable experience during your visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
- PRICES
Prices for the City Tour, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in 4 Days – 2024 and 2025
- Adults: $420 USD per person
- Students: $390 USD per person
- Children (3 to 17 years): $390 USD per person
Student Rate for Machu Picchu: How to Access This Discount
The Peruvian government offers special discounts on Machu Picchu tickets for students who meet certain requirements. These discounts are also reflected in the tour prices we offer.
Requirements to Access the Student Price:
- Age: You must be under 25 years old at the time of the visit.
- Format of Student ID: The ID must be physical and plastic (similar to a credit card), with all information printed. IDs with stickers or other formats are not accepted.
- Information on the ID: The ID must include:
- Name of the university
- Personal details of the student
- Student photograph
- Validity date (should not expire within one year from the date of the visit)
- ISIC Card: This is not accepted for obtaining the discount. Only a student ID issued by an official academic institution is accepted.
Important Considerations:
- It is essential that the student ID meets the requirements set by the Peruvian government, as it will be requested upon entering Machu Picchu.
- If the ID does not meet the requirements, you will have to pay the full ticket price upon arrival at Machu Picchu, subject to availability.
- It is crucial to ensure compliance with these criteria before booking your tour as a student.
- HOW TO BOOK
Booking Your Experience: Simple and Direct Process
Follow the steps and details below to complete your reservation securely.
Payment Options:
- Debit or Credit Cards: All cards are accepted with an additional charge of 2.9%.
- U.S. Clients: We also offer the option to pay from a bank account with no additional fees.
Prices:
- Adults: $420 USD
- Students or Children: $390 USD
Reservation Process:
Prepayment: A non-refundable prepayment of $180 USD per person is required to confirm your reservation. This amount is used to purchase tickets immediately, which are personal, non-refundable, and non-transferable.
Remaining Balance Payment: The remaining balance can be paid at our office in Cusco, at least 24 hours before the tour starts. The balance can be paid in cash (Peruvian soles or U.S. dollars) or by card (additional charge of 3.9%). You can also choose to pay the balance online with a 2.9% charge.
Total Payment: If you prefer, you can pay the total cost of the tour at the time of reservation. In the event of cancellation, the amount paid will be refunded minus the $180 USD prepayment.
Cancellation Policy:
- The $180 prepayment is non-refundable.
- We recommend reviewing all policies before completing your payment.
Steps to Make a Reservation:
Start Reservation: Click the “BOOK NOW” button on our website to access the booking platform.
Select Date and Visitor Type: Choose the desired date and the number of adults, students, or children.
Add Additional Options: You can add extras like tickets to Waynapicchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or upgrade your trip with the Vistadome train.
Complete the Form: Enter the detailed personal information of each participant.
Make Payment: Complete the secure online payment process with any debit or credit card.
After Completing the Reservation:
- You will receive an immediate confirmation email with the details of your transaction.
- Within 24 hours, you will receive an email with the complete information of your reservation, including permissions for the Sacred Valley and tickets to Machu Picchu.
If you have any questions or need assistance, our team will be available to help you every step of the way. We look forward to being part of your incredible adventure to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu!
Contact our travel advisor to use this itinerary (or others) as a basis for designing your perfect adventure in Peru together!
RELATED TOURS
We offer a variety of additional tours that maintain the same level of excellence and quality you expect. Discover new adventures and possibilities with us without compromising your experience! Our optional trips are designed to enrich your visit to Machu Picchu and other nearby destinations, always guaranteeing first-class service.
BOOK NOW
Reservations on Our Website Are Individual
We do not request any upfront payment until we confirm the availability of your reservation on the selected dates.
Once availability is confirmed, we will send you an email from booking@exploreperu360.com with the link or payment methods available for your country. You can decide whether to cancel the full amount or just a deposit of $180 per person to confirm your reservation.
Once your reservation is confirmed, we will take care of everything. We will be waiting for you on the day of your arrival in Cusco. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
