Service:
Premium
Type of Activity:
Type of walk:
Group service
Level:
This program is designed for travelers who want to experience Cusco in all its dimensions: history, vibrant culture, and mountain adventure. The combination of a Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley tour, 3-day Salkantay Trek, and Rainbow Mountain allows you to explore the main attractions of the southern Andes without wasting time on unnecessary transfers. It’s a well-balanced itinerary that alternates cultural days with trekking days, ideal for those seeking a complete experience in just a few days.
The 3-day Salkantay Trek from Cusco provides a physical challenge and a connection with nature, while the visit to Rainbow Mountain adds a unique landscape that contrasts with the glacial environment of Salkantay. This combination makes the trip a solid alternative for those who want more than just a tour to Machu Picchu: here you experience mountains, archaeology, and Andean culture all in one journey.
ITINERARY
Day 1: City Tour Cusco
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
- 🕐 Hotel Pickup
The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel (historic center). The guide will provide a brief introduction to the history of Cusco, the altitude (3,399 m), and basic recommendations to help you enjoy the tour at your leisure.
- 🏛 Visit to Qorikancha
First stop at the ancient Temple of the Sun, one of the most important religious centers of the Inca Empire.
Here you will be able to:
- Observe the original Inca walls and their architectural precision.
- Understand the importance of the sun (Inti) cult.
- Learn how colonial construction was integrated on top of Inca foundations.
- 🚌 Transfer to the Archaeological Parks
Departure by tourist transport to the upper part of the city (approx. 20 minutes). During the journey, you will enjoy panoramic views of Cusco.
- 🗿 Sacsayhuaman
One of the most impressive complexes due to its gigantic stone blocks.
- Here the guide explains:
- Inca construction techniques.
- Ceremonial and strategic use of the site.
- Current events such as Inti Raymi.
- 🔮 Q’enqo
Ceremonial center with underground passages and rock formations. Its possible ritual and symbolic use is interpreted.
- 🏰 Puka Pukara
Former military post or checkpoint. Good views of the valley are available from here.
- 💧 Tambomachay
Known as the “Temple of Water.” It is notable for its still-functioning hydraulic channels. The importance of water in the Andean worldview is explained.
DAY 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas (full day) – Pisac, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo
DAY 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas (full day) – Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo
- Departure for the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with an explanation of the landscape, microclimates, and why this area was key to the Inca economy.
- Stop at a panoramic viewpoint to locate the valley and understand its geography before entering the archaeological sites.
- Visit to the Pisac archaeological complex, exploring terraces and main sectors, with a focus on agricultural engineering and urban planning.
- Free time at the Pisac market, ideal for textiles and handicrafts; practical recommendations are provided for leisurely shopping.
- Stop in Urubamba for lunch (depending on the service), prioritizing a light meal to arrive energized for the next site.
- Guided tour of Ollantaytambo, highlighting temples, canals, terraces, and the importance of the town as a “living city” of the valley.
- Return to Cusco. Recommendation: Prepare a trekking backpack and set aside clothing for cold and rain.
Day 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – camp
Day 3: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Camp
You’ll depart very early from Cusco towards the starting point of the trek. Along the way, you’ll usually stop in Mollepata for breakfast and final preparations. Once in Soraypampa, the landscape changes: a high Andean valley, crisp air, and towering mountains. Today’s hike takes you to Humantay Lagoon, one of the most sought-after spots on the 3-day Salkantay Trek, renowned for its turquoise waters and the glacier that feeds it.
- Early departure from Cusco + transfer to Mollepata/Soraypampa.
- Hike to Humantay Lagoon (challenging climb, steady pace).
- Time for photos and rest, then return to Soraypampa.
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge (depending on category).
Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass (Abra) – descent to the jungle
Day 4: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Descent to the Cloud Forest
This is the most challenging day and the one that defines the experience. We ascend to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. The view of the snow-capped peak and the valley below is usually the most breathtaking moment of the trek. Then comes a long descent where the change in ecosystem is noticeable: less cold, more vegetation, and a different atmosphere than in the morning. It’s a day for concentration, a good pace, and short breaks to catch your breath.
- Departure very early to take advantage of the weather.
- Ascent to Salkantay Pass with strategic stops.
- Descent to a temperate zone (transition to high jungle).
- Dinner and overnight stay at a campsite or lodge.
Day 5: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – return to Cusco
Day 5: Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
The final day focuses on your arrival at Machu Picchu. Many tours connect with the Hydroelectric Plant, from where you hike to Aguas Calientes, an easy route through the cloud forest landscape. Very early in the morning, you’ll ascend to Machu Picchu for a guided tour (circuit subject to availability). After the tour, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco (combined with road transport to the city).
- Transfer to the Hydroelectric Plant (depending on your overnight stay).
- Hike to Aguas Calientes (scenic route).
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu + time for photos.
- Return to Cusco (train + transport, depending on the service).
Day 6: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca
Day 6: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca
The last day begins very early, as Rainbow Mountain in Cusco is best enjoyed in the early morning hours, when the weather is usually more stable and there are fewer visitors.
- Pick-up from your hotel between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. approximately.
- Transfer by road to the southern part of Cusco, passing through high Andean communities and open landscapes.
- Stop for breakfast in Cusipata.
- Arrival at the starting point of the hike (approx. 4,600 m a.s.l.).
- Progressive hike towards Vinicunca – Rainbow Mountain (between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on your pace).
- During the ascent, you will see herds of alpacas, reddish mountains, and the surroundings of Ausangate.
- Arrival at the main viewpoint (approx. 5,036 m a.s.l.).
- Free time for photos, rest, and a guide’s explanation of the mountain’s mineral formation.
- Descent via the same trail.
- Lunch in Cusipata.
- Return to Cusco in the afternoon.
INCLUDES
✅ INCLUDES
🔹 Services in Cusco (City Tour + Sacred Valley)
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco (city center)
Facilitates the start of your excursions without additional travel. - Tourist transportation during the Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour
Authorized and comfortable transportation for all transfers throughout the tour. - Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
Clear explanations about Inca history, architecture, and Andean culture. - Guided tour of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
Complete interpretive tour included in the Cusco City Tour. - Guided tour of Pisac and Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley of the Incas)
Entrance guided with historical interpretation and cultural context.
🔹 Services on the Salkantay Trek
- Transportation Cusco – Salkantay Trek starting point
Transfer to Soraypampa or the corresponding area depending on the operation. - Official guide specializing in mountain trekking
Accompanying you throughout the route to Machu Picchu. - Complete camping equipment
Shared mountain tents, dining tent, and kitchen tent (depending on the trek). - Cook and support team (muleteer and pack animals)
Responsible for transporting general equipment and preparing meals. - Full board during the trek
Hot breakfasts, lunches, and dinners from the start of the trek until Aguas Calientes (according to the program). - Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Interpretive tour of the main sectors. - Return transportation (train + ground transfer to Cusco)
Organized return from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
🔹Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel.
- Round-trip tourist transportation.
- Professional guide.
- Buffet breakfast.
- Buffet lunch after the hike.
- Assistance during the hike to Rainbow Mountain.
- Basic first-aid kit.
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌ DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) if not specified as included.
- Entrance to Rainbow Mountain (if paid directly in the community).
- Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu (optional).
- Sleeping bag (available for rent).
- Trekking poles (optional).
- Support horse on Salkantay or Vinicunca (optional).
- First breakfast and last dinner in Cusco.
- Additional drinks or snacks.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guide, cook, and support staff.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
RECOMMENDATIONS
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Arrive in Cusco at least one day early to acclimatize properly.
- Get a good night’s sleep before strenuous hikes.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the trek.
- Bring your original ID (mandatory for Machu Picchu).
- Wear layers of clothing (cold mornings, mild middays).
- Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Wear trekking boots with good grip that are already broken in.
- Carry a small backpack (20–30L) with only the essentials.
- Bring a sun hat and a thermal hat for the cold.
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection and sunscreen.
- Stay constantly hydrated during Salkantay and Rainbow Mountain.
- Bring energy snacks (nuts, energy bars, or chocolate).
- Walk at a steady pace, without forcing your steps at high altitude.
- Inform your guide of any severe symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Bring a small amount of cash for local services or extras.
- Respect the established rules and routes at Machu Picchu.
- Consider renting a horse at Vinicunca if the altitude affects your performance.
FAQ´S
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is the 3-day Salkantay Trek?
The 3-day Salkantay Trek is demanding due to the altitude and elevation gain, especially on the day of the Salkantay Pass. It is recommended to be in good physical condition and prepared to walk for several hours at a time.
- Is it necessary to acclimatize before the tour?
Yes, it is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least one day prior to the trek. The Cusco City Tour on the first day greatly helps with gradual acclimatization to the altitude.
- Does the tour include Machu Picchu?
Yes, the program culminates with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, as part of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu route. The type of train and schedules depend on the package purchased.
- Is Humantay Lagoon visited?
Yes, Humantay Lagoon is one of the main highlights of the 3-day Salkantay Trek and is part of the initial section of the trek.
- How difficult is Rainbow Mountain?
The hike to Rainbow Mountain (Cusco) is short but takes place at a high altitude. It can be challenging due to the lack of oxygen, although the pace is manageable and horse rentals are available.
- Do I need the Cusco Tourist Ticket?
The Tourist Ticket is usually required for some sites on the Cusco City Tour and the Sacred Valley. Depending on the package, it may be included or paid for separately.
- What if I get altitude sickness?
Mild symptoms such as headache or fatigue may occur. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and getting adequate rest will help minimize discomfort. In case of severe symptoms, you should inform your guide.
