From US$914 per person (3-star hotel, double room), up to US$1405 per person (5-star hotel, double room). Prices are per person in US dollars and depend on hotel category and room occupancy.
Machu Picchu and Cusco in 5 Days, with Rainbow Mountain
- Five days around Cusco with no internal flights: city, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
- Night two is in Aguas Calientes at 2,040 m, which gives your body a break from 3,400 m before the high day.
- Rainbow Mountain on day four, after three days acclimatising, with the viewpoint at 5,036 m.
- Sacred Valley by Chinchero, Moray and the Maras salt pans.
- Hotels, transport, train, entrance fees, Machu Picchu ticket and licensed guides included at US$914 per person.
- Domestic flights to and from Cusco are not included, since most travellers book them with their international ticket.
Five days built entirely around Cusco: the city, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, with no domestic flights in the middle and no long road transfers. It is the shortest itinerary that fits a 5,000 m day without rushing the acclimatisation, and the order is what makes that possible.
**The altitude order.** Day one is Cusco at 3,400 m with a half day city tour, deliberately light. Day two goes down into the Sacred Valley, between 2,040 m and 3,762 m, through Chinchero, Moray and the Maras salt pans, and sleeps in Aguas Calientes at **2,040 m**. Day three is Machu Picchu at 2,430 m and back to Cusco. Only on **day four** does the trip go to Rainbow Mountain at 5,100 m, after three days of adjusting. Day five is the departure.
Sleeping low on night two is the detail that makes this work. Most five day itineraries keep you in Cusco the whole time, which means your body never gets a break from 3,400 m before the high day.
**Do this if** you want Machu Picchu and one big mountain landscape in under a week, and you would rather stay in one region than chase three. **Do not do this if** you arrive in Cusco jetlagged from a long haul flight and have no buffer day, because day four is genuinely hard: 90 minutes to 2 hours uphill above 4,600 m.
**Rainbow Mountain on day four**, in detail, because it is the day people underestimate. Pickup around 4:00 a.m., three hours by road, then the climb from the trailhead at about 4,600 m to the viewpoint at 5,036 m. Horses are available from local families for the uphill section. Back in Cusco between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. Between November and March the mountain is often in cloud, and on those days you climb for two hours and see grey.
**What is included at US$914 per person:** hotels, all transport including the train to Machu Picchu, entrance fees, the Machu Picchu ticket, licensed guides and the meals listed in the itinerary. Domestic flights to and from Cusco are not included, because most travellers book those with their international ticket.
If five days feels tight, the four day version drops Rainbow Mountain and the three day version drops the Sacred Valley. If you would rather add Humantay Lake as well, the six day version with Humantay Lake covers both mountain days.
At a glance
- Days: 5
- Highest point: 5100 m
- Price: From US$914 per person
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Cusco, Half-day city tour
Altitude: 3400 a 3800 m · Meals: Coca leaf tea or muña herbal infusion · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, our team will warmly welcome you in the arrivals area with a personalized sign displaying your name. You will then be escorted to your selected Cusco hotel for check-in. We recommend taking some time to rest, enjoy a traditional coca leaf tea or muña herbal infusion, and have a light lunch to support a comfortable acclimatization to Cusco’s high altitude before beginning the day’s activities.
At 13:00 hours the Cusco City Tour will begin, a fascinating experience to discover the historical and cultural richness of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. During the tour you will visit Qoricancha, the impressive Sacsayhuamán, and the archaeological sites of Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, accompanied by a professional guide who will introduce you to the history, architecture, and legacy of one of the most emblematic cities in South America.
Day 2: Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu Town
Altitude: 2040 a 3762 m · Meals: Breakfast, buffet lunch and dinner · Overnight: Aguas Calientes (2040 m)
After breakfast between 06:20 and 06:50 hrs, we will begin the Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour, one of the most complete and unforgettable experiences in Cusco, Peru. We will discover Chinchero, renowned for its textile traditions and Inca legacy; continue toward the impressive circular terraces of Moray, an ancient agricultural laboratory, and the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools continue to be worked using ancestral techniques passed down from generation to generation.
After enjoying a delicious buffet lunch featuring traditional flavors of the Sacred Valley, continue to the majestic Ollantaytambo Fortress, one of the best-preserved living Inca towns. Later, board a scenic tourist train to Aguas Calientes, traveling through the breathtaking Urubamba River Valley, surrounded by towering Andean mountains and lush vegetation. This unforgettable journey sets the stage for tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and Peru’s most iconic destination.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Town, Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, Ollantaytambo, Cusco
Altitude: 2430 a 3000 m · Meals: Breakfast · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
After breakfast, board the tourist bus to Machu Picchu and ascend to the magnificent Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accompanied by a professional guide, enjoy an approximately 2.5-hour guided tour through its remarkable temples, agricultural terraces, ceremonial plazas, and panoramic viewpoints. Discover the extraordinary engineering, spirituality, and enduring legacy of the Inca civilization at one of the world’s most iconic archaeological destinations.
After the guided visit, return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at your own pace or explore this charming Andean town. In the afternoon, board the scenic tourist train back to Ollantaytambo, traveling through the spectacular Urubamba River Valley before continuing by private transfer to Cusco. This unforgettable day marks the highlight of your journey through Peru, combining breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and the remarkable heritage of Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Cusco, Llacto, Rainbow Mountain, Llacto, Cusco
Altitude: 4630 a 5100 m · Meals: Breakfast and lunch · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
Before dawn, between 04:00 and 04:30 hrs, we will begin the trip to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), one of the most photographed natural destinations in Peru. After breakfast we will begin a hike surrounded by Andean communities and herds of alpacas and llamas, as we advance toward 5,100 m a.s.l., enjoying the extraordinary landscapes of the altiplano and the imposing Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain, considered the guardian Apu of the Cusco region.
Upon reaching the summit we will contemplate the impressive natural mosaic of mineral colors that has made Vinicunca one of the main tourist attractions in South America. After having time for photographs and rest we will begin the descent to our transport for the included lunch and then return to Cusco, taking with us one of the most memorable experiences of the Andean world. Ending between 16 and 17 hrs near the Plaza de Armas.
Day 5: Departure from Cusco
Altitude: 3400 m · Meals: Breakfast · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
Today, it is time to say goodbye, for now, to the beautiful city of Cusco. After breakfast, enjoy some free time to pack at your own pace and prepare for your departure. Take a final moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.
We will coordinate a convenient pickup time from your hotel in Cusco and provide a private transfer to the airport or bus terminal, according to your travel itinerary. This is not a final goodbye, but simply a “see you soon.” Thank you for allowing us to be part of your adventure, and we hope to welcome you back to continue discovering the extraordinary Andean landscapes, living Inca culture, and cultural heritage of Peru.
What is included
- Tickets and permits Cusco General Tourist Ticket, entrance to the Maras Salt Mines, entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2), and entrance to Rainbow Mountain.
- High-quality service and safety Pre-tour briefing before each excursion, certified official bilingual guides, trekking poles for Day 4, first-aid kit with emergency oxygen, and 24/7 assistance throughout your journey.
- Accommodation Cusco: 3 nights 3 stars hotel centrally located hotel (Days 1, 3, and 4). Aguas Calientes: 1 night 3 stars comfortable hotel with luggage storage (Day 2).
- Meals 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches. Day 4 includes an eco-friendly snack bag and drinking water during the hike to Rainbow Mountain.
- Transportation Group pickups and transfers (airport, hotel, train stations). Ollantaytambo Aguas Calientes train tickets (Expedition) and return (Vistadome). Round-trip tourist bus ticket Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu. Rainbow Mountain.
What is not included
- Optional Mountain Hikes Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: USD 75 per person for each mountain. Advance reservation is required due to limited availability.
- Meals not included Lunches and dinners not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses, tips and travel insurance Personal clothing and hiking equipment. Tips for guides, drivers, and service staff are optional but recommended. Travel insurance is not included.
- Additional Food and Snacks Additional meals, snacks, and beverages not included in the itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
What does the 5-day Machu Picchu & Cusco package include that shorter packages don't?
The 5-day package adds a full acclimatization day in Cusco, the City Tour, the complete Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. It is the most complete package to explore the region without rushing, ideal for first-time visitors to Cusco.
Why is the acclimatization day important?
Cusco is at 3,400 m / 11,150 ft. Altitude can cause headaches, fatigue and nausea on the first day. The 5-day package reserves the first day for rest, hydration and coca tea. This makes the rest of the trip much more enjoyable.
How many nights does the 5-day package include?
The package includes 4 nights: 3 nights in Cusco (with breakfast each day) and 1 night in Aguas Calientes (with breakfast). All transfers between the airport, hotels, train and bus stations are included.
Are archaeological entrance fees included in the price?
The Machu Picchu entrance fee is included. The Cusco Tourist Ticket (for Sacsayhuamán and the Sacred Valley) requires an additional purchase. When booking we will inform you of the current cost so you can budget without surprises.
Is this package suitable for families with children?
Yes. The 5-day package is one of the most recommended for families because it includes the acclimatization day, a relaxed pace and a variety of experiences. Children over 8 years old generally enjoy Machu Picchu very much with a guide.
Why choose the 5-day package over the 4-day one?
The 5-day package includes an extra acclimatization day that makes a big difference for many travelers. Arriving in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,150 ft) and heading to the Sacred Valley the next day can be exhausting. The extra day lets you enjoy each experience much more without altitude symptoms. It is the smartest choice for those who have the time available.
What is Cusco and what is its historical significance?
Cusco was the capital of Tahuantinsuyo, the Inca Empire, the largest pre-Columbian empire in the Americas. Its name in Quechua means "navel of the world." It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today it is a living city that mixes Inca architecture with Spanish colonial buildings, and is the perfect starting point for exploring the Andes.
When is the best time for the 5-day package?
Year-round is possible, but June, August is the peak dry season with perfect blue skies. April, May and September, October are transition months with excellent weather and fewer crowds. December, February is rainy season, with brief afternoon rains but lush vegetation and lower prices.
Do the guides speak English on the 5-day package?
Yes. All our guides are bilingual Spanish-English and some also speak Portuguese. They are guides certified by the Ministry of Culture of Peru with specialized training in Andean archaeology. If you need another language, ask us when booking and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Can the 5-day package itinerary be customized?
Yes. Being a private service, we can adapt schedules, substitute activities or add extras like Rainbow Mountain, Laguna Humantay or Machu Picchu Mountain. Contact us before booking and we will design the perfect itinerary based on your interests and physical condition.
What differentiates the 5-day package from the 4-day and the 6-day Machu Picchu + Humantay?
The 4-day package adds one extra excursion to the basic 3-day circuit; the 5-day is where the itinerary becomes truly complete, combining City Tour, Sacred Valley, Maras/Moray, Machu Picchu and one more day for an optional activity. The 6-day package (Machu Picchu + Humantay) adds specifically Laguna Humantay to the 5-day circuit: a 4 km hike at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft with a spectacular turquoise lake. If you already plan to do Humantay, the 6-day package organizes everything; if you prefer to freely choose your extra activity, the 5-day is the more flexible option.
Related tours
- Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco by Train, from US$317 per person
- Machu Picchu & Cusco 3 Days, from US$727 per person
- Machu Picchu & Cusco 4 Days, from US$774 per person