Looking for a trip that combines culture, nature and unforgettable scenery? This complete 6-day journey offers a bit of everything: from ancient Inca sites to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Explore the vibrant city of Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, visit the fascinating terraces of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, and travel by train through the Andes to the world-famous Machu Picchu.
The adventure continues in the high-mountain landscapes. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is located above 5,000 m a.s.l., so good physical condition and proper acclimatization are recommended. Humantay Lake, located at approximately 4,200 m a.s.l., also requires a demanding ascent; to make part of the climb easier, there is the option of using a horse, subject to local availability. The return trip is usually easier. The combination of Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, the Red Valley, and Humantay Lake makes this 6-day program an excellent option for discovering the best of Cusco in a single trip.
Your trip begins with a warm personalized welcome at Cusco airport by a Viajes Cusco Perú representative, followed by a comfortable private transfer to your hotel in the historic center. Take the morning to rest and acclimatize to the altitude with coca tea and a light lunch. In the afternoon, your guide will pick you up to explore the city's most important sites, starting with Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the historic Plaza de Armas with its Cathedral.
We will continue to the outskirts of the city to discover Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress with zigzag walls, Qenqo, a mysterious ceremonial site, Puca Pucara, an ancient military outpost, and Tambomachay, famous for its aqueducts and ceremonial fountains. After an afternoon full of discoveries, we will drop you off two blocks from the Plaza de Armas with free time to have dinner on your own and rest, ready for the adventure ahead.
Meals: Coca leaf tea or muña herbal infusion | Lodging: Hotel in Cusco
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, set out to explore the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas, beginning in Chinchero, a charming Andean village renowned for its colorful markets, traditional weaving, and rich Inca heritage. Visit a local textile center to learn about ancestral weaving techniques before exploring its historic church. Continue to Moray, an extraordinary archaeological site featuring vast circular terraces believed to have been used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. Then discover the famous Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of small salt pools continue to produce naturally harvested pink salt using traditional methods.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba before continuing to Ollantaytambo, one of the most remarkable living Inca settlements in Peru. Explore its original Inca streets, monumental stone temples, and impressive agricultural terraces while learning about its historical and strategic importance. After the visit, board a scenic train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), traveling through the spectacular Urubamba River Valley. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to relax or explore the charming town before your unforgettable Machu Picchu experience the following day.
Meals: Breakfast, buffet lunch and dinner | Lodging: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Wake up early to enjoy a quieter experience at Machu Picchu. After a quick breakfast, board the bus for a scenic 25-minute journey to the entrance of the Machu Picchu Citadel, arriving early to witness the first light of day illuminate this extraordinary Inca sanctuary. Accompanied by your expert guide, explore the ancient stone city for approximately 2 hours, discovering its temples, residences, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial spaces while learning about the remarkable history, architecture, and engineering of the Inca civilization. Optional: if reserved in advance, you may hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.
After the guided tour, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and explore the town at your own pace. In the late afternoon, board the scenic train back to Ollantaytambo, traveling through the spectacular landscapes of the Urubamba River Valley. Upon arrival, your private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, concluding an unforgettable day immersed in the history and magic of Machu Picchu.
Meals: Breakfast | Lodging: Hotel in Cusco
Another unforgettable day begins with pickup at 4:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco, traveling through the Anta plain and the Limatambo valley toward the town of Mollepata, where you will make a stop for a breakfast that will give you energy for the adventure. You will continue by vehicle to Soraypampa (3,900 m), the starting point of the hike, which lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and wildflowers, with your guide sharing information about the landscape, history, and altitude tips.
Upon arriving at Humantay Lake (4,200 m), with its brilliant turquoise color framed by the glacier of the Humantay Snow-Capped Mountain, you will have between 45 minutes and 1 hour to take photos, relax, or meditate while your guide explains its spiritual meaning within the Andean worldview. We will descend back to Soraypampa, where you will enjoy a fresh lunch prepared by our local chef, and then return to your hotel in Cusco, arriving at approximately 18:30 hrs.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch | Lodging: Hotel in Cusco
Your final Andean adventure begins at 4:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by an approximately 3-hour journey through the Southern Valley, with a stop for a traditional Andean breakfast. The hike begins at Llacto (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), following a winding trail alongside a crystal-clear stream while enjoying spectacular views of Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region. Along the route, encounter rural Andean communities and local people wearing traditional clothing, while your professional guide provides insight into their cultural significance and way of life.
After approximately 1.5 hours of hiking, reach the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca, 5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Enjoy between 30 minutes and 1 hour at the viewpoint to admire its vibrant mineral colors, learn from your guide about its geological formation, and capture unforgettable photographs. Begin the descent to Llacto, which takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, followed by a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, return to your hotel in Cusco, bringing with you an unforgettable experience among the breathtaking landscapes and living traditions of the Peruvian Andes.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch | Lodging: Hotel in Cusco
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, Humantay Lake, 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 landscapes, living Inca culture, and heritage of the Peruvian Andes.
Meals: Breakfast | Lodging: Check Out