Machu Picchu Tour 5 Days/4 Nights

🧭 Description

This comprehensive 5-day tour takes you to discover the best of the Inca legacy and the natural beauty of the Andes, combining a vibrant culture, ancient history, and majestic landscapes. From the imperial city of Cusco to the hidden gem of Machu Picchu, passing through the Sacred Valley and the magical Rainbow Mountain, this trip has it all.

You’ll begin by exploring the temples and fortresses of ancient Cusco, then descend into the fertile valleys where the Incas developed their advanced agricultural engineering. You’ll visit local markets and impressive archaeological sites, and finally board the train to the edge of the jungle, where the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu is located. The tour culminates with a unique natural adventure: a hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru’s most striking landscapes.

An experience designed for those seeking a deep connection with Andean history, without sacrificing the comfort and safety of a package tour. Ideal for couples, families, adventurers, and cultural travelers.

🧭 Itinerary

📍Day 1: Welcome to the capital of the Inca Empire

Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, a representative will be waiting to escort you to your selected hotel. The rest of the morning is free for you to rest, acclimatize, and explore the surrounding historic center at your own pace. In the afternoon, begin your first immersion in Peru’s living history with a guided tour of Cusco’s most important sites.

You’ll start at the Temple of the Sun, known as Koricancha, where finely carved Inca stone walls merge with colonial architecture. Then, you’ll move slightly away from the city to discover the archaeological remains surrounding Cusco: Sacsayhuamán, with its impressive, perfectly assembled cyclopean blocks; Qenqo, with its underground galleries and ceremonial altars; Puca Pucara, an ancient strategic control zone; and Tambomachay, also known as the “Bath of the Inca” for its canals and ritual water sources. A day of discovery that connects you directly to the Andean worldview.

📍Day 2: The Agricultural and Spiritual Heart of the Sacred Valley

The second day focuses on one of the most fertile and sacred valleys of the ancient empire: the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The first stop will be the archaeological site of Pisac, built on impressive terraces that descend the mountainside. From there, you will have privileged views of the valley and the Urubamba River winding through cultivated fields.

You will then descend to the town of Pisac, famous for its artisan market and rural atmosphere. Later, the tour continues to Urubamba, where you will enjoy an Andean buffet lunch featuring fresh local produce and traditional recipes. After lunch, you will visit the fortress of Ollantaytambo, a key site of Inca resistance against the conquistadors and a masterpiece of mountain architecture and engineering.

After your visit, you’ll head to the train station, where you’ll board a tourist train bound for Aguas Calientes. The journey is a scenic experience in itself, following the course of the river and entering the high jungle. Upon arrival, your hotel host will welcome you, and in the evening, you’ll receive a brief briefing with details of the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

📍Day 3: Machu Picchu, the Sanctuary of the Incas

The most anticipated day of the trip. Early in the morning, you’ll depart for the entrance to the Machu Picchu citadel, boarding an ecological bus that ascends through the jungle landscape. Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to tour South America’s most iconic site accompanied by a professional guide.

For approximately two and a half hours, you’ll tour the main temples, plazas, ceremonial fountains, agricultural sites, and viewpoints, discovering the secrets that make Machu Picchu a wonder of the modern world. Sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, the Sacred Plaza, and the Temple of the Three Windows will reveal their function and symbolism within the Inca worldview.

After the tour, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for a leisurely lunch. You’ll have some free time to stroll through the town, visit the artisan market, or relax by the river. In the afternoon, you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where a shuttle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

📍Day 4: Otherworldly Nature at Rainbow Mountain

After a few days of cultural exploration, this day will be both a true challenge and a natural reward. You’ll travel south of Cusco, crossing rural landscapes, mountains, and valleys until you reach the heights of Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, a unique geological formation with shades of red, ochre, lilac, and green.

The hike to the summit is demanding but deeply rewarding. Along the way, you’ll see herds of alpacas, small Andean communities, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range. Once at the top, you’ll witness one of Peru’s most stunning views, with multicolored mountains on the horizon and pure air that takes your breath away.

After enjoying this natural spectacle, you’ll return to Cusco, pausing for lunch and a well-deserved rest upon arrival in the city.

📍Day 5: Last hours in Cusco and farewell

The last morning is free for you to enjoy your last moments in Cusco. You can visit museums, go souvenir shopping, stroll through the Plaza de Armas, or simply have a coffee overlooking the colonial balconies. At the agreed-upon time, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your return flight. This concludes this trip full of history, landscapes, and unforgettable memories.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

This tour has been designed to provide you with a complete, comfortable, and hassle-free experience from your arrival in Cusco until your final visit to Rainbow Mountain. All the essentials are covered:

✅Pickup at the Cusco airport and transfer to your hotel, so you can begin your trip in complete comfort.

✅Guided city tour of Cusco’s main archaeological sites, including:

✅Round-trip transportation from your hotel.

✅Entrance fees to all attractions (Koricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay).

✅Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English).

✅Excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with:

✅Round-trip tourist transportation.

✅Entrance fees to Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

✅Full guided tour with a bilingual guide.

✅Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, featuring fresh, local ingredients.

✅Tourist train ticket from Ollantaytambo to the town of Aguas Calientes (roundtrip).

✅One night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes in a comfortable tourist hotel with breakfast included.

✅Hop-on, hop-off tourist bus service between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu archaeological complex.

✅Official entrance fee to Machu Picchu, with access to the main citadel.

✅Guided tour of Machu Picchu for 2 to 2.5 hours, with detailed explanations of the history, architecture, and spirituality of the site.

✅Lunch in Aguas Calientes after visiting Machu Picchu.

✅Private transfer from the train station in Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.

✅Complete tour to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), including:

✅Pickup from your hotel.

✅Round-trip sightseeing transportation.

✅Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant.

✅Professional bilingual guide.

✅Trekking poles, blanket, oxygen, and first aid kit.

✅Official entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain.

✅Final transfer from your hotel to the Cusco airport for a hassle-free farewell.

✅With this complete package, you’ll have all the services arranged for a 5-day immersion in the history, culture, and nature of Andean Peru.

❌ What’s not included?

For a transparent experience, we also detail what is not included in this package, which you may want to consider depending on your personal interests:

❌Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, such as dinners in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, or snacks between meals.

❌Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, additional excursions within the sanctuary that require advance reservation and have an extra cost.

❌Access to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes, optional for those who wish to relax (entrance fee approximately 10 soles per person).

❌Tips for guides, drivers, or service staff, not mandatory but highly appreciated as a token of appreciation.

❌Personal expenses, such as bottled drinks, souvenirs, items from local shops, or laundry.

❌Travel or medical insurance is highly recommended but not included. We suggest purchasing insurance that covers accidents, cancellations, and medical assistance.

❌Domestic or international flights to/from Cusco must be arranged by the passenger.

🌟 Recommendations

To make the most of this unforgettable experience, we suggest following these practical recommendations before and during your trip:

• Acclimatize at least one day before the start of the tour. Cusco is located at over 3,300 meters above sea level, so it’s important to rest and drink plenty of fluids upon arrival.
• Bring clothing for a variety of weather. It can be cold in Cusco and Rainbow Mountain, while in Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, the weather is generally mild or warm. Dress in layers, including a waterproof jacket and comfortable clothing.
• Wear appropriate footwear. Make sure to wear non-slip hiking shoes or boots, especially for the hike to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain).
• Protect yourself from the sun. The high-altitude climate intensifies the sun’s rays. Wear a hat or cap, high-factor sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• Stay hydrated. Always carry a reusable water bottle. Avoid alcohol or heavy meals the first few days.
• Bring cash in soles. Some places in Aguas Calientes, Pisac, or the valley’s towns don’t accept cards. You’ll also need it for souvenirs, snacks, or tips.
• Don’t forget your passport. It’s required for entry to Machu Picchu and must match the information on your ticket.
• Pack a light backpack for the days of your hike. Include your camera, water, a poncho, snacks, toilet paper, and personal belongings.
• Bring collapsible trekking poles. They’re very helpful during the hike to Rainbow Mountain, especially on the ascents and descents.
• Bring swimwear if you want to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional activity).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I take this tour if I arrive on the same day it starts?

Yes, this tour is designed to start upon arrival at the Cusco airport. We recommend booking a flight that arrives in the morning so you have time to rest before the afternoon City Tour.

• Is it necessary to be in good physical condition?

Yes, especially for the day hike to Rainbow Mountain, which takes place at over 5,000 meters above sea level. You don’t need to be an athlete, but it is recommended that you be used to walking. For the rest of the tour, no major physical demands are required.

• What is the best time to take this tour?

The best time is between April and October, during the dry season in the Andes. The months of May, June, and July have the clearest skies. November through March is the rainy season, but the tour still operates as usual.

• Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, but you must book in advance. These tickets are not included in the tour and have an additional cost. There are limited spaces per day, so if you are interested, please let us know at the time of booking.

• Is accommodation in Aguas Calientes included?

Yes, the tour includes one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes with breakfast. We use comfortable and well-located tourist hotels. If you prefer a higher category, you can request an upgrade.

• What happens if it rains during the tour?

The itinerary remains the same even in rain. Therefore, it is recommended to wear a good raincoat and waterproof shoes. Our guides are trained to adapt the pace and maintain safety at all times.

• How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?

The journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. It is a scenic trip along the Urubamba River and very enjoyable.

• Can I store luggage before going to Machu Picchu?

Yes. You can leave large luggage at your hotel in Cusco or at the agency’s office. For Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, you only need a backpack with the essentials.