Get the most out of the Cusco region by visiting the city and its surroundings, which are filled with fantastic art and archaeological sites. The Sacred Valley holds huge Inca complexes, and the Short Inca Trail with Machu Picchu will provide a complete understanding of Andean culture and Inca architecture. You will finish the trip exploring the amazing Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
Cusco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain 6 days
The Cusco city tour will take you to some of the city's most important Inca and colonial sites. You'll learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire as you visit the Sacsayhuaman fortress, Qenqo, and more. On the Sacred Valley Tour, you can explore the vibrant local markets and try some traditional Peruvian cuisine. On our Sacred Valley tour, you'll visit ancient Inca ruins Pisac, Moray, Salineras of Maras, and Ollantaytambo, where we will spend the night in a hotel.
The Short Inca Trail hike is for those who want to experience a taste of the Classic Inca Trail without undertaking the full trek. We offer a short hike that takes you to some of the most stunning sections of the trail. This option is great for those who want to enjoy the trail's beauty without committing to the entire trek. The Rainbow Mountain hike is one of Cusco's most popular day hike hikes, also known as Vinicunca Mountain. This incredible mountain gets its name from its multi-colored stripes caused by mineral deposits in the rock.
Tour Highlights:
- See stunning huge stones embedded in Inca walls.
- Explore the Sacred Valley's most iconic spots.
- Hike the iconic Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy the stunning views of Machu Picchu from the Sungate.
- Experience the amazing Rainbow Mountain.
Tour at a glance:
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Afternoon city tour
- Airport pick-up, check-in at hotel
- Afternoon city tour: Plaza de Armas, Qoricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay, and Christ statue
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Accommodation: San Agustin or Similar
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour with Maras Moray
- Full-day tour starting at 7:00 am
- Mirador of Taray, Pisac ruins, Pisac market, lunch in Urubamba
- Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo
- Overnight in Ollantaytambo
- Accommodation: Tunupa Lodge or Similar
Day 3: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Early start, drive to Ollantaytambo train station
- Hike from km 104 to Wiñaywayna, Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu
- Dinner and overnight in Aguas Calientes
- Accommodation: Susanna INN or Similar
Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu - Back to Cusco
- Early morning bus to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour, free time for photos
- Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch
- Vistadome Train to Ollantaytambo, transfer to Cusco
- Accommodation: San Agustin or Similar
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour
- Early pick-up, drive to starting point
- Hike to Rainbow Mountain, guided tour, Red Valley visit
- Return to Cusco, arriving around 6 pm
- Accommodation: San Agustin or Similar
Day 6: Transfer Out
- Transfer to Cusco Airport for your flight to Lima
Included:
- Airport Transfers
- 5 nights hotel (Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu Pueblo)
- All transportation for the 6-day tour
- Entrance tickets to all the places we visit
- Cusco City Tour
- Sacred Valley with Moray, Salineras of Maras
- Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Standard train to Km 104 Inca Trail
- Panoramic Vistadome Train (One way)
- Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley tour
- English-speaking tour guide
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
Not included:
- Flight tickets
- Huayna Picchu Mountain tickets
- Travel Insurance
- Meals not mentioned
Full Itinerary of the Short Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 6-day tour
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Afternoon city tour
We will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. In the afternoon, we have planned a city tour to explore the most remarkable plazas, streets, and temples, including Plaza de Armas, Coricancha, Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay, and the statue of Christ atop Cusco.
- Included: Tourist van, tour guide, entrance tickets
- Not Included: meals
- Accommodation: San Agustin (or a Similar 3-star hotel)
- Duration: 3h ½
- Type: Walking tour
Recommendations: Bring a wind jacket and poncho just in case it rains, sunblock and hat, sunglasses, a poncho or rain jacket, and water.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour with Maras Moray
We will pick you up at 7:00 a.m. from your Cusco hotel and take you to an alpaca farm. Learn about the differences between llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos and their significance in Andean culture. Next, we'll travel to Taray, a stunning vantage point with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
Following that, we'll visit the Pisac Inca site, which is perched on top of a mountain and features spectacular farming terraces, old tombs, temples, and breathtaking views. After exploring the Inca Site, we'll visit the colourful Pisac market to browse for homemade goods. Then we'll travel to Urubamba, where you can have a buffet lunch at a local restaurant that serves fresh, local ingredients.
In the afternoon, we'll continue our journey to Moray's circular terraces—four terraces created in a natural depression and utilized as an agricultural laboratory. From there, we'll go to the Salineras of Maras, where residents still harvest salt using traditional Inca methods. Over 3,000 salt pools along a steep mountainside provide a magnificent picture.
Ollantaytambo, popularly known as the "Last Living Inca Citadel," is our final stop. It's notable for its archaeological site with gigantic stones and temples. UNESCO named Ollantaytambo town one of the best tourism villages, and it is where you'll eat dinner and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
- Included: Tourist van, tour guide, entrance tickets, meals
- Duration: Full day
- Type: Bus, walking tour
- Accommodation: Tunupa Lodge (or a Similar 3-star hotel)
- Considered: Easy
Recommendations: Bring a wind jacket and poncho just in case it rains, sunblock and hat, sunglasses, a poncho or rain jacket, and water.
Day 3: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
We will pick you up at the hotel around 5:30 AM after breakfast and drive you to the Ollantaytambo train station. We'll follow the Urubamba River until we get to km 104—Chachabamba. This is where our walk to Machu Picchu begins.
After going through the checkpoint, you'll eat a delicious breakfast that was made just for you and then get ready for the epic walk. On our trip, we will stop at the Inca site of Chachabamba. After this, we'll start a four-hour hike to Wiñaywayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the Inca Trail. We'll take our time here to look around the place and enjoy the stunning views of the Andes. Our expert trekking chef will have prepared a delicious, fresh picnic lunch with lots of choices and hot drinks to keep us going on the long trip ahead.
The next stop is the Sun Gate (Intipunku), where you'll see Machu Picchu for the first time. By the time we get to the Sun Gate, most people will have left, making the experience calmer. We'll get to Machu Picchu in the afternoon, which is a great time to take pictures because the next day comes with a guide.
The last stop on our trip is Aguas Calientes town, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. We'll have dinner at a local restaurant and stay the night in a hotel.
- Included: Transfers, transportation, tour guide, Train to Km 104, Picnic breakfast & lunch dinner, Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, Oxygen tank, first aid kit, satellite phones.
- Hiking distance: 13km / 8 miles
- Highest altitude: 2700m / 8858ft
- Considered: Moderate
- Accommodation: Ferre Machu Picchu (or a Similar 3-star hotel)
- Meals: all included
Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu - back to Cusco
We will start the day with an early breakfast at the hotel, then board the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Once at the main entrance, you’ll need to show your passport and ticket. You’ll explore Machu Picchu with our expert tour guides on a 2–3 hour tour of the citadel, visiting the farming terraces, temples, palaces, and the most important buildings.
After the guided tour, you’ll have the option to hike either Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. These tickets are not included and require advance booking, as they sell out quickly. Once you have finished exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes and enjoy lunch on your own.
Later in the afternoon, you will board the exclusive Vistadome Panoramic train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Upon arriving at the train station in Ollantaytambo, we will transfer you in our exclusive van back to Cusco. The expected arrival time is around 7:00 PM.
- Included: Tour guide, roundtrip bus tickets in Machu Picchu, entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, train tickets in Vistadome train or 360° to Ollantaytambo, and transfer from Ollantaytambo station to Cusco city.
- Not Included: Lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: San Agustin (or a Similar 3-star hotel)
- Walking time: 3 hours
- Considered: Moderate
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour
We will pick you up from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 AM for a three-hour journey to our starting point. On the way, you will enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant and take in the breathtaking mountain views.
The hike to Vinicunca starts with a 1.5-hour hike top the summit Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, which stands over 5,000 meters in the Ausangate mountain range. You can take photos along the way while our guide shares fascinating facts about this unique area.
Next, we'll walk for 30 minutes to the Red Valley, where only a few tourists visit. After exploring the breathtaking scenery, we'll hike back for approximately an hour and stop at a neighboring restaurant for a relaxing lunch break. The tour continues with our return to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 6:00 PM, giving you time to unwind and reflect on this unforgettable journey.
- Included: Tour guide, Entrance tickets, First Aid Kit, Oxygen tank, Satellite phones, Trekking poles.
- Not included: Dinner
- Accommodation: San Agustin (or a Similar 3-star hotel)
- Walking time: 4 hours
- Considered: Moderate to challenging
Day 6: Transfer Out
Today, we will take you back to Cusco Airport to catch the flight to Lima or elsewhere. You must be ready there at least two hours before.
Short Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 6 days Packing list
This 6-day tour includes tours in the town and hiking tours; some days, you will go back to the same hotel, and others, you will be changing to a different hotel. See below the detailed packing list you need per day and each tour.
You will arrive in Cusco with a piece of big luggage; it depends on how long your vacation is in Peru. Depending on the tour and day, you will take your bags with you or leave them at the hotel. Here are some specific tips on how to pack and store luggage.
List of things to bring on the City Tour in Cusco
When you get to Cusco's airport, we'll take you to your hotel in the city's center. You'll have time to unpack, eat lunch, and relax before our city tour of Cusco in the afternoon.
During the city tour, you must bring a small, comfortable backpack to carry essentials for the day. Your luggage stays in the hotel.
- A small daypack
- Sun protection
- Rain gear
- Comfortable clothing
- Warm light jacket
- A good camera
- Snacks, water
- Some money in cash
Packing list for the Sacred Valley Tour
On the second day of the tour, we will travel to the Sacred Valley in a full-day tour, and you will need to travel with all your belongings to the hotel in Ollantaytambo. Have an early breakfast, check out, and wait for your tour guide at 7.30 am for pick up.
During the day, you will be visiting several Inca sites, Local markets, and some of them include hiking for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Make sure you are always prepared with a small bag or daypack to carry essentials. Your luggage remains in the car.
- Comfortable bag or daypack
- Sunscreen, insect repellent
- Sunscreen, hut
- Shoes for walking
- Warm clothes
- Camera
- Smacks, water
- Cash to buy souvenirs
List of things you should bring on the Short Inca Trail
On the 3rd day of the tour, you will have an early breakfast in your hotel and wait for pick up around 5.30 am. We will transfer you to the train station to board the first train to km 104 and hike to Machu Picchu.
You are responsible for carrying a small backpack with all your belongings for the 2 days tour. Your big luggage should return to Cusco with the driver.
You must ensure that your backpack is light and comfortable; we do not have porters during the short Inca Trail. Below is a list of things you should bring on the Short Inca Trail:
- A good pair of hiking shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so a good pair of shoes is essential. Look for something with good support and grip.
- A daypack: This will be your main carry-on for the hike. Make sure it's comfortable to wear and has enough space to store all your essentials.
- Water: You will need to stay hydrated, especially at altitude. Bring plenty of water and some electrolyte drinks to keep yourself going.
- Food: No restaurants are on the trail, so you must bring your food. Pack snacks and easy-to-prepare meals that will give you the energy you need to hike.
- Clothing: layered clothing is best, as the weather can change quickly at altitude. Be sure to pack a rain jacket and warm layers for the evenings.
- First aid kit: Always be prepared for minor injuries and illnesses. Pack bandages, painkillers, insect repellents, and other items.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun is intense at altitude, so ensure adequate protection from UV rays.
- Rain gear: the short Inca trail is located in the cloud forest region, and rain can occur anywhere.
Packing list for Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
You can leave your bags at the hotel and don't have to check out because we're returning to the same hotel. You need to take a small daypack that you will carry with everything you need for the day.
Remember that Rainbow Mountain is a day climb at a high altitude and that the weather could be harsh and cold. Get ready for bright, cold, windy, and wet days.
- A good pair of hiking boots – these should be comfortable and provide good support for your ankles.
- Hiking socks – make sure these won't give you blisters!
- A daypack – this doesn't need to be anything too fancy, but it should be big enough to fit all your essentials.
- Water bottle – at least 1 liter, but more if you can carry it.
- Snacks and lunch – energy bars, fruit, nuts, etc.
- Sunscreen and lip balm – the sun is intense at high altitudes!
- Hat or headscarf – to protect you from the sun and keep you warm.
- Warm Jackets, gloves
- Hiking sticks
- Sunglasses – again, to protect your eyes from the intense UV rays.
- Camera! – to capture all the incredible views
Price for the Short Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 6 days
Price per person:
- From US$ 950
To book the Short Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain tour, you must make an initial payment of US$ 400 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or in Cusco.
Children & Student Discount:
- US$ 40 off per person
All travelers under 17 will have a US$ 40 discount. If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get a 40$ discount with your student ID. Please advise by email to give you a code for the discount.
Valid Student ID:
To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:
- 25 years old or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
- The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
- The ID must have a valid expiration date
Invalid Student IDs:
Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:
- Traveler is older than 25
- Expired ID
- Student ID without expiration date
- ISIC cards are not valid.
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Short Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain FAQs
Trekking in the Andes is one of the most unforgettable experiences you will ever have. The trek takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery you will ever see. You will be amazed by the landscape's vastness and the mountains' beauty.
What is the Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain 6-day tour?
This adventure tour combines the best in Cusco in only 6 days. You can explore Cusco, the best of the sacred valley, and the impressive Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
How long is the hike on the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is 16 km long and starts at Km 104 on the Cusco to Machu Picchu railroadCusco-Puno road.
How long is the hike at Rainbow Mountain?
To reach Rainbow Mountain, take a 3-hour van ride from Cusco to the trailhead. The distance from the trailhead to the summit is around 6 kilometers, including the Red Valley. The hike takes about 3.5 hours.
What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The best time of year to hike the Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain Tour is from April to October. The weather is generally dry and stable during this time, making for ideal hiking conditions. Remember that Rainbow Mountain can be quite cold at high altitudes, so pack appropriate clothing.
How difficult is the tour?
This package includes a city tour in Cusco and the Sacred Valley tour. You will explore the sites in a van with short hikes. The most challenging part of this tour is hiking the Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain.
Short Inca Trail
The tour is considered easy to moderately difficult. If you are moderately fit and have no health issues, you should be able to complete it without any problems. The highest altitude reached on the tour is 2700m at Sungate, which is lower than Cusco City.
Rainbow Mountain
The Rainbow Mountain tour is not difficult but can be challenging due to its location and altitude. This fantastic mountain is located at 5200 m (17060 ft), and you need to acclimatize in Cusco a few days before.
What is the weather like?
The weather on the Short Inca Trail is humid and hot. The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are located in the cloud forest, and the Rainbow Mountain Tour is variable. During the rainy season, rainy days are expected. However, temperatures will not decrease below 5°C.
The weather in Rainbow Mountain is cold and dry. This mountain is located up in the Andes, above 4700 meters on average, and the weather is windy and cold, and there is snow in some seasons.
Do I need a permit for this tour?
Permits are required to hike and book the Short Inca Trail. These permits can only be booked through an authorized tour company and are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
To enter Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, we are required to purchase an entry ticket but are not required to do it in advance; the tickets will be bought at the place we visit.
What will you see during the tour?
During the Short Inca Trail, you will see incredible Inca sites such us Chachabamaba, Wiñaywayna, Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu. You will also enjoy the fantastic landscapes of the cloud forest.
During Rainbow Mountain, you will enjoy the natural landscapes of the Andes, the colored mountain, and the reddish hills or Red Valley.
What is the food like?
You will travel with a tour guide for the Short Inca Trail, but no porters or chefs. We will provide you with an organic, packed lunch and dinner in a local restaurant in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
You will travel with a tour guide and chefs during Rainbow Mountain to prepare excellent meals. We provide picnic breakfast and lunch with fresh local products.