Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, continues to captivate travelers from around the world. This 3-day/2-night tour promises an immersive exploration of the region’s premier destinations, from the iconic Machu Picchu to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain and the serene Humantay Lake. With round-trip transportation, guided visits, and select meals included, the tour offers a comprehensive and flexible experience. Priced from $486 per person, the tour provides a well-curated itinerary that allows visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the Inca civilization and the stunning natural beauty of the Andes. Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned traveler, this tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Key Points
- This 3-day/2-night tour explores Cusco’s top sights: Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake, with round-trip transportation, guided visits, and select meals.
- The Machu Picchu guided tour provides insights into the history, symbolism, and significance of the well-preserved Inca ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The hike to Rainbow Mountain offers breath-taking vistas of the snow-capped Andes and the stunning, rainbow-hued slopes of the mountain.
- The trek to Humantay Lake allows travelers to admire the serene beauty of the turquoise waters and the towering Humantay peak.
- The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an option to reserve now and pay later.
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Tour Overview
This 3-day/2-night tour offers travelers an opportunity to explore Cusco’s premier destinations: Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake.
Priced from $486 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, guided visits, and select meals.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s a flexible and convenient way to experience these iconic Peruvian landmarks.
Suitable for moderate hikers, the tour provides an immersive look at Cusco’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive package ensures you make the most of your time in this remarkable region.
Day 1: Machu Picchu
The tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Cusco hotel at 4:00 AM, followed by a 2-hour drive to the Ollantaytambo train station.
There, you’ll board the tourist train for a 2-hour journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
After arriving, you’ll transfer to a Consettur bus for the final 30-minute ride to the Machu Picchu entrance.
Once at the iconic site, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour, marveling at the well-preserved Inca ruins.
Following the tour, you’ll have time for lunch in Machu Picchu Pueblo before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo and then transferring back to Cusco, arriving around 8:30 PM.
Machu Picchu Guided Tour
After arriving at Machu Picchu, visitors embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring the well-preserved Inca ruins and marveling at the stunning architecture and layout of the ancient citadel.
During the tour, a knowledgeable guide provides insights into the history, symbolism, and significance of the various structures, including the iconic Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana stone.
The guided tour offers the perfect opportunity to fully understand the cultural and historical importance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and accomplishments of the Inca civilization.
With the guide’s expertise, visitors can make the most of their time at this iconic Peruvian destination.
Day 2: Rainbow Mountain
On the second day, visitors are picked up from their Cusco hotel between 4:30-5:00 AM for the journey to the Tintinco community, where they enjoy breakfast before embarking on a 2-hour hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain. The hike is suitable for moderately fit travelers, and the stunning views at the top make the effort worthwhile. After exploring the multicolored mountain, a buffet lunch is provided in Tintinco before the return trip to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 PM.
| Activity | Duration | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup from Cusco hotel | – | 4:30-5:00 AM | – |
| Travel to Tintinco community | – | – | – |
| Breakfast in Tintinco | – | – | – |
| 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain | 2 hours | – | – |
| Return to Cusco | – | – | 5:30 PM |
Hiking to Rainbow Mountain
Travelers embark on a two-hour hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, a moderate trek that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the multicolored landscape.
The trek begins at the Tintinco community, where hikers enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting out.
The journey is marked by:
- Gradual ascents through lush, green valleys, offering glimpses of the vibrant mountain ahead.
- Crossing small streams and traversing rocky terrain, testing hikers’ endurance and determination.
- Breath-taking vistas of the snow-capped Andes, which grow more magnificent with each step.
Upon reaching the top, hikers are greeted by the stunning, rainbow-hued slopes of the famous Rainbow Mountain, a reward that makes the challenging hike more than worthwhile.
Day 3: Humantay Lake
The third day begins with an early pickup from the Cusco hotel, as hikers set out for the captivating Humantay Lake. After a breakfast in Mollepata, the group embarks on a 2-hour hike to reach the stunning glacial lake nestled in the Andes. The scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks. Upon reaching the lake, travelers can take in the serene beauty and snap photos of the vibrant turquoise waters. A buffet lunch in Mollepata provides a well-deserved rest before the return journey to Cusco, arriving in the early evening.
| Depart Cusco | Hike to Humantay Lake | Buffet Lunch | Return to Cusco |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4:00-5:00 AM | 2 hours | Mollepata | 6:00 PM |
Trekking to Humantay Lake
From the town of Mollepata, hikers embark on a 2-hour trek to reach the stunning Humantay Lake, a glacial body of water nestled amidst the majestic Andes mountains.
The hike offers breathtaking vistas, including:
- The towering Humantay peak, its snow-capped summit glistening in the sun.
- Verdant meadows dotted with wildflowers, providing a vibrant contrast to the rugged terrain.
- Glimpses of the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, which appear to change color as the light shifts.
Trekkers are rewarded with the opportunity to admire the lake’s serene beauty and capture stunning photographs before returning to Cusco.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes all necessary transportation, knowledgeable tour guides, and specified meals, while travelers are responsible for airfare, travel insurance, and any additional expenses.
The tour covers pickup and drop-off at your Cusco hotel, as well as train tickets, bus transfers, and entrance fees to the sites. Meals such as breakfast, lunch, and some snacks are included on certain days.
However, travelers need to arrange their own flights to and from Cusco, and purchase travel insurance to protect themselves. Any personal expenses, like souvenirs or extra activities, are also not covered by the tour price.
With these inclusions and exclusions in mind, travelers can plan accordingly for a seamless and enjoyable 3-day adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The tour group size is not explicitly stated in the overview. Most multi-day tours of this nature accommodate small to mid-sized groups, typically ranging from 2 to 15 participants, but the exact group size may vary.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
This tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for adults and children alike, though the hikes may be challenging for very young kids. The tour operator can provide recommendations based on the fitness level of the participants.
Can Vegetarian/Vegan Meals Be Provided?
The tour can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diners. Guests simply need to request these meal options when booking. The tour provider will ensure appropriate meals are provided during the included breakfast and lunch stops.
Is It Possible to Upgrade the Train Tickets?
Yes, it’s possible to upgrade the train tickets. Travelers can contact the tour operator to inquire about upgrading to a more premium train service, which may provide added comfort and amenities during the journey to and from Machu Picchu.
Can I Extend the Stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo. Simply inform the tour operator and they’ll adjust the itinerary accordingly. However, keep in mind that any additional nights and activities will incur extra costs.
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Recap
This 3-day/2-night tour of Cusco’s premier destinations offers an immersive and flexible experience.
Travelers will explore the iconic Machu Picchu, the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, and the serene Humantay Lake, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Inca civilization and the stunning natural beauty of the Andes.
The tour is priced from $486 per person and includes round-trip transportation, guided visits, and select meals, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
