From Cusco: Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 2-Day Tour

Exploring two of Peru’s most iconic natural and cultural wonders on a 2-day tour from Cusco can be an unforgettable experience. Travelers will enjoy Inca history at the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, then venture to the stunning Rainbow Mountain to witness its vibrant, multicolored landscapes. With guided tours, transportation, and select meals included, this small-group tour offers a comprehensive and personalized adventure. While the days are packed with activities, the opportunity to connect with the Andean region’s rich heritage and breathtaking scenery makes this tour a must-consider for any Peru itinerary.

Key Points

• 2-day tour from Cusco visiting the iconic Machu Picchu and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain.
• Includes transportation, train tickets, guided tours, and select meals for a hassle-free experience.
• Explore the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with an expert guide on the first day.
• Hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, admiring its vibrant colors, on the second day.
• Small group size ensures a personalized experience during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour from Cusco allows visitors to experience the wonders of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 Wonders of the World, and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain.

On the first day, you’ll travel to Ollantaytambo, board a train to Aguas Calientes, and explore the iconic Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide.

The second day is dedicated to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, where you’ll hike and admire its vibrant colors.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be treated to hotel pickup, transportation, train tickets, entry fees, guided tours, and select meals. With a small group size, you’ll have a personalized experience to remember.

Day 1: Machu Picchu

On the first day, the tour begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco, after which you’ll travel to the town of Ollantaytambo to board a train bound for Aguas Calientes.

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide at the Machu Picchu entry gate and begin your guided tour of the ancient Inca city. Over the course of around 3 hours, you’ll explore the site’s impressive ruins and learn about its rich history.

After the tour, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to return to Cusco in the evening.

Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes

From Ollantaytambo, travelers board a train that takes them to the lively town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The scenic train ride offers stunning views of the Andes as the train winds through the valley.

Upon arrival, travelers meet their guide at the Machu Picchu entry gate and begin their exploration of the ancient Inca citadel.

The guided tour of Machu Picchu typically lasts around 3 hours, allowing ample time to marvel at the impressive architecture, terraced fields, and sweeping vistas.

After the tour, travelers enjoy a lunch in Aguas Calientes and have free time to further explore the charming town before returning by train to Ollantaytambo.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, the guide leads travelers through the ancient Inca citadel, providing insightful commentary on the site’s history, architecture, and significance.

With a duration of around 3 hours, the guided tour allows ample time to explore the impressive terraced fields, temples, and panoramic vistas that make Machu Picchu one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.

Visitors will learn about the engineering feats of the Inca, the religious and ceremonial functions of the various structures, and the theories surrounding the site’s mysterious abandonment.

The knowledgeable guide ensures travelers leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this remarkable Wonder of the World.

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Lunch and Free Time

After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, travelers enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of the ancient Inca citadel.

With free time in the afternoon, they can explore the local markets, visit hot springs, or simply relax and take in the scenic mountain surroundings.

Some popular activities in Aguas Calientes include:

• Browsing the handicraft markets for unique souvenirs
• Relaxing in the town’s natural thermal baths
• Taking a stroll along the Vilcanota River

This free time allows visitors to soak in the culture, recharge, and prepare for the next day’s hike to Rainbow Mountain.

Return to Cusco

After enjoying their free time in Aguas Calientes, travelers board the train to return to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll then take a bus back to their hotel in Cusco.

The train ride offers another opportunity to take in the stunning Andean scenery.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, the group boards a comfortable bus for the journey back to Cusco.

Along the way, they’ll reflect on the day’s incredible experiences at Machu Picchu.

Finally, the bus pulls up to the hotel, and the group says their goodbyes, feeling fulfilled after witnessing the wonders of this ancient Inca site.

With the first day complete, they’re eager to tackle the challenge of Rainbow Mountain the next day.

Day 2: Rainbow Mountain

The next morning, the group gets an early start from their hotel in Cusco as they embark on the second part of their adventure – exploring the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain.

After a stop for breakfast in Tintinco, the hikers begin their journey up the colorful slopes. The ascent takes approximately 2 hours, but the stunning panorama of vibrant reds, oranges, and purples is well worth the effort.

Once at the top, they’ve ample free time to wander, snap photos, and soak in the breathtaking vistas.

A hearty buffet lunch in Tintinco refuels the group before their return to Cusco in the early evening, capping off an unforgettable 2-day tour.

• 2-hour hike to the summit
• Free time to explore and photograph
• Buffet lunch in Tintinco

Rainbow Mountain Hike and Exploration

Early the next morning, the group departs from their hotel in Cusco, ready to embark on the second leg of their adventure – exploring the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain.

After a stop for breakfast, they begin their hike, marveling at the vibrant, multicolored layers of the mountain as they ascend. The trail winds through stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Once at the top, the hikers are granted ample time to wander, snap photos, and truly enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them.

After a satisfying buffet lunch in Tintinco, the group begins their journey back to Cusco, returning in the early evening with unforgettable memories of their Rainbow Mountain adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade My Train Ticket to First-Class?

Yes, you can upgrade your train ticket to first-class. This will provide more comfortable seating and additional amenities during the journey. Contact the tour operator to inquire about the availability and cost of first-class upgrades.

Is There an Option to Visit Huayna Picchu?

There is no option to visit Huayna Picchu on this tour. The tour focuses on the main ruins of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. To visit Huayna Picchu, travelers would need to book a separate excursion or extend their stay in the area.

How Difficult Is the Hike to Rainbow Mountain?

The hike to Rainbow Mountain is considered moderately difficult, taking around 2-3 hours to reach the summit. The trail is steep and can be challenging due to the high altitude, but the breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and snacks on the 2-day tour. The tour package includes some meals, but allowing personal provisions gives hikers the flexibility to fuel up as needed during the trek to Rainbow Mountain.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, the strenuous hiking may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Recap

This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable experience, visiting both the iconic Machu Picchu and the stunning Rainbow Mountain.

Travelers will be immersed in Inca history and Andean scenery, with guided tours, transportation, and select meals included.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience as participants explore these two of Peru’s most remarkable natural and cultural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: