Rainbow Mountain Tour and Machu Picchu Tour by Train

Peru is a land of unparalleled natural wonders and ancient cultural legacy. This 2-day tour combines two of its most iconic destinations – the vibrant Rainbow Mountain and the legendary Machu Picchu. Trekking through the multicolored landscape of Rainbow Mountain sets the stage for an immersive journey into Peru’s captivating history. The following day, a train ride transports you to the famous Inca citadel, where a guided exploration unveils the secrets of this lost civilization. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious explorer, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to uncover more of Peru’s wonders.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour package offers an iconic experience, visiting both Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu with a train journey to Machu Picchu.
• The Rainbow Mountain tour includes a 1.5-2 hour hike to reach the stunning, multicolored mountain at an altitude of 5,020 meters.
• The Machu Picchu visit includes a 2-hour train journey from Ollantaytambo, a bus ride to the site, and a 2-hour guided tour of the Inca citadel.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, Rainbow Mountain tour, train, bus, and Machu Picchu entrance/guide, with breakfast and lunch provided during the Rainbow Mountain tour.
• Participants can also enjoy optional activities in Aguas Calientes, such as relaxing in hot springs, indulging in local cuisine, and browsing artisan markets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour package offers visitors the opportunity to explore two of Peru’s most iconic destinations: Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.

Kicking off at 4:00 AM from Cusco, the Rainbow Mountain tour takes travelers on a 2-hour drive to Cusipata town, followed by a 1.5-2 hour hike to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain at 5,020 meters. After exploring the area, the group returns to Cusco around 5:00 PM.

The next day, the Machu Picchu tour departs Cusco at 4:00 AM, with a train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes and a bus up to the famous Inca citadel. A 2-hour guided tour allows visitors to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain Highlights

The Rainbow Mountain tour kicks off early in the morning, departing from Cusco hotels at 4:00 AM for the 2-hour drive to Cusipata town.

From there, hikers embark on a 1.5-2 hour trek up to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, standing tall at an elevation of 5,020 meters (16,466 feet).

The reward at the top is breathtaking – vibrant stripes of red, yellow, and turquoise adorn the mountainside, creating a truly awe-inspiring landscape.

Travelers can explore the area, snap photos, and soak in the incredible views before heading back down to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch.

The approximate return time to Cusco is 5:00 PM, completing this exhilarating adventure.

Hike to Rainbow Mountain

The hike to Rainbow Mountain challenges trekkers with its steep, high-altitude ascent, but the stunning multicolored landscape at the summit makes the effort worthwhile. The 1.5-2 hour hike covers roughly 3 miles and gains over 1,400 feet in elevation, pushing hikers to their limits in the thin air.

Dramatic striations of pink, red, yellow, and green minerals give the mountain its iconic rainbow-like appearance. Stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers create a breathtaking panorama.

Llamas and alpacas roam the slopes, adding to the serene, otherworldly atmosphere. Crisp mountain air and bright sunshine make for perfect photo opportunities.

Reaching the summit provides a profound sense of accomplishment and connection with nature.

Machu Picchu Itinerary

A typical Machu Picchu day tour starts with an early 4:00 AM departure from Cusco, followed by a 1 hour 40 minute drive to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, it’s a 2-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. A 30-minute bus takes you up to the iconic ruins, where you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour. After exploring, you can opt to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes before taking the 2-hour train back to Ollantaytambo and returning to Cusco.

Machu Picchu Itinerary
4:00 AM Depart Cusco	Train to Aguas Calientes	2-hour tour of Machu Picchu
Drive to Ollantaytambo	30-min bus to site	Optional hot springs visit
2-hour train to Aguas Calientes	Explore ruins	2-hour train back to Ollantaytambo

More Great Tours Nearby

Train Journey to Machu Picchu

Once travelers reach Ollantaytambo, they’ll embark on a scenic 2-hour train ride that winds through the Urubamba River valley en route to the town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. This picturesque journey offers stunning views of the Andes mountains and lush, verdant landscapes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, visitors will take a 30-minute bus ride up to the Machu Picchu site, where they’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of this iconic Inca citadel.

The train trip includes:

• Comfortable, panoramic train cars
• Opportunities to spot local wildlife
• Brief stops at scenic viewpoints
• On-board snacks and refreshments
• Arrival in the quaint town of Aguas Calientes

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Upon reaching Machu Picchu, visitors will embark on a 2-hour guided tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, to uncover the rich history and architectural marvels of this iconic Inca citadel.

The guide will share insights into the construction techniques, the purpose of various structures, and the significance of Machu Picchu in the Inca Empire.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the stunning terraces, temples, and plazas, gaining a deeper understanding of the site’s role as a royal retreat and sacred spiritual center.

With the guide’s expertise, travelers will leave Machu Picchu with a profound appreciation for this remarkable ancient wonder and its enduring mystique.

Optional Aguas Calientes Activities

In an article titled ‘Rainbow Mountain Tour and Machu Picchu Tour by Train’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Optional Aguas Calientes Activities’.

After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, visitors can opt to spend additional time exploring the charming town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.

This quaint town offers a variety of activities to enjoy:

• Relax in the town’s natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties
• Indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes
• Browse the colorful artisan markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts
• Ride the gondola up Putucusi Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
• Hike to the Mandor Waterfalls, a stunning natural attraction just a short distance from Aguas Calientes.

Included and Excluded Features

The 2-day tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, a guided tour and transportation for the Rainbow Mountain excursion, as well as round-trip train and bus tickets to Machu Picchu.

Breakfast and lunch are provided during the Rainbow Mountain tour. Visitors will also receive an entrance ticket and a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.

However, the package doesn’t cover tips, snacks, additional meals, or optional activities like the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrances and the hot springs in Aguas Calientes. Guests can add a $25 optional buffet lunch in Aguas Calientes if they wish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu on Separate Days?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu on separate days. This would allow more time at each location and flexibility in the itinerary, though it may require additional transportation and accommodation arrangements.

Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 4 or More People?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a group of 4 or more people. The tour operator offers group discounts, and travelers can reserve the package and pay later to secure their spots.

What Is the Recommended Clothing for the Rainbow Mountain Hike?

For the Rainbow Mountain hike, the recommended clothing includes warm layers, hiking boots, rain jacket, and sun protection. Dressing in moisture-wicking fabrics and bringing extra socks is also advised to stay comfortable during the high-altitude trek.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the Machu Picchu Train Tickets?

Yes, it’s possible to upgrade the Machu Picchu train tickets. Travelers can opt for a more scenic and luxurious train service, such as the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains, for an additional cost.

Can I Visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on My Own?

Yes, visitors can explore Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on their own. However, they’ll need to purchase separate tickets for these additional sites, which cost $70 per person and are not included in the tour package.

Recap

This incredible 2-day tour offers a unique blend of Peru’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Visitors will be mesmerized by the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain before embarking on a train journey to the legendary Machu Picchu.

With a guided tour and optional activities in Aguas Calientes, this tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the beauty and history of Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: