Combine two of southern Peru’s most compelling day trips in one itinerary: the engineered grace of Machu Picchu and the mineral spectacle of Rainbow Mountain. This two-day tour packs history, high-altitude hiking, and rail travel into a tightly scheduled adventure from Cusco.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out before dawn in Cusco, the air thin and bright, and the van hums toward Ollantaytambo. Through pampa and terraced slopes the train cuts into cloud-shadowed canyons; arriving in Aguas Calientes you trade tracks for a short bus ride that climbs to the stone gate of Machu Picchu. The city’s terraces and trapezoidal doorways present themselves with the blunt clarity of engineered space that has rested here since the 15th century.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good aerobic shape and able to handle sustained walking at high altitude; stair and uphill endurance helps.
Wildlife
History
Machu Picchu was constructed by Inca engineers in the 15th century and remained largely unknown to the outside world until the early 20th century; Vinicunca’s colors are the product of layered mineral deposits exposed by glacial retreat.
Conservation
Visitor numbers at Machu Picchu are regulated by timed entry and circuit routes — stick to marked paths, avoid touching stonework, and carry out all waste to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the 2-Day Tour to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Cusco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend at least one full day in Cusco (3,400 m) to reduce altitude sickness risk before the tour.
Hydrate and snack often
Carry 2–3 liters of water and salty snacks — the climb to Vinicunca is steady and dehydrates quickly.
Wear sturdy, broken-in boots
Expect cobbles at Machu Picchu and loose, rocky footing on the Rainbow Mountain ascent.
Start early for light and crowds
Morning departures avoid the heaviest crowds at Machu Picchu and offer cleaner light for photos.
Water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3 L capacity)
Keeps you hydrated at altitude and on exposed sections of the Rainbow Mountain trail.
Sturdy hiking boots with grip
Protects ankles on uneven Inca stonework and loose volcanic scree.
Layered clothing and windproof shell
Temperatures swing from cold mountain mornings to sunny afternoons; layers manage the change.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brim hat
High UV at altitude makes sun protection necessary even on cool days.