A six-day Andes circuit from Cusco’s archaeological high points to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. Expect high-altitude trails, Quechua cultural encounters, and a mix of train, bus and guided hikes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bus slows through thin air as you leave Cusco’s stone streets and climb toward high puna grasslands; by dawn the Andes sharpen into ridgelines and the valley light slips gold across terraced slopes. This six-day circuit stitches together Cusco’s colonial plazas and Inca engineering—Pisac and Ollantaytambo—then drops you by train and bus into Machu Picchu’s fog-cleared plazas before testing lungs on the chromatic slopes of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain).
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and previous high-altitude hiking experience recommended; moderate to strong legs for uneven stone and steep ascents.
Wildlife
History
The Sacred Valley was the heartland of Inca agriculture and administration; terraces and stonework at Pisac and Ollantaytambo reflect centuries of management along riverine corridors.
Conservation
Visitor limits at Machu Picchu and annual maintenance of Q'eswachaka support both site preservation and local stewardship; stick to trails and local waste rules to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the 6-Day: Cusco || MachuPicchu || Sacred Valley || Rainbow Mountain || Qeswachaka|| today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco (3,400 m) before strenuous hikes; light activity and hydration reduce altitude sickness risk.
Start Rainbow Mountain early
Pickups before dawn and reaching the viewpoint before midday avoids crowds and rapid weather shifts at 5,200 m.
Layer for rapid weather changes
Bring breathable base layers, an insulated jacket and a windproof shell—temperatures and wind shift quickly above 4,000 m.
Protect from sun and dust
High UV at altitude and reflective mineral surfaces demand SPF 50+, sunglasses and a buff for wind/dust protection.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction on uneven Inca stone, muddy puna trails and scree near Rainbow Mountain.
Insulating midlayer and wind shell
Warmth during cold mornings at altitude and protection from wind and rain.
Hydration system (2–3 L)
Sustained hydration is crucial at altitude to prevent headaches and fatigue.
Sun protection kit (SPF, sunglasses, wide-brim hat)
High UV exposure on open slopes and at high elevations makes sun protection essential.