A six‑day journey that pairs guided visits to Cusco and Machu Picchu with the high‑altitude Rainbow Mountain trek. Expect steep ascents, cultural markets, Inca terraces and fragile puna landscapes—ideal for hikers comfortable at elevation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You wake before dawn in the thin, silver air of Cusco, the city’s colonial stones cooling under a sky that will soon clear to reveal jagged, snow-dusted peaks. From a hotel briefing to a last shuttle back to Lima, this six-day circuit stitches together Inca plazas, Andes terraces and a high‑altitude trek to Rainbow Mountain.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5–6 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness; comfortable hiking 3–5 hours at sustained high altitude and on uneven trails.
Wildlife
History
This route traces Inca engineering and ritual landscapes—from Qoricancha’s solar cult to the agricultural labs of Moray and the strategic terraces of Ollantaytambo.
Conservation
Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain carry visitor limits and fragile alpine soils; stick to trails, avoid single‑use plastics, and support community run enterprises to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Cusco Cultural - Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before hiking
Spend 48 hours in Cusco, avoid heavy exertion on day one, and increase hydration to reduce altitude effects.
Layer for rapid weather changes
Temperatures swing from cold mornings to intense sun; pack windproof and insulating layers for summit visits.
Protect from high‑altitude sun
UV is stronger above 3,000 m—use SPF 50+, a wide hat, and sunglasses to prevent sunburn and snow glare.
Carry cash for local services
Small vendors sell water, snacks and horse rentals on trek days—ATMs are limited outside Cusco and Ollantaytambo.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky, often muddy highland trails.
Insulating layers and waterproof shell
Rapid temperature swings and afternoon showers make layering essential.
Hydration system (2–3 L)
Constant drinking helps mitigate altitude effects and maintains performance.
Sun protection kit (SPF, sunglasses, hat)
High UV at altitude requires reliable sun protection all year.