4-Day Excursion to MachuPicchu & Rainbow Mountain & City tour || All Included ||

A lively four-day adventure through the highlights of Cusco and beyond, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and manageable hikes. For $565 per person, you’ll visit iconic sites like Machu Picchu, experience the vibrant city of Cusco, and marvel at Rainbow Mountain—all with comfortable 3-star accommodations and all transportation included. The tour is designed for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, with guided visits that go beyond the typical guidebook explanations, and free time to unwind or explore on your own.

Two aspects we love are the well-organized itinerary that combines top attractions without rushing, and the small group size of just fifteen travelers, which ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience. One thing to consider: the early mornings and long travel days might be tiring for some, so a good breakfast and comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Cusco’s must-see sites and natural wonders with an emphasis on comfort and authentic insights—perfect for those who appreciate moderate physical activity combined with cultural richness.

Key Points

• Comfortable pace with hikes never exceeding two hours
• All-inclusive transport and accommodations simplify logistics
• Expert-guided tours with unique insights
• Small group size enhances personalized experience
• Flexible free time for independent exploration
• Price offers good value for the full 4-day package

Exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the Cusco airport, where a representative from Chullos Travel Peru will greet you. From there, you’re transferred in a cozy, air-conditioned vehicle to your 3-star hotel, ideal for resting and acclimatizing. After some time to settle in, your first afternoon tour explores Cusco’s main sights, including the Plaza de Armas, Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), and Sacsayhuaman. The guides provide a concise yet in-depth look at the city’s history, architecture, and Incan significance, making these sites come alive.

The city tour is perfect if you’re eager to get a feel for Cusco’s vibrant culture without feeling overwhelmed. You’ll visit Qenqo, a mystical ritual center, and PucaPucara, a red fortress, which adds layers of history and symbolism to your understanding of the Incas. The tour lasts about 5 hours, with all entrance tickets included, and ends with free time to explore or relax.

Rainbow Mountain: A Visual Feast with Moderate Hikes

One of the tour’s highlights is the trip to Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, famous for its colorful, layered terrain. The journey begins very early, with a 4:00 a.m. pickup, so you’ll need to be prepared for a full day. The drive takes you through scenic highland landscapes to the town of CUSIPATA, where a breakfast buffet awaits, fueling you for the trek ahead.

The actual hike up Rainbow Mountain is about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, with manageable elevation gain. Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the vibrant, striped slopes—something many travelers describe as “very rewarding,” with comments like, “Loved the drive and hiking up the mountain.” The visit lasts approximately 40 minutes, enough for photos and soaking in the scenery before heading back down.

This day is long—about 10 hours in total—but it balances adventure with comfort, thanks to the well-planned logistics and small group size that keeps the experience intimate and manageable.

Machu Picchu: The Crown Jewel

The trip to Machu Picchu is set for Day 3, and it’s the kind of experience you’ll remember forever. Leaving early from your hotel, you travel by train from Ollantaytambo, a scenic ride that sets the tone for the day. A guide will accompany you as you ascend by bus to the ruins, where a guided tour reveals the mysteries of this iconic site.

The tour allows for a good amount of time to explore independently after the guided visit, and lunch in Aguas Calientes offers a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine. The return trip involves taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus back to Cusco. Since tickets are subject to availability and must be purchased through the Peruvian authorities, there’s a chance they might sell out, so booking early is wise. Many reviews mention that this day is a highlight, with travelers quoting guides like “Katia” and “milto” as being knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more meaningful.

Cusco Cathedral & Optional Gastronomy Experience

Your last day offers a chance to unwind or explore the local culture further. The optional tour focused on Peruvian cuisine and Pisco Sour preparation is a fun add-on, perfect if you’re a foodie or interested in learning about local flavors. Otherwise, the morning can be spent leisurely exploring Cusco’s cathedral or shopping for souvenirs.

This free morning is a thoughtful touch, giving you time to reflect on your trip or simply enjoy Cusco’s lively streets before heading home.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group size (maximum 15 people) ensures you get personalized attention from guides like Milton and Willy, who are celebrated for their knowledge and friendly service. The tours’ balanced mix of guided visits and free time allows you to absorb each location at your own pace—an approach many reviewers appreciate, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

The all-inclusive transportation and comfortable hotels offer great value, removing the stress of booking separate tickets or rides. Plus, the moderate hikes mean you won’t feel exhausted, which is crucial given the altitude and long days involved.

However, do keep in mind the early starts and length of some days, particularly for Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu. These are sizeable adventures, but the well-organized logistics help make it manageable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without strenuous activity or complicated planning. It suits those who value guided insights into historical sites, combined with a relaxed itinerary. If you enjoy scenic drives, cultural stories, and manageable hikes, you’ll find this package hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small group intimacy and a focus on authentic experiences rather than rushed, large-group tours.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Getting Acquainted with Cusco

Your arrival day sets the tone, with a smooth transfer from the airport and time to acclimate. The afternoon city tour is a gentle introduction to Cusco’s sights—Koricancha, the sacred Inca temple, is a must-see, blending Incan and Spanish influences. Sacsayhuaman impresses with its massive stone walls, and Qenqo adds a mystical element.

The tour lasts about five hours, and your guides often share stories and insights that aren’t in a typical guidebook. It’s a perfect way to get oriented and start feeling the city’s lively energy.

Day 2: Rainbow Mountain

This is a full, early start day. The drive through highland landscapes is scenic, and the morning buffet breakfast helps prepare you for the trek. The Rainbow Mountain hike is manageable, with about 1.5 hours walking to the summit, yet the altitude can be challenging, so proper hydration and pacing matter.

Many reviewers find the views breathtaking, describing it as “very rewarding” and “a magical place.” The colorful strata, visible from afar, seem almost surreal. The return hike is shorter, and the day ends with a long drive back to Cusco, but the experience is worth every minute.

Day 3: Machu Picchu

The highlight of many trips, you’ll leave before dawn to catch the train from Ollantaytambo. The journey offers spectacular mountain scenery. The guided tour of Machu Picchu reveals the site’s complexity and grandeur, with plenty of time to explore independently afterward.

Many mention the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides like Katia, who add depth to the experience. The train and bus rides are smooth, and the entire day is designed for maximum enjoyment without rushing.

Day 4: Cusco & Departure

Your final morning is relaxed—either visiting Cusco’s cathedral or enjoying an optional culinary tour. It’s a good opportunity to absorb the city one last time, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax before your transfer to the airport.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Altitude Adjustment: The tour involves high-altitude locations; plan ahead for some possible mild discomfort.
• Booking Machu Picchu tickets: They sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended.
• Comfort: The hotel is 3-star, offering comfortable stays but not luxury; expect basic amenities.
• Hiking readiness: Hikes are manageable but require moderate physical fitness—comfortable shoes and water are essentials.
• Early mornings: Be prepared for early pickups, especially for Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.

The Sum Up

This 4-day Cusco and surrounding highlights tour offers a balanced, accessible way to experience Peru’s iconic sites. The combination of guided insights, manageable hikes, and small group intimacy makes it especially appealing for travelers who want depth without exhaustion. The logistics are well-organized, and the included transportation and accommodations ensure a smooth journey.

It’s particularly suited for those who seek authentic, off-the-beaten-path insights and prefer a relaxed, comfortable pace. While the early mornings and long days require some stamina, the experience of seeing Rainbow Mountain, Machu Picchu, and Cusco’s treasures makes it a worthwhile adventure.

If you’re eager to enjoy Peru’s top sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this tour strikes a commendable balance and delivers rich memories, scenic beauty, and genuine cultural encounters.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, the hikes are designed to be manageable, with all hikes lasting no more than two hours. Moderate fitness is recommended, particularly because of the altitude and early mornings.

Are the transportation arrangements comfortable?
Yes, all transportation is air-conditioned in modern vehicles, and the logistics are carefully organized to reduce fatigue and maximize enjoyment.

How much free time do I get?
Each day includes some free time after guided visits, giving you the chance to explore independently, relax, or shop.

Are the hotel accommodations comfortable?
They are rated 3-star, offering clean, comfortable rooms, but not luxury. Many guests find them suitable for resting after long days of sightseeing.

What is the cost of the tour?
Per person, the price is $565. This covers all transportation, guided tours, entrance fees (subject to availability), and hotel stays, offering good value for the comprehensive experience.

What if Machu Picchu tickets are sold out?
Tickets are sold by the Ministry of Culture and are subject to availability. If tickets are unavailable, the tour provider will issue a full refund.

Can I participate if I don’t want to hike Rainbow Mountain?
Rainbow Mountain involves a hike, but it’s manageable for most. If you prefer not to hike, you might consider skipping that day and focusing on Cusco or Machu Picchu instead.

Is there an option to upgrade accommodations?
The tour includes 3-star hotels; upgrades may be available upon request but are not included in the package.

How early should I book?
Due to limited availability, especially for Machu Picchu tickets, booking several weeks in advance is advisable to secure your preferred dates.

This four-day journey combines comfort, authenticity, and adventure—ideal for travelers who want to experience Peru’s highlights without sacrificing ease or personal attention. From the colorful vistas of Rainbow Mountain to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, it promises memories to last a lifetime.