6 Day Machu Picchu Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake Tour

A 6-Day Adventure in Cusco: Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake

If you’re dreaming of exploring the stunning landscapes and ancient sites of Peru, this 6-day tour offers a well-rounded way to see the highlights without rushing. For $799 per person, you get to visit Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake, all while enjoying guided insights, scenic train rides, and comfortable accommodations. It’s a dense itinerary packed with highlights, designed for travelers who want a comprehensive experience.

We love how this tour balances culture and spectacular scenery. The guides are described as knowledgeable, adding depth to every stop, and the scenic train journeys let you unwind while soaking up the views. Plus, the extensive itinerary means you’ll see much more than just Machu Picchu, including colorful markets, Inca ruins, and jaw-dropping mountains.

However, be aware that the itinerary involves some early mornings, strenuous hikes (notably Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake), and a packed schedule. If you’re not used to physical activity at altitude, you’ll want to consider your fitness level. This tour suits active travelers eager to maximize their time and soak in authentic Peruvian sights, especially those who love a mix of history, culture, and incredible landscapes.

Key Points
– All-in-One Experience: Combines iconic sites like Machu Picchu with stunning natural wonders like Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake.
– Guided Tours: Expert guides enrich the experience with in-depth knowledge, turning sightseeing into storytelling.
– Comfort & Logistics: Includes comfortable hotels, train and bus tickets, and all ground transportation, removing the hassle of planning.
– Active Days: Expect early mornings and some challenging hikes—good fitness will be your friend.
– Authentic Encounters: Visit local markets and community stops to get a real sense of Peruvian culture.
– Value for Money: For around $799, you get a comprehensive, well-organized tour that covers many of Cusco’s must-see sights.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation in Cusco
Your adventure begins with your arrival at Cusco airport, where a Machupicchu Latin America guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. This first afternoon is your chance to acclimate, relax, or explore at leisure. The guide will brief you on the upcoming days, easing any travel jitters. We appreciate the included pickup service, which takes the stress out of navigating a new city.

Day 2: Sacred Valley & Inca Sites
This full-day journey offers a wonderful introduction to the region’s rich history and vibrant culture. Starting early, you’ll visit Manos De La Comunidad, where you’ll meet local artisans and see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas—perfect for those keen on authentic cultural experiences. The stop at Pisac Archaeological Park offers sweeping views and a chance to walk among Inca ruins, giving you a tangible sense of history.

The bustling Pisac Market is a highlight—an excellent place to browse handmade textiles and souvenirs. We loved the balance of cultural insights and shopping opportunities. Lunch in Urubamba gives you a taste of local cuisine (not included), and the visit to Ollantaytambo reveals impressive Inca stonework, including the iconic Wiracocha rock formation.

The day concludes with a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, offering panoramic views along the Vilcanota River. The hotel staff will help you settle in, preparing you for the early start the next day.

Day 3: Machu Picchu and Waynapicchu
This day is the tour’s crown jewel. Rising at dawn, you’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu—an experience in itself, with the early morning light adding magic to the ruins. The guided tour delves into the site’s mysteries, and the optional hike up Waynapicchu (about 1.5-2 hours roundtrip) rewards you with breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities.

Your guide will share stories about the Incan civilization, making the ruins come alive. After about three hours at Machu Picchu, you’ll descend, catch the train back to Ollantaytambo, and be driven back to Cusco in the evening. One reviewer described this day as “the best trip ever,” highlighting the well-organized nature of this part of the tour.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain Adventure
This is a full-day trek that starts very early—around 4:00 am—so it’s not for night owls. After a scenic drive to Cusipata, you’ll enjoy breakfast before heading to Fulawasipata, at 4,660 meters elevation. The hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), at about 5,200 meters, takes roughly two hours uphill.

What makes this hike worthwhile? The vivid colors of the mountain—reds, pinks, turquoise, and yellows—create a landscape that looks like a painter’s palette spilled across the peaks. Along the way, you’ll see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas grazing against a backdrop of glaciers and rugged terrain. We’ve read that travelers find the hike challenging but rewarding, and the views are unforgettable.

Following your descent, a lunch stop in Cusipata offers a break before returning to Cusco. Expect to arrive back in the late afternoon, ready for some well-earned rest.

Day 5: Humantay Lake & High-Altitude Beauty
Early morning, you’ll head toward Mollepata, where breakfast awaits, then continue to Soraypampa. The short but steep hike to Humantay Lake (about 1.5 hours each way) is a highlight—crystal-clear waters nestled against glaciers, with towering peaks overhead.

Many reviewers rave about the astonishing scenery here—colorful skies reflected in the lake, surrounded by mountains and glaciers. It’s a physically demanding trip at altitude, but the spectacular views make it worth every step. After the hike, you’ll return to Mollepata for lunch before heading back to Cusco.

Day 6: Departure
Your adventure wraps up with a convenient transfer from your hotel to Cusco airport, making it easy to catch your flight home. This final day is straightforward but important, offering a smooth end to your whirlwind journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making history and culture approachable. The scenery is unparalleled—from the mysterious terraces and ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain and the serene beauty of Humantay Lake.

The balance of activities and downtime is well-calibrated, with some early mornings and active hikes balanced by scenic train rides and cultural stops. The inclusion of all major tickets and transportation simplifies logistics, so you can focus on enjoying each moment.

On the downside, the hikes are strenuous and at high altitude, which could be a concern if you’re not acclimated or have mobility issues. Also, the tour’s non-refundable policy means you need to be confident about your plans.

This tour caters best to active travelers who want a comprehensive Peruvian experience without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those willing to rise early, walk a lot, and embrace the adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day tour offers a well-organized way to see some of Peru’s most famous sights, paired with authentic cultural stops. The price point is reasonable considering all included transportation, guides, and entrance fees, especially for such a packed itinerary.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of history, nature, and vibrant culture, this trip will deliver. You’ll love the expert guides who bring history to life and the spectacular scenery that will stay with you long after you return home.

While it’s a demanding schedule, the rewards are extraordinary—perfect for active travelers eager to maximize their time in Cusco and beyond. This tour truly captures the spirit of adventure and discovery that makes Peru such a remarkable destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited physical fitness?
This tour involves early mornings and some challenging hikes, especially Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake. If you’re generally active and in good health, you’ll likely enjoy it. However, if mobility or altitude pose concerns, consider your comfort level before booking.

Are meals included during the tour?
Breakfast is included on five days, and lunch is provided on days 2, 4, and 5. However, meals on other days, like the dinner in Cusco, are not included, so you may want to budget extra for dining out.

What is the group size?
The tour is capped at a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easy interaction with guides.

How early do we start each day?
Most days start around 7:40 to 5:30 am, depending on the activity. Be prepared for early starts, especially on days visiting Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake.

What is included and what is not?
All ground transportation, guide services, entrance tickets, and train and bus tickets are included. Meals and gratuities are not, and some entrance fees, like Sacsayhuamán, are extra.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be amended, so make sure your plans are firm before booking.

This 6-day trip in Cusco is perfect for those looking to combine history, culture, and natural beauty into one seamless adventure. With knowledgeable guides and memorable scenery, it’s a trip that offers more than just sightseeing — it’s an immersion into the heart of Peru.