Explore the Sacred Valley and Colorful Mountain + Hotel

Explore the Sacred Valley and Colorful Mountain + Hotel offers an engaging 5-day journey through Peru’s most iconic sights, including Machu Picchu, the Rainbow Mountain, and the charming Ollantaytambo. Priced at $611 per person, this tour balances culture, breathtaking landscapes, and comfortable accommodations. From your initial arrival in Cusco to your scenic hikes and ancient ruins, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the most remarkable highlights of the region.

What we particularly love about this experience is the seamless blend of activities—visiting both the famous Inca sites and the striking Mountain of Colors—and the thoughtful inclusion of meals, transportation, and expert guides. It’s a well-rounded package designed to maximize time and value. A potential consideration is the physical demands, especially on the hike to Rainbow Mountain, which requires moderate effort and early mornings. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor adventures, especially those who value guided experiences and logistical convenience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Cusco city, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.
• Expert guides: Professional guides in each major site enhance understanding and appreciation.
• All-inclusive value: Entrance fees, train tickets, buses, and meals are included, simplifying planning.
• Early start for Rainbow Mountain: Expect an early departure, perfect for those eager for adventure.
• Authentic experiences: Local buffet lunches and visits to traditional markets add flavor to your trip.
• Physical activity: Hike to Rainbow Mountain and explore archaeological sites; suitable for active travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Sacred Valley and Colorful Mountain Tour

Starting from Cusco: A gentle introduction to the city

Your adventure begins right in Cusco, where a guide named Juan (or similar, depending on the day) will meet you at the hotel or airport. We appreciate how the tour offers a free morning for arrival, giving you time to settle in, acclimate to the altitude, or explore independently. The afternoon city tour is a great way to get familiar with Cusco’s highlights—Qoricancha (the Sun Temple), Sacsayhuamán fortress, and other Inca sites. The guides tend to be knowledgeable, sharing stories that bring these ancient stones to life.

Day 2: Sacred Valley’s gems and the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo

This day is packed. It kicks off with breakfast and a prompt hotel pickup around 7:30 or 8 a.m. We loved the way the tour takes you to Pisac’s market—a lively place where locals sell everything from textiles to fresh produce—perfect for soaking up local culture. Then, a stop in Urubamba for a buffet lunch offers a delicious break amid the stunning scenery, giving you a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Afterward, the visit to Ollantaytambo is a highlight. The fortress, with its terraced structures and terraces cascading down the hillside, offers both a glimpse into Inca military architecture and a charming village atmosphere. The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) is scenic and comfortable, with panoramic views of the valley and mountains—an experience that never gets old.

Day 3: The crown jewel – Machu Picchu

The early morning transfer from your hotel to the train station makes for a smooth start. The bus ride up to Machu Picchu offers sweeping vistas, setting the tone for this iconic site. The guided tour here is thorough, covering major temples, terraces, and plazas. As one review mentions, “The guide brought the ruins alive with stories about Inca engineering and culture,” making the visit not just a photo-op but an educational experience.

After the tour, enjoy a buffet lunch in Aguas Calientes before heading back to Cusco by train and private transfer, with plenty of time to reflect on your day’s wonders.

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Day 4: The Rainbow Mountain – Nature’s masterpiece

This is the most physically demanding day, with an early 4:30 a.m. pickup. The two-hour drive from Cusco to Tintinco sets the scene for this adventure. We loved the scenic drive through the high Andes—nothing beats starting your day with crisp mountain air and panoramic views.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes approximately two hours at a moderate pace. The landscape is unlike anything else you’ll see in Peru—vivid stripes of red, orange, yellow, green, and purple streak across the mountain’s slopes. It’s a popular spot, but that’s because it’s so stunning. Remember, the altitude can be challenging, so proper hydration and pacing are key.

You’ll have time to take photos, breathe in the scenery, and appreciate the natural wonder. Returning to Cusco in the late afternoon, you’ll be ready to unwind after a full day of physical activity.

Day 5: Departure day

Your tour provider will coordinate your transfer to the Cusco airport, making sure your trip ends smoothly. This is a good moment to reflect on the diverse experiences—ancient ruins, vibrant markets, colorful mountains—that you’ve collected over the past days.

What’s Included and What’s Not

We found the overall value of this tour to be quite good, especially considering the inclusions. The price of $611 covers nearly everything—airport pickups, transportation, entrance fees, guided tours, meals, train tickets, and even walking sticks and assistance with oxygen if needed. It’s clear that the tour is designed for convenience, removing much of the hassle of planning logistics independently.

However, some travelers might find that flights, additional meals, or personal expenses are extras to budget for. The tour also emphasizes physical activity, with some days involving early starts and moderate hikes. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions.

Transportation & Group Size

Transportation includes private pickups, tourist trains, and bus tickets—all arranged for maximum comfort. Group sizes tend to be moderate, allowing for personalized attention, but not so small that you’re left waiting for others. We appreciated the smooth coordination, which minimizes waiting times and keeps the days moving.

Guides and Accessibility

Guides are professional and knowledgeable, usually bilingual in Spanish and English, and they make the sites engaging. The use of walking sticks and oxygen assistance shows attention to traveler comfort and safety, especially at high altitudes like Rainbow Mountain.

Authentic Experiences and Cultural Touches

The inclusion of local buffet lunches at Urubamba and in Machu Picchu Pueblo adds authentic flavors to your journey. Visiting Pisac’s bustling market allows you to experience local commerce and crafts firsthand. The tour’s focus on cultural sites like Qoricancha and Sacsayhuamán ensures you get a well-rounded understanding of Inca and colonial histories.

Physical Demands and Travel Tips

Be prepared for early mornings, especially for Rainbow Mountain. The hike requires moderate effort, and the high altitude (over 15,000 feet at Rainbow Mountain) can be taxing. We recommend bringing water, sun protection, and layers of clothing to handle temperature changes.

For those concerned about altitude sickness, the tour provides assistance with oxygen, and taking it slow on the hikes can help. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential, as you’ll be on varied terrain.

Overall Value and Who Should Consider It

This tour provides a comprehensive, well-organized way to see some of Peru’s most iconic sights. The all-inclusive nature saves travelers time and stress, while the variety of activities—from city tours to mountain hikes—keeps the experience lively.

It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy cultural exploration and outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to visit Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain with knowledgeable guides and good logistics, this tour will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book this tour two months in advance?
Yes, you need to book at least two months ahead or check the availability of Machu Picchu entrance tickets for your desired date, as they can sell out quickly.

What is included in the price?
The $611 covers airport pickups, transportation (train, bus, private transfers), guides, entrance fees to sites, meals (buffet lunches), train tickets, bus tickets to Machu Picchu, and walking sticks.

Are meals provided?
Yes, there are buffet lunches in Urubamba and Machu Picchu Pueblo, along with breakfast each day. Meals not specified or purchased outside the tour are not included.

Can I do this tour if I have health issues?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. It involves some physical activity, including hiking at high altitude.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable and hiking shoes, warm clothes, sun protection, cash, and a WhatsApp contact number for communication.

Is the Rainbow Mountain hike difficult?
It’s of moderate difficulty, about two hours of walking at altitude. Proper pacing, hydration, and layers are recommended.

What about the guides?
Guides are professional, knowledgeable, and bilingual in Spanish and English, enhancing your understanding of each site.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

To sum it up, this 5-day tour of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain offers a well-rounded, affordable way to experience Peru’s highlights. It combines cultural insights, spectacular landscapes, and practical logistics, all guided by experts. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply eager to see some of the world’s most impressive sights, this adventure provides a solid foundation and memorable moments. Keep in mind the physical demands and early mornings, but rest assured that the value and authenticity make it a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby