6-Day: Cusco || MachuPicchu ||Sacred Valley ||Rainbow Mountain ||Humantay lake||

Experience the Best of Cusco and Surroundings in 6 Days

If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, this 6-day guided tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this region so special. For $693.50 per person, you’ll visit iconic sites like Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake, along with a deep dive into Cusco’s vibrant history and culture. The tour is designed to take the hassle out of planning — all transportation, tickets, and accommodations are handled for you, leaving you free to focus on the scenery, history, and local flavors.

What we really like about this itinerary is how it balances big-ticket sights with more intimate experiences, like enjoying a traditional buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley or walking beneath the snow-capped peaks of Rainbow Mountain. The small group size—limited to 15 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.

One potential consideration is the physical demands, especially on the days dedicated to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake, which involve significant walking at high altitudes. If you’re comfortable with moderate hikes and already in decent shape, you’ll find these days highly rewarding. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized exploration of Cusco and its surroundings without the stress of solo planning. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see the highlights with knowledgeable guides and enjoy local cuisine along the way.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience — tickets, transportation, and accommodations are arranged, freeing you from logistical headaches.
• Expert guides — personalized attention and local insights enhance the experience.
• Varied sights — from Inca ruins and vibrant markets to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake.
• Moderate physical activity — some days involve walking at high altitude, so a reasonable fitness level helps.
• Small group size — limits to 15 travelers foster a more intimate, flexible experience.
• Good value for the price — considering all entrance fees, accommodations, and guided tours, this package offers substantial overall value.

In-Depth Review of the 6-Day Cusco Tour

Day 1: Arrival and Cusco City Tour

Your journey begins with a pickup at Cusco Airport, where a representative from Chullos Travel Peru greets you with a smile. The convenience of this transfer means no stress after your flight—just a smooth start to your adventure. You then have a few hours to rest and acclimate to Cusco’s high elevation, which is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness.

In the afternoon, the tour kicks off with a visit to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), where you’ll learn about the spiritual and architectural mastery of the Incas. The guide’s narrative, as one reviewer noted, is engaging and full of insights that add context beyond just the ruins. Following that, you’ll explore Sacsayhuamán, famed for its massive stone walls fitting together so perfectly that you’ll marvel at Inca engineering. The stops at Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay round out the city tour, each site offering a mix of mysticism, military history, and water cult traditions.

This first day is a gentle introduction—allowing your body to begin adjusting—while providing a solid overview of Cusco’s Inca and colonial heritage. The guided tour is designed to avoid rushed sightseeing, and the inclusion of admission tickets means you don’t need to worry about logistics.

Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas

Day two takes you deeper into Inca heartland. Depart early (around 8 a.m.) to beat some of the crowds and appreciate the mountain scenery along the way. The highlight is the archaeological site of Pisaq, with its terraced slopes and vibrant market, perfect for browsing handmade textiles and souvenirs.

Next stop is Urubamba, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring traditional Andean dishes—something we found to be a highlight according to reviews. Post-lunch, you’ll visit Ollantaytambo, one of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites, with its granite terraces, the Temple of the Sun, and the Intihuatana (a ritual stone). The guide’s commentary enriches your understanding of the site’s purpose and history.

This day offers a mix of scenic beauty, archaeological marvels, and local culture—all comfortably paced to avoid fatigue. The inclusion of tickets and transportation makes it a stress-free way to soak in the Sacred Valley.

Day 3: Machu Picchu — The Iconic Wonder

Up early, you’ll head to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. The bus ride offers stunning views of lush mountains and cloud forests, setting the scene for this unforgettable visit. The guided tour of Machu Picchu itself is tailored to your ticket type (circuit 1 or 2), ensuring you see the highlights like the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Royal Quarter.

One reviewer appreciated the guide’s knowledge, noting, “Our guide always watched that we had an excellent time and worried about the photos.” After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore or take photos at your own pace. Lunch is included in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco by train and bus.

Tickets for Machu Picchu are subject to availability, highlighting the importance of booking early. If tickets aren’t available, the full refund policy offers peace of mind. This day combines world-renowned history with local flavor and scenic travel, making it worth every penny.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain — An Altitude Challenge and Reward

Day four begins before dawn with a 4 a.m. pickup. The drive to Cusipata, with a breakfast stop, sets you up for the day’s adventure. The highlight is the trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a 1.5-hour hike one way, that rewards you with a view of vivid, striped mineral deposits set against the peaks.

The reviews echo how breathtaking this sight is. “What a beautiful landscape, we touched with snow and even more impressive the views,” shared a traveler. The high altitude (around 5,200 meters at the summit) presents a physical challenge, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. The group takes it slowly, and you’ll have around 40 minutes at the summit for photos and appreciating the surreal colors.

This day showcases Peru’s geological diversity and is perfect for travelers who enjoy strenuous hikes with spectacular rewards.

Day 5: Humantay Lake — A High-Altitude Lagoon

Very early again (4 a.m. pickup), this day takes you to Humantay Lake, at over 4,250 meters above sea level. The drive to Mollepata is scenic, followed by a 1.5-hour walk to reach the turquoise waters of Humantay. The landscape around the lake, with its towering peaks and wild flora, leaves a lasting impression.

One traveler described it as a “unique experience” and appreciated the fauna and flora along the way. After the hike, a hearty lunch in Mollepata fuels the return journey to Cusco, arriving around 6 p.m.

This excursion is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those eager to see more of Peru’s natural beauty. The high altitude and physical effort require moderate fitness but offer a rewarding sense of accomplishment.

Day 6: Free Morning & Optional Cultural Experience

Your final day in Cusco is free, giving you a chance to relax, wander the streets, or indulge in local cafes. For those interested, an optional activity involves exploring Peruvian gastronomy and learning to make Pisco Sours—a fun, hands-on experience for food lovers.

The tour concludes with a transfer to Cusco Airport, leaving you with a deeply memorable trip and the chance to reflect on your journey through one of South America’s most captivating regions.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, often mentioning how their insights made the sites come alive. “Lisette, Johan, and Joel provided professionalism, enthusiasm, and insight,” one reviewer noted, highlighting how guides can elevate the experience from simply visiting ruins to truly understanding them.

The scenery is another recurring theme. From the snow-capped peaks touching Rainbow Mountain to the turquoise Humantay Lake, this tour offers photo-worthy moments at every turn. Many mention how “the views touched with snow” or how “the landscapes are beautiful beyond words,” reinforcing the visual impact of these excursions.

Food and accommodations also receive positive mentions. The inclusion of buffet lunches with local dishes and 3-star hotels helps balance comfort with authenticity. Travelers appreciate the value for money given the extensive itinerary, tickets, and transport included.

Some note the physical demands — especially at high altitudes — but overall, the majority find this a well-organized, enriching experience suited for active travelers eager to see the highlights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers comfortable with some walking and altitude changes. If you want a rundown of Cusco’s highlights with expert guides, you’ll find this a great fit. It’s also excellent for those who value convenience — everything from transportation to tickets is organized, reducing the stress of planning.

It’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to check off iconic sites like Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain in one seamless package. The small group setting makes the experience more personal and flexible, perfect for travelers who prefer an intimate, guided approach.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Since some days involve significant walking and high-altitude hikes, this tour is best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable with outdoor activity.

Are all entrance tickets included?
Yes, most tickets for sites like Cusco attractions, Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu are included. However, tickets for Machu Picchu are subject to availability, and you might need to book early.

What is the group size?
The tour limits to a maximum of 15 travelers, offering more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary requests aren’t mentioned, meals included are typical Andean buffet lunches. You might want to communicate dietary needs in advance.

How physically demanding are the Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake days?
These days involve high-altitude hiking, with Rainbow Mountain reaching over 5,200 meters. Moderate fitness is recommended, and travelers should be prepared for some strenuous activity.

What are the accommodation standards?
You’ll stay in 3-star hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, providing comfort without luxury. The emphasis is on convenience and location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility if your schedule shifts.

To sum it up, this 6-day guided tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized, and authentic way to experience the highlights of Cusco and its surroundings. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and included tickets and accommodations, it’s a strong choice for travelers who want to see Peru’s iconic sights without the fuss. Just keep in mind the physical demands of high-altitude hikes, and ensure you’re prepared for some outdoor activity. For anyone eager to explore with comfort and insight, this tour hits the sweet spot between adventure and convenience.