Tour 6 Days in Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon

Experience the Best of Cusco and Surroundings in 6 Days

If you’re dreaming of stepping into the world of the Incas and soaking up some of Peru’s most iconic sights, this 6-day tour offers a balanced mix of culture, adventure, and awe-inspiring landscapes. For $635 per person, you’ll explore the historic city of Cusco, wander through the sacred Valley, marvel at Machu Picchu, and stand in awe before Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, the trip promises a well-organized, enriching experience with comfortable hotel stays and included transportation.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines culture with breathtaking scenery — from ancient Inca sites to vibrant mountain hues. On top of that, the tour’s logistics seem thoughtfully planned, with timely pickups, guided visits, and all entry fees included. One possible consideration is the physical effort involved, as many of these sites require walking or light hikes, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning each step themselves. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, landscape lover, or someone looking to tick off Peru’s top highlights, this itinerary offers a great blend of everything.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lagoon.
• Guided tours with expert guides, ensuring you understand the history and significance of each site.
• All tickets included, saving you time and stress at popular sites like Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
• Balanced mix of city exploration, archaeological sites, and stunning natural landscapes.
• Comfortable accommodation in a 3-star hotel, plus overnight in Aguas Calientes.
• Good value considering the full range of activities, transportation, and guided experiences packed into 6 days.

In-Depth Review of the 6-Day Cusco Adventure

Day 1: Discovering Cusco’s Historic Heart

Your journey kicks off with a pickup from Cusco’s airport, where a friendly guide is ready to transfer you to your hotel. The first afternoon is dedicated to exploring Qorikancha, once the most important temple of the Incas, and several other nearby sites like Sacsayhuamán — with its giant zigzagging stone walls that make you wonder how the Incas managed such precision without modern tools.

Guided by locals who know these sites inside out, you’ll learn about the spiritual and military significance of places like Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Reviews rave about guides like Milagros, who are attentive and knowledgeable, making history come alive. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of time to ask questions or snap photos.

Day 2: Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo Highlights

The next day takes you on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, with highlights like Chinchero, famous for its vibrant market and colonial architecture, and the salt flats at Salinas de Maras. Visiting Moray, with its impressively circular terraces, is like stepping into an ancient agricultural experiment. Here, your guides will share insights into Incan farming techniques and religious practices.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with impressive terraces and stonework. This site offers a window into Inca civilization and its sophisticated engineering. The guided tour here is rich in detail, and reviews appreciate the depth of knowledge and friendly service, describing guides like Milagros as attentive and well-prepared.

Following this, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train journey itself is a highlight, offering stunning views of the river and lush landscape, a perfect prelude to the next day’s adventure.

Day 3: The Marvel of Machu Picchu

Early morning, you’ll hop on a bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu citadel, a 30-minute scenic ride. Once inside, a guided tour lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours will introduce you to the sacred city, highlighting key structures such as the Intihuatana stone and the Temple of the Sun.

What we loved is the way guides bring the ruins to life, weaving stories about Inca architecture and rituals. Post-tour, you have time to explore freely, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention the importance of bringing snacks and water, especially if planning to hike Waynapicchu or Rainbow Mountain afterward.

Returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch, you’ll then catch the train back to Ollantaytambo, completing the circuit. The seamless coordination of transportation and the clarity of instructions — from ticket collection to train schedules — is what travelers consistently praise.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain – The Colorful Crown of Peru

Dawn breaks early, with a pickup at 4:45 a.m. for the journey to Cerro Colorado, better known as Rainbow Mountain. The early start is vital to beat the crowds and catch the best light. After breakfast in Cusipata, you’ll set out on an approximately 2-hour walk from the starting point in Fulawasi, ascending to the vibrant, multi-hued slopes.

The view at Rainbow Mountain is truly unforgettable — a kaleidoscope of red, orange, yellow, and green hues in stark contrast to the surrounding peaks. According to reviews, bringing water, snacks, and proper walking shoes makes the hike much more manageable. The experience is physically demanding but rewarding, with many travelers describing it as “worth every step.”

Day 5: Humantay Lagoon – A High-Altitude Gem

Another early morning start begins with a drive to Mollepata, where breakfast awaits. From there, you’ll proceed to Soraypampa, where a moderate hike leads to Humantay Lagoon. The hike is about an hour, but the real highlight is the stunning turquoise lagoon set against snow-capped peaks — a true photo opportunity.

Guides coordinate the walk and offer tips for altitude adjustment, given the high elevation (around 4,200 meters). Many reviewers mention the importance of hydration and cold-weather gear. After returning to Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch before heading back to Cusco.

Day 6: Relaxation and Final Stroll in Cusco

Your final day offers a more relaxed pace, with a walking tour of Plaza de Armas, the colonial cathedral, and the San Blas neighborhood — a favorite among travelers for its artisan shops and vibrant atmosphere. The stone Twelve Angles and local markets make for perfect souvenirs or just good people-watching.

This laid-back day is a gentle farewell to Cusco, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on your trip or pick up last-minute gifts. Many reviews commend the friendly guides and efficient organization, making sure everything runs smoothly until your transfer back to the airport.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This 6-day adventure offers excellent value for money by bundling transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and accommodations — a time-saving and cost-effective way to see many of Peru’s most famous sights. The guides are a highlight, with travelers consistently praising their knowledge and friendliness. This personal touch adds richness to the experience, transforming simple sightseeing into meaningful stories and insights.

The inclusion of Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon is a big draw for those craving outdoor adventure and spectacular views. The early starts and hikes are physically demanding but well worth the effort, especially with the careful organization that minimizes stress.

One potential drawback is the physical effort involved — if you’re not used to walking or high-altitude hikes, some parts might be challenging. Packing snacks, water, and appropriate clothing is advised, as reviews affirm the importance of good preparation.

This tour fits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with reliable logistics and a focus on authentic sites. Families, couples, or solo travelers who value knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with some physical activity will find this itinerary particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized tour that combines culture, history, and stunning landscapes, this 6-day package is a smart choice. It offers a balanced mix of guided visits, free time, and memorable outdoor experiences, all at a fair price point. The reviews highlight high satisfaction with the guides, the quality of the included meals, and the seamless transportation logistics.

For travelers who appreciate detailed explanations and a personal touch, the guiding team seems to be a real asset. The accommodations are comfortable enough to rest after long days of exploration, and the variety in sites means you’ll leave with a broad understanding of Inca civilization and Peru’s natural beauty.

This tour is ideal for those seeking an active, enriching adventure that covers the most iconic spots in and around Cusco, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace when possible. If you’re ready for a trip packed with breathtaking sights and cultural insights, this is a journey worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup offered from my hotel or the airport?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from both the airport and your hotel in Cusco, making logistics straightforward and reducing stress.

How much walking is involved?
Expect moderate walking, including some uphill sections like Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon hikes. Good walking shoes and hydration are recommended.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance tickets for sites like Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and other archaeological sites are included, saving you time and money.

What is the accommodation like?
You will stay in a 3-star hotel during the tour, with the overnight in Aguas Calientes included to ensure you’re rested for Machu Picchu the next day.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the itinerary is great for active travelers, children or those sensitive to altitude and physical exertion should consider their fitness level before booking.

How long are the guided tours at each site?
Guided visits at Machu Picchu last about 2.5 to 3 hours, while other sites like Sacsayhuamán and Ollantaytambo are around 1 hour each.

Can I customize or extend this tour?
The tour is fixed in its itinerary, but many travelers use it as a base to explore additional sites or add extra days in Cusco or nearby areas.

Whether you’re drawn by ancient ruins, colorful mountains, or high-altitude lakes, this 6-day tour offers a well-rounded way to experience Peru’s highlights with expert guides, great value, and plenty of memorable moments.