Tour 2 days to Machu Picchu and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain

Discover Cusco’s Best in Two Days: Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain

This 2-day tour offers a well-balanced adventure through some of Peru’s most iconic sights—Machu Picchu and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. For $319 per person, you’ll explore the ancient Incan citadel with a knowledgeable guide, then challenge yourself with a trek up one of the world’s most colorful and high-altitude peaks. Led by friendly guides, with transportation included, this experience is tailored for travelers eager to cover both cultural and natural wonders in a short time.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour? First, the smooth logistics—everything from hotel pickup to train rides and transfers is organized to minimize stress. Second, the authentic guided experience at Machu Picchu, where you’ll learn about the main points of interest from a guide who knows the site’s history and significance.

A possible consideration? The altitude — reaching Rainbow Mountain at over 5,200 meters can be challenging for some. It’s important to prepare physically and consider altitude sickness precautions.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Cusco’s highlights without sacrificing quality or depth. It’s perfect for those who value expert guidance and authentic experiences, and who don’t mind a fairly packed schedule and some early mornings.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines cultural discovery at Machu Picchu with the stunning natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain.
• All-inclusive logistics: Transport, guides, and entrance fees are covered for a hassle-free experience.
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of each site.
• Challenging but rewarding: Both days involve physical activity, especially the high-altitude climb to Rainbow Mountain.
• Authentic experience: Guided visits ensure you see and understand the main highlights of Machu Picchu.
• Value for money: At $319, the tour offers access to two must-see sites with most costs included.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Cusco to Machu Picchu

Your adventure begins early, around 4:00 am, with a hotel pickup in Cusco. This early start is essential to beat the crowds and make the most of your day. From Cusco, you’ll travel approximately 2 hours to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board a tourist train heading toward Machu Picchu. The train ride, lasting about 1.5 hours, offers scenic views of the Sacred Valley—an introduction to the stunning landscape you’ll explore later.

Once you arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo station, your guide, whose name isn’t specified but is described as friendly and helpful, will give you instructions for the next steps. From there, a bus takes you up the mountain to the archaeological site, reducing walking but still allowing you to enjoy the fresh mountain air.

The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts around 3 hours, during which you’ll visit key points like the House of the Guardian, the Three Windows, and the Sacred Rock. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, helping you understand why this site remains one of the most important remnants of Inca civilization. The guided tour is included in the price, and you’ll leave with a solid grasp of Machu Picchu’s history and layout.

After exploring, you’ll descend back to Machu Picchu Pueblo and board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus transfer to Cusco. The entire day is well-paced, with most of the heavy lifting handled for you.

Day 2: Conquering Rainbow Mountain

The second day starts pre-dawn at about 4:20 am. Your bus takes you south from Cusco to Cusipata, a roughly 2-hour drive. Here, a short stop allows for breakfast, a nice touch to fuel your body for the trek ahead. From Cusipata, the journey continues for an hour to Pampachiri, where the real adventure begins.

The hike to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain takes about an hour and a half, but keep in mind that the terrain is challenging and at an altitude exceeding 5,200 meters. You’ll be offered the option to ride horses, which many find helpful, especially if they’re not used to high-altitude hiking. Walking sticks are provided, and having a moderate fitness level will make the climb more manageable.

Once at the summit, you’ll get about 30 minutes to take in the spectacular vistas—the reason this mountain is world-famous. The vibrant colors of the mountain, created by mineral deposits, are even more striking in person. The panoramic views of surrounding peaks and the sprawling landscape will leave lasting impressions. Several reviewers, like Amanda, mention the breathtaking scenery and the importance of preparing for altitude sickness with coca leaves or pills.

Expect a mixture of awe and physical challenge, but many find the sense of achievement at the summit worth every step. It’s a short but intense experience, and the guides’ support makes all the difference.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers pickup, transportation (including train tickets and buses), entry fees for Machu Picchu, guided tours, breakfast and lunch on Day 2, and walking sticks for Rainbow Mountain. The guides speak both English and Spanish, making explanations accessible.

However, meals at Machu Picchu are not included, so you’ll need to bring snacks or plan for lunch at the town. Also, the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain itself is not included—likely because it depends on whether you choose to take horses or walk, which is optional.

Logistics and Practical Tips

Travelers should be prepared for early starts and variable weather—layered clothing and sun protection are advised. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a more intimate experience and easier interaction with guides.

Transportation is a highlight, with scenic train rides and comfortable buses. The entire experience is designed to minimize stress, but be aware that the high altitude can be taxing. It’s wise to arrive in Cusco a few days earlier for acclimatization.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Guided tours like this are a great way to experience the sites with context and insight. The guides’ knowledge adds depth—explaining the significance of Machu Picchu’s structures and the natural formation of Rainbow Mountain’s colors. Many reviews praise guides for their friendliness and helpfulness, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The visit to Machu Picchu is particularly authentic, with a designated circuit designed to showcase the highlights and prevent overcrowding. The mountain hike, while physically demanding, offers a genuine connection with nature and physical achievement.

Value and Overall Impression

At $319, considering all transportation, entrance fees, guidance, and meals, this tour offers excellent value. It consolidates two major attractions into a manageable itinerary, saving travelers from planning complex logistics themselves. The inclusion of a professional guide enhances the understanding and enjoyment of both sites.

While the early mornings and altitude might be hurdles for some, they are also part of the adventure—adding that sense of accomplishment and authentic challenge. You’ll come away with not just photos but stories of overcoming physical hurdles and appreciating Peru’s natural and cultural riches.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Cusco’s highlights without sacrificing depth. It suits those willing to endure early mornings and a bit of physical challenge for the reward of spectacular views and cultural insights. If you’re a lover of history, nature, and adventure, and value guides who can make these sites come alive, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Peru trip.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
The tour starts with a hotel pickup at 4:00 am, so be prepared for a very early start—necessary to catch the train and beat the crowds at Machu Picchu.

Are meals included during the Machu Picchu visit?
No, meals at Machu Picchu are not included. You should bring snacks or plan to buy food in Aguas Calientes or the surrounding area.

Is the Rainbow Mountain hike suitable for everyone?
The hike is challenging due to the high altitude and terrain. You should have moderate physical fitness, and it’s recommended to take altitude sickness precautions like coca leaves or pills.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the entrance fee for Machu Picchu is included, but the entrance to Rainbow Mountain itself is not, although the tour fee covers the main activities.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the experience depends on good weather, if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 89 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

To sum it up, this 2-day tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to experience some of Peru’s most iconic sights. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who don’t want to miss out but prefer to keep logistics simple, guided by friendly experts who keep things moving smoothly.