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Discover two of Peru’s most iconic wonders on our 2-Day Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo. Hike to the colorful Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain and explore the legendary Machu Picchu with a professional guide, combining breathtaking Andean landscapes, Inca history, and unforgettable experiences in just two days.



















Moderate
Train, Culture, Adventure
Altitude: 5,036 m / 16,522 ft above sea level
02ppl Min Average 06ppl - 08ppl Max
Join us on an unforgettable 2-Day Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo, where you’ll experience two of Peru’s most incredible destinations in one amazing adventure. Your journey begins with a hike to the stunning Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, where you’ll walk above the clouds and enjoy breathtaking views of the colorful Andes.
The next day, relax on a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley and discover the magic of Machu Picchu with an expert guide. Explore ancient temples, terraces, and hidden corners of this legendary Inca city while surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
This carefully planned 2-day experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure, culture, and unforgettable landscapes without missing Peru’s must-see highlights.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. We’ll travel through the stunning landscapes of the southern Andes toward Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, passing traditional villages, beautiful valleys, and breathtaking mountain scenery along the way.
After reaching the starting point, you’ll begin your hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain viewpoint at 5,036 m / 16,522 ft. Enjoy incredible views of the colorful mountain formations, alpacas, llamas, and the impressive Vilcanota mountain range. After exploring this natural wonder and taking unforgettable photos, we’ll return for lunch before continuing to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
From Ollantaytambo, board the comfortable Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), enjoying a scenic journey through the Sacred Valley, alongside the Urubamba River, and into the lush cloud forest. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to rest before your Machu Picchu visit the following day.
The next morning, take the shuttle bus to the magnificent Machu Picchu Citadel, where you’ll explore this iconic Inca site with a professional bilingual guide. Discover its ancient temples, terraces, fascinating history, and breathtaking panoramic views before returning by train to Ollantaytambo, where our transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. We’ll travel through the breathtaking landscapes of the southern Andes, passing traditional villages, valleys, and stunning mountain scenery on our way to the starting point of the hike.
After a short breakfast stop, we begin our hike to the famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru’s most impressive natural wonders. As you make your way through the highlands, you’ll enjoy incredible views of colorful mountains, alpacas, llamas, and the spectacular Vilcanota mountain range.
Upon reaching the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint at 5,036 m / 16,522 ft, you’ll have time to admire this unique landscape and capture unforgettable photos. After enjoying the views, we’ll descend back to the starting point for lunch before continuing our journey back to Ollantaytambo.
In the afternoon, we will arrive at Ollantaytambo Train Station to board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). During this scenic train ride, enjoy the changing landscapes as the Andes transition into the lush cloud forest. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to rest before your Machu Picchu visit the following day.
After breakfast, we begin the second day of your journey with a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying spectacular views of the Andes, the Urubamba River, and the lush cloud forest.
Upon arrival, you’ll take the shuttle bus up to the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel, where you’ll meet your professional bilingual guide. Explore the most important areas of this ancient Inca masterpiece, including its temples, terraces, and impressive viewpoints, while learning about the history and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After your guided visit, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for your train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation to your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo, ending an unforgettable 2-day adventure through Peru’s most iconic landscapes.
Meals included: Breakfast
Machu Picchu altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Tour duration: Approximately 10–12 hours
Private service US$550 (Upon Request)
Experience the perfect combination of adventure and culture on our 2-Day Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu Tour, designed for travelers who want to explore two of Peru’s most iconic destinations in a short time. This journey takes you from the colorful landscapes of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain high in the Andes to the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the world’s most impressive archaeological wonders.
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo toward the southern Andes. After reaching Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m / 16,522 ft), enjoy a memorable hike surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, alpacas, llamas, and breathtaking views of the Vilcanota mountain range.
After the Rainbow Mountain experience, continue to Ollantaytambo Train Station to board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). The next day, explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide and discover the temples, terraces, and ancient mysteries of the Inca civilization.
The best time for this 2-day adventure is during the dry season from April to October, when the weather is generally more stable, offering clearer views of the mountains and better hiking conditions.
The months of June, July, and August are the busiest due to the peak tourist season, so advance booking is highly recommended.
The rainy season (November to March) offers greener landscapes and fewer visitors, but weather conditions can be unpredictable, especially at Rainbow Mountain due to its high altitude.
Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain
Altitude: 5,036 m / 16,522 ft
Location: Cusco Andes, Vilcanota Mountain Range
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to altitude
Hiking distance: Approximately 6 km / 3.7 miles round trip
The hike rewards you with incredible views of the famous colorful mountain formations, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Andean landscapes.
Machu Picchu
Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Location: Aguas Calientes, Cusco Region
Experience: Guided exploration of the ancient Inca citadel
Discover the history and architecture of Machu Picchu while enjoying unforgettable views surrounded by the Andes and cloud forest.
After visiting Rainbow Mountain, you will travel by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying one of the most scenic routes in Peru.
Expedition Train
A comfortable and popular option with large windows, perfect for enjoying the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River.
Vistadome Train
A premium option with panoramic windows for travelers who want a more immersive scenic experience.
Train schedules depend on availability and the selected package.
This tour allows you to experience the best of Peru in a short amount of time: the colorful beauty of the Andes at Rainbow Mountain and the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu. With organized transportation, expert guides, and carefully planned logistics, you can focus on enjoying every moment of this unforgettable journey.
IMPORTANT INFO
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your full flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange INCA EXPEDITIONS board at the arrival terminal. We can accommodate tours on any date that suits you!
THE BRIEFING
A pre-trek briefing will be held at 6:00 pm the night before your trek at our office.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Certainly! During the Machu Picchu Tour, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel, whichever is more convenient. Please ensure you do not pack items you will need for your hike.
HOW TO BOOK THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR
Please provide the following information for each participant:
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay the balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. ATMs are available within the historical center. Alternatively, you can pay online via VISA or PAYPAL, with a 5.5% service fee. To pay through PAYPAL, log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address incasexpeditions@gmail.com.
HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
According to Peruvian law, students must be under 18 years old at the time of the trek or tour to qualify for the discount. Students aged 18 and above need to present a valid university ID. For students aged 11 to 17, the discount is $30 USD. For children aged 2 to 11, the discount is $40 USD. Children aged 0 to 2 are free. All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the discount. Send copies to info@incasexpeditions.com.
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?
No, once the tickets are purchased, government regulations do not permit any changes. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you cancel your Machu Picchu Tour, the deposit is not refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT FOR THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR?
Yes, you must bring your original passport. It is crucial that it matches the passport number used to book your Machu Picchu entrance, train ticket, and other reservations. The rangers and train company will check your passport. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us your old passport information to secure your permit, and we can update it for a fee of $25 USD per person. We need copies of both old and new passports to make this change. If you prefer not to pay this fee, bring both passports with you to Peru. You must show both passports to enter Machu Picchu or board the train.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR?
Weather in the area is unpredictable. We recommend bringing a warm jacket for the early morning and a rain poncho in case of rain.
ARE WE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR?
Yes, our package includes dropping you off at your hotel after the trek or tour. If your hotel is in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there as well. If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up from there.
This tour includes transportation, professional bilingual guides, entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu, Expedition Train tickets, shuttle buses, meals mentioned in the itinerary, and assistance throughout the journey.
The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo.
The pickup time depends on your location. We usually depart very early in the morning to reach Rainbow Mountain and make the most of the day.
The hike is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude. A good level of fitness and previous acclimatization in Cusco are recommended.
The highest point is Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain at 5,036 m / 16,522 ft above sea level.
You do not need to be an experienced hiker, but you should be prepared for walking at high altitude. Take your time, walk slowly, and stay hydrated.
The hike is approximately 6 km / 3.7 miles round trip, depending on the chosen route and conditions.
The best season is from April to October, during the dry season, when you have better chances of clear skies and excellent views.
Yes, the tour operates year-round. However, mountain weather can be unpredictable, especially between November and March.
The tour includes the comfortable Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
The train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the schedule.
You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
The visit time depends on your assigned entrance ticket schedule. We will arrange the best available time according to availability.
The entrance includes the available circuit assigned at the time of booking, usually Circuit 2A or Circuit 2B, depending on availability.
The guided visit lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing you to learn about the history and importance of this ancient Inca city.
Yes, these hikes are available with an additional entrance ticket and must be reserved in advance due to limited spaces.
Bring your original passport, comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, rain jacket, water bottle, and a small backpack.
No. Train companies allow only a small backpack. We recommend leaving large luggage at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
Rainbow Mountain reaches over 5,000 meters, so altitude can be challenging. We recommend spending at least a couple of days in Cusco before the tour to acclimatize.
This tour combines two of Peru’s greatest attractions in one unforgettable experience: the colorful landscapes of the Andes and the legendary Machu Picchu. It is the perfect option for travelers who want adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery in a short time.
Posted on Tripadvisor Ben ToothVerified "Amazing experience with Incas Expeditions on the Slcante Trek. From the logistics to the knowledgeable guides, everything was planned out. We were able to fully appreciate the region's rich history and scenic splendor during the walk. Great value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Highly recommended for hikers of all skill levels.Posted on Tripadvisor René LehrerVerified An Unforgettable Journey Through Cusco. Incas Expeditions went above and above! Transportation, lodging, and guiding were excellent, and their staff made everything run smoothly from the minute we arrived in Cusco. Every ruin was brought to life with stories by our guide, who was quite educated about Inca history. Highlights of my trip included the walk to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley excursion. Throughout the entire process, I felt motivated, informed, and safe. Excellently suggested.Posted on Tripadvisor Diego Fernando RVerified Amazing Inca Trail Salkantay Trek tour with friends I booked with my friends the Inca Trail Salkantay Trek tour with a group of friends and it was an experience that changed my way of seeing the Andean tours. The first day we walked around the city of Cusco and started the Inca Trail and camped at night but one of my friends got hurt during the last day in the Salkantay Pass and the guides were ready with their first aid kit and the attention was great! I recommend you to have a good stamina for this kind of multi-day treks. This tourism agency in Cusco is the best for trekking to Machu Picchu, thank you very much Incas Expeditions!Posted on Tripadvisor Arianna OVerified The best travel guide We traveled with our teenage children and chose the short Inca trail with camping because it offered the right balance of adventure and comfort. It was our kids' first time camping and they loved it! The porters and guides were very friendly and always made sure we were ok. The trail itself was breathtaking, especially the views of Wiñay Wayna. At night, we stargazed and shared stories by the tent. I want to thank Incas Expeditions who took care of the logistics and even the food! My family and I will be returning to Cusco in a few months and we are happy to do the tour with you again :)Posted on Tripadvisor Belén LázaroVerified My experience on the Cusco day tour I'm going to tell you about my experience with Incas Expeditions. The truth is that they exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived in Cusco, everything was perfectly organized. The guides were not only professional but also incredibly passionate about Peruvian culture and history, which made each tour feel personal and unique. They were also very attentive and helped me arrange some free time to explore on my own, which I truly appreciated. If you're looking for Peru tour packages, Incas Expeditions is, without a doubt, the best option. An incredible experience from start to finish!Posted on Tripadvisor Departure58624235970Verified An unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu My partner and I had always dreamed of visiting Machu Picchu, but we wanted to make this experience something unique. From the first contact with Incas Expeditions, everything was perfect. The team was incredibly attentive and helped us create a personalized itinerary that suited our preferences, and the guides explained the history and even taught us a little Quechua. Arriving at Machu Picchu was a dream come true, and having the opportunity to explore it so intimately on our personalized tour was something we will never forget. We definitely recommend Incas Expeditions to any couple who wants to experience the magic of Machu Picchu in a unique and worry-free way.Posted on Tripadvisor Russ MVerified This was the best and most amazing tour. This was the best and most amazing tour. I wonder how I hadn't come across it sooner. Everything they did was perfect, from the accommodation to the hospitality—they did a great job.Posted on Tripadvisor Nenuz MVerified We both enjoy this tour together with our kids. We both enjoy this tour together with our kids. It was an awesome feeling and experience. Guide were friendlily from the beginning to the end and we were took to my place. They're the best.
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The journey to Machu Picchu on the 1-Day Train Expedition tour allows you to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing trip, surrounded by Andean landscapes, rivers, and mountains that make the journey an essential part of the experience, before arriving at one of the most impressive wonders of the world.