Cusco Machu Picchu 5 Days Tour: Explore Cusco Peru Machu Picchu

  • Departures
    Availability Daily departures
  • Hotel pickup
    Transporte Hotel pickup
  • Tour guide
    Tour Guide Tour guide included
  • Languages
    Available languages Spanish, English & Portuguese
  • Group
    Service type Shared service
  • Cancellation
    Cancellation policy Non-refundable
  • Altitude
    Maximum altitude 5,200 m.a.s.l.
  • Difficulty
    Difficulty Moderate

Cusco Machu Picchu 5 Days invites you to discover the magic of Cusco, exploring ancient Inca temples, colonial fortresses, and cobblestone streets filled with history. Learn about the fascinating Inca civilization and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys before continuing your journey to the world-famous Machu Picchu.

Visit the Sacred Valley and marvel at its stunning landscapes of mountains and rivers. Explore the archaeological wonders of Moray and the salt mines of Maras while connecting with the local culture and its traditional markets. Experience the perfect balance of nature, history, and Andean tradition.

Enjoy a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, traveling 112 km along rivers and valleys. Explore the citadel from different viewpoints, discovering its remarkable architecture and sacred temples. Feel the spiritual energy of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as your guide explains its mysteries.

End your adventure with an unforgettable trek to the Rainbow Mountain at 5,200 meters above sea level. Witness spectacular views of the Andes and capture stunning photos at sunrise. This complete itinerary blends history, nature, and adventure for an enriching journey through Peru.

Throughout the Cusco Machu Picchu 5 Days tour, you’ll be accompanied by professional local guides and certified operators to ensure comfort, safety, and an unforgettable travel experience in Peru.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Cusco – City Tour

Upon arrival in Cusco, transfer to your hotel and time to acclimate. Depending on your group, the City Tour begins either from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM or from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

We’ll visit Qoricancha Temple, known as the Temple of the Sun, once covered in gold and silver during the Inca Empire. Continue to Sacsayhuamán, the majestic ceremonial fortress where the Inti Raymi festival takes place every June 24th.

Next, explore Qenqo, a sacred site carved into rock with labyrinth-like passages, then head to Puca Pucara, “The Red Fortress”,used for defense and military control. Finally, visit Tambomachay, “The Inca Baths”, dedicated to the worship of water. Return to Cusco to rest.

Details

  • Distance

    15 km

  • Max altitude

    3,700 msnm

  • Min altitude

    3,400 msnm

  • Route

    Cusco – Qoricancha – Sacsayhuamán – Qenqo – Puca Pucara – Tambomachay – Cusco

  • Difficulty

    Low

Day 02 Sacred Valley + Maras Moray – Connection to Machu Picchu

Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Early pickup between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM. Our first stop is Chinchero, known as the birthplace of the rainbow, famous for its artisan market, colonial church, and agricultural terraces.

Continue to Moray, an ancient agricultural laboratory of circular terraces, then visit Maras, home to over 3,000 pre-Inca salt ponds still in use today. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, surrounded by the mountains of the Sacred Valley.

In the afternoon, explore Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with an impressive fortress and breathtaking views. From there, board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Upon arrival, your hotel host will welcome and escort you to your accommodation.

Details

  • Distance

    80 km

  • Max altitude

    3,762 msnm

  • Min altitude

    2,792 msnm

  • Route

    Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu Pueblo

  • Difficulty

    Low to Moderate

Day 03 Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco

Machu Picchu, Intihuatana, Templo del Cóndor, Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo.

After breakfast, begin your unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. A scenic bus ride will take you from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the ancient Inca citadel. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours through the most important sectors of the archaeological site, including the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Condor, the Sacred Rock, the Circular Tower, and the famous Intihuatana, also known as the Sun Clock.

As you explore the citadel, admire the remarkable engineering and architectural achievements of the Inca civilization. Walk along ancient pathways, discover fascinating historical insights, and capture breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and terraces that make Machu Picchu one of the most spectacular destinations in the world.

After the guided tour, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, browse artisan markets, explore the charming town, or relax in the natural hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo and continue by private transportation to Cusco. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, concluding a memorable day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.

Details

  • Distance

    10 km

  • Max altitude

    2,430 msnm

  • Min altitude

    2,040 msnm

  • Route

    Machu Picchu Pueblo – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

  • Difficulty

    Moderate

Day 04 Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain

Chillihuani, Fulawasi, Montaña Vinicunca, Cusipata, paisajes andinos.

Depart early at 3:00 AM toward the community of Chillihuani, where we’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast. Continue to Fulawasi, the starting point of the trek.

Hike uphill for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the stunning Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain). Along the way, admire herds of alpacas and vicuñas and views of snow-capped peaks.

At the top, over 5,000 meters above sea level, enjoy the vibrant colors of the mountain and take unique photos. Your guide will explain the cultural and geological significance of the area. After descending, have lunch in Cusipata before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.

Details

  • Distance

    14 km

  • Max altitude

    5,200 msnm

  • Min altitude

    3,800 msnm

  • Route

    Cusco – Chillihuani – Fulawasi – Vinicunca – Cusipata – Cusco

  • Difficulty

    High

Day 05 Transfer to the Airport

Cusco, hotel, Cusco airport.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and take a final stroll through Cusco before your private transfer to the airport at the scheduled time.

Details

  • Distance

    20 km

  • Max altitude

    3,400 msnm

  • Min altitude

    3,400 msnm

  • Route

    Hotel Cusco – Airport

  • Difficulty

    Low

Important note: Schedules are for reference only. One day before the tour, our operations team will contact you to reconfirm the schedules.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport-hotel-airport private transfers
  • City Tour in Cusco with visits to Inca temples and fortresses
  • Sacred Valley Tour, including Maras and Moray
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu (2 hours approx.)
  • Trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
  • Official entrance to Machu Picchu
  • Entrance tickets to Maras and all archaeological parks mentioned
  • Round-trip train tickets (Voyager Tourist Train)
  • Bus to/from Machu Picchu citadel
  • Buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley
  • Breakfast and lunch during the Rainbow Mountain tour
  • Permanent assistance during the tour
  • First aid kit and trekking poles
  • Blankets for extra comfort
Read more

What’s Not Included

  • Domestic and international flights
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Accommodation in Cusco or Machu Picchu (check price list)

Recommendations

Travel Recommendations / Before Booking

  • Minimum 2 people per booking
  • Send photos of documents after booking
  • Machu Picchu entry times subject to availability
  • Train schedules subject to availability
  • Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance

Before Traveling

  • Original passports or ID documents
  • Light 20-liter backpack
  • Clothing suitable for the season (rain poncho, windbreaker)
  • Sunscreen, insect repellent, hats or caps
  • Extra cash in small denomination soles

Frequently asked questions

How do you get to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco?

Rainbow Mountain is located 140 km southeast of Cusco. The trip takes about 3 hours to Pitumarca, then continues to Pampa Chiri. From there, a 4-hour hike leads to Machuraccay and the 5,033 m summit. Horses are available along the route.

How many days are needed to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?

Five days are enough to explore the highlights: City Tour, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain. For a more complete experience, we recommend adding the Humantay Lagoon or other attractions.

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

Weekdays (Monday–Friday) are ideal to avoid large crowds. Weekends tend to be busier.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 30 days or less before the tour lose 100% of the total cost. For cancellations made 31 days or more in advance, conditions vary depending on the service. Contact our agents for details.

What are the altitudes of Cusco and Machu Picchu?

Cusco: 3,399 meters above sea level Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level

Is travel insurance necessary?

Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, delays, or lost luggage.

What physical condition is required?

A moderate fitness level is needed. The Rainbow Mountain trek is demanding due to the altitude.

Are Machu Picchu tickets and trains guaranteed?

They are subject to availability. Early booking ensures the best schedules.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, but they should be physically prepared, especially for Rainbow Mountain.

Is re-entry to Machu Picchu allowed?

No. Only one entry is permitted per ticket.

Can’t find the answer to your question?

Get in touch with the experts at Machu Picchu Peru Tours for your inquiry.

Ask a question
Traveler experiences

Hear from Those Who Have Experienced the Magic of Our Tours

4.9 out of 5 from more than 1,200 reviews
See all reviews on TripAdvisor

Carmelo G.

jun. 2026 • Parejas

TripAdvisor
Verified review

Fue una linda experiencia y un servicio muy profesional de la agencia.

TripAdvisor
Verified review

Agostina Z.

ago. 2026

TripAdvisor
Verified review

Lucianna B.

ago. 2026

TripAdvisor
Verified review

Agostina Z.

ago. 2026

TripAdvisor
Verified review

Hermosa experiencia en familia. Tanto el traslado, el hotel como el guía fueron excelentes!

Mónica B.

ago. 2026

TripAdvisor
Verified review