Experience the best of Peru with our Classic Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Hike, a journey that combines ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty. Begin with the legendary 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where you'll hike along original Inca paths, explore hidden ruins, and arrive at the iconic Sun Gate with your first magical view of Machu Picchu.
After this unforgettable trek, take on the colorful heights of the Rainbow Mountain trek, known as Vinicunca, where mineral-rich layers paint the landscape in vibrant reds, yellows, and greens. This adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Peru’s culture, nature, and spirit, with expert guides, seamless logistics, and an experience you’ll never forget.
Tour Overview – Classic Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Hike
This immersive adventure combines Peru’s most iconic trek with one of its most stunning natural wonders. Begin with the legendary 4-day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where you’ll hike ancient paths, pass Inca ruins, and witness breathtaking mountain scenery before arriving at the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu.
After completing the Inca Trail, take on a scenic high-altitude hike to the surreal Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), famous for its vibrant mineral colors and surrounding Andean landscapes. This combination offers the best of Peru’s nature, history, and culture — all in one unforgettable journey.
Tour at a Glance
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Trekking: Classic Inca Trail (4 days) + Rainbow Mountain (1-day hike)
Difficulty: Challenging (due to altitude and trail conditions)
Group Type: Small group or private
Accommodation: Campsites on the Inca Trail + hotel in Cusco
Start/End: Cusco
Availability: Daily departures with Inca Trail permit availability
Best Time to Go: April to October
Why Choose This Tour?
✅ Two bucket-list hikes in one seamless trip — the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Rainbow Mountain trek
✅ Experience deep history and jaw-dropping nature in one epic itinerary
✅ Expert local guides, full support team, and gourmet meals throughout the journey
✅ All logistics handled — permits, transport, gear, and accommodations
✅ Perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty
Tour Highlights
Hike the full 4-day Inca Trail with overnight camping under the stars
Arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise
Explore Inca archaeological sites like Runkurakay, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñayhuayna
Trek to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, with views of the Red Valley
Enjoy private transport, chef-prepared meals, and top-tier guiding
Stay in a comfortable hotel in Cusco before and after your treks
Is This Tour for Me?
This tour is designed for active travelers seeking the ultimate Peruvian adventure. If you're excited to hike for several days, enjoy the outdoors, and experience both the ancient and natural wonders of the Andes, this trip is for you. A moderate to high level of fitness is recommended, as both hikes involve altitude and physical endurance, but the reward is more than worth it.
If you want the most complete Andean trekking experience in one journey, this is your perfect match.
Day-by-Day Itinerary – Classic Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain
Day 1: Cusco – KM 82 – Wayllabamba
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive to KM 82 — the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. Here, you'll meet your guide and porters, enjoy a nourishing breakfast prepared by our chef, and begin your trek through the stunning Sacred Valley landscapes.
Along the way, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Llactapata and follow the Urubamba River as you gradually ascend through farmlands and Andean communities. After a hearty lunch and beautiful views, you’ll arrive at your first campsite in Wayllabamba, where dinner and a peaceful night in the Andes await.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu
After a wake-up tea and energizing breakfast, prepare for the most physically demanding but rewarding day of the trail. Begin your steady uphill hike through cloud forest and high mountain terrain, gradually making your way to the highest point of the Inca Trail — Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215m).
At the top, take time to catch your breath and enjoy the sweeping views before descending into the Pacaymayu valley. Here, your crew will be waiting with a warm lunch and your tent already set up. Relax, dine, and enjoy a well-earned rest in one of the most scenic campsites of the trek.
Day 3: Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñayhuayna
Today is filled with spectacular views and rich Inca history. Hike along well-preserved stone paths to visit ancient sites like Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and the incredible Phuyupatamarca — known as “the town above the clouds.” The trail weaves through highland jungle filled with orchids, hummingbirds, and unforgettable scenery.
After lunch with mountain views, continue downhill to the breathtaking ruins of Wiñayhuayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the trail. This will be your final campsite, just a short hike from Machu Picchu. Enjoy your last evening on the trail with a celebratory dinner and briefing for the big day ahead.
Day 4: Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Wake up early for the final stretch of the Inca Trail. Hike quietly through the forest as the sun begins to rise, arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first magical glimpse of Machu Picchu. It's a moment you’ll never forget — the culmination of your journey along this sacred path.
Descend gradually to the citadel and enjoy a full guided tour of its most iconic temples, plazas, and terraces. After your visit, take the bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then board the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo. A private transfer will return you to your hotel in Cusco around 7:30 PM.
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Hike – Return to Cusco
Your day begins with a 4:00 AM pick-up for a breathtaking drive through the Andean highlands. After breakfast at the base camp, start your ascent to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), known for its naturally vibrant, multi-colored slopes — a geological wonder unique to Peru.
From the summit, soak in the views and then continue your hike into the striking Red Valley, a peaceful route framed by crimson landscapes and snowcapped peaks. After descending, enjoy a delicious lunch before driving back to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 PM with your heart full and camera packed with memories.