This option merges a section of the ancient Inca pathway with a visit to a striking natural formation over three days. It allows exposure to historical routes and colorful geological areas.
The travel includes time on preserved paths leading to a prominent Inca location. Participants observe changes in plant life and land features.
Guidance emphasizes the construction along the way. Experts detail how these elements supported past groups.
The plan features an early start for the walking part. This positions for views at key points like entry gates.
A stay in a nearby settlement provides recovery. It sets up for additional time at the site the following day.
The concluding segment reaches a mountain with layered colors. This differs from the lower, greener settings earlier.
The structure fits those with limited schedules seeking both past insights and outdoor elements. It balances movement with observation.
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Day 3: Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco
Your journey begins early, with your guide picking you up from your hotel at 5:30 a.m. Together, you head to the train station, where you’ll receive a boxed lunch to carry with you during the trek. Your hotel may also prepare a breakfast box, or you can arrange your own meal.
The train departs at 6:10 a.m., offering more than an hour of changing landscapes—lush valleys, steep mountains, and the ever-present Urubamba River carving its path through the canyon.
Arrive at Km 104, at 2,000 meters above sea level, and check in at the control point by presenting your passport. Before starting the main hike, visit a nearby Inca site. Your guide, well-versed in history and archaeology, brings its features to life with clear explanations.
Begin the trail with a gradual ascent of about 1.5 hours. Sheltered spots along the path give you chances to rest and avoid excessive sun or sudden rain. The route leads past beautiful river viewpoints and through ecological zones that range from dry Andean slopes to the lush, moist forests typical of the cloud forest. Expect humidity at any time of the year.
The next 1.5 hours become slightly steeper, culminating at a refreshing waterfall. From here, a short five-minute walk delivers you to the lunch area near Wiñay Wayna, located at 2,600 meters. Your guide will explain the significance of this incredible site—some of its terraces and structures remain half-covered by vegetation, creating an atmosphere of discovery. Notice how the environment shifts toward subtropical flora as you continue.
After lunch, follow a mostly level trail toward the Sun Gate. Just before reaching it, you’ll climb a series of steep, iconic stone steps. At the top, the first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu appears—a moment many travelers consider unforgettable.
The final hour descends toward the citadel, passing additional Inca constructions dotted along the route. Your guide can answer any questions about their purpose and design. Arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon, when the crowds thin and the softening light enhances the dramatic setting. Visit upper viewpoints such as the House of the Guardians for classic photo angles.
Take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner, explore the small town, visit the hot springs, or simply unwind after the trek.
If you prefer, leave an overnight bag at the Ollantaytambo station for delivery to Aguas Calientes. A representative from Sacred Tours Peru keeps track of your movements, and you may choose between different train companies for this segment.
Meals: Box lunch, dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, such as Ferre
Begin with an early breakfast at the hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, aiming to experience the sunrise illuminating the ancient citadel.
Your guide leads a comprehensive two-hour tour through the main sectors of Machu Picchu. Learn how the site is divided into agricultural, residential, and religious areas, each designed with remarkable engineering and symbolic purpose.
After the guided visit, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. If you arranged a permit in advance, you may hike Huayna Picchu for panoramic views.
Take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Lunch is not included. Depending on your train schedule, you may choose to shop, visit the local museum, or relax in the thermal baths.
Board the Expedition train at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. to Ollantaytambo. A Vistadome upgrade is available at either of those times or at 4:22 p.m. or 4:43 p.m. for an additional $67. The ride follows the Urubamba River through narrow passages and offers views of waterfalls, canyons, and even Wiñay Wayna perched far above the valley.
Your private driver will be waiting in Ollantaytambo for the final transfer to Cusco, where you will arrive around 7:00 p.m.
Note: For this trail, Circuit 3 or 4 applies. Additional tickets are required for other circuits.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cusco, such as Maytaq Wasin
Your day begins at 4:00 a.m. with a pickup from your hotel. Private transportation takes you on a three-hour drive south through traditional farmlands, Andean villages, winding valleys, and towering peaks until you reach Llacto at 4,638 meters.
Enjoy a hot breakfast near the trailhead, surrounded by Andean scenery and grazing alpacas and llamas. The hike begins alongside a gentle stream, with impressive views of the mighty Ausangate Mountain and its glaciers unfolding before you.
Along the way, you may meet local residents dressed in traditional Quechua clothing. Your guide explains the cultural significance behind their garments—such as the meaning of the men’s hats—and even teaches you a few Quechua words.
The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes about 1.5 hours, reaching an altitude of 5,020 meters. Spend around 30 minutes at the summit to admire the natural mineral-formed colors and take photos.
For those with extra energy, an optional side hike leads to the viewpoint of the Red Valley, adding approximately 45 minutes.
Descend the same way, taking about one hour. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by your cook, featuring local ingredients.
Afterward, drive three hours back to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 p.m. Your guide provides additional information throughout the day, and a representative oversees all logistics.
Meals: Hot breakfast, lunch
Prices in USD per person, by lodging. Private adds $100 each.
Single supplement $40 for 3-star. Available any date except February, min 2.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please review the following details carefully, as they respond to common questions about the 2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package.
THE BRIEFING
The briefing is scheduled for the evening before your trek at 06:00 p.m. in our office
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE?
Yes. You may leave your main luggage at our office or at your hotel. Choose whichever option is more convenient for you during the 2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek.
HOW TO BOOK
FIRST STEP
To book your 2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package, complete the booking form by selecting BOOK NOW on our homepage.
For each participant, we require the following information (without this data we cannot Buy the Inca Trail permit, the Machu Picchu entrance ticket, or the train ticket):
SECOND STEP
A deposit of $200.00 USD per person is necessary to Buy the Inca Trail permit, the Machu Picchu entrance, and the train ticket. Deposits can be made through VISA or PAYPAL using the links available on our website.
BALANCE PAYMENT
To avoid the high credit card fees charged in Peru, the balance can be paid in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. ATMs are available throughout the Historic Center.
Payment through VISA or PAYPAL is also possible but includes a 5.5% fee applied by these platforms.For PAYPAL payments, log in to your PAYPAL account and use our email: sacredtoursperu@gmail.com.
STUDENT DISCOUNT
To qualify for the student discount, Peruvian regulations require that the traveler be under 18 years old at the time of the trek. If a participant turns 18 before the trek date, they must present a valid university ID.
A passport copy must be emailed to info@sacredtoursperu.com at the time of booking to activate the discount.
Climate Shifts
Valleys 20 Celsius dry May-September days, 5 nights. Rainy November-March humid, showers. 55% afternoon wet wet season. Layers; fog cleared views once.
Residents Customs
Quechua farm, herd; hats roles. Polite chats culture. Permission pics. Family showed weaving, personal.
Foods Typical
Potatoes, corn; guinea local. Organics stews. Cheap: 8 soles markets. Veg: quinoa. Teas; fill moderate.
No Cost Spots
Ollantaytambo squares stones free. Aguas paths river. 60% miss, serene. Trail overlooks bonus.
Dining Budget
Urubamba meals 12 soles. Aguas cafes trout 10 soles. Locals real. Compare: 45% less hotels. Stew spot fresh cheap.
Attire Yearly
Breathable base. Rain covers wet. Dry hats sun. Boots grip. Synthetics; 70% wet gear issues.
Effort Health
Moderate 4-5 hours ups, valley light. Altitude acclimate. No tech, stamina. 15% breath, oxygen eases. Vaccines standard.
CAN I CHANGE MY DEPARTURE DATE?
Unfortunately, no. After the Inca Trail permit is issued, the government does not allow any changes, transfers, or refunds.
If you cancel the 2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek, the deposit is non-refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
Yes. Bring your original passport, and it must match the passport number used at the time of booking. Rangers check passports when you Visit Machu Picchu, and the train company verifies identification before boarding.
If you are renewing your passport or changing your name:
If you do not want to pay this fee, you must bring both passports to Peru. Without both documents, entry to Machu Picchu and access to the train will be denied.
WEATHER CONDITIONS
Weather on the Short Inca Trail and at Rainbow Mountain varies widely and is difficult to predict. Bring a warm jacket for early hours and a rain poncho in case of sudden showers.
TIPPING
Tipping is voluntary. If you feel satisfied with the service, a tip is appreciated and is a significant gesture for the team who assists you during the tour. The amount is your decision and should reflect your experience and the duration of the trek.
SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES
Sacred Tours Peru follows responsible tourism principles: respect local culture, contribute to the well-being of communities, and protect natural areas. All staff receive training in cultural respect and environmental care.
This package does not include an extra porter. You will need to carry your personal items, so pack lightly for comfort.
The dry season (May–September) has minimal rain and better trail conditions, especially at Rainbow Mountain. Nights can be cold, and July is busy, so book early. The wet season (December–March) brings muddier but greener landscapes; Sacred Tours Peru provides ponchos and adjusts the pace for safety.
It is a moderate trek with 4–5 hours of walking, including ascents at 2,000–2,650 meters. Light training on inclines is recommended. The valley section is easier, while Rainbow Mountain can challenge breathing. Guides offer breaks, and the trek suits active travelers; consult a doctor if you have underlying conditions.
Yes. Inform Sacred Tours Peru early about preferences such as no meat or food allergies. Meals use local organic products and can be adapted. International options may add extra costs depending on the location—check with reservations. Substitutions maintain balanced energy for the moderate trek.
Altitude is milder than in Cusco, but some people may feel shortness of breath on climbs. Acclimatize for a day beforehand. Guides monitor the group, carry oxygen, and provide tips; traditional Andean teas help many travelers with mild symptoms.
Yes, hotels have outlets. Bring a power bank for the trail day. Some trains have charging points. Save battery use; the representative helps with emergencies.
The trek continues with adjustments, such as using covered areas during rain. Sites normally remain open. Sacred Tours Peru checks forecasts and offers alternatives when needed; most groups complete the trek with only small changes.
Children over 8 can participate if active and accompanied by a guardian. The moderate route is more suitable for teens. Kids under 11 receive a $40 discount with a passport. Families can request pacing adjustments. Guides share engaging facts and monitor altitude effects.
Layer with a base layer and fleece; the 5:30 a.m. start can be cold. A breakfast box helps warm up. Gloves are useful for the first hour until the sun rises—common for Andean early starts.
Groups include travelers from around the world, with a maximum of 8 people. Solo travelers integrate easily. Guides speak multiple languages, and Sacred Tours Peru encourages a cooperative environment.
Yes. After the guided tour, you have free time on both days. Buses run often. To extend your visit, ask Sacred Tours Peru to adjust your train schedule.
Carry small denominations of Peruvian soles for markets and tips. ATMs are available in towns. Most costs are included in the tour; around 150 soles per person covers extras.
Tipping is optional but appreciated. Suggested amounts range from 40–80 soles per staff member. It recognizes their effort and is common in Andean tourism.
Groups are kept small to reduce impact. Local staff are hired with fair wages. Travelers follow designated paths and avoid littering. Visits help support local families.
Cancellations made 30 days in advance receive a full refund minus the deposit. Closer cancellations receive partial refunds depending on timing. Travel insurance is recommended. Sacred Tours Peru can help reschedule when possible.
Yes. Portable restrooms are available at the start and at lunch. Natural stops are possible along the route. Bring hand sanitizer and tissues; the team schedules breaks to maintain hygiene.
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Packing List for the 2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek
For this moderate path with day hikes and high climb, pack for weather shifts from valley warmth to mountain cold. Day pack for trail, overnight bag sent by train.
In overnight bag:
Items for your daypack on the Short Inca Trail
Items for your duffel (transported by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes)
MEALS ON THE ROUTE
Food offered during the trek is prepared with natural ingredients and local organic products. Travelers can request international dishes in available restaurants; these may have additional costs depending on the establishment. For details, consult our reservations team at Sacred Tours Peru.
Your personal expert will invest the time to grasp your preferences and craft them into a tailored itinerary that aligns with your budget. They will continue refining it until you're fully satisfied and prepared to confirm.
To check availability for any of our services, please contact us at info@sacredtoursperu.com or via WhatsApp at +51 999 999 999 or +51 999 999 999
We’ll be happy to provide detailed information, rates, and booking conditions.
We offer special discounts for groups, and all our tours are fully guaranteed with daily departures.
Feel free to get in touch for more details about your preferred experience or to start creating a personalized travel itinerary based on your interests.
Sacred Tours Peru is a trusted travel agency based in Cusco, Peru, dedicated to offering authentic and memorable experiences throughout the region.
Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a nature-filled journey, our professional team ensures comfort, quality, and a genuine connection with local culture and traditions.
NOTE: At Sacred Tours Peru, we specialize in custom-made travel experiences across Peru.
With access to exclusive deals and carefully selected partner hotels, we can help you design your perfect itinerary.
For assistance with your tailor-made package, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime.
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