From Cusco: 9-Day Trek – Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, Choquequirao Trek, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain
Discover Peru’s hidden gems with a 9-day itinerary showcasing Choquequirao, Machu Picchu, and the Rainbow Mountain.
From Cusco: 9-Day Trek – Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, Choquequirao Trek, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain
Unveil the wonders of the Andes with this extraordinary 9-day adventure through Peru’s most iconic Inca landmarks. Begin your journey with a cultural immersion in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley.
Trek to Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, a hidden archaeological marvel surrounded by towering peaks and lush valleys. Complete the trek and travel to Ollantaytambo for a full-day exploration of the magnificent Machu Picchu.
Finally, crown your adventure with a trek to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, where nature’s palette comes alive. This thoughtfully designed itinerary combines history, adventure, and culture, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of Inca lands.
| Departure & Return Location | Cusco Airport or Bus Station (Pickup and drop-off coordination based on your flight or bus details) |
| Departure Time | Flexible, scheduled around your arrival for your convenience |
| Estimated Return Time | Flexible, adjusted to ensure timely arrival for your flight or bus departure in Cusco |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, Choquequirao, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain |
Cusco Airport – Arrival – City Tour & Nearby Archaeological Sites
Upon arrival at Cusco Airport or bus station, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the morning resting and acclimating to Cusco’s altitude (3,400m/11,152ft). In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour to explore Cusco’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Start at the Plaza de Armas, the city’s vibrant main square, and visit Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), an Inca temple later converted into the Santo Domingo Church by the Spanish.
Continue to the nearby archaeological sites, including the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuamán, the mysterious ceremonial site of Q’enqo, Tambomachay’s water temple, and the military outpost of Puka Pukara. Return to your hotel in the evening for a good night’s rest.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: None included
Hiking: Light walking
Transport: Approx. 3 hours
Cusco – Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero) – Cusco
Start your day with a visit to the Sacred Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and significant Inca sites. Begin at Pisac, where you’ll explore the well-preserved terraces and vibrant artisan market.
Continue to Urubamba for a relaxing lunch break (meal not included) before heading to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town famous for its massive fortress and strategic importance during the resistance against the Spanish.
End the day in Chinchero, a charming village with a colonial church built on Inca foundations and renowned for its vibrant textile traditions. Return to Cusco in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Approx. 2 hours
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Cusco – Capuliyoc – Santa Rosa (Choquequirao Trek Begins)
Your adventure begins with an early morning drive to Capuliyoc (2,850m/9,350ft), the trailhead for the Choquequirao Trek. Enjoy a local breakfast en route and meet your trekking team, including guides, cooks, and muleteers.
Start your trek with a scenic descent into the Apurimac Canyon, passing through lush vegetation and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and river. Arrive at Santa Rosa (1,800m/5,906ft), your campsite for the night, and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner under the stars.
Accommodation: Camping at Santa Rosa
Meals: Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6-7 hours, 15 km
Transport: Approx. 4 hours
Santa Rosa – Choquequirao – Marampata
After breakfast, ascend through the canyon to reach Choquequirao (3,035m/9,957ft), a sprawling archaeological site often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. The challenging hike is rewarded with stunning views of the Andean landscape and a guided exploration of the site’s plazas, terraces, and ceremonial areas, including the famous sacred llama carvings.
After exploring Choquequirao, continue to the nearby campsite at Marampata for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Camping at Marampata
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7-8 hours, 10 km
Marampata – Santa Rosa – Chiquisca
Begin your return journey, descending through the Apurimac Canyon and retracing your steps to Santa Rosa. Stop at Rosalinas Beach (1,500m/4,921ft) for a break along the riverbank before ascending to the Chiquisca campsite (1,950m/6,398ft). Enjoy a delicious dinner and reflect on the day’s journey under the Andean night sky.
Accommodation: Camping at Chiquisca
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 11 km
Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Ollantaytambo
Start your day with breakfast at the campsite before completing the final stretch of the trek, ascending to Capuliyoc (2,850m/9,350ft). Take in the last breathtaking views of the Apurimac Canyon before bidding farewell to the Choquequirao trek.
From Capuliyoc, drive to the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, known as the “Living Inca Town” for its well-preserved layout and continuous habitation since the Inca period. Spend the evening exploring its cobblestone streets or relaxing at your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 4 hours, 8 km
Transport: Approx. 5 hours
Ollantaytambo – Full-Day Machu Picchu Tour – Cusco
Embark on an early train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, take a short bus ride up to the citadel and begin a guided exploration of this iconic archaeological site.
Discover Machu Picchu’s most notable landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana Stone. Learn about its history, cultural significance, and mysteries as you explore the ancient ruins. After the guided tour, enjoy some free time to take photos or explore further on your own.
In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, and continue by private transport to Cusco, where you’ll spend the night.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Approx. 2 hours (at Machu Picchu)
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Important Notice for Machu Picchu Visitors
As of June 1, 2024, new circuits and routes have been introduced at Machu Picchu to preserve the site and enhance visitor management. Upon booking your tour, we will immediately begin securing your Machu Picchu tickets, prioritizing Circuit 2, Route 2-A (Ruta Clásico Diseñada) for its iconic highlights and photo opportunities. If this route is unavailable, we will book the next best option to ensure an unforgettable experience. Please note that the Ministry of Culture’s system may take time to process reservations, so we recommend booking your tour well in advance. Be attentive to your email or WhatsApp for updates on your ticket status. For more information about the new circuits and tips for visiting Machu Picchu, please visit our blog: [Everything You Need to Know About Machu Picchu Tickets].
Cusco – Rainbow Mountain or Day Tour of Your Choice
Today, choose between a trek to the stunning Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) or an alternative day tour.
If trekking to Rainbow Mountain, begin with an early morning drive to the trailhead, followed by a scenic hike through colorful landscapes. The ascent to the summit (5,200m/17,060ft) reveals vibrant, mineral-rich mountains surrounded by breathtaking Andean views. After enjoying your time at the summit, return to Cusco in the late afternoon.
Alternatively, select from other day tours, such as exploring the Maras Salt Mines, Moray terraces, or visiting Andean villages for cultural immersion.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch (for Rainbow Mountain trek)
Hiking: Approx. 3 hours (for Rainbow Mountain)
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Cusco – Departure
On your final day, our team will transfer you to the airport or bus station at the agreed time. Please provide your departure details in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Take home unforgettable memories of the Andean landscapes, rich Inca history, and the adventures of a lifetime.
Accommodation: None included
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Approx. 30 minutes
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Special Discounts
- Adult (12+ Years): Standard rates apply for travelers over 12 years old.
- Student (-25 Years with Student Card): Save USD 20 with a valid Student Card for those younger than 25 years old.
- Child (3 – 11 Years): Save USD 30 for children between 3 and 11 years old.
- Infant (0 – 2 Years): Infants younger than 2 years old are free (must ride on the adult’s lap; for a separate seat, add them as a child).
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
*Please note that the applicable age is considered at the time of completion of the trip.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 50% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 50% of the tour cost is due no later than 30 days before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Peru Tripper will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Peru Tripper does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
Elevate your travel experience with our bespoke Deluxe Package, meticulously designed to offer an array of premium amenities and services.
Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
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