Ausangate Trek, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 4 Days Tour

Rainbow Mountain Tour + Ausangate and Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

Experience the ultimate Andean adventure combining the colorful landscapes of Rainbow Mountain, the breathtaking scenery of the Ausangate region, and the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu. This 4-day journey takes you through some of the most spectacular destinations in Cusco, offering a perfect mix of hiking, culture, and iconic highlights.

Travel through remote mountain trails surrounded by glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and traditional Andean villages near Ausangate. Witness the natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru’s most famous natural wonders, before continuing your adventure to explore the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with a guided tour.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a short but complete experience that combines high-altitude trekking, stunning landscapes, and Peru’s most iconic archaeological site in just four unforgettable days.

Duration of the trip:

4 Days 3 Nights

Total Distance

4 Days

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

3600 m.a.s.l

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 ppl Min - 08ppl Max

4 Day Ausangate Trek, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 4 Days Tour Overview

TOUR NAME: Ausangate Trek, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 4 Days Tour
100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Ausangate trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
GROUP SIZE: Upon Request
STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb.
ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 6:30 pm
DEPARTURE: Daily. we need at least 02 ppl to depart
ACTIVITIES TO DO: Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour, Machu Picchu
TIME: 4 Days 3 Nights
TRANSPORTATION: Hike, Bus, Train
ACCOMMODATIONS: Camping, Hotel
MACHUPICCHU TICKETS: Machupicchu entrance fee Included. (Circuits to Visit Machu Picchu)

Ausangate Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu Tour Short Itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Pukutuni School – Upis – Pucaccocha
Day 2: Pucaccocha – Condor Pass – Alpaca Pass – Sororni Lake
Day 3: Sororni Lake – Rainbow Mountain – Kayrawiri – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu and Return Comfortably to Cusco

Highlights – Ausangate Trek, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 4 Days

Trek around the majestic Ausangate Mountain, one of the most sacred and impressive peaks in the Peruvian Andes.
isit the world-famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and witness its vibrant mineral-colored slopes at sunrise.
Explore the iconic Machu Picchu Citadel with a professional guided tour through its temples, terraces, and ancient structures.
Enjoy breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, including glaciers, turquoise lagoons, waterfalls, and remote Andean valleys.
Experience authentic Andean culture, passing through traditional villages and observing local wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
Camp under spectacular Andean skies in remote locations surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Travel through the Sacred Valley by scenic train, offering unforgettable views of rivers, mountains, and lush vegetation.
Hike across high mountain passes above 4,800 meters, experiencing one of Peru’s most rewarding trekking challenges.
Capture incredible photography opportunities, from snow-capped peaks to colorful landscapes and ancient Inca architecture.
Enjoy a complete adventure in just 4 days, combining high-altitude trekking, cultural exploration, and Peru’s most iconic destinations.

DAY 1
Cusco – Pukutuni School – Upis – Pucaccocha+

DAY 2
Pucaccocha – Condor Pass – Alpaca Pass – Sororni Lake+

DAY 3
Sororni Lake – Rainbow Mountain – Kayrawiri – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes+

DAY 4
Explore Machu Picchu and Return Comfortably to Cusco+

(Advance booking is strongly recommended to secure the best Machu Picchu circuits.)

Today marks the highlight of your journey as you visit the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Access to the citadel is strictly regulated by the Peruvian government and UNESCO in order to preserve this world-renowned heritage site. To manage visitor flow, several official circuits have been established, with Circuits 2 and 3 being the most recommended for a complete and meaningful experience. We strongly advise booking your Machu Picchu entrance tickets well in advance to secure the most suitable circuit.

You will wake up early at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, usually with a packed breakfast provided. It is essential to depart early to make the most of your visit. After breakfast, larger luggage will remain stored at the hotel, while you carry only a small backpack with essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, camera, original passport (and student ID if applicable), and water.

From your hotel, you will walk a few minutes to the bus station to board one of the early buses to Machu Picchu. The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes and ascends through scenic mountain roads to the entrance of the citadel.

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you will begin your guided tour according to your assigned circuit. Those visiting with Circuit 2 will access the classic panoramic viewpoint near the Watchtower, while Circuit 3 follows an alternative route beginning at the agricultural terraces. You will have time to capture iconic photographs and receive an introductory explanation about the history, architecture, and cultural importance of the site.

The guided tour typically lasts 2.5 to 3 hours, during which you will explore important sectors including terraces, temples, ceremonial spaces, water fountains, and residential areas. After the guided visit, a short period of restricted free time will allow you to enjoy the surroundings before exiting the citadel.

Travelers who have reserved Huayna Picchu Mountain tickets will proceed to the entrance of this additional hike at the scheduled time. The climb requires approximately 45 minutes to ascend, followed by time at the summit and about 45 minutes to descend. Availability for this hike is limited and must be reserved well in advance.

After completing your visit to Machu Picchu, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you may enjoy lunch at your leisure (not included). Later in the afternoon, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo, enjoying scenic views along the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, our private transportation will meet you and transfer you back to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel in the evening.

Although this final day is full of activity, it is an unforgettable and rewarding experience, marking the perfect conclusion to your adventure through the Andes.

Meals: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Return: Train to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to Cusco

Ausangate Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu includes:

Professional Guides
All Quechuas Expeditions guides are professionally trained in tourism and fluent in English. They are native to the Cusco region and deeply knowledgeable about local traditions, history, and culture. Our guides are friendly, highly experienced, and committed to ensuring your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the trek.
Pre-Trek Briefing
A detailed briefing will be held at the Quechuas Expeditions office at 6:30 p.m. the evening before departure. During this meeting, you will receive your duffel bag, which will be used to pack personal belongings such as your sleeping bag and air mattress. Porters will transport your duffel bag, which will be available only at campsites (morning and evening). Items needed during the day should be carried in your daypack.
Porters & Horsemen
Your trek includes the support of professional porters and horsemen who will transport your duffel bag with your personal belongings. This service is included at no additional cost. You will have access to your duffel bag upon arrival at each campsite.
Emergency Horse
For added safety and comfort, an emergency horse is included and available if any participant requires assistance or needs to rest during the trek.
Transportation
All transportation required for the trek is included. You will be picked up directly from your hotel early in the morning and transferred to the trailhead. At the end of the program, transportation back to your hotel in Cusco is provided.
Camping Equipment
Quechuas Expeditions provides high-quality trekking equipment, including spacious four-person tents shared by only two travelers, ensuring comfort and adequate space. A dining tent is also provided for meals and group gatherings.
Meals Prepared by Professional Chefs
Our experienced chefs prepare fresh, nutritious, and flavorful meals throughout the trek. We accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and other special requirements—please inform us in advance.
You will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, along with afternoon tea and snacks. Snacks are also provided each morning for the hike. The final meal prepared by our chef will be breakfast on the last day.
Drinking Water
From the first lunch until the final breakfast, purified drinking water is provided. Water is boiled, filtered, and cooled before distribution. Travelers are required to bring reusable water bottles or hydration packs with a recommended capacity of approximately 3 liters.
First Aid & Safety Equipment
All guides are trained in first aid and carry a fully equipped first-aid kit, including oxygen for altitude-related situations. In case of illness or emergency, our team will assist in evacuating you safely and coordinating transportation to the nearest medical facility if required.
Additional Comfort Items
To enhance your trekking experience, Quechuas Expeditions provides thoughtful extras including a sleeping pillow, foam mattress for insulation, rain poncho, and daypack cover to protect your belongings from rain and dust.
Satellite Communication
For safety and emergency communication, all trekking groups are equipped with satellite phones. This ensures reliable communication with medical services, support teams, or family members if necessary, even in remote mountain regions.

Ausangate Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu doesn’t include:

Brekfast Day 1 and Lunch Day 4
Equipment Rentals (Optional)
Certain trekking items are not included but are available for rent if needed:
Sleeping Bag: $25
Walking Sticks (Pair): $20
These items are recommended for improved comfort during the trek.
Travel and health insurance. (bring copies with you please): Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend getting insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss, and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance, and emergency medical expense insurance. Quechuas Expeditions will assist in obtaining all necessary documents for you to be refunded by your insurance company.
Any unexpected situations that occurred during the journey and which are beyond our control, including changes in scheduling trains or flights, delays, strikes, cancellations, missed connections, etc.. shall be covered by the passenger as a whole. Also, if you for physical reasons of health cannot continue the trek or walk, and will need emergency evacuation then all charges incurred such as transportation, hotel, ambulance, doctors, medication, hospitalization, etc.. will be at the passenger’s expense.

Ausangate Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu (Prices for 2026)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information, as well as a Deposit of 40% and the Final Balance, which will be paid once you are in Cusco.

We want you to have a Memorable Lifetime Experience Trip!

and if you choose Bed & Breakfast you will stay in our Quechuas Guesthouse Homestay. Private rooms with private showers and bathrooms (in Cusco only) and includes Shuttle transportation to go to the town square.(Please a detailed page of Quechuas Guesthouse above)

What you need to bring Ausangate trek Package 4 days

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
Travel insurance is essential (and some copies)
Airline tickets (and some copies)
US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Camera and Memory cards
Rechargeable batteries and adapters
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Cover for backpacks
Pocketknife.
Fleece top
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Small towel and swim wear
Shirts/t-shirts
Sun hat
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
1 pair hiking pants/track pants
Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
Sport hiking sandals
Sun block
Sunglasses
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Watch or alarm clock
Water bottle
Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
Flashlight (head light recommended)
Money belt
Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
Thermal underwear
Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

FAQs for a 4-day trip covering Cusco, Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu

General Trip Questions
Is 5 days enough to see all four destinations?
Yes, with proper planning, you can enjoy key highlights of each place.

What’s the best time to visit?
May to October (dry season) is ideal for clear skies and better hiking conditions.

Is this trip physically demanding?
Yes, moderate fitness is needed, especially for Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.

Can I visit all sites without a tour?
Yes, but a guided trip makes logistics much easier.

Do I need to acclimate to the altitude?
Yes—spend your first day in Cusco resting and drinking lots of water.

Arrival & Transportation
Where do I fly into?
Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ).

How do I get to Rainbow Mountain?
It’s a 3-hour drive from Cusco followed by a 1.5–2 hour hike.

Is transportation included in tours?
Most tours include round-trip transport to each destination.

How do I get from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu?
By train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

Do I need tickets for trains and buses in advance?
Yes, book early, especially in high season.

Accommodation
Where should I stay in Cusco?
Near the historic center (Plaza de Armas) for easy access to attractions.

Should I stay overnight in the Sacred Valley?
Yes—it’s peaceful and helps break up travel.

Is it necessary to stay in Aguas Calientes before Machu Picchu?
Highly recommended if you want to visit early the next morning.

Are hostels and hotels safe?
Yes, most are tourist-friendly and offer secure options.

Is booking in advance important?
Yes, especially in peak months (June–August).

Packing & Prep
What should I pack for Rainbow Mountain?
Layers, warm jacket, gloves, hat, water, and snacks.

Do I need hiking boots?
Strongly recommended for Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.

Can I bring a large suitcase to Machu Picchu?
No, only small bags (max 5kg) are allowed on the train.

Should I bring cash?
Yes, for markets, tips, and remote areas.

Will I need sunscreen?
Absolutely—the high altitude sun is very strong.

Attractions & Activities
How long is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
About 6 km (round trip), taking 3–4 hours total.

Can I skip Rainbow Mountain if I’m not fit?
Yes, you can ride a horse (available for rent on-site).

Which Sacred Valley sites are must-sees?
Pisac, Moray, Maras salt mines, and Ollantaytambo.

Can I do the Sun Gate hike at Machu Picchu?
Yes—it’s a short, scenic trail with great views.

Do I need to hire a guide for Machu Picchu?
Yes, a guide is required for the first entry.

Travel Tips & Safety
Is altitude sickness common?
Yes, especially in Cusco and Rainbow Mountain—go slow and drink coca tea.

Can I drink the tap water?
No—use bottled or filtered water only.

Is travel insurance recommended?
Yes, especially for medical and hiking-related incidents.

Are there restrooms at Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, basic facilities are available at the base, but not on the trail.

Are credit cards accepted everywhere?
No—carry cash for smaller towns, markets, and tips.

Book now with us

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sara D 
 
 
 
 Verified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Matthew W 
 
 
 
 Verified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Arianna O 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   naomiammar 
 
 
 
 Verified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   cade c 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lola U 
 
 
 
 Verified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Julia C. 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Emelie A 
 
 
 
 Verified Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

IMPORTANT

From March to September, Machu Picchu tickets especially Circuit 2-A tend to sell out in advance.

If Circuit 2 is not available, we will manage the best possible alternative, prioritizing Circuit 3 or Circuit 1.

For travelers without a prior reservation, 1000 additional tickets are released daily in Aguas Calientes for next-day entry, subject to availability and in-person purchase with the original passport.

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