Imperial Cusco + 7 Colors Mountain + Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

The Cusco + Rainbow Mountain + Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu tour (7 days / 6 nights) is a comprehensive experience that combines culture, high-altitude landscapes, and Andean adventure. It begins in the city of Cusco with a historical tour of its main archaeological sites, continues with a visit to the famous Rainbow Mountain, one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in southern Peru, and culminates with the Salkantay Trek, one of the most spectacular trekking routes to Machu Picchu.

Throughout the journey, visitors traverse landscapes that change dramatically: from the Inca and colonial architecture of Cusco, through the high Andes with glaciers and turquoise lagoons, to the cloud forest, where the climate becomes more temperate and the vegetation more lush. The highlight is the guided visit to Machu Picchu, a symbol of the Inca legacy and one of the most important destinations in the world.

This package is designed for travelers seeking more than a conventional tour: it offers direct contact with nature, challenging yet rewarding hikes, and a deeper understanding of the Andean region, all with a plan that prioritizes acclimatization and responsible enjoyment of the journey.

Salkantay is one of the most sacred mountains in the southern Peruvian Andes.

In the Andean worldview, it is considered an Apu, a powerful protective spirit, venerated since pre-Incan times and later by the Incas. This glacier-covered mountain was associated with water, fertility, and natural balance—essential elements for life in the Andean world.

The Salkantay route was used ancestrally as an alternative pilgrimage path to Machu Picchu and other ceremonial centers. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, this route traversed higher and more rugged areas, reserved for rituals, exchanges, and journeys linked to spirituality and the management of mountain and rainforest ecosystems.

Over time, these ancient trails fell into disuse until, in recent decades, they were rediscovered and adapted as trekking routes. Today, the Salkantay Trek allows you to relive this ancient journey, following ancestral paths that connect the high Andes with the cloud forest, symbolically linking the sacred mountain with Machu Picchu. Hiking this route is not only a physical challenge, but also a way to understand the profound relationship between humankind, nature, and the living history of the Andes.

Day 1 — Arrival in Cusco + acclimatization (free day)

Today’s objective: to acclimatize to the altitude without rushing, so you can fully enjoy the following days.

What to do (recommended, easy):

• Check-in and rest.
• Short walk around the city (Plaza, narrow streets, low viewpoints).
• Light dinner (soups, soft carbohydrates) and stay hydrated.

Key tip: avoid strenuous activity today. The smart thing to do is arrive “fresh” for the City Tour and Rainbow Mountain.

Day 2 — Cusco City Tour (afternoon) | Culture + panoramic views

Free morning (ideal for):

• Have a leisurely breakfast.
• Visit the local market (if you enjoy trying fruits, breads, and Andean flavors).
• Buy essentials for the trek: sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks, gloves, poncho.

Afternoon: Traditional City Tour (approx. 1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.)

• Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): Inca foundation with superimposed colonial architecture.
• Sacsayhuaman: Cyclopean walls and the best view of Cusco.
• Qenqo: Ritual rock and carved passageways.
• Puca Pucara: Fort/strategic viewpoint.
• Tambomachay: Fountains and water worship.

Experience Tips:

• Bring a windbreaker: the weather changes quickly in the afternoon.
• A good day to adjust your backpack and get ready for Day 3 (early start).

Day 3 — Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Full Day

Objective of the day: to fulfill the “dream” of Vinicunca with good energy (that’s why it comes before Salkantay).

Early Morning

• Early morning pickup (approx. 4:00–5:00 a.m., depending on the area).
• Travel to the starting point.
• Breakfast en route (usually in a village along the way).

Hike (paced hike)

• Gradual ascent, with stops for breathing and photos.
• Arrival at the main viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain.

Midday/Afternoon

• Lunch en route.
• Return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Key recommendations for Vinicunca:

• Walk slowly and breathe through your nose, without competing with anyone.
• Bring coca leaves or candies (if you are used to them) and plenty of water.
• If needed, many travelers take a horse on the uphill section (optional and paid for locally).

Day 4 — Salkantay Trek Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon

Start of the adventure. Today you enter the world of Salkantay: towering mountains, crisp air, and glacial lakes.

Very early

• Pick-up in Cusco.
• Tourist transport to the starting point (Soraypampa area or nearby, depending on the operator).

On the trail

• Breakfast and safety briefing (walking techniques, pace, knee protection, use of trekking poles).
• Acclimatization hike: “strenuous but manageable.”

Humantay Lagoon

• Ascent to the lagoon viewpoint.
• Time for photos (intense turquoise in good weather) and rest.

Afternoon

• Return to the camp/lodge.
• Early dinner and rest.

Trekking tip: Today is the day to test your gear: trekking poles, layers, gloves, hat, and adjust your backpack.

Day 5 — Salkantay Trek Day 2: Salkantay Pass (most demanding day)

This is usually the “star” day for its scenery and challenge: the Salkantay Pass is the highest point of the route, and the surroundings feel completely alpine.

Morning

• Early breakfast.
• Departure on foot towards the pass.

High-altitude section

• Steady climb, variable weather (strong winds are possible).
• Arrival at the pass: photos, take a breather, short break (without getting chilled).

Descent

• Descend into a different valley: less cold, more vegetation.
• Arrival at the high jungle area / intermediate camp.

Night

• Hot dinner and recovery (gentle stretching and rest).

Pro tip: protect your knees on the descent: use trekking poles + take short steps, no running.

Day 6 — Salkantay Trek Day 3: Cloud Forest, Cloud Forest, and Local Experiences

Today the landscape changes: greenery appears, along with the scent of damp earth, streams, and a warmer atmosphere.

During the day (depending on the tour operation)

• Hike along high jungle trails.
• Possible cultural stops: coffee plantations, fruit farms, explanations of local crops.
• On some itineraries: hot springs (optional) or a visit to a small village.

Afternoon/Evening

• Arrival at accommodation (camp/lodge).
• Preparation for the final day: Machu Picchu.

Tip: This day is perfect for drying clothes, reorganizing luggage, and preparing a small backpack for Machu Picchu (the bare minimum).

Day 7 — Final leg + Machu Picchu (guided tour) + return to Cusco

The grand finale: Machu Picchu.

Early morning

• Very early breakfast.
• Final transfer/hike to your connecting point (depending on the route: Hydroelectric Plant / Aguas Calientes, or access via a route established by the operator).
• Arrival in Aguas Calientes (when applicable) and entrance coordination.

Machu Picchu

• Ascent by bus (optional) or hike via steps (if applicable and time permits).
• Guided tour of the most important sectors (history, function, architecture, viewpoints).

Return

• Departure by train/bus (depending on the service) to Ollantaytambo and then Cusco.
• Arrival in the evening.

Perfect ending: light dinner in Cusco and rest. You’ve earned it.

What does the tour include?

The Cusco + Rainbow Mountain + Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu package (7 days / 6 nights) is designed as a comprehensive experience, including all the essential services to ensure travelers enjoy the tour safely, comfortably, and with excellent organization.

Transfers and Transportation

• Hotel pick-up (Cusco city center) for scheduled tours.
• Tourist transportation for the Cusco City Tour.
• Tourist transportation for the Rainbow Mountain tour (round trip).
• Ground transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the Salkantay Trek.
• Internal transfers during the trek as per the itinerary.
• Return transportation from the end of the trek to Cusco (tourist train + bus or ground transportation, depending on the chosen service).

Guide and Assistance

• Professional tour guide during the Cusco City Tour.
• Specialized high-altitude guide for the Rainbow Mountain trek.
• Professional guide throughout the Salkantay Trek, with knowledge of first aid and altitude training.
• Continuous team support throughout the trek.

Meals

• Breakfast and lunch during the Rainbow Mountain tour.
• Full board during the Salkantay Trek:
• Energy breakfasts.
• Lunch en route.
• Hot dinners at campsites or lodges.
• Vegetarian options and special diets (with prior arrangement).

Accommodation and Logistics

• Accommodation in fully equipped campsites or lodges during the Salkantay Trek (depending on the chosen category).
• Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining set, cooking set).
• Porters or pack animals for transporting shared equipment.

Entrance Fees

• Entrance to the archaeological sites included in the Cusco City Tour (depending on the tour option).
• Entrance to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
• Entrance to Humantay Lagoon. Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (route and schedule subject to availability).

Other services

• First aid kit and oxygen during the trek.
• Pre-tour briefing.

What’s not included in the tour?

For proper planning, it’s important to consider the services not included in the package:

Meals not specified

• Breakfast on Day 1 (arrival day in Cusco).
• Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Additional beverages (sodas, alcoholic beverages).

Optional services

• Horseback riding for the ascent to Rainbow Mountain.
• Use of hot springs (if visited, entrance fees are usually paid locally).
• Round-trip bus transportation to Machu Picchu (optional).
• Additional entrance fees such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Personal expenses

• Tips for guides, cooks, and support staff.
• Personal purchases, extra snacks, souvenirs.

External transportation

• Air or ground transportation to/from Cusco.
• Transfers outside the established itinerary.

Other

• Travel insurance or personal accident insurance (recommended).
• Trekking poles (optional rental).
• Personal trekking equipment (clothing, footwear, backpack, flashlight, etc.).

Detailed recommendations (the ones that will save you trouble)

Before your trip

• Acclimatization: a minimum of 24–48 hours in Cusco before strenuous activity.
• Machu Picchu tickets: they sell out during peak season; ideally, buy in advance or confirm availability before they go on sale.
• Insurance: recommended for trekking (especially due to altitude and long hikes).

What to pack (practical list)

• Daypack (20–30L) + rain cover.
• Layered clothing: thermal base layer + fleece + windproof/rainproof jacket.
• Hat, gloves, buff, sunglasses with UV protection.
  Sunscreen + insect repellent.
• Trekking poles (highly recommended for descents).
  Trekking shoes with good traction.
• Reusable water bottle + rehydration salts.
• Snacks: nuts, chocolate, energy bars.
• Headlamp (for early mornings).
• Personal medication (and if you use altitude sickness medication, bring it as prescribed by your doctor).

During the trek:

• Eat even if you’re not very hungry (for sustained energy).
• Hydrate according to a schedule, not “only when I’m thirsty.”
• Keep your steps short and your breathing controlled: your pace dictates your rhythm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?

It’s moderate to challenging: there are long days and a high pace. With acclimatization and the right pace, most people can complete it.

2) Do I need prior trekking experience?

Not necessarily, but previous hikes are helpful. If you’re sedentary, it’s advisable to train for 2–4 weeks beforehand.

3) Can I do Rainbow Mountain and then Salkantay?

Yes, and this package is designed that way, because Vinicunca requires altitude training, but with good rest and planning, it’s an excellent experience.

4) What if I’m affected by the altitude?

It’s recommended to notify the guide at the first sign of symptoms. Rest, hydration, and a steady pace will help. In severe cases, safety is prioritized, and the operator’s protocol will be activated.

5) What’s the weather like?

Cusco’s weather is variable; on the Salkantay trek, you’ll experience high-altitude cold followed by a temperate-humid climate. That’s why layers are key.

6) Can this package be done in a “comfort” version (domes/lodges)?

Yes. Many travelers prefer domes or lodges for better sleep and improved performance.

7) What happens if there’s no availability for Machu Picchu entrance?

We offer alternatives depending on the available circuit/schedule. Ideally, you should confirm availability before finalizing your package purchase.

8) Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, but spaces are limited and require advance booking (and schedules change).

9) Is it suitable for children?

It depends on age, physical condition, and altitude tolerance. In general, Vinicunca and the Salkantay Pass are not ideal for young children.

10) What is the best season?

The dry season is usually more stable for trekking; during the rainy season, there is mud and unpredictable weather, but the landscapes can be greener.