Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain Tour (4 Days)

Day 2 of our 4 Days Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain Tour is a thrilling expedition on the iconic Short Inca Trail, starting from the historic town of Ollantaytambo. This day is a blend of hiking through breathtaking landscapes and discovering ancient Incan sites, offering an experience like no other.

We will begin our day with a transfer from Ollantaytambo to the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Here, we will gear up and commence our hike, embarking on a journey through time and nature. The trail leads us through a diverse array of scenery, from lush cloud forests to rugged mountain terrain, showcasing the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

As we trek along this historic path, we will encounter various Incan ruins, each with its unique story and significance. These ancient sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the Inca civilization and their architectural prowess. Our knowledgeable guides will provide insights and anecdotes, making the history come alive.

The trail gradually ascends, offering us spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The highlight of our hike is reaching the renowned Sun Gate, or ‘Inti Punku’, where we will be greeted with a stunning panoramic view of Machu Picchu in the distance. This moment, witnessing the majesty of the Lost City of the Incas, is truly awe-inspiring and a highlight of the trek.

Our day concludes with a descent to our campsite for the night, where we will relax and reflect on the day’s adventures amidst the serene beauty of the Andes.

Key Statistics of Day 2:

• Distance covered: Approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) on the Short Inca Trail.
• Starting altitude in Ollantaytambo: 2,792 meters (9,160 feet).
• Highest altitude at the Sun Gate: 2,720 meters (8,924 feet).
• Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging, suitable for those with a good level of fitness.
• Duration of hike: Around 5-7 hours, including stops at Incan sites and for lunch.

This day on the Short Inca Trail is a journey not just through stunning landscapes but also through history and culture, offering an enriching experience that is an essential part of our 4-day adventure with 69 Explorer.

On Day 3 of our 4 Days Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain Tour, we will embark on a momentous journey to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, followed by a return to Cusco, the historical heart of the Inca civilization. This day is a blend of exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and experiencing the rich cultural tapestry of the Andes.

Our day commences with an early morning departure from Aguas Calientes. We will make our way to the bus station for a short, winding ride up to Machu Picchu. As we ascend, the anticipation builds, with each turn bringing us closer to the ancient citadel.

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, we will enter the site as the sun begins to cast its first light over the iconic ruins. This mystical moment, watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu, is both breathtaking and serene. We will spend the morning exploring the main areas of the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows. Our expert guides will narrate the stories and theories that surround this mystical place, deepening your understanding and appreciation of this architectural marvel.

After immersing ourselves in the magic of Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Here, you can relax and reflect on your morning’s extraordinary experiences. In the afternoon, we will board a train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a comfortable transfer to Cusco, where our day concludes.

Key Statistics of Day 3:

• Total distance covered: Approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) exploring Machu Picchu.
• – Starting altitude in Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters (6,692 feet).
• – Altitude at Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet).
• – Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, with some steep and uneven terrain in Machu Picchu.
• – Duration of Machu Picchu visit: About 3-4 hours, including guided tour and free time.

Day 3 of our tour offers an unforgettable experience, combining the exploration of the legendary Machu Picchu with the journey back to the vibrant city of Cusco. It’s a day filled with wonder, history, and breathtaking scenery, making it a highlight of our adventure with 69 Expeditions.

On the final day of our 4 Days Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain Tour, we will embark on an exhilarating adventure to the stunning Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain. This day promises a blend of challenging trekking and rewarding views of one of Peru’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

Our day begins early with a drive from Cusco to the trailhead near the base of Rainbow Mountain. As we travel, we will witness the sunrise over the Andean landscape, setting a magical tone for the day. Upon arrival at the trailhead, we will prepare for our trek, gearing up and acclimatizing to the altitude.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain is a journey through an ever-changing landscape. We will pass through quaint local villages, witness herds of alpacas and llamas, and see the stunning Ausangate Mountain in the distance. The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with each step bringing us closer to the breathtaking sight of Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant mineral-rich slopes.

Upon reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain, standing at an impressive altitude, we will have time to soak in the panoramic views. The mountain’s unique coloring, created by various mineral deposits, is a sight to behold and makes for an unforgettable experience.

After spending time at the summit, we will begin our descent and return to the trailhead. Our journey back to Cusco will be filled with reflections on the incredible experiences and memories made over the past four days.

Key Statistics of Day 4:

• Distance covered: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) round trip.
• Starting altitude at the trailhead: About 4,326 meters (14,189 feet).
• Highest altitude at Rainbow Mountain: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet).
• Difficulty level: Challenging, due to high altitude and steep sections.
• Duration of hike: Approximately 4-6 hours, depending on individual pace and weather conditions.

Day 4 of our tour is a true testament to the natural beauty and adventure that Peru has to offer. It’s a day that combines physical challenge with awe-inspiring rewards, making it a perfect conclusion to our 4 Days Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain Tour with 69 Explorer.