Cusco Tours and Inca Trail 6 days
- Cusco
- Ollantaytambo
- Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Bus
Overview
Discover the best of Cusco and the Andes with this unforgettable 6-day tour package that blends rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the legendary Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This adventure is perfect for travelers who want to experience the highlights of the region without committing to the full four-day hike, while still enjoying the essence of the iconic Inca Trail.
Your journey begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, where you’ll explore ancient temples and majestic ruins during a guided City Tour. Next, you’ll head to the stunning Sacred Valley, visiting archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, as well as the fascinating circular terraces of Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras. On day three, the adventure intensifies with a scenic train ride and an exhilarating trek along the Short Inca Trail, leading you through cloud forests and ancient ruins before arriving at the Sun Gate with your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
You’ll enjoy a full guided tour of the citadel the following morning before heading back to Cusco. To top off your experience, you’ll hike to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, witnessing some of Peru’s most colorful natural wonders. This well-paced itinerary is ideal for those looking to balance cultural discovery with soft adventure in just six days.
Cusco Tours and Inca Trail 6 days
This 6-day Cusco and Short Inca Trail tour is crafted for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the cultural and natural beauty of the Andes while enjoying a shorter hike to Machu Picchu. The itinerary includes a blend of rich historical exploration, scenic landscapes, and mild adventure—perfect for those seeking a well-balanced experience in Peru.
You’ll explore the heart of the ancient Inca Empire in Cusco, discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley, and hike the spectacular Short Inca Trail, entering Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate. The journey also takes you to the surreal landscapes of Rainbow Mountain, making this tour one of the most complete and fulfilling ways to experience the magic of the Andes in less than a week.
Tour Details:
- Tour Name: Cusco Tours and Short Inca Trail 6 Days
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Type of Tour: Cultural & Adventure
- Service Level: Small group (max. 10 people) – Personalized service
- Locations Visited: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain
- Best Season: From March to December (dry season recommended)
- Difficulty: Moderate – The Short Inca Trail involves hiking
- Accommodation: 3-star hotels (upgrades available upon request)
- Transportation: Tourist van, Vistadome panoramic train, and trekking on Day 3
- Departure: Daily with a minimum of 2 people
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to combine cultural experiences with nature and a touch of adventure. The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu allows you to enjoy the thrill of trekking the ancient path without the intensity of the 4-day hike, while still arriving through the breathtaking Sun Gate. Each day of the tour is carefully designed to give you the most out of your stay in Peru.
Highlights
- Explore the historic city of Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, with a guided tour of its most iconic landmarks, including Qoricancha and Saqsayhuamán.
- Discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley, from the ancient ruins of Pisac to the spectacular terraces of Moray and the dazzling Salt Mines of Maras.
- Spend the night in Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town and the perfect gateway to begin your journey to Machu Picchu.
- Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a rewarding one-day trek that includes visits to Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and your first breathtaking view of the Lost City.
- Enjoy a full guided experience at Machu Picchu, with time to explore the citadel and soak in its magic.
- Visit the vibrant Rainbow Mountain and the stunning Red Valley, two of the most scenic and colorful landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.
- Travel in comfort with premium services, panoramic Vistadome train, and carefully selected accommodations throughout the tour.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City Tour
Arrive in Cusco and get settled at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the historic city center, including Qoricancha, Saqsayhuamán, and surrounding Inca sites.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour with Maras and Moray
Embark on a full-day tour through the Sacred Valley. Visit the Pisac ruins and market, enjoy lunch in Urubamba, and explore Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras. Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Day 3: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Start early with a train to km 104. Hike the Short Inca Trail, passing by Wiñay Wayna and entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Take a morning bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and take the Vistadome train back to Cusco.
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley
Early departure for a hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. Enjoy stunning scenery and a guided visit before returning to Cusco.
Day 6: Departure from Cusco
Transfer to the airport for your flight out of Cusco. End of services.
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – City Tour
Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take the morning to rest and acclimate to the altitude. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided city tour through the historic center of Cusco, starting at the impressive Qoricancha Temple, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Then, head outside the city to explore the massive Saqsayhuamán fortress, followed by visits to Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and the panoramic viewpoint of Cristo Blanco. Return to your hotel in the evening to relax.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour with Maras and Moray – Overnight in Ollantaytambo
We’ll pick you up early for a full-day adventure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Your journey begins at the Taray viewpoint, offering incredible panoramic views. Continue to the Pisac ruins, perched on a mountain ridge, then browse the vibrant Pisac artisan market. Enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba before heading to Moray, where you’ll see the unique circular agricultural terraces, and the famous Maras Salt Mines, still active since Inca times. Finally, arrive in Ollantaytambo, a charming town with original Inca streets and a majestic fortress.
Accommodation: Hotel Ollantaytambo.
Day 3: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Today begins with an early transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station. Board the train to km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Your hike begins with a climb to the beautiful Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, nestled on a mountainside. After lunch, continue the trail to reach the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. Descend to the citadel and take the bus down to Aguas Calientes.
Accommodation: Hotel Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Hiking Distance: ~6.2 miles (10 km), 6–7 hours
Day 4: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
After an early breakfast, take the bus up to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the most famous archaeological site in South America. Explore its mysterious temples, plazas, and terraces as your guide brings the citadel to life. After the tour, you’ll have time to explore or take photos. Later, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board the Vistadome panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain Hike
We’ll pick you up around 4:00 a.m. for your journey to Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders. After a scenic 3-hour drive, enjoy breakfast before starting the moderate hike to the top. Marvel at the vibrant mineral-striped slopes of Vinicunca and, if you choose, continue to the striking Red Valley (option) for equally dramatic views. After your descent, enjoy lunch and return to Cusco in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel In Cusco.
Day 6: Departure from Cusco
Enjoy your last morning in Cusco. At the scheduled time, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Lima or your next destination.
End of our services.
What’s Included
- All airport transfers in Cusco
- 5 nights of comfortable accommodation (3-star hotels or similar)
- All transportation during the tour (private vehicles, trains, buses)
- Professional English-speaking guide during all excursions
- Cusco City Tour (entrance fees included)
- Full-day Sacred Valley Tour including Pisac, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo
- Short Inca Trail permit and guided hike (1 day)
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Round-trip Vistadome train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel
- Full-day tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
- All breakfasts + 2 lunches (Sacred Valley & Rainbow Mountain) + 1 dinner (Aguas Calientes)
- Oxygen tank and first-aid kit during hikes
- 24/7 support from our local team
What’s Not Included
- Domestic flights to/from Cusco
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips for guides, drivers, or hotel staff
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, book in advance)
- Walking poles for the Short Inca Trail (available for rent)
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs)
What to Bring for the Cusco Tours and Inca Trail 6 days
- 🎒 Small daypack (25–30L) for daily essentials
- 🧥 Warm layers – mornings and evenings in Cusco and the Sacred Valley can be cold
- 👕 Lightweight clothes for daytime hikes
- 🧢 Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen – essential for the Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain
- 👟 Comfortable and broken-in hiking shoes – the Inca Trail section involves rocky and uneven terrain
- 🧦 Quick-drying hiking socks (at least 2–3 pairs)
- 🌧️ Rain jacket or poncho – weather in the Andes can change quickly
- 🪪 Passport – required for Inca Trail checkpoints and entry to Machu Picchu
- 🧴 Personal toiletries and hand sanitizer
- 💊 Any necessary medications, including motion sickness pills or altitude medicine
- 💵 Some cash in small bills – for tipping, shopping, or emergency use
- 📷 Camera or smartphone with extra batteries – you’ll want to capture every moment in Machu Picchu and beyond
- 🥤 Reusable water bottle – hydration is key at high altitudes
- 🥪 Snacks (energy bars, dried fruit, nuts) for hiking days
- 🪫 Portable charger or power bank – electricity may not always be available in remote areas
- 🥾 Optional: walking poles (especially for Rainbow Mountain and the Short Inca Trail)
We recommend leaving large luggage in your hotel in Cusco. You’ll only need a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
We recommend leaving large luggage in your hotel in Cusco. You’ll only need a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Cusco Tours and Inca Trail 6 days
What is the difficulty level of the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered moderate. Although the hike is only about 10 km (6.2 miles), it includes several uphill sections and stairs, particularly between Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna. Most travelers in good health and with basic fitness can complete it without major issues. We recommend some prior acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this tour?
Yes, it can be. Since you’ll be visiting high-altitude locations like Cusco (3,400m), Rainbow Mountain (5,036m), and the Short Inca Trail, some travelers may experience mild symptoms such as headaches or fatigue. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and arriving a day or two early to acclimate can help minimize symptoms. Our itinerary is designed to gradually prepare your body for the higher elevations.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. The Short Inca Trail requires a government-issued permit, and they are limited in number. We take care of all the logistics, including securing your permit in advance. It’s important to book early—especially during high season (April to October)—to guarantee your spot on the trail to Machu Picchu.
What kind of accommodation is included in this 6-day tour?
We provide comfortable and well-located 3-star accommodations in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes. All rooms have private bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Hotels like San Agustin, Tunupa Lodge, and Ferre Machu Picchu are selected for their service, cleanliness, and proximity to main attractions.
What kind of meals are included?
Most breakfasts are included at your hotels. During the Short Inca Trail, you’ll receive a box lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes. During the full-day tours to the Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain, lunch is included at carefully selected local restaurants or picnic-style depending on the location. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance so we can accommodate your needs.
Can I store luggage during the trek?
Absolutely. Any luggage you don’t need for the Short Inca Trail and overnight in Aguas Calientes can be safely stored at your hotel in Cusco or Ollantaytambo. We recommend bringing only a small daypack with essentials for the overnight portion of the tour.
What should I bring for Rainbow Mountain?
For the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour, bring warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The weather can change quickly at high altitudes. Comfortable hiking shoes and a walking stick are highly recommended. We also suggest bringing snacks, water, and coca leaves or candies to help with the altitude.
💲Prices – Cusco Tours and Inca Trail 6 days
Group Tour Price:
- $990 USD per person
Private Tour (min 2 travelers):
- 2–3 people: $1290 USD per person
- 4–6 people: $1190 USD per person
- 7–10 people: $1009 USD per person
Prices include permits, entrance fees, and all services listed. Early booking is highly recommended due to limited Inca Trail permits.
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