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Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
This comprehensive 16-Day Grand Peru Circuit is the definitive itinerary for exploring the country's diverse landscapes, commencing with cultural tours in Lima and the "White City" of Arequipa, featuring a unique Peruvian culinary workshop. The first phase continues through Southern Peru, showcasing the immense Colca Canyon with a visit to the Condor's Cross lookout, followed by an overnight homestay in the charming village of Coporaque. The journey transitions to the Altiplano for an excursion on Lake Titicaca, visiting the unique Uros Floating Islands and Taquile, before a scenic bus route transfers you to the Inca heartland of Cusco, stopping at major archaeological sites along the way.
The itinerary pivots in Cusco, where you explore the Koricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the monumental fortress of Sacsayhuaman before venturing into the Sacred Valley, visiting the agricultural laboratories of Moray and the geometric Maras Salt Mines. This phase culminates with the legendary guided tour of Machu Picchu. The grand finale is a highly rewarding 5-Day Ausangate/Rainbow Mountain Trek. This demanding high-altitude circuit takes you over passes reaching nearly 5,000 meters, allowing you to witness the magnificent Ausangate Mountain before culminating in a sunrise visit to the iconic, mineral-colored slopes of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), completing the ultimate adventure experience.
This tour offers an unparalleled blend of cultural immersion, extreme trekking, and historical sightseeing—ideal for the ambitious traveler who wants to see the best of Peru. From relaxing in a Coporaque homestay and mastering Peruvian cuisine to standing atop the Ausangate passes and exploring Machu Picchu, this journey is rich with diverse, unforgettable moments. The tour is fully supported, including all domestic flights (Lima-Arequipa, Cusco-Lima), professional guiding, quality accommodation, and full camping logistics. Don't choose between culture and adventure—experience both. Book your 16-Day Grand Peru Circuit & Ausangate Trek today and embark on the most comprehensive journey through the soul of the Andes!
Itinerary Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival at Lima International Airport, our local representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for a restful night in the capital.
Included:
Airport assistance
Private transfer
Hotel in Lima
Day 2: Lima City Tour – Flight to Arequipa
Start the day with a guided city tour of Lima, showcasing its colonial charm and modern vibe. In the afternoon, take a domestic flight to Arequipa, known as "The White City."
Included:
Airport assistance
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel in Arequipa
Breakfast
Day 3: Arequipa Cultural Experience
Explore Arequipa through a culinary workshop where you'll prepare a traditional Peruvian lunch. Afterward, visit the San Camilo Market, the main square, the Jesuit Church, and the Santa Catalina Monastery.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel in Arequipa
Breakfast
Day 4: Volcanoes Lookout – Colca Valley
Drive across the Altiplano to a 4,900-meter-high pass for panoramic volcano views. Continue to the Colca Valley, spotting llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas en route. Overnight in the charming village of Coporaque.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Homestay in Coporaque
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 5: Colca Canyon – Condor’s Cross – Puno
Visit the dramatic Colca Canyon and the Condor’s Cross lookout point, ideal for spotting the majestic Andean condor. After lunch in Chivay, transfer to Puno by tourist bus.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport (Canyon tour & tourist bus to Puno)
Hotel in Puno
Breakfast, lunch
Day 6: Lake Titicaca Excursion – Uros & Taquile Islands
Sail across Lake Titicaca to visit the floating Uros Islands and the community-run Taquile Island. Learn about ancient traditions and enjoy breathtaking lake views.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Motorboat transport
Hotel in Puno
Breakfast, lunch
Day 7: Scenic Route to Cusco
Journey by tourist bus from Puno to Cusco, stopping at key sites like the Pukara Museum, La Raya Pass (4,300 m), the Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, and the beautiful chapel of Andahuaylillas.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Tourist bus
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast, lunch
Day 8: Cusco City & Inca Sites
Discover Cusco’s historic center, including the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Koricancha (Temple of the Sun). In the afternoon, explore four nearby Inca ruins: Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast, lunch
Day 9: Sacred Valley Tour – Train to Aguas Calientes
Visit the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray’s circular terraces, the salt mines of Maras, and the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress. In the late afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Train to Aguas Calientes
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Breakfast, lunch
Day 10: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
Wake up early to visit Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel. Enjoy a guided tour before returning by train and bus to Cusco.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Shuttle bus & train tickets
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast, lunch
Day 11: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis (Trekking Starts)
Transfer to Tinqui to meet your trekking team. Begin your hike to Upis (4,380 m), located at the foot of the sacred Ausangate Mountain. Optional visit to nearby hot springs.
Included:
Professional guide
Camping equipment
Transport
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
6 hrs trek (Altitude gain: +650 m / loss: -150 m)
Day 12: Upis – Pucacocha
Continue trekking past rocky terrain and pristine lakes to reach the Pucacocha campsite (4,575 m). Watch for vizcachas and Andean wildlife.
Included:
Professional guide
Camping equipment
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
6 hrs trek (Altitude gain: +580 m / loss: -430 m)
Day 13: Pucacocha – Vinicunca Base Camp
Ascend to two scenic passes, reaching up to 4,980 m, and take in panoramic views of the Ausangate range and the colorful Vinicunca Valley. Overnight at base camp (4,555 m).
Included:
Professional guide
Camping equipment
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
8 hrs trek (Altitude gain: +840 m / loss: -850 m)
Day 14: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – Punku Wiri
Reach the famous Rainbow Mountain pass (4,965 m) early in the morning to enjoy the vibrant hues without the crowds. Continue trekking along dramatic mineral-colored valleys to Punku Wiri.
Included:
Professional guide
Camping equipment
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
8 hrs trek (Altitude gain: +685 m / loss: -585 m)
Day 15: Punku Wiri – Return to Cusco
Finish the trek with a descent through stunning valleys. Meet your vehicle for the drive back to Cusco.
Included:
Professional guide
Transport
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast, lunch
6 hrs trek (Altitude gain: +80 m / loss: -1,180 m)
Day 16: Flight to Lima – International Departure
Transfer to Cusco Airport for your domestic flight to Lima and connection to your international flight.
Included:
Airport assistance
Domestic flight Cusco – Lima
Breakfast
Transport
Includes Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
Transport:
Private airport transfers and local transport
Domestic flights: Lima–Arequipa & Cusco–Lima
Tourist bus: Chivay–Puno & Puno–Cusco
Train: Ollantaytambo–Aguas Calientes–Ollantaytambo
Boat tour on Lake Titicaca
Accommodation:
Hotels in Lima, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco
Homestay in Coporaque
Camping during the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain trek
Meals:
Daily breakfast
Selected lunches and dinners as detailed in the itinerary
Picnic meals during the trek
Activities & Excursions:
Guided tours in Lima, Arequipa, Cusco & Sacred Valley
Culinary class in Arequipa
Colca Canyon & Condor's Cross visit
Lake Titicaca boat tour (Uros & Taquile)
Machu Picchu guided tour
5-day Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain trek
Additional Services:
All entrance fees
Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour
Airport assistance in Lima and Cusco
Not Included Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
International flights to and from Peru
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
Tips for guides, drivers, porters, and staff
Optional activities not mentioned in the program
Sleeping bag and personal trekking equipment (available for rent upon request)
Recommendations Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
Physical Preparation: This journey includes high-altitude trekking up to nearly 5,000 meters. We recommend that travelers be in good physical condition and engage in light training before arrival.
Health & Safety: It is essential to consult your physician before the trip regarding vaccinations and altitude medication. Travel insurance covering medical assistance and evacuation is strongly advised.
Packing Essentials: Bring layered clothing suitable for varying climates, sturdy trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, and waterproof gear. A personal daypack is useful for carrying daily essentials.
Acclimatization: Take it easy during the first days in Cusco and the Andes to adapt to the altitude. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and rest when necessary.
Responsible Travel: Respect local communities and traditions, minimize plastic use, and follow “leave no trace” principles during treks.
Booking Conditions: The Inca Trail and treks such as Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain require limited permits. Early booking is highly recommended to secure availability.
Photo Gallery Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
Frequently Asked Questions Peru Grand Expedition: Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
Why is Machu Picchu in the middle and not at the end?
This is a strategic masterpiece. You visit Machu Picchu on Day 10 as a "warm-up" rather than the grand finale. By placing the cultural and historical highlight in the middle, you get to enjoy the Lost City while you are still fresh and acclimatizing. This leaves your body perfectly primed for the real physical test: the 5-day Ausangate trek that follows (Days 11-15), which takes you much higher and deeper into the wild.
How hard is the Ausangate Trek really?
It is significantly tougher than the Inca Trail. You will be hiking consistently above 4,000 meters, with passes pushing near 5,000 meters (like the Palomani or the approach to Vinicunca). The air is thin, and the nights are freezing. However, because you have already spent 10 days traveling through Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco, your body will be a red-blood-cell machine, making this challenge accessible to fit hikers who might otherwise struggle if they attempted it earlier.
What is the "Rainbow Mountain" experience like on this trip?
Most tourists visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) as a rushed day trip from Cusco, waking up at 3 AM and hiking in a conga line of hundreds of people. You will arrive on foot from the rear, via the Ausangate circuit (Day 14). This means you likely reach the viewpoint at sunrise or early morning from a campsite nearby, witnessing the colors pop in the morning light before the masses of day-trippers arrive from the other side. It is a VIP entrance earned by sweat.
Will I see other tourists on the Ausangate trail?
Very few. Unlike the Inca Trail, which is regulated and busy, Ausangate is an open wilderness dominated by local herders. You are more likely to share the path with thousands of alpacas and wild vicuñas than with other trekking groups. It offers a sense of solitude and vastness that is becoming rare in the Cusco region.
Why the detour to Arequipa and Colca Canyon first?
Starting in Arequipa (2,300m) and visiting the Colca Canyon (3,600m) is the "Goldilocks" approach to altitude. It gently introduces you to thin air. Plus, the Colca Canyon isn't just for acclimatization; staying in a homestay in Coporaque (Day 4) gives you a cultural baseline. You learn how Andean people live and farm, which adds context to the ruins you'll see later in Cusco.
Is it camping or lodges during the trek?
The Ausangate leg (Days 11-15) is full-service camping. But don't think of flimsy pop-up tents. You will have a dining tent with tables and chairs, a kitchen tent where a chef prepares 3-course hot meals, and sturdy 4-season sleeping tents. The contrast between the rugged, freezing landscape outside and the warm soup and tea inside the dining tent is one of the best feelings on the trip.
What if I get cold easily?
The Ausangate region is famous for its chill; temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) at night. This itinerary requires high-quality gear. You need a down jacket, thermal layers, and a sleeping bag rated for at least -15°C comfort. If you don't have this gear, you can rent it in Cusco, but do not underestimate the cold. The days can be sunny and crisp, but the moment the sun drops behind the peaks, the freeze sets in instantly.
Is this trip suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
Absolutely. The chefs on the trek are magicians. Despite being miles from the nearest town, they can whip up quinoa soups, vegetable stir-frys, and even cakes. In the cities (Lima, Arequipa, Cusco), Peru's culinary scene is world-class and very accommodating. The cooking class in Arequipa (Day 3) can also be tailored so you learn to make a meat-free Rocoto Relleno or Causa.
Comments:
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
For responsible and sustainable tourism
The payment for each experience is distributed responsibly and transparently with the aim of generating a real and positive impact in Peru
