Rainbow Mountain Llama Trek & Machu Picchu
Llama Treks
9 Days, 8 Nights 24MI / 38KM
Trip Highlights
Our Rainbow Mountain Llama Trek is the triple crown adventure of Peru trekking! It is one of the most special and memorable hikes in the world and is truly one not to be missed! It combines the uniqueness and cultural significance of Peruvian llama trekking with remote, high-altitude hiking in the Andes Mountains. Highlights of the trip include towering snow-capped peaks, high mountain passes (our high point is 16,437 feet!), mountain lakes, hot springs, amazing cultural immersion, the vibrant and other-worldly landscape colors of Rainbow Mountain, and of course a trip to the ancient Inca ruins at Machu Picchu.
This trek takes place south of Cusco, Peru adjacent to Mt. Ausangate, which was an “Apu” or sacred mountain to the Inca people. This trip is one of the best undiscovered treks in the world and provides solace from the larger crowds that inhabit more famous trails. Hiking through this vast and dramatic landscape in the heart of the Andes with the help of the iconic animal of the Inca, llamas, provides a well-rounded, culturally rich and awe-inspiring adventure in Peru.
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Towering, Glaciated Mountains
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Stunning Alpine Lakes
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Llamas!
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Tour of Machu Picchu
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High Mountain Lakes & Wildlife
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Stunning Rainbow Mountain
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High Elevation Trekking Through the Andes
Book This Trip
View Dates
Trip Details
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Trip Type
Llama Treks -
Trip Length
9 Days, 8 Nights -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 7 mi -
Group Size
2-12 Guests
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
This trip requires significant elevation gains and losses on rocky trails, and tops out at nearly 17,000 feet. The higher elevations make the trekking more difficult and necessitate training for most guests to be well prepared.
Difficulty Level
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Solitude Level
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Trip Itinerary
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
Day 1
Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco
On this hiking tour to Machu Picchu we will pick you up from the airport in Cusco, Peru and take you to our lovely accommodations near the main square. Depending on what time you arrive, you may enjoy exploring the town or resting up until our orientation meeting in the evening. During this meeting, we will get acquainted with our group, itinerary, gear for the trek, answer questions, etc. Afterwards, we’ll head to our favorite Peruvian restaurant for dinner. Be sure to drink copious amounts of water throughout the day, as flying and traveling will certainly dehydrate you. Cusco is over 11,000 feet in elevation and being hydrated is a critical component of dealing with significant elevation changes. Self-care begins immediately.
Day 2
Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco
Today is a great day to not only acclimatize and brush off some jet lag, but to start our exploration of Cusco and the incredible history and culture of Peru. We’ll start with a nourishing breakfast at our hotel to fuel us for the day ahead. After, we will meet for our visit to the ruin of Saksaywaman, an ancient cathedral in Cusco, and the Qoricancha (Sun Temple). For lunch we will meet our chef for the week and enjoy the organic and local foods of Cusco. After the tour, we have some free time to relax before dinner.
Day 3
Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco
Today will serve as an additional acclimatization day. Our first stop will take us to the village of Chinchero, where we will visit a cooperative weaving center. The Chincherinas (local women) will show us the process of weaving beautiful blankets, fabric dying, and making clothes. Subsequently, we will head to the salt mines of Salineras that date back over 2,000 years with over 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountain side. We’ll then head to our amazing lunch spot with phenomenal mountain views. After lunch we will move on to the fascinating terraces of Moray, once used for agricultural experimentation by the Incas. After, we will return to Cusco and enjoy free time until we meet for dinner at our favorite restaurant. Your guide will deliver the plan for the following day.
Day 4
Hiking Mileage: 6.2 miles
Lowest Elevation: 12,795 feet
Highest Elevation: 14,763 feet
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
Accommodations: Premier Camping
Today your guide will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco for transport to the start of our trek at Upis Bajo. We will have our first wonderful meal prepared by our camp chef and meet our llama wranglers to load the equipment. Our trek starts with a gentle incline through small villages, farms and high grasslands, helping us ease into the experience of hiking at high elevation. In this area, we often meet large herds of grazing llamas and alpacas. A true Peruvian Andes hiking experience! Our views are filled by the Vilcanota Range, home to the highest peaks in the Cusco region. Tonight’s camp sits below the towering and glaciated Mount Ausangate (20,945′), a deeply sacred mountain to the Inca and the highest peak in the range. Our camp has one more optional treat – hot springs. Those who desire can enjoy a soak in the small thermal pools not far from camp. A wonderful Peruvian dinner and great night’s sleep cap off our first day of trekking.
Day 5
Hiking Mileage: 6.8 miles
Lowest Elevation: 14,763 feet
Highest Elevation: 15,748 feet
Trekking Duration: 7-8 hours
Accommodations: Premier Camping
Waking up in the mountains of Peru with Wildland means getting a hot drink of your choice delivered to your tent and a warm bowl of water to wash your hands and face; what a way to start the day in a beautiful and remote area! After breakfast, we begin our trek climbing towards our first pass called Arapa.
This area is sacred to the Quechua people. To show respect to their local culture, we will conduct a short ceremony just as the Quechua people have done for centuries before us. After this cultural moment, we hike down the trail to our lunch spot next to the pristine Yanacocha Lake. After lunch our journey continues until we reach our next camp at Puka Cocha. This camp is located right at the base of Mount Ausangate, which creates an incredible backdrop for our home for the night.
Day 6
Hiking Mileage: 6.5 miles
Lowest Elevation: 14,763 feet
Highest Elevation: 16,404 feet
Trekking Duration: 7 hours
Accommodations: Premier Camping
Today starts with a cup of coffee or tea in your tent followed by a nutritious breakfast to get us going for the day. Our hike climbs us up switchbacked trails towards Ananta Pass, where we will find a large pile of stones left by the Inca cenuries ago. These cairns are called Apacheta in the Andes and were used as markings along trails. The view from the pass offers snow-capped, colorful mountains, grasslands and perhaps some unique wildlife, like the wild Vicuñas (wild relatives to the llama). After a good rest here we will descend for a couple of hours to a scenic lunch spot. Our afternoon hike takes us to Huarmisaya Pass, where we’ll catch our first glimpse of the magnificent Rainbow Mountain. From here we have only a short walk down to camp sitting next to Huarmisaya Lake, surrounded by the most stunning mountain views you’ve probably ever seen. What a place to spend the night!
Day 7
Hiking Mileage: 3.7 miles
Lowest Elevation: 14,107 feet
Highest Elevation: 16,437 feet
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
Accommodations: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Today we’ll get an early start to beat the crowds to famous Rainbow Mountain, and so we can get photos of its dramatic landscapes in the stunning, morning light. This is the type of place you just have to see to believe – truly breathtaking. After enjoying Rainbow Mountain for a couple hours, we’ll continue our hike down the Red Valley towards our awaiting shuttle.
We will be transported to the Sacred Valley and the town of Urubamba for a relaxing lunch. After lunch, we will drive to Ollantaytambo to board a train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and have free time until going to dinner. Tomorrow we visit Machu Picchu!
Day 8
Hiking Mileage: varies
Lowest Elevation: 6,726 feet
Highest Elevation: 7,874 feet
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco
This morning, we’ll have an early wake up call for our sunrise arrival to Machu Picchu! At Machu Picchu, (7,972 ft.) our guide will lead us on a thorough and fascinating tour of the ancient Inca city for the next 3-4 hours. We will learn about the amazing cultural history of the Inca and Machu Picchu and delve into some of the mysteries that surround the remote mountain city. After our Machu Picchu tour we will head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. We will then board a train to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we board our private van to the town of Urubamba. Depending on the time, we may have dinner in Urubamba or continue on to Cusco (11,200 ft.) where we will have a final, celebratory dinner!
Day 9
This morning, we will have our last Peruvian breakfast in Cusco and say our good-byes before heading to the airport. You may depart Cusco any time and airport transfer is included today.
Trip Dates
Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.
Scroll horizontally to view all dates
What's Included
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A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Inca Trail Permits and Machu Picchu Entrance Fees
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Transportation for the duration of the tour starting, including airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 9
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Vistadome train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
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Lodging in Cusco and Aguas Calientes
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All camping gear and supplies (including a dining tent and kitchen tent)
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Use of a backpack and trekking poles
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Llamas to transport all gear, food, and most personal items (up to 15 lbs./7 kg.)
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All meals for the duration of the tour from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 9
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Professional camp chef
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Drinking water and hot water for washing face, hands, etc.
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Gratuity for in-country crew: Llama Wranglers, Chefs, Waiters, and Drivers. *Please Note: Gratuities for Guide(s) are not included in trip rate.
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device
What's Not Included
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Transportation to/from Cusco, Peru -
All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
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Bar bills, drink bills, telephone bills, Wi-Fi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
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Clothes, rain gear, and footwear
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Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
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Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight (disposable plastic water bottles are prohibited; please have refillable water bottles or hydration bladders)
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Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-15% of the total trip cost. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated. *Please Note: Gratuities for Llama Wranglers, Chefs, Waiters, and Drivers are included in the trip rate.
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Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (strongly encouraged)
Accommodations
* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.
Tierra Viva Cusco Centro
4 NIGHTS
This inviting Cusco hotel maintains the feeling of a historic residence built with stone, tiles, adobe and wood. It is the beautifully restored home of the Velasco Ordoñez family, historic residents of Cusco. The rooms offer modern comfort and are spacious, with large windows and wood floors.
PREMIER CAMPING
3 NIGHTS
Our Peru Treks feature premier camping with comfortable sleeping tents, kitchen tents, dedicated chefs, and a team of porters to carry and set up/break down camp each day. We provide all top-of-the-line gear. Our guests regularly rave about the camping accommodations on our Peru adventures!
TIERRA VIVA MACHU PICCHU
1 NIGHT
This hotel is in the quietest area of Aguas Calientes, facing the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Forest of Clouds. Modern and stylish, it features spacious and comfortable rooms, a lounge with a fireplace, and wonderful local art hung on the walls of the lobby and rooms.
Trip Logistics & FAQs
How Do I Register?
Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can click here to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.
Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!
Where Do We Meet?
We will pick you up from the Cusco Airport, Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco International Airport (CUZ), upon your arrival on Day 1. Please plan to arrive no later than 3:00 PM in order to be on time for our 5:00 PM orientation meeting at our hotel.
Our pre-trip support team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to/from Cusco, Peru
Trip Start & End:
Cusco, Peru
Closest Airport:
Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco International Airport, CUZ. Transporation to/from Cusco is the guest’s responsibility.
Day 1:
We will pick you up from the Cusco Airport upon your arrival on Day 1. Please plan to arrive no later than 3:00 PM in order to be on time for our 5:00 PM orientation meeting at our hotel.
Day 9:
You may leave anytime on Day 9. Breakfast is included. Airport transfer is also included on this day.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.
Guides
Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.
Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 12 and older to join scheduled or private trips
Trip Insurance
Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is highly recommended on all Peru trips (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).
We recommend IMG/iTravelinsured and their Travel LX product for this trip. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance.
For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.
If you already have insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.
Reviews
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Loral P
1 year agoAbsolutely Outstanding
Edgar was an excellent guide - great knowledge of the area, steady guidance on a physically challenging hike (altitude over 16,000), and bonus bird knowledge/sharing that I loved. Really had an amazing time. Other team members who were absolutely outstanding were Pablo and Santos. Pablo was on the spot with every possible need and never forgot anything - even got my wet sleeping bag dry in less than 8 hours so I was comfy and warm the whole time. Santos made a DELICIOUS cake for our last night at 16,500’! It was decorated like a professional on top of incredible flavor. His soups were to die for!
Elyse J.
1 year agoA trip to Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu that's not to be missed!
The Rainbow Mountain trek was a trip of a lifetime! The entire adventure is difficult to put into words because there were so many firsts & beautiful sights. It was by far one of the more challenging things we have done & what an accomplishment when we arrived at sunrise at our destination. The entire crew was professional, encouraging, & supportive. Edgard's, our guide, knowledge of the local birds & other fauna was a bonus. The scenery is breathtaking & the itinerary is well orchestrated so that you are always one step ahead of the crowds & can enjoy each destination in a bit more solitude. Santos, the chef, created delicious meals that were beyond belief in a little tent. Our llama wrangler, Francisco, celebrated every accomplishment we made. The llamas were an interesting way to complete this journey & added to the specialness of the adventure. Overall, 5 stars to the Peru by Locals crew & Wildland Trekking!
Elyse J.
1 year agoA trip to Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu that's not to be missed!
The Rainbow Mountain trek was a trip of a lifetime! The entire adventure is difficult to put into words because there were so many firsts & beautiful sights. It was by far one of the more challenging things we have done & what an accomplishment when we arrived at sunrise at our destination. The entire crew was professional, encouraging, & supportive. Edgar's, our guide, knowledge of the local birds & other fauna was an added bonus. The scenery is breathtaking & the intinerary is well orchestrated so that you are always one step ahead of the crowds & can enjoy each destination in a bit more solitude. Santos, the chef, created delicious meals that were beyond belief in a little tent. Our llama wrangler, Francisco, celebrated every accomplishment we made. The llamas were an interesting way to complete this journey & added to the specialness of the adventure. Overall, 5 stars to the Peru By Locals crew & Wildland Trekking!
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