This day you will set off in the direction of the Sacred Valley to the town of Chinchero, an authentic Andean village with lots of character, where we will find the colonial church that houses a large collection of painting from the Cusquenian School of Art.
The following stop on your tour will be Maras, a picturesque town surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, which has given its name to the Salineras, or salt pans, located here. These salt mines are evaporation ponds that have been used to produce salt since the pre-Inca times. The natural color variation of the pools is staggered in terraces down the side of the canyon. It is a breathtaking sight. You'll be able to perceive them in all their glory from the viewpoint.
You'll then be taken to Moray, where a mysterious Inca archaeological site is located. The ruins of the circular agricultural terraces, known as Andenes, are thought to have been used by the Incas to create different microclimates to cultivate a variety of crops. You'll explore the area for an hour, enjoying their mythical history.
Trip time around 3 hours to the starting point of the excursion. Llacto (15,219 ft). A delicious breakfast will be served at the base of Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, there are amazing views of farming Inca terraces, traditional villages, valleys, and high Andean peaks, like the Ausangate Mountain and glaciers. You can interact with the local people, who are still keeping traditional Quechua culture alive.
After a total hike of 2 glorious hours (slow rhythm), we finally reach our ultimate destination at the top of Rainbow Mountain. After admiring the unique scenic beauty, you will have time to explore the area. You can take pictures or just soak up the magnificent view. We will have around 40 minutes at the top.
Afterward, there is an optional hike across to the top of the Red Valley. This guided walk takes about 1 hour longer to get back to the trailhead.
At this key point, we hike back down the way we approached. The guided hike typically takes 1 flexible hour.
When we reach the bottom, a delicious lunch will be waiting for you. When where finished, a departure time will be confirmed for the return trip back to Cusco.
Along your hike up Rainbow Mountain, there are amazing views of farming Inca terraces, traditional villages, valleys, and high Andean peaks.
Activities
- Chinchero Tour
- Maras Tour
- Andenes Site Tour
- Buffet Breakfast & Lunch
- Rainbow Mountain Hike
- Optional Red Valley Hike
Accommodation
Hotel in Cusco