Machu Colca & Huayllabamba Trek

Machu Colca & Huayllabamba Trek
Machu Colca & Huayllabamba Trek
Machu Colca & Huayllabamba Trek
Machu Colca & Huayllabamba Trek

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US$ 55.00

per person

4.9 +120 reseñas
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Tour Description

MACHUCOLCA ? HUAYLLABAMBA HIKE Enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian Andes with the one-day Machucolca?Huayllabamba hike. Explore ancient Inca trails, marvel at the archaeological site of Machucolca, and enjoy spectacular landscapes surrounded by nature and living culture. Perfect for those seeking an authentic, short, and enriching experience, away from traditional tourist routes. Connect with history, the land, and local communities on a journey you will remember forever.

Scenic Route from Machucolca to Huayllabamba

Scenic Route from Machucolca to Huayllabamba

Discover Andean landscapes, Inca terraces, and traditional villages on an authentic hike that connects history, living culture, and nature in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

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Tour Description

11 key points

Review the tour format, effort level and the key details that help you decide faster.

  • Tipo / Modalidad Full Day ? Adventure and Nature
  • Duración Approximately 8 hours
  • Nivel de dificultad Moderate ? Adventure with Class III rapids
  • Altitud máxima 3,300 m a.s.l.
  • Trek Machu Colca to Huayllabamba

    Duration: 1 day (approx. 8 hours) Start / End: 07:00 a.m. (Hotel pick-up – Cusco) Maximum altitude: 3,800 m.a.s.l. (Machu Colca viewpoint) Difficulty level: Moderate Guide language: Bilingual (Spanish / English)

  • Description
  • Tour summary

    The Machu Colca – Huayllabamba trek is part of the beginning of the famous Inca Trail and takes you along ancestral paths surrounded by impressive landscapes. Starting from the community of Piskacucho, the route crosses agricultural areas, natural viewpoints and archaeological ruins, ending in the picturesque Andean village of Huayllabamba.
    Along the way, you will witness the harmony between Inca engineering and nature, with agricultural terraces, stone paths and structures on hilltops. It is perfect for those seeking a cultural and active experience without doing the complete Inca Trail.

  • Featured sites of the tour
  • Key points of our visit

    Machu Colca: Complex of terraces and structures probably used as an agricultural center and Inca control point. Urubamba River: Accompanies much of the route with its rushing waters. Llactapata (optional): Panoramic viewpoint of this impressive Inca site from the trail. Native Andean vegetation: Queñua trees, ichu, bromeliads and wild flowers along the route.

  • Why choose this experience?
  • Reasons to choose us

    Perfect for travelers with limited time: Experience part of the historic Inca Trail in a single day. Archaeological and natural richness: Enjoy history and nature in one day. Excellent acclimatization: Ideal before other treks in the region. Expert local guides: Deep knowledge of history, flora and fauna. Responsible tourism: Support for local communities and promotion of sustainable tourism.

Things you should know about this tour

Map of the Machucolca – Huayllabamba Route

Explore the route between Machucolca and Huayllabamba. The map shows trails, Inca terraces, and Andean villages that make up a hike steeped in history and unique landscapes.
Map of the Machucolca – Huayllabamba Route

Comfortable Trekking Clothing

Bring comfortable clothing appropriate for hiking along the Inca Trail. The weather is temperate Andean with intense sun. Can be cool near the Urubamba river. Light jacket or windbreaker, comfortable trekking pants and clothing that you can adjust in layers.

Footwear

MANDATORY trekking shoes with good grip and support. The tour includes approximately 8 hours hike along ancestral Inca paths, uneven terrain and stones. Closed, resistant and comfortable footwear that you have previously worn.

Sun Protection

SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses and hat/cap. Solar radiation is very intense on Andean trails at 3,800 m.a.s.l. Apply sunscreen every 2 hours during the hike.

Cash

Bring soles for additional snacks, voluntary tips for the guide and personal expenses. Lunch (box lunch) is included.

Hydration

Reusable water bottle (minimum 2 liters). Staying well hydrated is essential during the full-day hike along the Inca Trail. Limited sales points on the route.

Small Backpack

To carry camera, documents, water, energy snacks, sunscreen, extra jacket and cash. Light backpack of 25-30 liters is sufficient for the day.

Camera or Phone

ESSENTIAL to photograph Machu Colca (Inca terraces and structures), the Urubamba river, the ancestral Inca Trail paths, the Llactapata viewpoint, the agricultural terraces, the native Andean vegetation (queñua, ichu, bromeliads, wild flowers) and the impressive landscapes. Bring extra battery or power bank.

Documents

Original ID or Passport for registration to enter the Inca Trail.

Prior Breakfast

Have a good breakfast at your hotel before departure at 07:00 am. The hike requires energy. Lunch (box lunch) is served during the route.

Cultural Respect

You will walk along ancestral Inca Trail paths and visit sacred archaeological structures. Be respectful of historical sites, follow the guide's instructions and do not touch or take elements from Inca ruins.

Learning Attitude

This is a historical and archaeological tour along part of the famous Inca Trail. Prepare your willingness to listen to the guide's explanations about Inca history, agricultural terraces, Inca engineering, territorial control system, Andean flora and fauna.

Peaceful Pace

The hike is at a moderate pace with stops to rest and appreciate the landscape. Walk at your own pace and notify the guide if you need to rest. Acclimatization is important.

Energy Snacks

Bring dried fruits, energy bars, chocolates or fruits to replenish energy during the hike. They will help you maintain energy levels during the 8 hours.

Personal Medication

If you have any medical condition or take medications, bring them with you. If you are sensitive to altitude, you can bring preventive medication. The maximum altitude is 3,800 m.a.s.l., similar to downtown Cusco.

Trekking Poles

Recommended for greater stability during the hike along uneven trails. They help maintain balance and reduce impact on knees. Check if you can rent them.

Physical Condition

Although no previous trekking experience is required, make sure you have basic physical condition. The hike is approximately 8 hours of moderate duration.

Inca Trail Experience

This tour allows you to experience part of the famous Inca Trail in a single day. Perfect for travelers with limited time who want to connect with the living history of the Inca Empire, enjoy archaeological and natural richness, and practice responsible tourism supporting local communities.

Do I need to be in good physical shape?

A moderate physical condition is recommended. The hike includes ascents and is carried out at high altitude.

What does the tour include?

It generally includes transportation, a professional guide, and lunch. Please check the details when booking.

Service type

Private.

Total duration

1 day (approximately 8 hours).

Departure

07:00 AM with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.

Maximum altitude

3,800 m.a.s.l. (Machu Colca viewpoint).

Difficulty level

Moderate. Hike along ancestral Inca Trail paths.

Documentation

Carry original ID or Passport for registration.

Acclimatization

Ideal for the second or third day of arrival in Cusco. The maximum altitude is 3,800 m.a.s.l., similar to downtown Cusco. Excellent for acclimatization before other treks.

Guide language

Professional bilingual in Spanish / English.

Experience type

Historical and cultural experience. Hike along part of the famous Inca Trail from Piskacucho to Huayllabamba, following ancestral paths surrounded by impressive landscapes, agricultural terraces and archaeological ruins.

Breakfast

NOT included. It is recommended to have breakfast before departure from your hotel.

Lunch

INCLUDED. Box lunch during the hike.

Restrictions

No special restrictions. Accessible for people with basic physical condition. Ability to do a moderate hike along Andean trails required.

Weather

Temperate Andean with intense sun. Can be cool near the Urubamba river. Bring sun protection and layered clothing.

Clothing

Comfortable trekking clothing, mandatory trekking shoes with good grip, light jacket or windbreaker, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.

Accommodation

Does NOT include accommodation. Full-day tour with return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Dinner

NOT included. Return to Cusco with time for dinner.

Experience

Historical, archaeological and nature tourism. Ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience part of the historic Inca Trail, lovers of archaeology, Inca history and authentic Andean landscapes.

End

Return to downtown Cusco approximately in the afternoon.

Main attractions

Community of Piskacucho (km 82 - starting point of the Inca Trail), ancestral Inca Trail paths, Inca agricultural terraces, Machu Colca (complex of terraces and structures used as an agricultural center and Inca control point), Urubamba river, Llactapata (optional panoramic viewpoint of the Inca site), native Andean vegetation (queñua, ichu, bromeliads, wild flowers), Andean village of Huayllabamba (end point), Inca structures on hilltops.

Cultural interaction

Direct experience with local communities, hike along ancestral Inca Trail routes, connection with the historical legacy of the Inca Empire, observation of the harmony between Inca engineering and nature, support for sustainable tourism and local communities.

Discover Andean landscapes, Inca terraces, and traditional villages on an authentic hike that connects history, living culture, and nature in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Scenic Route from Machucolca to Huayllabamba

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.

"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".

Shared Service Price per traveler
$75.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$75.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$65.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$55.00 USD

Schedule office appointment

Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco

+51 950 738 710 | +51 964 328 857

info@atvrainbowmountain.com
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Frequently asked questions

Is previous experience or good physical condition necessary?
No previous trekking experience is required, but a basic physical condition is needed to walk along Andean trails for approximately 8 hours. The difficulty level is moderate. The hike is along the beginning of the famous Inca Trail with stops to rest and appreciate the landscape.
What does this tour include?
Includes hotel pick-up in Cusco (07:00 am), private round-trip tourist transportation, bilingual professional guide specialized in Inca history and archaeology (Spanish/English), box lunch during the hike, entrance to Inca Trail paths, visit to Machu Colca (Inca terraces and structures), hike along ancestral paths following the Urubamba river, Llactapata viewpoint (optional), detailed explanation of each place and permanent assistance throughout the tour.
What services are NOT included?
Not included: breakfast (it is recommended to have breakfast at your hotel before departure), dinner (return to Cusco in the afternoon), additional beverages during the hike, voluntary tips, personal expenses or extra snacks. Lunch (box lunch) is included.
How long does the tour last and what time does it depart?
The tour lasts 1 day (approximately 8 hours). We start with hotel pick-up at 07:00 am in Cusco. We transfer to Piskacucho (km 82), start the hike along the Inca Trail visiting Machu Colca and other sites, have lunch during the route and finish in Huayllabamba, returning to Cusco in the afternoon.
How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour?
At least 1-2 days of prior acclimatization in Cusco is recommended. The maximum altitude is 3,800 m.a.s.l. (Machu Colca viewpoint), similar to downtown Cusco (3,399 m.a.s.l.). Ideal for the second or third day of your stay. This trek is excellent for acclimatization before doing other more demanding treks in the region.
What places will we visit during the tour?
You will visit: Community of Piskacucho (km 82 - starting point of the famous Inca Trail), ancestral Inca paths surrounded by impressive landscapes, Inca agricultural terraces, Machu Colca (complex of terraces and structures used as an agricultural center and Inca control point), Urubamba river that accompanies much of the route with its rushing waters, Llactapata viewpoint (optional - panoramic view of the impressive Inca site), native Andean vegetation (queñua trees, ichu, bromeliads and wild flowers), Inca structures on hilltops, and Andean village of Huayllabamba (end point). A perfect experience for travelers with limited time who want to experience part of the historic Inca Trail, combining archaeological and natural richness, with expert local guides and responsible tourism.

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What our travelers say

Verified reviews from real travelers. Our reputation is backed by thousands of authentic experiences.

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Gabriel T
★★★★★
5/5

Excellent guide and unforgettable experience

Cristian Flores was an exceptional guide who shared extensive knowledge about the mountain and local culture. His professionalism and friendliness made the experience truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour for future visitors and will definitely book his services again on my next trip to Cusco.

Franklin V
★★★★★
5/5

Rainbow Mountain ATV Adventure

Everything was perfectly organized from the schedule to transportation. Our guide Jimy was excellent throughout the day. I highly recommend this amazing ATV experience - it was both thrilling and safe. The landscapes are simply breathtaking and worth every minute of the journey.

Rocio A
★★★★★
5/5

Spectacular tour with knowledgeable guide

The Rainbow Mountain tour was spectacular. José José, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable about the area and explained everything about the geology and local culture. The team was attentive at all times and transportation was comfortable. Thanks also to my group members who made the experience even more enjoyable.

Evelin G
★★★★★
5/5

Dreamlike nature worth every step

An unforgettable experience where the effort is totally worth it. The ascent can be challenging but our guide motivated and helped us at all times. The views are simply stunning and photos don't do it justice. I recommend bringing warm clothes and good shoes.

Jaume S
★★★★★
5/5

Unforgettable Quad adventure

The excursion to Vinikunka Mountain was spectacular. Excellent assistance and detailed explanations from guide José José and his assistant Wilfredo. The quads were in perfect condition and safety instructions were clear. We enjoyed every moment from sunrise to return.

Emi Roldán Membrives
★★★★★
5/5

SPECTACULAR - Exceeded expectations

Thanks to the quads I was able to enjoy the tour without problems. The guide was very attentive and knowledgeable about the area. What I appreciated most was the punctuality and organization of the tour. They provided all facilities and the team was attentive at all times.

Ariana L
★★★★★
5/5

Wonderful experience with the best guide

Guide Jose José proved to be a great person and exceptional professional. From the first moment he cared about our well-being and made us feel safe throughout the tour. His knowledge about local culture and geology greatly enriched the experience.

Yhonatan Yampier G
★★★★★
5/5

Beautiful experience with excellent service

Great experience from start to finish. Guide Jose Jose was very friendly and professional, explaining every detail of the tour. What I valued most was his patience when some of us needed to go slower due to altitude. The agency team was attentive at all times.

María González
★★★★★
5/5

Exceptional service

Excellent attention from booking to the end of the tour. The guide was very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended for everyone visiting Cusco.

Carlos Pérez
★★★★★
5/5

Amazing experience

One of the best tourist experiences I have had. Everything was perfectly organized and the team was very attentive at every moment.

Ana Torres
★★★★★
5/5

Highly recommended

The tour exceeded our expectations. Friendly and professional guides. We would return without hesitation. Transportation was comfortable and punctual.

Roberto Sánchez
★★★★★
5/5

Excellent organization

From the first contact to the end everything was perfect. The guide showed great knowledge and passion for his work. Very satisfied with the service.

Laura Martínez
★★★★★
5/5

Wonderful adventure

An unforgettable experience. The landscape is spectacular and the service is first class. Thank you for making our trip something special.

Diego Ramírez
★★★★★
5/5

Highly professional

The level of professionalism and attention to detail is exceptional. I recommend this agency to all my friends. Without a doubt the best tourist experience in Peru.

Andrea Llorente
★★★★★
5/5

Best guides in Cusco

I booked the ATV tour with just one day notice and everything went perfectly. The customer service was incredible, they answered my questions in minutes. The guides are locals and know the mountain like the back of their hand. The experience was exciting and completely safe. I will book with them again on my next trip.

Fernando Molina
★★★★★
5/5

A perfect 10 experience

We did the tour as a family with two teenagers and it was the best decision of our trip to Peru. Everyone, even the youngest, enjoyed it to the fullest. The guide adapted the pace to all group members and we never felt rushed. The photos they took of us are spectacular. Thank you for this very special day.