During our stay in Cusco, it was inevitable to venture into the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the city, notably the renowned Rainbow Mountains (or Mountain of Seven colors) and the captivating Sacred Valley which has a historical impact on Inca's civilization
Lima
Huacachina
Sacred Vally
Arequipa
Cusco
Machu Picchu
Paracas
Titicaca
Rainbow mountain
Rainbow Mountains (Vinicunca) -One day excursion
For our exploration of the amazing Rainbow Mountains, we chose Rainbow Mountain Travels (https://www.rainbowmountaintravels.com/tour/).
As Peruhop customers, we had a 20% discount, paying only $40 each for a full-day excursion. The day started with an early 3am departure, including a breakfast stop around 5 am, provided by the tour. Arriving at the starting hike point, you start feeling the altitude, the hike to the top is a medium-difficulty and take 45 minutes to an hour, with the last leg proving challenging due to the high altitude (>5000m), but we reached the summit among the first groups, thanks to the agency's strategy of arriving early before crowds.
Despite initially cloudy skies, the magic unfolded as we witnessed the vibrant colors of the mountain, locally known as Vinicunca. The breathtaking view made this frozen experience truly enchanting.
For those hesitant about the hike, local horses can be rented from locals, for a reasonable $5 each way.
Sacred Valley -One day excursion
When we landed in Cusco, we met our Uber driver at the airport. He mentioned he could arrange a private tour of the Sacred Valley. we find his offer fair compared to prices from agencies in Cusco's city center, we went for it, and the whole tour cost us 250 sol (~$65).
The Sacred Valley, located near Cusco in Peru, is a picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and vibrant indigenous culture. It stretches along the Urubamba River and is surrounded by majestic mountains. The valley was highly valued by the Incas for its fertile soil and moderate climate.
The one day excursion allowed us to visit :
Pisac Market:
Our first stop brought us to the vibrant Pisac Market, where the lively atmosphere and vibrant colors showcased the indigenous culture. Exploring the market, we encountered local artisans and a myriad of traditional crafts, textiles, and fresh produce, providing a genuine glimpse into Andean life.
Pisac Ruins:
Next, we ventured to the Pisac Ruins, a captivating archaeological site with terraced fields that left us in awe of the Incas' engineering prowess. The panoramic views from this vantage point were nothing short of breathtaking, offering a sense of the ancient civilization that once thrived in these mountains.
Ollantaytambo:
Our journey continued to Ollantaytambo, where we explored the well-preserved Inca fortress. The site revealed intricate stone structures and impressive terraces, giving us a deeper appreciation for the strategic design of this ancient stronghold. The quaint town below, with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, added a charming touch to the overall experience.
Chinchero:
Our final stop led us to Chinchero, a town known for its traditional weaving practices and a colonial church. Here, we witnessed skilled artisans creating intricate textiles using age-old techniques. The juxtaposition of ancient craftsmanship against the backdrop of the colonial church highlighted the cultural richness of Chinchero.
