Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley (Optional) Day Trip with Meals

Highly recommended by our passengers

Opinions

Price

Per preson

32.oo

Overview

Discover one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders: the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). This full-day adventure takes you through remote Andean landscapes, vibrant colored mountains, herds of alpacas, and snow-capped peaks. Starting early in the morning, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through traditional highland villages before hiking to the world-famous Rainbow Mountain viewpoint at over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft).

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking epic landscapes, adventure, and a true high-Andean experience.

Highlight

Reach the summit viewpoint at 5,036 m / 16,522 ft

Spectacular views of the colored mineral mountain

Panoramic views of the Ausangate glacier

Scenic drive through Andean villages and alpaca herds

Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)

Optional horse rental for parts of the hike

Perfect for photography and nature lovers

Altitude Information

  • Starting point of the trek: ~4,650 m (15,256 ft)

  • Rainbow Mountain viewpoint: ~5,036 m (16,522 ft)

  • Total hiking distance: 6–7 km round trip

  • Hiking time: 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, 1 hour downhill

  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (due to altitude)

Altitude Information

Tour begins with hotel pick-up in Cusco, followed by a drive of 2–2.5 hours to the community of Cusipata/Phulawasipata, the official starting point of the hike.

Full Itinerary – Rainbow Mountain (Full Day)

03:00 – 04:00 a.m. | Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco

Early pick-up from your hotel and departure toward the south of Cusco.

04:00 – 05:30 a.m. | Scenic Drive to Cusipata

Enjoy a quiet morning drive through beautiful Andean landscapes.

05:30 – 06:00 a.m. | Breakfast Stop

Buffet-style breakfast in a local restaurant.

06:00 – 07:30 a.m. | Arrival at Trailhead (Phulawasipata – 4,650 m)

Your guide provides a briefing, safety tips, and gradual acclimatization time.

07:30 – 09:00 a.m. | Start of the Hike

Begin the trek across wide open valleys with alpacas and snow-capped mountains.

09:00 – 09:45 a.m. | Summit Viewpoint – Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m)

Enjoy panoramic views, free time for photos, rest, and explanation from your guide.

09:45 – 10:30 a.m. | Descent Back to Trailhead

Return hike is easier and faster.

10:30 – 12:00 p.m. | Drive Back to Cusipata

Return to the restaurant.

12:00 – 01:00 p.m. | Lunch

Enjoy a hot buffet lunch.

01:00 – 03:00 p.m. | Return to Cusco

Drop-off at your hotel or central point in Cusco.

What to Wear

Due to high altitude, temperatures can be freezing in the morning.

Recommended Clothing

  • Thermal base layers (top & bottom)

  • Fleece jacket

  • Windproof + waterproof jacket

  • Warm hat (beanie)

  • Gloves

  • Neck warmer or buff

  • Trekking pants (avoid jeans)

  • Waterproof over-pants (especially in rainy season)

  • Warm socks

  • Hiking boots or shoes with good grip

🎒What to Bring

  • Small daypack (10–20 L)

  • Water (1–1.5 L)

  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)

  • Sunscreen + sunglasses (UV is strong at altitude)

  • Personal medication

  • Rain poncho

  • Camera or phone + power bank

  • Cash (for bathrooms, horse rental, snacks)

🔄Cancellation Policy

  • Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour.

  • Cancellations within 48 hours apply a 50% fee.

  • No-shows or same-day cancellations are non-refundable.

  • Entrance fees and pre-paid services in high-altitude zones are non-refundable once purchased.

✅What’s Included

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco

  • Round-trip transportation (Cusco – Cusipata/Phulawasipata – Cusco)

  • Breakfast and buffet lunch in a local restaurant

  • Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)

  • Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

  • Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit

  • Trekking poles (optional, depending on the operator)

What’s Not Included

  • Horse rental (optional and paid directly to local community members)

  • Snacks, extra drinks, or bottled water

  • Travel or medical insurance

  • Personal trekking gear (jacket, gloves, hat, etc.)

  • Tips for guide or driver (optional)