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)


