Exploring the vibrant, otherworldly landscape of Rainbow Mountain is a must-do experience for any visitor to Peru. This day trip from Cusco combines the stunning natural beauty of the Andes with the opportunity to savor local Peruvian cuisine. Travelers can look forward to a scenic hike, captivating vistas, and a delightful culinary adventure that promises to leave a lasting impression. With an experienced guide to lead the way, this excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery of this remarkable region.

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Key Points

One-day Rainbow Mountain excursion from Cusco, Peru priced at $23 per person with flexible cancellation policy.
Includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, bilingual guide, breakfast, and lunch.
Highlights stunning landscapes, vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, and encounters with llamas and alpacas.
Not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions.
Tour available in English and Spanish with highly rated customer reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

The Rainbow Mountain Day Trip with Local Food offers a one-day excursion from Cusco, priced at a reasonable $23.00 per person.

The tour is available in English and Spanish, with a flexible cancellation policy that allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking is easy, as the "reserve now, pay later" option allows travelers to secure their spot without paying upfront.

The tour lasts approximately one day, with pickup from your Cusco hotel and drop-off near the Plaza de Armas at the end of the day, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience.

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Itinerary

The day begins with a 5:00 AM hotel pickup in Cusco, embarking on the journey to the first stop in Cusipata for breakfast.

The day begins with a 5:00 AM hotel pickup in Cusco, embarking on the journey to the first stop in Cusipata for breakfast.

After fueling up, the group sets out on the approximately 2-hour hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain.

Upon arrival, ample time is allotted to explore the area, marvel at the vibrant colors, and capture stunning photos.

The return trip follows the same route back to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch, before heading back to Cusco with an estimated arrival time around 6:00 PM, just a block away from the Plaza de Armas.

Highlights & Experience

Stunning landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and glaciers set the stage for this remarkable day hike in the Vilcanota Mountain Range, showcasing one of the most pristine ecosystems.

The hike takes you to the iconic Rainbow Mountain, a sacred peak close to Ausangate (6,377m). Along the way, you’ll encounter llamas and alpacas grazing in the stunning environment.

The vibrant, multicolored stripes of the mountain provide a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. Enjoy the cultural significance of this magnificent natural wonder, and gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Peru’s landscapes.

Inclusions & Requirements

This Rainbow Mountain Day Trip includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and well-supported experience. The tour provides pick-up from your Cusco hotel, round-trip transportation, and the services of a bilingual guide. Breakfast and lunch are also included, along with walking sticks, a first aid kit, and oxygen.

| What’s Included | What to Bring | Not Suitable For |

| — | — | — |

| Hotel pick-up/drop-off | Passport or ID | Children under 8 |

| Round-trip transportation | Comfortable shoes | Pregnant women |

| Bilingual guide | Camera, hiking pants | Back/heart problems |

| Breakfast and lunch | Cash, personal meds | Epilepsy, low fitness |

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Important Information

To finalize the booking, customers must reserve the tour one day in advance.

It’s also crucial to provide an emergency contact number after completing the reservation.

For safety reasons, certain items are prohibited on the vehicle, including weapons, sharp objects, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, epilepsy, or low fitness levels.

Despite the rigorous requirements, the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip has received an outstanding 5/5 rating from past customers, ensuring a memorable and well-organized adventure.

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What to Expect on the Hike

Although the hike to Rainbow Mountain is challenging, the breathtaking scenery and cultural significance make it a truly rewarding experience. The hike to the summit covers approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) and takes around 2 hours to reach the top. The trail climbs steadily, gaining 1,640 feet (500 m) in elevation. Proper preparation is key, as the high altitude can be demanding. To help, the tour provides walking sticks and first aid support. Fortunately, the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and the vibrant, multicolored mountain landscape make the effort worthwhile.

| Difficulty Level | Elevation Gain | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Moderate | 1,640 ft (500 m) | 2 hours |

Local Cuisine and Dining Experience

After the challenging hike, travelers are rewarded with a delightful local dining experience.

Arriving in Cusipata, guests enjoy a hearty Andean breakfast featuring fresh ingredients from the region. The meal might include staples like quinoa porridge, cheese, eggs, and herbal teas.

Following the descent, a traditional Peruvian lunch awaits. Diners savor classic dishes like roasted cuy (guinea pig), papa a la Huancaína (potatoes in a spicy cheese sauce), and refreshing chicha morada (purple corn drink).

The flavors showcase the rich culinary heritage of the Cusco area. This wholesome, authentic meal energizes hikers for the return trip.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers consistently praise the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip, as evidenced by its impressive 5/5 rating based on 1 review.

One customer describes the tour as "an unforgettable experience," highlighting the stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guide, and well-organized logistics.

A truly unforgettable experience with stunning landscapes, a knowledgeable guide, and well-organized logistics.

Reviewers emphasize the pristine natural beauty of the Vilcanota Mountain Range and the cultural significance of the sacred Ausangate mountain.

The overall consensus is that this day trip offers excellent value, with inclusions like transportation, meals, and equipment making it a convenient and hassle-free way to explore this iconic Peruvian destination.

Things To Know

Is the Hike Difficult for Individuals With Limited Mobility?

The hike to Rainbow Mountain may be challenging for those with limited mobility. The 2-hour hike involves steep, uneven terrain that requires a moderate fitness level. Individuals with back/heart problems or low fitness are advised against this tour.

Will the Group Size Be Small or Large?

The group size is typically small, allowing for a more personalized experience. The tour operator limits the number of participants to ensure a comfortable and manageable hike for those with varying fitness levels.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water for the Hike?

The tour allows participants to bring their own snacks and water for the hike. This can be helpful to have personal provisions on hand to fuel the trek. However, breakfast and lunch are already included in the tour.

Is There an Option to Rent Hiking Equipment?

Yes, the tour provides walking sticks, but travelers can rent additional hiking equipment like trekking poles or backpacks if needed. Just inquire with the tour operator prior to the trip.

How Authentic and Traditional Is the Local Cuisine Provided?

The local cuisine on this trip is highly authentic and traditional, showcasing the flavors and ingredients native to the Cusco region. Travelers can expect a truly immersive cultural experience through the delicious, home-cooked meal.

Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Rainbow Mountain, where breathtaking landscapes and authentic Peruvian cuisine await. Hike through stunning scenery, savor traditional dishes, and learn about the cultural significance of this iconic destination. With an experienced guide and excellent value, this excursion promises an adventure you won’t soon forget.