Exploring the stunning Rainbow Mountain in Peru is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. This full-day tour promises an unforgettable adventure, taking adventurers on a guided hike to the mountain’s vibrant summit. With breathtaking views and a fascinating geological landscape, it’s no wonder this tour is so popular. However, the high altitude means it’s not suitable for everyone. Those seeking an extraordinary Andean excursion won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.

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Key Points

The Rainbow Mountain Tour is a full-day excursion priced from Kč 692 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes exploration of the Machu Picchu site and hiking options, with the main attraction being the Rainbow Mountain at an altitude of 5,036 meters.
The tour features a combination of bus rides and a 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours hike to reach the summit of the Rainbow Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the unique geological formations.
The tour package includes hotel pickup, roundtrip transportation, breakfast, lunch buffet, and an English/Spanish-speaking professional tour guide.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments, and proper preparation and fitness level are essential due to the high altitude conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Rainbow Mountain Tour is a full-day activity priced from Kč 692 per person. It lasts one day and is offered in English and Spanish.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour explores Machu Picchu, a New 7 Wonder of the World, and includes hiking options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Visitors will also see the Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, with its unique, brightly colored geological features.

Pickup, transportation, meals, a guide, and necessary equipment are all included in the tour package.

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Destination Highlights

Machu Picchu, a New 7 Wonder of the World, and the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offer breathtaking views for visitors to explore.

Further, the Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range of the Peruvian Andes at an altitude of 5,036 meters.

The mountain features unique geological formations with brightly colored stripes of fuchsia, turquoise, lavender, and gold.

These colors originate from minerals like iron, magnesium, copper oxide, sulfur, quartz sand, limestone, clays, and argillites.

Exploring this natural wonder is a highlight for many visitors to the region.

Itinerary Details

Pickup from the hotel kicks off the day as guests embark on the 2-hour bus ride to CUSIPATA, covering a distance of 78 km.

A 30-minute breakfast stop in CUSIPATA precedes the 1-hour bus ride to PHULAWASIPATA.

From there, trekkers ascend to Rainbow Mountain, a 1 hour 45 minute to 2 hour hike.

At the summit, a guided tour provides information, and guests enjoy photo opportunities.

The return trek takes guests back to the mobility, followed by a lunch buffet in CUSIPATA around 1:30 pm.

The day concludes with the return to Cusco City, arriving at 4:00 pm at Regocijo main square.

Inclusions

As part of the Rainbow Mountain Tour, guests can expect a range of inclusions.

The package covers pickup from the hotel and roundtrip transportation. Breakfast and a lunch buffet are provided. An English/Spanish-speaking professional tour guide will accompany the group, and first-aid equipment and oxygen are available for emergencies. Trekking poles are also included.

Entrance fees to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley are covered. This comprehensive offering ensures a seamless and well-supported experience for participants.

With these inclusions, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the region.

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Participant Restrictions and Recommendations

The Rainbow Mountain Tour may not be suitable for certain participants due to the high altitude and physical demands of the trek. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or individuals with respiratory issues. Participants should come prepared with the following:

| What to Bring | Recommended | Not Recommended |

| — | — | — |

| Drinks | ✓ | |

| Hiking Shoes | ✓ | |

| Cash | ✓ | |

| Trekking Gear | ✓ | |

The meeting point is Plaza Kusipata at 4:30 am for transportation pickup. Proper preparation and fitness level are essential for a safe and enjoyable Rainbow Mountain experience.

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What to Expect During the Trek

After being picked up from the designated meeting point, participants embark on a 2-hour bus ride to the town of Cusipata.

There, they enjoy a quick breakfast before continuing their journey by bus for an additional hour to the trailhead at Phulawasipata.

The trek to Rainbow Mountain takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, with a steady ascent through the stunning Andes landscape.

Once at the summit, participants are guided on the unique geological features and have ample time to capture the breathtaking, colorful vistas.

The return trek follows the same route, with a lunch buffet awaiting in Cusipata before the journey back to Cusco.

Tips for a Successful Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Preparing for the Rainbow Mountain trek requires some thoughtful planning.

Dress in layers and wear proper hiking boots to navigate the challenging terrain. Bring plenty of snacks and water to stay energized. Acclimate to the high altitude by arriving in Cusco a few days early.

Take it slow during the ascent and listen to your body. Bring trekking poles to ease the strain on your knees.

Take it slow during the ascent and listen to your body. Bring trekking poles to ease the strain on your knees.

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect from the intense rays.

With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to witness the stunning, multicolored landscape of the Peruvian Andes.

Preparing for Your Rainbow Mountain Experience

Although the trek to Rainbow Mountain may seem daunting, with proper preparation, hikers can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.

Key considerations include:

Acclimating to the high altitude by arriving in Cusco a few days early
Packing appropriate gear like warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, and trekking poles
Staying hydrated and fueled with plenty of snacks and water
Maintaining a steady, sustainable pace during the ascent
Listening to your body and not pushing beyond your limits

Things To Know

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Rainbow Mountain Trek?

The trek to Rainbow Mountain is considered moderately difficult, with an ascent of about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours at an altitude of over 5,000 meters. It’s not suitable for those with mobility or respiratory issues.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Rainbow Mountain Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for the Rainbow Mountain tour. However, it’s recommended for participants aged 12 and up due to the high altitude and strenuous nature of the hike.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trek?

You can bring your own drinks, but the tour provides breakfast and lunch. Bringing your own food isn’t recommended, as a buffet lunch is included. Check the tour’s participant restrictions for any other guidance on what to bring.

Are There Any Weight Restrictions for the Horses/Mules?

There are no specific weight restrictions for the horses/mules on this tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand if you have concerns about your weight or the animal’s capacity to handle it safely.

Can I Stay Overnight at Rainbow Mountain?

No, overnight stays at Rainbow Mountain are not possible. The tour is a day trip, with hikers trekking up to the summit and returning to Cusco the same day. Accommodations are not provided at the mountain itself.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain Tour offers a truly memorable adventure, showcasing the breathtaking natural beauty of Vinicunca. With its stunning geological formations, guided hike, and thoughtful inclusions, this tour provides an unforgettable experience. While not recommended for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, the tour emphasizes acclimatization, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey to the mountain’s impressive summit.

You can check availability for your dates here: