Exploring the vibrant landscapes of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain is an unforgettable experience. This guided hike from Cusco offers an incredible opportunity to witness the mountain’s breathtaking colors, all while enjoying a hearty breakfast and lunch. With flexible booking and vegetarian options, it’s an adventure tailored to suit diverse preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a unique culture, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression. But what makes this journey truly captivating is the chance to discover the secrets hidden within the mountain’s striking terrain.
Key Points
- Guided hike to Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, Peru with prices starting at $33.90 per person, including breakfast, lunch, and essential services.
- Itinerary includes hotel pickup, transportation, bilingual guide, and emergency oxygen, with an option to rent a horse and pay entrance fees.
- Participants must be in acceptable physical condition for high-altitude hiking, with specific weight and age restrictions, and no severe health conditions.
- Essential items for the hike and preparation recommendations are provided, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
- Vegetarian and special dietary options are available with prior notice, and only local currency is accepted for additional expenses.
Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a guided hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, Peru, with breakfast and lunch included in the price.
Experience the stunning beauty of Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, Peru, with a guided hike and meals included.
Priced from $33.90 per person, the one-day tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve a spot and pay later.
The tour includes hotel pickup and return, transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and emergency oxygen.
Additional costs cover horse rental ($100 soles) and the entrance fee ($30 soles).
Participants should be in acceptable physical condition, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with certain medical conditions, or those over 220 lbs.
Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Cusco might interest you
Itinerary and Schedule

Pickup for the tour begins between 04:00 and 04:30 AM from your accommodation in Cusco.
The journey starts with a 2-hour van ride to Cusipata for a 30-minute breakfast.
Then it’s a 1-hour van ride to the trailhead at 4,850 meters.
The 3.5 km hike to the Rainbow Mountain summit at 5,010 meters takes about 110 minutes, offering scenic views and wildlife encounters along the way.
After descending for 1 hour, a 1-hour lunch is served in Cusipata.
The tour returns to Cusco between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, with drop-off at Calle San Bernardo 126 and 118.
Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour includes hotel pickup and return, transport, a bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish), a buffet breakfast and lunch with vegetarian options, an oxygen bottle for emergencies, and a wooden hiking stick. Additional fees include:
| Item | Cost (Peruvian Soles) |
| — | — |
| Horse Rental | 100 |
| Entrance to Rainbow Mountain | 30 |
All payments for additional expenses must be made in local Peruvian currency. Travelers should come prepared with the necessary cash to cover these extra costs.
Participant Requirements and Restrictions
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, vertigo, respiratory issues, or those over 65 years old.
Participants must be in acceptable physical condition. The tour also can’t accommodate individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg).
Key requirements include:
-
No physical limitations or health conditions that could be exacerbated by strenuous hiking at high altitudes
-
Ability to hike 3.5 km up to 5,010 m elevation
-
No severe vertigo or respiratory problems
-
Younger than 65 years old
-
Weight under 220 lbs (100 kg)
Failure to meet these criteria may result in denied participation for safety reasons.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Recommendations
Travelers should bring several essential items for the Rainbow Mountain hike, including sunglasses, snacks, proper hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, a jacket, hat, and gloves. Weather changes can occur, so checking the forecast before departure is crucial. Those staying outside the pickup area will be assigned a meeting point, and only local currency is accepted for additional expenses.
| What to Bring | What Not to Bring |
|————–|——————|
| Sunglasses | Pets |
| Snacks | Luggage |
| Hiking Shoes | Large Bags |
| Sunscreen | N/A |
The 1-day guided tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, breakfast, and lunch, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco
- Sacred Valley Tour With Mara Moray and Lunch Included Full Day
- Private Ollantaytambo, Pisac Ruins Tour With Farm Visit, Gourmet Picnic Lunch
- Private Tour to Machu Picchu From Cusco With Lunch
- From Cusco – 2-Day Tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu With Lunch
- Pisac Indian Market and Ollantaytambo Fortress With Lunch
- Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Tour Including Breakfast & Lunch From Cusco
Scenic Views and Wildlife Encounters

As the ascent continues, the views become increasingly breathtaking. Hikers are treated to panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and the vibrant hues of the Rainbow Mountain.
Along the way, they may spot:
Hikers may spot alpacas, condors, vicuñas, chinchillas, and hummingbirds along the enchanting journey to Rainbow Mountain.
-
Alpacas grazing peacefully on the slopes
-
Condors soaring high above the valley
-
Vicuñas, the national animal of Peru, darting across the landscape
-
Chinchillas, elusive rodents known for their soft, dense fur
-
Hummingbirds flitting between the native flora, adding pops of color to the scene
These magnificent wildlife encounters and the stunning natural beauty make the hike to Rainbow Mountain an unforgettable experience.
Vegetarian and Dietary Options
The tour operator caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian options for both the breakfast and lunch provided during the excursion.
The breakfast buffet offers a selection of meatless dishes, fresh fruits, and pastries.
Lunch features a spread of local Peruvian specialties, with at least one vegetarian main course.
Travelers with special dietary requirements, such as gluten-free or vegan, can notify the tour staff in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated.
The team strives to make the dining experience enjoyable and accessible for all participants, allowing them to fully savor the Rainbow Mountain adventure.
Flexible Cancellation and Payment Policy
Customers can cancel their Rainbow Mountain guided tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing them with a flexible cancellation policy. This ensures peace of mind and allows travelers to adjust plans if needed.
Customers can cancel their Rainbow Mountain guided tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing them with a flexible cancellation policy.
Plus, the tour offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, enabling customers to secure their spot without upfront payment. This flexible approach caters to various budgets and travel preferences.
Other benefits include:
-
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
-
No payment required to book
-
Refundable if cancelled in time
-
Hassle-free planning
-
Convenient for last-minute travelers
Things To Know
Can I Book for a Group of Friends?
Yes, you can book the Rainbow Mountain tour for a group of friends. The tour operator allows group bookings, and you can reserve your spots in advance to secure the desired dates and group size.
How Difficult Is the Hike to the Summit?
The hike to the Rainbow Mountain summit is moderately difficult, covering 3.5 km and an elevation gain of 160 meters. It’s recommended for physically fit participants, as the high altitude can make the trek challenging.
Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those over 65 or over 220 lbs, or with back/respiratory issues. Participants must be in acceptable physical condition. There are no other explicit age or height restrictions for the Rainbow Mountain hike.
Is There Storage for Personal Belongings?
There’s no storage for personal belongings on the tour. Participants can’t bring large bags or luggage. It’s recommended to bring only essential items you’ll need for the hike, like snacks, water, and rain gear.
Can I Stop to Take Photos During the Hike?
Yes, participants can stop to take photos during the hike to Rainbow Mountain’s summit. The tour allows ample time for scenic viewpoints and wildlife encounters, so hikers can capture the stunning landscape along the way.
Sum Up
Exploring Rainbow Mountain from Cusco is a must-do adventure. With its breathtaking views, knowledgeable guides, and flexible policies, this hike offers an unforgettable experience for adventure-seekers. The inclusion of meals and transportation makes it a hassle-free outing, while the ability to accommodate dietary needs ensures a comfortable journey for all. This guided tour is a fantastic way to take in Peru’s stunning natural beauty.
You can check availability for your dates here:More VIP Experiences in Cusco
- Cusco: Ayahuasca Retreat+5 Ancestral Techniques,5 Days (VIP)
- Cusco: Ayahuasca Retreat, 5 Days (Vip Package)
- Wachuma (San Pedro) and Ayahuasca Retreat 4D – Private VIP
- Cusco:Ayahuasca Retreat+5 Ancestral Techniques, 3 Days (VIP)
- Cusco:2d Ayahuasca Retreat+5 Ancestral Techniques-Vip Packag
- Wachuma Retreat + Ayahuasca+5 Ancestral Techniques, 2D (VIP)
More Tours in Cusco
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
More Tour Reviews in Cusco
Still browsing? Here are more Cusco experiences we've covered recently
- Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Full Day
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- South 12 Days: Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco 4 Star Hotel.
- Andean Inca Marriage 6 Days – Shared
- Peru and Bolivia 16 Days 15 Nights
- Andean Inca Wedding 6 Days Basic
- Extraordinary Perú 13D | Huacachina,Uros,Machu Picchu |
- From Cusco: 4 Days Trekking to Choquequirao
- Adventure 13D in Peru and Bolivia – Machu Picchu |Hotel☆☆☆☆|
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
