Visiting the stunning Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in Cusco is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. This one-day tour offers a chance to witness the vibrant, otherworldly landscapes that Peru is renowned for. With early hotel pickup, hearty meals, and an expert guide, the trip promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes this excursion truly captivating are the breath-taking vistas that await those willing to embark on the high-altitude hike.

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Key Points

One-day tour to explore Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, priced from $34 per person, with transportation, meals, and guided hiking included.
Early morning pickup from Cusco hotels, breakfast in Cusipata, and hike to Rainbow Mountain at 5,082 meters for panoramic views.
Optional walk to Red Valley viewpoint at an additional cost.
Professional guide available in English and Spanish, with trekking poles, blankets, oxygen, and first aid equipment provided.
Sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, sun protection, snacks, and proper hydration recommended for a successful hike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This one-day tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of Cusco, including the iconic Rainbow Mountain and the lesser-known Red Valley.

Priced from $34 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, hotel pickup, meals, and guided hiking with equipment.

Priced from $34 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, hotel pickup, meals, and guided hiking with equipment.

Participants will start the day with an early morning pickup and breakfast, then embark on a hike to the 5,082-meter-high Rainbow Mountain to take in the panoramic views.

An optional visit to the Red Valley is also available.

The tour provides a full day of adventure and culture.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from hotels in Cusco, taking participants between 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. to the town of Cusipata for breakfast.

From there, the group will journey to the vehicle parking lot to begin the hike. The hike leads to Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, which sits at an elevation of 5,082 meters above sea level.

After enjoying the panoramic views at the top, participants have the option to walk to the Red Valley viewpoint at their own expense.

The tour then returns to Cusipata for a buffet lunch before heading back to Cusco.

Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip tourist transportation, with hotel pickup, as well as breakfast and a buffet lunch. A professional guide leads the adventure in both English and Spanish. Trekking poles and blankets are provided, and oxygen and first aid equipment are available in case of need. Throughout the tour, participants receive assistance.

| Included |

| — |

| Round-trip Tourist Transportation |

| Hotel Pickup |

| Breakfast and Buffet Lunch |

| Professional Guide (English & Spanish) |

| Trekking Poles and Blankets |

| Oxygen and First Aid Equipment |

| Assistance Throughout Tour |

Highlights

Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley on this guided hiking adventure.

Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley on this guided hiking adventure.

They’ll trek through stunning natural landscapes, taking in panoramic views at the top of Rainbow Mountain, which stands at 5,082 meters above sea level.

For those seeking an additional challenge, there’s an optional walk to the Red Valley viewpoint.

Throughout the day, you will be supported by a professional guide who provides commentary in both English and Spanish.

This immersive cultural and natural experience showcases the majesty of Cusco’s remarkable landscapes.

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Additional Information

Travelers can check availability for different starting times of the tour.

The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy for participants to find the pickup location.

For those who may need assistance during the hike, the tour provides oxygen and first aid equipment.

Plus, income and horse options are available for participants who require additional support.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Preparing for the Hike

Although the hike to Rainbow Mountain may seem daunting, with proper preparation, participants can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Packing the right gear is essential, including:

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
Warm layers, such as a hat, gloves, and jacket
Sun protection, like sunscreen and sunglasses
Snacks and plenty of water
Trekking poles, which can provide stability on the trail

Plus, it’s recommended to arrive well-rested and acclimated to the high altitude.

Proper pacing and taking breaks as needed will also contribute to a successful hike.

With these tips in mind, travelers can look forward to an unforgettable adventure at Rainbow Mountain.

What to Expect on the Trail

As the hike begins, the trail winds through lush, grassy meadows before gradually ascending.

Trekkers will navigate steep, rocky switchbacks as they climb to the top of Rainbow Mountain. The path can be challenging, with areas of loose gravel and uneven terrain.

However, the guide will provide encouragement and assistance throughout the trek.

Once at the summit, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the multicolored mountain ridges.

Those interested can also opt to visit the nearby Red Valley, offering a different scenic perspective.

Proper hiking gear and acclimatization are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Exploring the Red Valley

For those interested, the optional visit to the nearby Red Valley offers a different scenic perspective.

After exploring the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, adventurers can choose to continue hiking to the striking Red Valley viewpoint. This excursion comes at an additional cost, but the dramatic red and ochre hues of the valley’s rock formations are well worth the effort.

The vista includes:

Dramatically carved canyons
Layered sedimentary rock
Varied shades of red, orange, and brown
A serene, peaceful atmosphere
Opportunities for unique photography

Those seeking an extended adventure can enjoy the beauty of this lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path destination.

Things To Know

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a stated minimum age requirement. However, the hike to Rainbow Mountain is considered strenuous, so it’s recommended that participants be in good physical condition, regardless of age.

Can I Use My Own Hiking Equipment Instead?

Yes, you can use your own hiking equipment instead. The trip allows participants to bring their own gear, though the tour also provides trekking poles and blankets for those who need them.

Are There Any Restrictions on Group Size?

The tour doesn’t impose any restrictions on group size. Participants can join as solo travelers or with their friends and family. The group size varies and depends on the number of bookings for each tour date.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The trip is a one-day excursion with a fixed itinerary and duration. Extending the trip length would require booking a separate tour or making additional arrangements.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and snacks on the trip. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, but bringing additional provisions is allowed and can help sustain energy levels during the hike.

Sum Up

This captivating one-day tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in Cusco offers an unforgettable experience amidst Peru’s breathtaking natural beauty. With early morning hotel pickup, hearty meals, and a professional guide, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views while trekking at high elevations. Equipped with trekking poles and necessary gear, this adventure promises an immersive journey through the vibrant landscapes of this remarkable region.