Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws adventurous travelers from around the world. For just $34 per person, you can experience this 12-hour day trip from Cusco. The journey includes hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The challenging 2-hour hike to the 5,010-meter summit rewards you with stunning vistas. But before you lace up your boots, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

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Key Points

This day trip to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco offers a 12-hour tour with hotel pickup, shared transportation, bilingual guide, breakfast, and lunch for $34 per person.
The itinerary includes a 2-hour van ride, 2-hour hike to the 5010-meter summit, and 1-hour buffet lunch before the return trip.
The challenging hike requires proper preparation due to the high altitude, and guides provide oxygen and first aid if needed.
Horse rental is available for those who prefer not to hike the entire distance.
The tour is not suitable for certain groups, and weather and altitude sickness are potential challenges that need to be considered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Cusco – Day Trip to the Rainbow Mountain is priced from $34.00 per person and offers a 12-hour tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later to secure their place. The tour includes hotel pickup in downtown Cusco, shared transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and lunch.

Additional costs include optional horse rental and entrance fees.

This day trip isn’t suitable for certain groups, and travelers should consider weather conditions, altitude, and fitness levels before booking.

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Itinerary and Highlights

This day trip begins with pickup from downtown Cusco between 4:00-4:30 AM.

After a 2-hour van ride, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute breakfast at a local restaurant.

Then it’s another 1-hour drive to reach the trailhead of Rainbow Mountain.

The hike up takes 2 hours, passing by alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas.

Once at the summit, you’ll indulge in a 1-hour buffet lunch before making the 2-hour return trip.

Throughout the day, you’ll take in the scenic mountain environment and arrive early to beat the crowds for the best views of the vibrant, multicolored slopes.

Hiking Details

Hikers will climb 3.5 km (1.9 miles) to reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain, which sits at an elevation of 5010 meters (16400 feet).

The summit of Rainbow Mountain stands at an elevation of 5010 meters, requiring hikers to climb 3.5 km to reach its peak.

Along the way, they’ll encounter wildlife like alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. The hike is challenging due to the high altitude, so proper preparation is essential.

Hikers must wear sunglasses, dress in weather-appropriate layers, and bring warm clothing like a sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves. The guides will provide oxygen bottles and first aid kits if needed.

Horse rental is available for those who prefer not to hike the entire distance.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The day trip to the Rainbow Mountain includes hotel pickup from downtown Cusco, shared transportation, and a bilingual tour guide who can provide information in both Spanish and English.

Breakfast and a buffet lunch at local restaurants are also provided, with vegetarian options available. Guests will receive an oxygen bottle, first aid kit, and optional wooden trekking pole.

The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is included, but paid in cash. Horse rental is an additional 100 Peruvian soles, and other personal expenses like water and souvenirs must be covered separately in cash as well.

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Suitability and Considerations

The day trip to the Rainbow Mountain may not be suitable for everyone.

Children under 8, pregnant women, and those with mobility issues, vertigo, respiratory problems, altitude sickness, or high blood pressure should avoid this excursion.

It’s also not recommended for people over 220 lbs, 70 years old, or with low fitness levels.

Be prepared for weather changes, potential altitude sickness, and varying walking speeds among the group.

The tour provides first aid and oxygen, but guests should bring their own necessary medications.

While challenging, the stunning scenery makes this trip worthwhile for those physically able to handle the hike.

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Arrival and Pickup

For this day trip, guests are picked up from their hotels in downtown Cusco between 4:00-4:30 AM.

The pickup process may take 30-45 minutes, so guests should be ready at their hotel’s main entrance.

Once the group is assembled, the van departs for the 2-hour drive to the starting point of the hike.

Along the way, guests enjoy a 30-minute breakfast stop at a local restaurant to fuel up before the trek.

Guests must bring their own personal items, as the van won’t make any additional stops before reaching the Rainbow Mountain trailhead.

Weather and Altitude Precautions

Weather conditions at the Rainbow Mountain can be unpredictable and challenging. The high elevation of 5,010 meters (16,400 feet) means the temperature and weather can change rapidly.

Hikers must dress in warm, weatherproof layers and bring sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen. The thin air can also cause altitude sickness, so it’s crucial to take precautions.

The tour includes oxygen bottles and first aid kits, but travelers should also bring their own medication if needed. Ultimately, fitness level and health issues will determine whether the Rainbow Mountain hike is suitable.

Consulting a doctor beforehand is strongly recommended.

Pace and Assistance

Although the hike to the Rainbow Mountain summit spans 3.5 km (1.9 miles), travelers should expect the pace to vary. Guides will assist those who need it, as everyone walks at different speeds. A table below outlines typical hiking paces and guidance provided:

| Pace | Time to Summit | Guide Assistance |

| — | — | — |

| Slow | 3-4 hours | Frequent stops, extra time |

| Average | 2-3 hours | Periodic check-ins |

| Fast | 1.5-2 hours | Minimal assistance needed |

No matter the individual’s fitness level, the guides are there to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. With their support, the Rainbow Mountain trek becomes accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The hiking trail and high altitude conditions make it unsuitable for bringing animals. The tour is designed for human participants only.

Is the Hike Difficult for Someone Who Is Out of Shape?

The hike may be challenging for someone who is out of shape. It involves a 2-hour climb to the summit at over 16,000 feet. The tour company doesn’t recommend it for those with low fitness levels.

Do I Need a Permit or Special Authorization to Join the Tour?

No, you don’t need a permit or special authorization to join the tour. The tour includes all necessary transportation, entrance fees, and a bilingual guide to handle the logistics for you.

Can I Leave the Group and Explore the Mountain on My Own?

No, you can’t leave the group and explore the mountain on your own. The tour requires all participants to stay with the group for safety and logistical reasons throughout the hike and the entire day trip.

Is There an Option to Hire a Guide for the Hiking Portion?

Yes, there is an option to hire a private guide for the hiking portion. The tour includes a bilingual guide, but you can also book a private guide for a more personalized experience.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco offers an unforgettable high-altitude adventure. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit, with stunning landscapes and wildlife along the way. Priced at $34 per person, the tour includes essential amenities and a knowledgeable guide. This excursion is best suited for those in good physical condition, prepared to handle the high elevation. Overall, it provides an awe-inspiring and breathtaking experience.