The Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure into Peru’s stunning natural beauty. Travelers can experience the vibrant hues of the mountain, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy a guided hike to the summit. With convenient hotel pickup, a professional guide, and meals included, this 14-hour excursion provides an efficient and immersive way to explore one of the region’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. However, visitors should be aware of certain restrictions and considerations before embarking on this unique journey.
Key Points
- A 14-hour day trip from Cusco to the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, including hotel pickup, transportation, professional guide, breakfast, and lunch.
- Opportunity to hike for 2 hours to the Rainbow Mountain summit and witness its breathtaking panoramic views.
- Entrance fee to the Rainbow Mountain and optional rental of horses or ATVs available at additional cost.
- Tour not recommended for pregnant women, individuals without hiking experience, or those sensitive to high altitude.
- Cancellation policy offers a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip is a popular excursion that allows visitors to explore the stunning and vibrant Vinicunca, also known as the "Rainbow Mountain," located in the Cusco region of Peru.
Priced at €31.71 per person, the 14-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, and lunch.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or choose the "reserve now, pay later" option.
The tour offers the opportunity to witness the breathtaking views of the multicolored mountain and its diverse wildlife, making it a must-see experience for adventurous travelers.
Itinerary and Activities
After pickup from the hotel in the historic center of Cusco, the tour begins with a 3-hour journey to the Cusipata District.
Once there, the group enjoys a 45-minute breakfast before embarking on a guided 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain.
After a brief breakfast, the group embarks on a guided 2-hour hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain.
Along the way, they soak in the panoramic views and spot local wildlife like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
At the summit, they rest, take photos, and then descend.
A 45-minute lunch at a restaurant follows, before the 4-hour return trip to Cusco, where guests are dropped off near the main square on Calle San Bernardo.
Included Services
The tour package includes several services to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco’s historic center are provided. Transportation is included, with a professional guide to lead the way.
Breakfast and lunch are served during the day. Hiking poles are available, and first aid and oxygen are on hand if needed.
The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is also covered.
While personal expenses aren’t included, the tour aims to deliver a seamless and enjoyable journey to this natural wonder.
Additional Costs
Along With the included services, there are a few additional costs travelers should be aware of. The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is 25 soles for travelers and 20 soles for Peruvians.
Other optional add-ons include:
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Horse rental: 90 to 120 soles round trip
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ATV rental: 80 soles for a single, 140 soles for a double
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Personal expenses, such as snacks or souvenirs
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Tips for the guide and driver (at the traveler’s discretion)
These additional costs are payable on the day of the tour and should be factored into the overall budget.
More Great Tours NearbyRecommendations for Visitors
To have the best experience on the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip, visitors should bring a few essential items. These include a passport or ID, comfortable hiking shoes and clothing, and biodegradable sunscreen.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those without hiking experience, or people over 95 years old. However, visitors can rent horses or ATVs to make the trek easier.
It’s important to come prepared, as the high altitude and demanding hike can be challenging. Following the guide’s instructions and pacing oneself will help ensure a memorable and enjoyable adventure to this stunning natural wonder.
Restrictions and Considerations
Certain individuals may find the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip unsuitable for their needs. The tour isn’t recommended for:
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Pregnant women
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Individuals without hiking experience
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People over 95 years of age
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Those who can’t handle the high altitude and steep terrain.
Rental options are available, including horses (90-120 PEN round trip, cash only) and ATVs (80 soles single, 140 soles double).
However, these alternatives may not be suitable for all visitors. Careful consideration of one’s physical abilities is advised before booking this challenging yet rewarding day trip.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have posted a mix of feedback on the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 14 reviews.
The transportation received a 3.7/5 rating, while value for money scored 3.3/5. Feedback came from couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.
While some praised the stunning mountain views and wildlife, others noted issues with transportation and felt the tour was overpriced.
Booking and Reservation Details
Although the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.
The booking process is straightforward:
The booking process is straightforward: select date, provide details, pay deposit, receive confirmation, and pay remaining balance on the day.
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Select the desired date and number of participants.
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Provide contact details and pay a deposit (if applicable).
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Receive a confirmation email with details about the tour.
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Pay the remaining balance on the day of the tour.
This flexible approach allows travelers to secure their spot without the need to pay the full amount upfront.
With a range of options and easy booking, the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip is a convenient choice.
Things To Know
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks. The tour does not include a packed lunch, so bringing your own provisions is allowed and recommended to save money and have the flexibility to eat when you want.
Is There an Option to Hire a Private Tour Guide?
Yes, there’s an option to hire a private guide for the tour. Customers can request a private tour, which typically costs more than the group tour but provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide.
Can I Pay With a Credit Card for Add-Ons?
Travelers can pay for add-ons like horse rentals and ATVs with cash only. Credit cards aren’t accepted for these optional activities. The tour company accepts credit cards for the main tour booking, but cash is required for any extras.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?
The tour does not have any specific age restrictions for children. However, it’s recommended that children be able to hike for 2-3 hours and handle the high altitude conditions. Ultimately, the tour’s suitability depends on each child’s fitness and experience level.
How Difficult Is the Hike to Rainbow Mountain?
The hike to Rainbow Mountain is moderately challenging, taking about 2 hours each way. It’s not suitable for those without hiking experience or those over 95 years old. Horses and ATVs are available to rent for those who need assistance.
Sum Up
The Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. With stunning views, diverse wildlife, and guided hiking, it’s a must-do activity for those visiting the region. However, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those sensitive to high altitudes, so visitors should consider their physical abilities before booking. Overall, it’s a remarkable opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Peru’s Andes Mountains.
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