The Cusco Full-Day Rainbow Mountain Tour promises an unforgettable adventure in Peru’s stunning Andes. Priced at Kč 832 per person, this 13-hour excursion takes travelers on a scenic 4-hour van ride to Pitumarca, followed by a challenging 6-hour hike to the breathtaking summit. With a small group size, expert guides, and delectable meals, the tour offers an enriching cultural experience. However, participants must be prepared to face the altitude challenges that come with exploring this natural wonder.

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Key Points

The full-day Rainbow Mountain tour departs from Cusco and lasts 13 hours, with hotel pickup and return, breakfast, and lunch included.
The tour features a scenic van ride, a 6-hour hike to the Rainbow Mountain summit, and optional activities like visiting the Red Valley or horse riding.
The tour is suitable for small groups of up to 10 participants, with multilingual guides and first aid support.
Health restrictions apply, as the tour is not recommended for children under 14, pregnant women, or individuals with heart or respiratory issues.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 66 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.

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Tour Overview

The Cusco: Full-Day Rainbow Mountain Tour is a popular excursion that takes visitors on a journey to the stunning Rainbow Mountain in Peru.

The tour is priced from Kč 832 per person and lasts 13 hours. Multilingual guides lead the small group of up to 10 participants.

Hotel pickup and return are included, along with breakfast and lunch. The itinerary features a van ride, scenic hike, and optional activities like visiting the Red Valley or horse riding.

Preparation is key, as the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain health conditions or low fitness levels due to the high altitude.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 4-hour van ride from Cusco’s historic center to the small town of Pitumarca, where participants enjoy a 1-hour breakfast. Then, they board the van for a 40-minute ride to the trailhead of Rainbow Mountain. The scenic hike to the summit takes around 6 hours. After taking in the breathtaking views, the group returns to Pitumarca for a 1-hour lunch before embarking on the 4-hour drive back to Cusco’s Plaza Mayor.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Van ride to Pitumarca | 4 hours |

| Breakfast in Pitumarca | 1 hour |

| Van ride to Rainbow Mountain | 40 minutes |

| Scenic hike to summit | 6 hours |

| Lunch in Pitumarca | 1 hour |

| Van ride back to Cusco | 4 hours |

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes several key inclusions to enhance the experience.

You’ll receive hotel pickup and return, as well as breakfast and lunch with vegetarian/vegan options. A professional tour guide will accompany you, and first aid kits and an oxygen cylinder are provided.

Entrance to Rainbow Mountain is included, covering the 25 Soles fee for foreigners.

However, the tour excludes expenses for pets, smoking, large luggage, and personal purchases.

It’s important to note that certain health restrictions apply, and preparatory measures like acclimatization and bringing necessary gear are highly recommended for the best experience.

Health Restrictions

Although the Rainbow Mountain Tour offers an unforgettable experience, it may not be suitable for everyone.

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 14, pregnant women, or individuals with heart or respiratory issues. Those with low fitness levels should also reconsider. The high altitude can be challenging, and altitude sickness is a real concern. Proper preparation, such as acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand, is crucial.

Travelers should bring their passport/ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and cash. Appropriate weather-ready clothing, including rain gear and warm layers, is also essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

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Preparation Recommendations

Proper preparation is key for an enjoyable Rainbow Mountain Tour. Acclimatizing to the high altitude in Cusco is recommended before embarking on the hike.

Bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and pack sun protection, water, and cash for any optional activities. Weather can be unpredictable, so layer up with warm clothing and rain gear.

The tour provides breakfast and lunch, but you may want to bring snacks. Ensure you’re in good physical condition, as the hike can be challenging.

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Weather Considerations

The weather on the Rainbow Mountain tour can be highly variable and unpredictable. Temperatures can range from freezing to pleasantly warm, and precipitation can shift between sun, rain, and even snow. Visitors should come prepared for any conditions.

Bringing weather-appropriate clothing, including rain gear and warm layers, is essential. Hats, gloves, and sturdy, broken-in hiking boots are also recommended. The mountain’s high elevation means the weather can change rapidly, so being flexible and ready to adapt is crucial.

Checking forecasts before the tour and packing intelligently can help ensure a comfortable and memorable experience on the Rainbow Mountain.

Customer Reviews

Customers have generally rated the Rainbow Mountain tour highly, with an overall score of 4.4 out of 5 based on 66 reviews. Travelers praised the knowledgeable and supportive tour guides, who provided valuable insights into the local culture and stunning landscapes. However, some cautioned about the potential for altitude sickness, advising proper preparation and acclimatization. The tour offers excellent value for money, though visitors should heed recommendations for what to bring and how to manage the physical demands.

| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |

| — | — |

| Knowledgeable guides | Altitude sickness concerns |

| Beautiful scenery | Physical demands |

| Authentic cultural experience | – |

| Good value for money | – |

| Helpful recommendations | – |

Planning Your Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Although the Rainbow Mountain tour promises breathtaking vistas, proper preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

First and foremost, visitors should acclimatize in Cusco for at least 1-2 days before the tour to minimize altitude sickness.

Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including rain gear and warm layers, as the mountain’s climate can be unpredictable.

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected.

Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes.

Plus, those with health concerns or low fitness levels should consult with their doctor before attempting the challenging hike.

Advance planning will help make the most of this unforgettable journey.

Things To Know

Can I Rent Hiking Poles for the Trek?

Hiking poles can be rented for the trek. The tour company typically provides this option for an additional fee. Inquiring about rental availability and cost when booking the tour is recommended to ensure you have the necessary equipment.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Hike?

There are a few basic restroom facilities along the hike, though they may be basic. Hikers should plan accordingly and bring any necessary supplies. The facilities’ quality and availability may vary depending on the specific trail conditions.

Can I Store My Luggage Somewhere During the Tour?

Yes, the tour provider offers storage for participants’ large luggage at the tour’s starting point. This allows hikers to enjoy the trek unencumbered by heavy bags. Check with the tour operator for any specific luggage storage instructions.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

The tour has a limited group size of up to 10 participants, so there’s no minimum group requirement. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience for all travelers.

Can I Arrange Private Transportation for the Tour?

Yes, you can arrange private transportation for the tour. The tour operator offers the flexibility to organize a private tour with just your party instead of a larger group, but this may come at an additional cost.

Sum Up

The Cusco Full-Day Rainbow Mountain Tour offers a captivating experience amidst breathtaking landscapes. Travelers embark on a scenic journey, hiking to the summit of Rainbow Mountain while enjoying meals and expert guidance. Though altitude challenges require preparation, this tour promises an enriching adventure for those seeking to enjoy Cusco’s stunning natural wonders. With positive reviews and practical considerations, it’s an opportunity to explore the vibrant colors of this remarkable destination.