Explore the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley on a guided day tour from Cusco. This affordable excursion includes hotel pickup, a scenic drive, and a challenging 3-hour hike to witness stunning vistas over 5,200 meters high. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, and a delicious buffet lunch refuels hikers after their trek. With a maximum of 15 participants, this intimate experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural wonders that draw travelers to this captivating region.

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Key Points

A full-day guided tour exploring Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley near Cusco, Peru, with hotel pickup, private transportation, bilingual guide, and buffet lunch included.
The tour price is $21.99 per person, saving up to 39% off the standard rate, and groups are limited to 15 participants for a more intimate experience.
The itinerary includes an early morning pickup, a 1.5-hour scenic drive with a breakfast stop, a 3-hour hike to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, and a return to Cusco around 4:30 PM.
Inclusions cover hotel pickup/drop-off, private transportation, bilingual guide, buffet lunch, local breakfast, and entrance fees, while requirements include proper hiking gear and acclimatization in Cusco.
The challenging 3-hour hike takes place at altitudes above 5,200 meters, with potential altitude sickness symptoms, making the tour unsuitable for certain individuals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley near Cusco, Peru.

It’s priced at an attractive $21.99 per person, a savings of up to 39% off the standard $36.00 rate.

The full-day excursion lasts 12 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The full-day excursion lasts 12 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Groups are kept small, limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

With early morning hotel pickup, travelers can make the 1.5-hour scenic drive to the trailhead, fueled by a tasty breakfast stop along the way.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Cusco might interest you

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with an early morning pickup, between 3:00 AM and 3:30 AM, from hotels located in Cusco’s historic center, excluding private residences, Airbnbs, and bus terminals.

After a 1.5-hour scenic drive with a 1-hour breakfast stop, the group embarks on a 3-hour hike, with a 1 hour 45 minute ascent and 1 hour descent, to visit the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

Following the hike, a buffet lunch is provided.

The tour then returns to Cusco, arriving around 4:30 PM.

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at Plaza Regocijo, private transportation, a bilingual guide, a buffet lunch, and a local breakfast. Entrance fees for Rainbow Mountain (30 Soles) and the optional Red Valley (30 Soles) are also included. Travelers should bring their passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and trekking shoes. It’s recommended to acclimate in Cusco for 2 days before the tour. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, or those over 65 years old.

| Inclusions | Requirements |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Passport/ID |

| Private transportation | Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen |

| Bilingual guide | Water, rain gear, trekking shoes |

Participant Restrictions

Although the Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Guided Day tour offers an incredible opportunity to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, it isn’t suitable for certain participants.

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old, pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, or those over 65 years of age.

The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, or seniors over 65.

These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests. Participants should be prepared for a challenging hike at high altitudes, which may be physically demanding.

It’s essential to consider these limitations when booking the tour.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

With an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 558 reviews, the Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Guided Day tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants.

Reviewers consistently praise:

Knowledgeable and engaging guides (4.9/5)
Comfortable transportation (4.7/5)
Excellent value for money (4.9/5)
Delicious and filling meals
Early access to the sites before crowds arrive

Travelers noted the tour’s ability to provide an unforgettable experience, with suggestions for even more time to explore the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Getting to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

Early morning pickups from hotels in Cusco’s historic center kick off the Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Guided Day tour.

After a 1.5-hour scenic drive, a breakfast stop fuels hikers before the 3-hour trek. The route ascends 1 hour 45 minutes to reach Rainbow Mountain, offering breathtaking views.

A 1.5-hour scenic drive brings hikers to a breakfast stop before the 3-hour trek to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain.

Continuing to the Red Valley, travelers take in the vibrant crimson-hued landscape. Returning to Cusco around 4:30 PM, the full-day excursion provides ample time to explore these natural wonders.

With early access and small group sizes, the tour ensures an immersive and efficient experience.

What to Expect on the Hike

The hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley requires physical preparation and a steady pace. Travelers should expect:

A 3-hour trek (1 hour 45 minutes ascending, 1 hour descending)
Hiking at altitudes above 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)
Challenging terrain with steep inclines and uneven paths
Potential altitude sickness symptoms, such as headaches and shortness of breath
Packing essential items like proper hiking shoes, water, snacks, and layers for changing weather conditions.

Maintaining a slow, steady rhythm and staying hydrated are key to successfully completing this high-altitude hike and enjoying the stunning vistas of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

How can travelers make the most of their Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Guided Day tour? Start by arriving well-rested and acclimatized.

Bring proper outdoor gear, including warm layers, waterproof jacket, and sturdy hiking boots. Stay hydrated and pack snacks to fuel the trek.

During the hike, move at a comfortable pace, stop to admire the views, and listen to the guide’s insights. Take advantage of the included breakfast and lunch to refuel.

Move at a comfortable pace, admire the views, and listen to the guide’s insights. Refuel with the included breakfast and lunch.

Most importantly, maintain a positive mindset and embrace the unique experience. With preparation and an adventurous spirit, this tour can create unforgettable memories in Peru’s stunning landscapes.

Things To Know

Can We Stop and Take Photos During the Hike?

Yes, participants can stop and take photos during the hike. The tour itinerary includes time for taking in the breathtaking views and capturing photos of the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

Is There an Option to Ride a Horse Instead of Hiking?

Yes, there is an option to ride a horse instead of hiking to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. Travelers can choose to take a horse for an additional fee during the tour’s ascent and descent.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Lunch or Is It Provided?

The tour includes a buffet lunch, so you don’t need to bring your own. The provided lunch is part of the tour package and is served after the hike.

Is There an Age Limit for Children to Participate?

According to the tour details, the activity is not suitable for children under 10 years old. The tour has participant restrictions that exclude young kids due to the physical demands of the hike.

Can We Visit Other Sites in Cusco After the Tour?

According to the tour details, the return to Cusco is around 4:30 PM, so there may be time to visit other sites in Cusco after the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific recommendations or schedule.

Sum Up

This guided day tour from Cusco offers a breathtaking adventure to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. For just $21.99, you’ll experience stunning vistas, a challenging hike, and a delicious buffet lunch. With a small group size and knowledgeable guides, this intimate excursion ensures an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s natural wonders. It’s an opportunity not to be missed for those seeking an awe-inspiring outdoor experience.