Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain is a sight to behold, and the early-access tour with Red Valley promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, a delectable breakfast, and a guided hike through vibrant landscapes. With a flexible cancellation policy and a small group size, this tour offers excellent value for those seeking to discover the true beauty of this Peruvian gem. What secrets does the Rainbow Mountain hold, and how can one make the most of this Cusco adventure?

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Key Points

This tour offers early access to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, allowing visitors to explore these stunning landscapes before the crowds arrive.
The tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, a bilingual guide, meals, and entrance fees, providing a convenient and inclusive experience.
The 12-hour tour features a maximum group size of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.
Travelers can enjoy a flexible cancellation policy and pay-later options, providing added flexibility and convenience.
The tour is highly rated by previous participants, who praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking views of the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Although the Rainbow Mountain Tour offers a chance to explore the stunning natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain and the nearby Red Valley, the tour’s pricing and package details are also noteworthy.

The tour is priced from $24.96 to $39.00 per person, a 36% discount, and lasts 12 hours with a group size limited to 15 participants. Included are hotel pickup, private transportation, a bilingual guide, meals, and entrance fees.

Travelers can also opt for a saddle horse at an additional cost. The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation and pay-later options, makes it an attractive choice for visitors.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early morning pickup between 3:00 AM and 3:30 AM from hotels in the historic center of Cusco, excluding private residences and Airbnbs. After a brief stop for breakfast in Cusipata, the bus journey continues to Fulawasipata, where participants enjoy a quick introduction before embarking on the guided hike to Rainbow Mountain and the nearby Red Valley. The hike takes approximately 3 hours in total, with stunning vistas along the way. Upon return, a buffet lunch is served in Cusipata before the group heads back to Cusco, arriving around 4:30 PM.

| Itinerary Highlight | Duration |

| — | — |

| Breakfast stop in Cusipata | 1 hour |

| Bus journey to Fulawasipata | 1 hour |

| Guided hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley | 3 hours |

| Buffet lunch in Cusipata | 1 hour |

Included in Tour

The tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Participants receive hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as private transportation throughout the day. A bilingual professional guide accompanies the group, providing insights and assistance.

Breakfast and a buffet lunch are included, fueling hikers for the adventure. For safety, the tour provides a first aid kit and oxygen masks.

Entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain and the optional Red Valley reserve area are covered. Travelers can also arrange for a saddle horse at an additional cost if they prefer not to hike the full distance.

Preparation and Recommendations

Travelers are recommended to stay in Cusco for at least 2 days prior to the tour to allow for proper altitude acclimatization.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley takes around 3 hours total.

Suggested items to bring include a passport or ID, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water, rain gear, a small backpack, and trekking shoes.

The tour provides a first aid kit and oxygen masks, but hikers should be prepared for the high-altitude trek.

With proper preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and vibrant colors of these Andean peaks.

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Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s friendly guides and stunning vistas, with a few suggesting a lunch-free option and including the entrance fees in the ticket price.

The tour boasts an impressive 4.7/5 overall rating based on 476 reviews.

Highlights include:

Knowledgeable, personable guides who enhance the experience.
Breathtaking views of the multicolored Rainbow Mountain and the lesser-known Red Valley.
Excellent value for money, with a savings of up to 36% compared to the full price.

Feedback emphasizes the tour’s ability to deliver an unforgettable adventure, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Cusco.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Why Choose the Early-Access Tour

Why opt for the Early-Access Rainbow Mountain Tour?

You’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the stunning vistas in solitude. Depart Cusco at the crack of dawn, savor a hearty breakfast, and begin your hike when the mountain is at its most serene.

As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the multicolored slopes, with few fellow trekkers in sight.

This early-access tour ensures you experience the rainbow-hued majesty of Rainbow Mountain and the adjacent Red Valley in blissful tranquility, before the later crowds arrive.

Experience the rainbow-hued majesty of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in blissful tranquility, before the later crowds arrive.

A truly magical, crowd-free adventure awaits.

Capturing the Rainbow Mountain Experience

How does one truly capture the breathtaking experience of Rainbow Mountain? With its vibrant hues, cascading ridges, and unparalleled vistas, this natural wonder simply defies description.

Here are three ways to learn about the grandeur:

Witness the sunrise – As the first rays break over the horizon, the mountain transforms, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the landscape. This is a sight you’ll remember long after the trek.
Savor the journey – The hike up is as rewarding as the summit. Marvel at the changing terrain, spot local wildlife, and connect with your fellow trekkers.
Capture the moment – Snap photos that will do justice to this incredible place, but also take time to simply gaze in awe. Let the beauty sink in and create lasting memories.

Extending Your Cusco Adventure

After marveling at the splendor of Rainbow Mountain, travelers may find themselves eager to further explore the vibrant city of Cusco and its surrounding Andean wonders.

The city’s colonial architecture, bustling markets, and rich Inca heritage offer endless opportunities for discovery. Visitors can trek to ancient ruins, enjoy local culture, and savor the region’s renowned cuisine.

Beyond Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu beckon, promising breathtaking landscapes and a deeper connection to Peru’s past.

With ample time and a spirit of adventure, this Cusco tour can mark the start of an unforgettable Peruvian odyssey.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour doesn’t provide a full meal, so bringing your own snacks and water is recommended to stay fueled during the hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no stated minimum age requirement for this tour. However, the challenging hike may not be suitable for very young children. The tour provider recommends this experience for participants aged 6 and up who are reasonably fit and accustomed to high altitudes.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Visit Other Sites?

The tour company allows some flexibility to modify the itinerary, but changes may incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the company beforehand to discuss options and pricing for visiting other sites during the tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can easily cancel their booking and get their money back if their plans change, providing them with flexibility and peace of mind.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Hidden Fees?

The tour includes all necessary entrance fees and transportation. There are no hidden fees, though visitors can opt to rent a saddle horse for an additional 70 Soles. The pricing is transparent and good value for money.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain Early-Access Tour with Red Valley is a must-do adventure for anyone visiting Cusco. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a small group, travelers can soak in the breathtaking beauty of this vibrant landscape without the crowds. Whether you’re seeking a challenging hike or simply want to capture stunning photographs, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural wonders of Peru.