The Rainbow Mountain Tour in Cusco offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. Priced at just $20.59 per person, this 12.5-hour adventure includes hotel pickup, a guided trek to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, and an optional visit to the captivating Red Valley. With meals and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the diverse landscapes of the Andes. The challenge of the hike and the stunning vistas await those who dare to venture forth.

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Key Points

A 12.5-hour Rainbow Mountain tour in Cusco, Peru, priced at $20.59 per person with up to 29% savings.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, meals, a bilingual guide, and an optional Red Valley experience.
The hike to Rainbow Mountain is 2.1 miles (3.5 km) with an elevation of 17,125 feet (5,220 meters).
The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems, altitude sickness, low fitness levels, or those over 70 years old.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 26 reviews, highlighting the stunning landscapes, quality meals, and attentive guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Rainbow Mountain Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain, located near the city of Cusco in Peru.

The tour is priced competitively, with savings of up to 29% compared to the regular price. At just $20.59 per person, the 12.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, meals, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide.

Customers can also opt for the added Red Valley experience. The tour features flexible cancellation policies, allowing for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and a convenient reserve-now-pay-later option.

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

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a pickup from downtown Cusco hotels between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM.

After a 2-hour van ride to the Cusipata District, travelers enjoy a 30-minute breakfast at a local restaurant.

They then take a 1.5-hour van ride to the hike’s starting point.

Hikers embark on a 2.1-mile (3.5 km) trek to Rainbow Mountain at 17,125 feet (5,220 meters).

After 30 minutes at the summit, they can opt to visit the nearby Red Valley.

The tour concludes with a 45-minute lunch in Cusipata and a return to Cusco, arriving between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour are hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual tour guide, breakfast, and a buffet lunch with vegetarian options.

An oxygen bottle and first-aid kit are also provided. However, entrance fees, horse rental, personal snacks, and water are excluded.

Hikers should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, water, rain gear, and travel insurance.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, altitude sickness, low fitness levels, or those over 70 years old.

Sunglasses are required throughout the hike, and personal medicine for altitude sickness is recommended.

Preparation and Recommendations

Hikers should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, water, rain gear, and travel insurance to prepare for the Rainbow Mountain tour.

Sunglasses are required throughout the hike due to the high altitude and intense sunlight. Personal medication for altitude sickness is also recommended.

The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems, altitude sickness, low fitness levels, or over 70 years of age.

Participants should be prepared for the 2.1-mile (3.5 km) hike to the summit at 17,125 feet (5,220 meters), which can be challenging due to the high altitude and strenuous terrain.

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Customer Feedback

How do past participants rate the Rainbow Mountain tour?

With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 26 reviews, it’s clear travelers are extremely satisfied.

Highlights include the tour’s solid organization, stunning landscapes, quality meals, attentive guide, and manageable pace.

Reviewers noted the breathtaking views and the challenge of the high altitude as both highlights of the experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Exploring Cusipata District

As the tour van cruises through the picturesque Cusipata District, travelers can’t help but marvel at the region’s serene rural landscapes.

Nestled among rolling hills and snow-capped peaks, this quaint Andean town offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life.

Travelers can expect to:

Wander through local markets, where artisans showcase their handcrafted textiles and pottery.
Explore centuries-old Inca ruins, offering a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Interact with friendly locals, who are eager to share their customs and traditions.
Savor a hearty breakfast at a family-owned restaurant, featuring authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Hiking to Rainbow Mountain

The van’s ascent through the Cusipata District marks the start of the Rainbow Mountain hike. After a hearty breakfast, the group sets off on the 2.1-mile trek to the iconic peak.

The path steadily climbs through stunning landscapes, challenging participants with the high altitude. Yet the guide’s attentive pace ensures everyone manages the ascent comfortably.

The path steadily climbs through stunning landscapes, challenging participants with the high altitude, yet the guide’s attentive pace ensures everyone manages the ascent comfortably.

Upon reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the multicolored mountainside. Those seeking an additional challenge can opt to visit the nearby Red Valley.

Ultimately, the Rainbow Mountain tour delivers an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers.

Optional Visit to Red Valley

For those seeking an additional challenge, the optional visit to the nearby Red Valley presents a captivating opportunity.

This side trip offers:

A shorter, but steeper, hike to a breathtaking crimson-colored landscape.
Panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and unique geological formations.
A chance to explore a less-visited area and learn about the region’s natural beauty.
An opportunity to further test your endurance and appreciate the dramatic diversity of the Andes.

The choice to extend the tour to the Red Valley is a rewarding option for those craving an extra dose of adventure and exploration.

Things To Know

Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Restrictions?

The tour isn’t suitable for people over 70 or those with back problems, altitude sickness, or low fitness levels. A good level of physical fitness is required as the hike is 2.1 miles at high altitude.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Water During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional snacks or water during the tour. The tour excludes personal snacks and water, so individuals are welcome to bring or buy their own supplementary items as needed.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Taking Photos at Rainbow Mountain?

The tour allots 30 minutes for participants to take photos and admire the panoramic views at Rainbow Mountain. This provides ample time to capture the stunning multicolored landscape before continuing the journey.

Is There an Option to Rent a Horse for the Hike?

Yes, there’s an option to rent a horse for the 2.1-mile hike to Rainbow Mountain. The cost for horse rental is 100 Peruvian Sol, which isn’t included in the tour price.

Will the Tour Guide Provide Any Cultural or Historical Information?

The tour guide will provide cultural and historical information about the Rainbow Mountain and surrounding area throughout the hike. They’ll share insights into the local Andean heritage and the significance of this natural wonder.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain Tour in Cusco offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Andes. At just $20.59 per person, this 12.5-hour adventure includes meals, flexible cancellation, and the option to visit the captivating Red Valley. With stunning landscapes, a well-organized itinerary, and positive customer feedback, this tour provides an unforgettable and value-packed experience for travelers seeking to explore the diverse wonders of the Cusipata district.