Cusco : Rainbow Mountain Tours Full Day Trek With Meals

Cusco’s famed Rainbow Mountain trek promises an unforgettable adventure for the intrepid traveler. This full-day excursion whisks you from the ancient city at the crack of dawn, leading you on a challenging yet rewarding hike to the stunning Vinicunca Pass. Along the way, you’ll marvel at the vibrant, multicolored slopes and encounter local wildlife, all while enjoying the rich cultural tapestry of the Chillca community. Though the trek is no easy feat, the breathtaking vistas and immersive cultural experience make it a journey worth undertaking.

Key Points

• The Rainbow Mountain Tour is a full-day trek from Cusco, priced at $33.43 per person, with a duration of 14 hours and available in Spanish and English.
• The tour includes transportation, a local guide, meals, and bottled water, while entrance fees and personal expenses are extra.
• The hike to Vinicunca Pass at an elevation of 5,200 meters offers stunning views of Cerro Colorado and Ausangate Mountain.
• Proper acclimatization and adequate preparation, including warm clothing and good hiking shoes, are essential due to the high difficulty level of the trek.
• The tour has received mixed reviews, with some issues noted regarding organization, communication, and undisclosed additional costs for side attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco offers an exhilarating day-long adventure to one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Priced from $33.43 per person, the tour lasts 14 hours and is available in Spanish and English.

Pickup from Cusco accommodations is optional, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes transportation, a local guide, meals, and bottled water, while entrance fees and personal expenses are extra.

Participants are advised to acclimatize in Cusco for at least 3 days before attempting the high-altitude hike.

Itinerary and Highlights

Around 4:00 AM, the tour departs Cusco, heading to Qollasuyo, Checacupe, and Pitumarca before the approximately 3.5-hour hike to the Vinicunca Pass at an elevation of 5,200 meters.

Trekkers will enjoy stunning views of Cerro Colorado and the mighty Ausangate Mountain (6,372 m). Along the way, they’ll encounter local wildlife like alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and Andean birds, including the majestic condor.

Stunning views of Cerro Colorado and Ausangate Mountain, with sightings of local wildlife like alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and the majestic condor.

The tour also includes a visit to the community of Chillca, allowing participants to experience the region’s vibrant culture.

Afterward, the group will return to Cusco by approximately 6:00 PM.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Although the Rainbow Mountain Tour includes several key components, there are also some notable exclusions.

The tour provides hotel pickup from Cusco’s historic center, transportation by minivan, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and a few basic meals.

However, the entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain itself aren’t covered, which cost 30 Peruvian soles for travelers and 20 soles for Peruvians.

Plus, personal expenses, tips, and the option to rent horses for the climb aren’t included in the tour price.

Participants should also budget for any additional food and water beyond the basics provided.

Acclimatization and Hiking Details

Given the high altitude of Rainbow Mountain, proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful and enjoyable hike. Visitors are recommended to spend at least 3 days in Cusco to acclimate before tackling this trek.

The hike itself is challenging, covering a total distance of 16 km (9.94 miles) with an elevation gain of 715 m (2,260 ft). The difficulty is high due to the altitude, so reasonably fit participants are advised.

Hikers should come prepared with warm clothing, good hiking shoes, sun protection, and extra food and water to ensure a comfortable and safe experience on the trail.

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What to Bring

Visitors should bring a few essential items to ensure a comfortable and safe experience on the Rainbow Mountain hike. Topping the list are:

Sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, sun protection, and ample snacks and water – the essentials for a comfortable Rainbow Mountain trek.

1. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction.

2. Warm layers, including a jacket, hat, and gloves, as the temperature can drop significantly at high altitudes.

3. Sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, to shield against the intense Andean sun.

4. Snacks and extra water, as the hike can be strenuous, and staying hydrated is crucial.

With these essentials in hand, travelers can focus on soaking in the stunning vistas of the Rainbow Mountain.

Customer Feedback

The Rainbow Mountain tour has received mixed reviews from customers, with an overall rating of 3 out of 5 based on a small sample size of 2 reviews.

Customers cited issues with the organization of the tour, particularly around pickup timing. Some also noted undisclosed additional costs for side attractions. Communication challenges with the guide regarding descent timing were another concern.

However, customers appreciated the food selection, especially for vegetarians.

Tour Logistics and Transportation

The tour starts with an early morning pickup from Cusco around 4:00 AM, whisking participants away in a comfortable minivan.

The drive takes travelers through scenic Andean landscapes, passing by quaint villages like Qollasuyo, Checacupe, and Pitumarca.

Upon arrival, the hike begins:

1. The trail gains 715 meters in elevation over 16 km.

2. The high altitude makes the trek challenging, so a reasonable fitness level is recommended.

3. During the climb, hikers can spot diverse Andean wildlife like alpacas, llamas, and the elusive condor.

4. The tour includes a lunch stop in the local community of Chillca before the return to Cusco by 6:00 PM.

Experiencing Local Culture

As the hike winds its way through the stunning Andean landscape, visitors have the chance to enjoy the rich local culture.

In the community of Chillca, they can observe traditional Quechua customs and lifestyles. Llamas and alpacas graze peacefully, while local artisans showcase their handcrafted textiles and pottery.

Visitors may even have the opportunity to interact with the welcoming community members, learning about their daily routines and sharing in their hospitality.

This cultural exchange enhances the overall experience, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and the resilience of its people.

Things To Know

Can I Rent Hiking Equipment On-Site?

Rent hiking equipment on-site? Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t include rental gear. You’ll need to bring your own warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and any other specialized equipment for the challenging trek to Rainbow Mountain.

Are There Restroom Facilities Along the Trek?

The tour has pit stops along the hike where there are basic restroom facilities. Hikers can use these facilities during the trek. However, the facilities may be limited, so it’s recommended to plan accordingly.

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

Yes, there’s an option to rent a horse for the hike instead of walking. Participants can pay an additional fee to have a horse carry them up to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.

Can I Purchase Snacks or Additional Food During the Trek?

Participants can purchase additional snacks and food during the trek. The tour provides a basic meal, but hikers are encouraged to bring extra provisions for the long day of exploring the Rainbow Mountain area.

How Do I Prepare for the High Altitude Conditions?

To prepare for the high altitude conditions, the traveler should spend at least 3 days in Cusco to acclimatize. They’ll also want to pack warm clothing, hiking shoes, and extra snacks and water to stay hydrated during the trek.

Sum Up

The Cusco Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek offers an unforgettable adventure for the adventurous traveler. Challenging yet rewarding, the trek showcases stunning views of the colorful mountains and local wildlife. Participants enjoy the local culture, making it a memorable journey filled with breathtaking scenery and enriching cultural experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: