Tucked away in the stunning Andean landscape near Cusco lies a breathtaking natural wonder – the Colored Mountain and Red Valley. This day trip promises an unforgettable adventure, blending the region’s remarkable geology with interactions among local communities. Travelers can expect a scenic drive, a guided hike, and a hearty lunch – all for a reasonable price. But the true allure of this excursion goes beyond the itinerary, beckoning visitors to uncover the captivating tales that these vibrant, layered mountains have to tell.

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Key Points

This day trip from Cusco includes transportation, a professional guide, meals, and entrance fees to explore the Colored Mountain and Red Valley.
The tour involves a 2-hour drive to Cusipata followed by a 1-hour hike at an altitude over 15,000 feet.
Visitors can observe local wildlife, interact with community members, and reach the Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) at an altitude of 5,020 meters.
The tour provides an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes, including the majestic Apu Ausangate mountain.
Horse rental is available as an optional add-on to the day trip package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The day trip from Cusco to the Colored Mountain and Red Valley offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the South Valley region.

Visitors can explore the stunning natural landscapes of the South Valley region on a day trip from Cusco to the Colored Mountain and Red Valley.

Priced from $30 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, meals, and all necessary entrance fees.

Spanning one day, the excursion begins with an early morning pickup from central Cusco hotels, followed by a two-hour drive to Cusipata and an hour-long hike at an altitude of over 15,000 feet.

Travelers can observe local wildlife and interact with community members to learn about traditional practices before reaching the iconic Rainbow Mountain.

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Itinerary

The tour begins at dawn as participants are picked up from their central hotels in Cusco.

The group travels to the South Valley, first to Cusipata and then Phulawasipata. They embark on a 1.5-hour walk along a stream at an altitude of 4,626 meters, observing local fauna like Andean camelids and possibly the Andean cat.

Participants interact with community members to learn about ancestral customs and agricultural practices.

They then reach Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, at 5,020 meters, where they explore the area, take photos, and rest for about 30 minutes, taking in the views of the Apu Ausangate.

The return trek lasts an hour before enjoying a buffet lunch in Cusipata.

Rainbow Mountain Experience

Upon arrival at Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, participants find themselves at an impressive altitude of 5,020 meters (16,466 feet).

Participants arrive at the impressive altitude of 5,020 meters (16,466 feet) at the vibrant Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain.

The vibrant, multicolored layers of sedimentary rock create a breathtaking spectacle. Participants have about 30 minutes to explore the area, take photographs, and rest.

They can marvel at the majestic Apu Ausangate, the highest snow-capped mountain in the region, which towers in the distance.

This is a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

Return Journey

After completing the ascent to Rainbow Mountain, participants begin their return trek.

The trek back lasts about an hour along the same route they took earlier. As they descend, they’ll continue to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Upon reaching Cusipata, they’ll be served a hearty buffet lunch to refuel after the hike.

The tour then continues with the vehicle transportation back to Cusco, a journey of approximately 2 hours.

Throughout the return journey, participants can reflect on the incredible sights and experiences they’ve had during this unforgettable day trip from Cusco.

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Inclusions and Options

This day trip from Cusco to the Colored Mountain and Red Valley includes a range of amenities and optional extras.

The package covers transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, and a buffet lunch. Pickup from central hotels in Cusco is provided.

The tour also includes natural sticks and a mandatory entrance ticket. For an additional cost, guests can rent a horse for the trek.

The tour company advises checking availability for the desired date and number of participants.

With these inclusions, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences of the Colored Mountain and Red Valley.

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Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from central hotels in Cusco. Participants depart early, traveling to the south valley. The journey takes approximately 2 hours to reach Cusipata, then an additional hour to Phulawasipata.

Throughout the drive, travelers enjoy scenic views of the Andean landscape. Upon arrival, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour walk along a stream at an altitude of 4,626 meters.

This moderate hike provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and interact with community members to learn about their customs and agricultural practices. The transportation and logistics ensure a seamless day trip experience.

Guided Tour and Hiking

As the group arrives at Phulawasipata, the guided tour begins with a moderate 1.5-hour hike along a stream at an altitude of 4,626 meters.

The trail offers glimpses of local fauna, including Andean camelids and possibly the elusive Andean cat. Along the way, the guide provides insights into the community’s ancestral customs and agricultural practices, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage.

The hike culminates at the iconic Vinicunca, also known as the Rainbow Mountain, standing tall at 5,020 meters. Visitors have ample time to explore the breathtaking landscape and capture stunning photographs of the majestic Apu Ausangate.

Additional Activities and Recommendations

While the main highlight of the day trip is the hike to the Rainbow Mountain, the tour also provides optional activities and recommendations to enhance the overall experience.

Participants can choose to rent a horse for the hike, allowing them to conserve energy and enjoy the scenic views more comfortably.

The tour also includes a visit to a local community, where travelers can learn about the region’s ancestral customs and agricultural practices.

Afterward, a hearty buffet lunch is provided, featuring traditional Andean cuisine.

These additional elements create a well-rounded day trip that immerses visitors in the cultural and natural wonders of the South Valley.

Things To Know

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

Participants can bring their own snacks and food on the tour. The tour includes breakfast and a buffet lunch, but individuals may want to pack additional items for their personal preferences or dietary needs during the day’s activities.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum or maximum group size. It’s an organized day trip, so group sizes can vary. Travelers should check availability for their preferred dates to see the current group size options.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Requirements to Participate?

There are no age or fitness level requirements, but the trek reaches high altitudes. Participants should be reasonably fit and accustomed to hiking. The tour operator can advise on suitability for individual fitness levels.

Can I Purchase Extra Meals or Beverages During the Tour?

Travelers can purchase additional meals or beverages during the tour, though these are not included in the base price. Options may be limited to what’s available at the tour stops or nearby locations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Visit Additional Sites?

There’s no option to extend the tour or visit additional sites on this day trip. The itinerary is fixed, covering the Colored Mountain, Red Valley, and Rainbow Mountain within the specified 1-day duration.

Sum Up

Enjoy the breathtaking natural splendor of the Colored Mountain and Red Valley on this captivating day trip from Cusco. Witness the vibrant layers of sedimentary rock, interact with local communities, and savor a delectable buffet lunch – all for the affordable price of $30 per person. This unforgettable adventure will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: