Venture beyond the historic streets of Cusco and discover the breathtaking natural wonders that await in the Peruvian Andes. This full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, taking you on a guided journey to the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain and the stunning Red Valley. With an early start and a delicious Andean breakfast to fuel your adventure, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the hike to the mountain’s summit, where the panoramic vistas are sure to leave you awestruck. What secrets do these vibrant landscapes hold?

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive full-day tour from Cusco to explore the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, with pickup and transportation included.
Tour offers English and Spanish-speaking guides, and includes Andean breakfast, lunch, and essential hiking equipment.
Hike reaches an altitude of 5,200 meters, with an optional additional hike to the Red Valley.
Tour suitable for travelers with proper gear and acclimatization, but not recommended for pregnant women due to high elevation.
Tour highly rated by previous customers, with highlights including striking landscapes and knowledgeable, supportive guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Full Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Peru’s Cusco region.

Priced from €21.14 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and includes pickup from hotels and Airbnbs in Cusco’s city center.

Lasting a full day, the tour is available in English and Spanish, and features a journey to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain as well as the striking Red Valley, with optional activities like horse rental.

Travelers can expect a well-organized experience with attentive guides and professional transportation.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco

Itinerary Details

Starting early in the morning, the tour kicks off with a pickup from hotels and designated meeting points around 3-4 AM.

The group then travels for 1.5 hours to the Cusipata District, enjoying an Andean breakfast along the way.

Next, they journey for 1 hour to the base camp before embarking on a 1.5 to 2-hour hike to the iconic Rainbow Mountain, with stops for acclimatization at the high altitude of 5,200 meters.

At the viewpoint, travelers can snap photos and take in the stunning scenery.

An optional hike to the Red Valley follows, known for its striking red rock formations.

Included Services

The tour includes a professional English and Spanish-speaking guide to lead the excursion.

They’ll provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the day.

Transport is by a comfortable tourist van with a maximum capacity of 18 passengers.

Breakfast and lunch are included, ensuring you’re well-fed during the adventure.

The tour provides essential equipment like oxygen tanks, first aid kits, and hiking poles to make the hike more manageable.

Entrance fees to both Rainbow Mountain and the optional Red Valley hike are covered, along with the option to rent a horse if needed.

Recommendations and Preparations

Although the Full Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is a remarkable experience, participants should prepare accordingly.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain reaches an elevation of 5,200 meters, so proper gear and acclimatization are crucial. Visitors should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sturdy hiking shoes. Sunscreen is also essential to protect against the intense UV rays.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women due to the high altitude.

With the right preparations, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Reviews and Highlights

With overall ratings of 5/5 from travelers, the Full Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley showcases the exceptional experiences offered.

Guides provide attentive tips, making the hike more manageable. Abundant, delicious meals keep hikers energized. The professional transportation ensures a careful, comfortable journey.

Travelers rave about the tour’s highlights – the striking red rock formations of the Red Valley and the breathtaking views atop Rainbow Mountain.

This full-day adventure is highly recommended for those seeking to witness these natural wonders near Cusco.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Early Departure and Andean Breakfast

Early pickup times beckon the start of this full-day adventure. Guests are whisked away from their Cusco accommodations between 3-4 AM, embarking on the journey to Rainbow Mountain.

During the 1.5-hour drive, travelers enjoy a hearty Andean breakfast, fueling up for the day ahead. The drive itself offers a glimpse into the stunning Andean landscapes, setting the stage for the breathtaking sights to come.

This early start allows ample time for acclimatization and exploration, ensuring guests make the most of their day amid the colorful splendor of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley.

Hiking to Rainbow Mountain

After the scenic drive, the group sets out on the hike to Rainbow Mountain.

The trek gradually ascends through the Andes, offering breathtaking vistas. As they climb higher, the thin air challenges their breath, but the guides provide encouragement and acclimatization stops.

Reaching the final viewpoint, the hikers are rewarded with the stunning sight of the multicolored mountain. They marvel at the vibrant reds, purples, and golds painted across the landscape.

With ample time to explore and capture photos, the group soaks in the serene atmosphere before descending back to the base camp.

Exploring the Red Valley

Departing the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, the tour group then ventures to the dramatic Red Valley. Known for its striking red rock formations, the Red Valley offers a unique landscape to explore. Adventurous hikers can take an optional trek through the valley, marveling at the rich hues and otherworldly scenery. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the base camp provides ample opportunities for relaxation and photography.

| Features | Description |

| — | — |

| Rock Formations | Vibrant red hues, sculpted by wind and water |

| Hiking Trails | Optional trek through the valley |

| Base Camp | Peaceful respite with photo opportunities |

| Wildlife | Andean wildlife like vicuñas and condors |

| Views | Panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains |

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food on the tour. However, a buffet breakfast and lunch are already included, so bringing additional food may not be necessary.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Travelers can book individually or in small groups, and the tour will operate with the number of passengers who have reserved. The van has a maximum capacity of 18 passengers.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day?

If the weather is bad on the tour day, the operator will work to adjust the itinerary or reschedule the tour. They’ll communicate with customers and aim to provide the best possible experience given the conditions.

Can I Pay in Local Currency Instead of Euros?

You can pay in local currency, as the tour price is in euros but soles are accepted. The provider is flexible and wants to make it convenient for travelers to pay in their preferred currency.

Is There Any Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can request a longer tour to explore the area in more depth, such as adding a visit to the nearby Red Valley for an additional fee.

Sum Up

This full-day tour from Cusco offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley. With early morning pickup, a delicious Andean breakfast, and a guided hike to the stunning heights, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Equipped with professional guides and essential gear, visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors and captivating beauty of the Peruvian Andes.