The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Full-Day Tour from Cusco is an exhilarating adventure for the outdoor enthusiast. Priced at $22.99 per person, this 12-hour excursion promises stunning landscapes and a challenging hike to 5,200 meters. With high customer ratings, the tour’s knowledgeable guides and excellent service ensure a memorable experience. But the real question is – are you ready to take on this physical challenge and witness the breathtaking beauty of these natural wonders?

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Key Points

A full-day tour of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in Cusco, Peru, available in both Spanish and English.
Tour prices start from $22.99 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include an early morning pickup, a 2-hour journey to Cusipata, a 4 km hike to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, and a return to Cusco.
Tour includes a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, transportation, and necessary equipment like a first aid kit and trekking poles.
Participants should consider their physical fitness and health, as the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or individuals over 70.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Full-Day Tour is offered in Cusco, with prices starting from $22.99 per person.

The tour lasts 12 hours and is available in Spanish and English. Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is also available.

The tour lasts 12 hours and is available in Spanish and English. Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is also available.

The tour includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, transport, and essential hiking gear.

While the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is included, visiting the Red Valley incurs an additional cost.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, the mobility-impaired, or the elderly.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early pickup from hotels in historic Cusco, with a meeting point for those not staying in the city center.

Departing between 4:00-4:30 a.m., the 2-hour journey takes you to Cusipata for a 30-minute breakfast stop.

Then, you’ll begin the ascent to Rainbow Mountain, hiking along a 4 km trail to reach the 5,200-meter viewpoint. An optional visit to the nearby Red Valley is available for an additional fee.

After descending, you’ll return to Cusipata for a 30-minute lunch break before the 4-hour drive back to Cusco, arriving around 4:30 p.m.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

This tour includes a professional guide who provides commentary in both English and Spanish, a breakfast buffet, a buffet lunch, tourist transport, hotel pickup, a first aid kit, medical oxygen, and professional trekking poles.

The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is 30.00 soles, and the optional entrance fee to Red Valley is an additional 30.00 soles.

Horse rental is available for 70.00 soles one way or 40.00 soles for the return journey. Cold drinks, such as bottled water and soda, are also provided.

Recommendations and Restrictions

Warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, snacks, hiking shoes, rain gear, and comfortable clothes are recommended for this tour. The trek to Rainbow Mountain and optional visit to Red Valley pose certain restrictions:

| Restrictions | Details |

| — | — |

| Pregnant Women | Not suitable |

| Mobility Impairments | Not suitable |

| Respiratory Issues | Not suitable |

| Individuals Over 70 | Not suitable |

| Altitude Sickness | Oxygen and medical support provided |

This challenging high-altitude hike may not be appropriate for all travelers. Guests should carefully consider their physical fitness and health before booking.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

How has this Rainbow Mountain tour been received by customers?

The tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 139 reviews. Customers have praised the knowledgeable and helpful guides, with Sandro and Gorki singled out for excellent service.

The transportation has also been commended as comfortable, and the provided food quality is good. Reviewers have noted great communication from the tour operators and value for money.

However, this tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues or respiratory problems, and individuals over 70 years old.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Preparing for the Trek

Although the Rainbow Mountain trek presents a thrilling adventure, proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Firstly, dress in layers to accommodate the rapidly changing mountain conditions – warm base and mid-layers, weatherproof outerwear, and sturdy hiking boots.

Dress in layers to adapt to the dynamic mountain conditions – base, mid-layers, weatherproof outerwear, and sturdy hiking boots.

Secondly, pack a small backpack with essential items like snacks, water, sunscreen, and headwear.

Lastly, acclimatize to the high altitude by resting and staying hydrated in Cusco before the trek.

Exploring Rainbow Mountain

With their preparations complete, adventurers embark on the thrilling journey to Rainbow Mountain.

As the group ascends, the stunning multicolored strata of the mountain come into view. Guides share insights into the geological formation and cultural significance of this iconic natural wonder.

Reaching the viewpoint at 5,200 meters, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Andes.

Those seeking an added challenge can explore the nearby Red Valley, a crimson landscape carved by glacial activity.

Whether marveling at the main attraction or venturing further, visitors depart with indelible memories of this unforgettable Peruvian experience.

Visiting the Red Valley

For those seeking an added challenge, the optional visit to the Red Valley offers a unique crimson landscape carved by glacial activity.

Situated next to Rainbow Mountain, the Red Valley features:

Striking red rock formations and multihued sedimentary layers
A steep, 1-kilometer hike up to the valley’s main viewpoint
Stunning panoramas of the surrounding Andes mountains

Priced at 30 soles per person, the Red Valley excursion provides adventurous travelers a chance to explore Peru’s dramatic geological wonders beyond the iconic Rainbow Mountain.

Though strenuous, the journey rewards with unforgettable vistas of this rust-colored geologic marvel.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season from May to September. This ensures clear skies and optimal conditions for the hike, which can be challenging due to the high altitude.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

Travelers can’t directly store luggage during the Rainbow Mountain tour, but the tour company offers bag storage services at their office in Cusco. This allows you to leave any unwanted items behind while exploring the mountain.

How Difficult Is the Hike to the Viewpoint?

The hike to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint is considered moderate in difficulty, covering around 4 km and a 400-meter ascent. With proper preparation and trekking poles, most reasonably fit travelers can complete the hike, though it may be challenging at the high altitude.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no restroom facilities along the 4 km trail to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint. Hikers should plan accordingly and use the restrooms at the starting point before the hike begins.

Can I Rent Equipment On-Site Instead of Bringing My Own?

Yes, you can rent equipment on-site instead of bringing your own. The tour offers the option to rent horse rentals for one-way or round-trip at additional costs, so you don’t have to carry all your gear.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Full-Day Tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing stunning landscapes and vibrant colors. With a challenging 4 km hike, professional guides, and high customer ratings, this tour promises a memorable experience for those seeking a physical challenge. Priced at $22.99 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes breakfast, lunch, and transportation, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the Cusco region.