Set out on a captivating adventure with the "From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour." This 12-hour experience offers a chance to witness the breathtaking natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain and, for the adventurous, an optional trek to the stunning Red Valley. At just $22.00 per person, this tour provides transportation, meals, and a guided hike, making it an affordable and unforgettable addition to any Cusco itinerary. But what makes this tour truly special? Let’s explore further.

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Key Points

Full-day tour from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain and optional Red Valley, priced from $22 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Transportation from central Cusco locations, breakfast, guided hike to Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, and buffet lunch included in the tour.
1.5-hour trek to Rainbow Mountain viewpoint with panoramic views and sightings of alpacas and llamas along the way.
Optional 30-minute hike to nearby Red Valley available for additional exploration.
Professional guide assistance and necessary equipment such as first-aid kits and oxygen provided throughout the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour departs from Cusco and is priced from $22.00 per person.

The 12-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The 12-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Transportation is provided from central locations in Cusco, and the tour includes a breakfast stop, a guided hike to Rainbow Mountain, and a buffet lunch.

Visitors can also opt to visit the nearby Red Valley.

The tour is led by a professional guide and includes necessary equipment like hiking poles and first aid.

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Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from central locations in Cusco, including hotels, Airbnb accommodations, and bus stations, at approximately 4:30 a.m.

After a 2.5-hour bus ride to Cusipata, guests enjoy a 50-minute breakfast.

Then, they board another bus for a 1-hour journey to the trailhead of Rainbow Mountain.

The guided hike to the viewpoint takes around 1.5 hours, offering stunning landscapes with alpacas and llamas. Guests can also visit the nearby Red Valley for an additional 30 minutes.

After lunch in Cusipata, the tour returns to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 p.m.

Hiking Experience

Guided hikers embark on a 1.5-hour trek to the viewpoint atop Rainbow Mountain, showcasing stunning landscapes along the way.

Alpacas and llamas graze nearby as the path winds through vibrant, multicolored hills.

Reaching the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain.

For those who wish, a 30-minute optional hike to the nearby Red Valley offers a different perspective of the region’s unique geology.

Throughout the experience, the professional guide provides information and assistance, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure for all participants.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup from centrally located hotels, a freshly prepared breakfast and buffet lunch, and the services of a professional guide.

Transportation to and from the trailhead is provided, as well as first aid kits and oxygen for the hike. Hiking poles are also included to assist with the trek.

Visitors must pay the entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain (25 soles) and Red Valley (20 soles), which are covered by the tour price.

The tour ensures a comprehensive and seamless experience for exploring these stunning Andean landscapes.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Travelers are recommended to acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2 days prior to embarking on the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour, as the altitude reaches over 5,100 meters above sea level.

Travelers should acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2 days before the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour due to the high altitude.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, those prone to altitude sickness, or those with low fitness levels.

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and water. Smoking isn’t allowed.

A professional guide, first-aid kit, and oxygen are provided, and hiking poles are available. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

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Recommended Packing List

A few essential items travelers should pack for the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour include comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers like a jacket and hat, sun protection such as sunscreen and sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

The tour takes place at high altitudes, so it’s important to be prepared. Other recommended items include:

Snacks or energy bars
Camera or smartphone for photos
Hiking poles (can be rented or brought)

The tour operator provides a basic first-aid kit and oxygen, but it’s always a good idea to pack any necessary personal medications as well.

Cancellation Policy

Canceling the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour is possible, but it’s important to do so in a timely manner.

According to the tour overview, there’s a free cancellation policy that allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives you the flexibility to adjust your plans if needed.

However, if you cancel within 24 hours of the tour, you won’t receive a refund. The tour operator requires this policy to manage their logistics and ensure they can accommodate all confirmed bookings.

How to Book

Booking the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour is a straightforward process.

Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, securing their place without an upfront payment. The tour’s flexibility allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring hassle-free planning.

To book the tour, customers can follow these steps:

Choose the desired tour date and select the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option.
Provide the necessary details, such as the number of participants and any special requests.
Confirm the booking and pay the balance upon arrival or before the tour.

Things To Know

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

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch is already included in the tour package, so bringing additional snacks is optional.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Hike?

The tour provides restroom facilities during the hike. Participants can use the restrooms at the breakfast stop and the lunch stop in Cusipata. However, there are no restrooms along the hike to Rainbow Mountain itself.

Is There an Option to Rent Hiking Gear on Site?

Yes, you can rent hiking gear on site. The tour offers hiking poles, and there are also options to rent warm jackets, gloves, and other gear from local vendors along the hike to Rainbow Mountain.

Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco after the tour. The tour company doesn’t restrict the length of the traveler’s visit to Cusco. Travelers are free to explore the city further at their own pace after the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Large Groups?

Yes, the tour company offers discounts for large groups of 4 or more people. Customers can save up to 10% off the regular per-person price by booking a group tour. Discounts are applied at the time of booking.

Sum Up

Don’t miss this chance to witness the stunning beauty of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. For just $22, you’ll enjoy transportation, meals, and a guided hike to these breathtaking natural wonders near Cusco. Proper preparation is key, so be sure to acclimate and pack the essentials. Book your unforgettable adventure today.