From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek With Meals

Discover the captivating beauty of Rainbow Mountain with a full-day trek from Cusco. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience, blending stunning natural scenery, cultural insights, and convenient amenities. Set out on a 6-kilometer hike through the Andes, where you’ll witness the vibrant hues of the mountain and spot local wildlife. With round-trip transportation, professional guidance, and meals included, this tour offers an exceptional value for adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking landscapes.

Key Points

• The Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek from Cusco is priced at $30 per person and includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, guided hike, and meals.
• The 13-hour tour involves a 2-hour car journey, 1-hour trek, 105-minute sightseeing, and 45-minute guided tour, followed by a 1-hour lunch.
• The trek covers approximately 6 kilometers of hiking through the Andes with the opportunity to spot local wildlife and learn about Peru’s geology and flora.
• The hike includes a steep ascent towards the end, and optional horse rental is available for assistance during the trek.
• The tour includes entrance tickets, water, and professional guides, but tips for guides are optional, and horse rental is not included in the package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek with Meals activity offers an immersive experience for adventurous travelers. Priced from $30 per person, the 13-hour tour includes pickup from Cusco hotels, round-trip transportation, and a guided hike to the colorful Rainbow Mountain.

The multilingual excursion allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can opt to pay later, making it a convenient choice.

With an itinerary covering sightseeing, hiking, and lunch, this small-group tour provides a comprehensive Rainbow Mountain exploration in the Andes.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with convenient pickup locations at the Main Square, Plaza Kusipata, before embarking on a 2-hour car journey to the Cusipata District.

The tour begins with convenient pickup locations at the Main Square, Plaza Kusipata, before embarking on a 2-hour car journey to the Cusipata District.

From there, it’s a 1-hour trek to the Rainbow Mountain Cusipata Trail Parking.

The main activity is a 105-minute sightseeing and hiking excursion, followed by a 45-minute guided tour at Rainbow Mountain.

Afterward, the group returns to the Cusipata District for a 1-hour lunch.

The final drop-off is at Plaza Regocijo.

Itineraries are subject to change, but this comprehensive itinerary provides an overview of the day’s activities.

Hiking Experience

Approximately 6 kilometers of hiking through the Andes await trekkers, where they may spot condors, pumas, and various camelids along the way.

The trek provides an opportunity to learn about Peru’s unique geology and flora from knowledgeable guides. The highlight is the vibrant, multicolored stripes of Rainbow Mountain, an awe-inspiring natural wonder.

While the hike is challenging, with a steep ascent at the end, optional horse rental is available to assist those who need it.

Trekkers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and rain gear to fully enjoy this incredible outdoor adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This Rainbow Mountain trek includes hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast and lunch, transportation, entrance tickets, water, and professional guides.

However, please note that the meals may be simple due to limited options in the remote region.

Horse rental is available for part of the trek, but this must be arranged privately and paid for in cash (70 to 90 Soles). Tips for the guides are optional.

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Physical Requirements

Although not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with back/heart problems, mobility issues, or who use wheelchairs, the Rainbow Mountain trek is manageable for most moderately fit individuals.

The hike covers approximately 6 kilometers at high altitude, with a steep ascent towards the end. Proper preparation is essential – bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, water, and rain gear.

While horse assistance is available for rent, visitors should be prepared for significant walking. With the right gear and a reasonable fitness level, the stunning views of Rainbow Mountain make the trek worthwhile.

Recommended Attire

Proper attire is essential for the Rainbow Mountain trek. To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, hikers should come prepared with:

• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots or shoes with good traction

• Layered clothing, including a warm jacket and rain gear, to adapt to the changing mountain weather

• Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the high altitude exposure can be intense

Following this recommended attire will help hikers navigate the challenging terrain and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain.

Walking Conditions

The trek to Rainbow Mountain involves significant walking at high altitude, with a steep ascent towards the end. Hikers should be prepared for challenging conditions, as the trail can be strenuous and demanding.

The final push to the summit requires an extended climb, which may be difficult for those with lower fitness levels or respiratory issues. While the views from the top are breathtaking, the journey there requires persistent effort.

Travelers are advised to pace themselves and take breaks as needed. Proper footwear and clothing are essential to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably.

Horse Assistance

While the trek to Rainbow Mountain can be challenging, especially towards the end, hikers have the option to rent horses to assist with the climb.

Horse rentals can be arranged privately and cost between 70 to 90 Soles, payable in cash only. This horse assistance can help:

Horse rentals cost 70 to 90 Soles, payable in cash, and can alleviate fatigue and enable those with mobility limitations to reach the summit.

• Alleviate fatigue during the steep ascent

• Enable those with mobility limitations to reach the summit

• Provide a unique Andean experience for the journey

However, hikers should keep in mind that the horse rentals aren’t included in the tour package and must be arranged separately.

Things To Know

Is Altitude Sickness a Concern on This Trek?

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on this trek. The itinerary involves significant hiking at high altitudes, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness. Travelers should prepare appropriately and consult their guide about symptoms and preventative measures.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks, but the tour includes breakfast and lunch. Guides recommend packing light and focusing on proper hydration and layered clothing to manage the high-altitude hiking conditions.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are limited restroom facilities along the Rainbow Mountain trail. Basic pit toilet-style facilities are available at the starting point and at the mountain’s base. Hikers should plan accordingly for the 6-kilometer trek.

Can I Rent Hiking Poles for the Trek?

Hiking poles can be rented privately to assist with the trek. The tour doesn’t include pole rentals, but you can arrange them separately for 70-90 Soles (cash only) to help with the steep ascent.

Is There an Option to Shorten the Hike?

There’s no official option to shorten the hike, but visitors can rent a horse privately for part of the trek if they don’t want to complete the full 6-kilometer hike at high altitude.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek from Cusco offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. With convenient transportation, a guided hike, and all meals included, this adventure provides an immersive and hassle-free experience for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking stunning views, wildlife sightings, or a deeper understanding of Peru’s geology, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: