Exploring the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain can be an unforgettable experience. This one-day tour from Cusco offers travelers the chance to witness the vibrant hues of this natural wonder, as well as the option to venture into the serene Red Valley. With a range of inclusions and a flexible booking policy, this adventure promises to deliver an exceptional day in the Andes. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife that await on this remarkable journey.

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Key Points

One-day excursion to vibrant Rainbow Mountain and optional Red Valley in the Peruvian Andes, with highlights including stunning scenery and wildlife.
Tour includes transportation, meals, equipment, and a bilingual guide, with prices starting at $23.75 per person after a 5% discount.
Itinerary includes pickup from Cusco, breakfast, 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain, and return to Cusco with lunch.
Tour offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and convenient booking options.
Highlights of the experience include the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, breathtaking landscapes, and encounters with Andean wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Rainbow Mountain Tour is a one-day excursion that takes visitors to the stunning Rainbow Mountain and the optional Red Valley. Guests can save up to 5% by booking, with prices starting at $23.75 per person.

The tour lasts one day and includes a live, bilingual guide. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour lasts one day and includes a live, bilingual guide. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Highlights include admiring the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, stunning scenery, and possible wildlife sightings like llamas and alpacas.

The tour includes transportation, meals, and necessary equipment like walking sticks and first aid.

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Itinerary

Starting the day at 5:00 AM, the tour picks up guests from their hotel in Cusco.

The first stop is in Cusipata for breakfast.

Then, it’s off to the trailhead to begin the 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain.

Once at the top, guests have time to explore and take in the stunning, multicolored landscape.

After descending, the group enjoys lunch in Cusipata before the return trip to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 PM.

The tour drops off guests just one block from the Plaza de Armas.

Highlights of the Experience

Admiring the colors of Rainbow Mountain is a highlight of this tour. Stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings, including llamas and alpacas, captivate visitors throughout the trek. Hikers enjoy close proximity to the sacred Ausangate Mountain, reaching an elevation of 6,377 meters. The tour provides an immersive experience in the Peruvian Andes.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Colors | Vibrant hues of red, orange, and purple on the mountain slopes |

| Landscapes | Breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and rolling hills |

| Wildlife | Encounters with llamas, alpacas, and other Andean animals |

| Ausangate | Sacred mountain towering in the distance |

| Immersion | Opportunity to experience the Peruvian Andes up close |

Inclusions

As part of the tour, the package includes pickup from the hotel in Cusco, round trip transportation, and a bilingual guide to accompany the group.

Plus, the tour provides:

Breakfast and lunch
Walking sticks, a first aid kit, and oxygen
Entrance fee of 30 soles (approximately $9 USD)
Snacks for the hike

While the tour covers the essentials, it’s important to note that extra expenses may apply.

The tour offers a convenient and inclusive experience to explore the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the surrounding landscapes.

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Booking Information

Customers can reserve their spot on the Rainbow Mountain tour without the need for upfront payment.

Simply check availability for the specific dates and starting times that work best for their schedule. This allows flexibility in booking the tour.

Once a date is confirmed, customers can secure their spot on the tour and pay later. The operators offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing a full refund if plans change.

With these convenient booking options, customers can easily plan their Rainbow Mountain adventure.

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Getting to the Trailhead

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 AM, ensuring an early start to the day’s adventure.

From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to the trailhead, with a breakfast stop in Cusipata along the way. The journey to the parking lot includes:

A comfortable ride in a private or shared vehicle.
A chance to admire the stunning landscapes as you approach the trail.
A brief respite at Cusipata to fuel up with a hearty breakfast before the hike.

Once at the trailhead, you’ll embark on the approximately 2-hour trek to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain.

Exploring Rainbow Mountain

After the approximately 2-hour hike, visitors arrive at the stunning Rainbow Mountain. This geological marvel features vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, created by the oxidation of minerals in the soil. Visitors can explore the area, take in the breathtaking views, and witness the presence of local wildlife such as llamas and alpacas grazing nearby. The mountain’s proximity to the sacred Ausangate peak adds to the overall spiritual experience.

| Colors | Elevation | Viewpoints |

|——–|———–|————|

| Red | 5,200 m | Summit |

| Orange | 5,300 m | Lagoon |

| Yellow | 5,400 m | Glaciers |

Visiting the Red Valley (Optional)

If travelers have the time and energy, they can choose to continue their adventure by visiting the nearby Red Valley.

This optional extension offers a unique opportunity to explore a striking landscape of crimson hues and dramatic rock formations.

The key highlights include:

Witnessing the mesmerizing red and orange colors that paint the valley walls.
Spotting the diverse wildlife, such as alpacas and vicuñas, that call this region home.
Enjoying a serene and peaceful atmosphere, away from the crowds at Rainbow Mountain.

Visitors who opt for this add-on will be rewarded with a truly memorable and awe-inspiring experience.

Things To Know

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour can be quite chilly, with temperatures typically ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). Layers and proper hiking gear are recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day’s activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes breakfast and lunch, travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks if desired. The tour allows for personal preferences and packing light items for the hike.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements?

There are no age requirements, but a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The hike to Rainbow Mountain is approximately 2 hours and can be strenuous, so travelers should be able to complete this trek.

Can I Rent Equipment On-Site if Needed?

Hikers can rent walking sticks on-site if needed. The tour provider also supplies trekking poles, a first aid kit, and oxygen to support the hike to Rainbow Mountain. Adequate preparation and pacing are recommended to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Discounts for Groups or Families?

The tour provider offers a 5% discount for groups of 5 or more. Families can also save with the discounted rate. It’s best to check the website or contact the provider directly for the latest group pricing information.

Sum Up

This one-day tour offers a chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain and the optional exploration of the stunning Red Valley. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and essential equipment included, it’s an accessible and well-organized adventure. Whether you choose to visit just the main attraction or add the Red Valley, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for any traveler.