Venture out on a captivating full-day tour to the renowned Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, Peru. This exhilarating adventure begins with an early pickup, leading you through stunning Andean landscapes. Culminating in a 3-4 hour hike, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain’s vibrant, multicolored striations. Enjoy hearty meals prepared by a private chef as you learn about the region’s rich culture and natural splendor. With an experienced, bilingual guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience – one that will leave you eager to uncover more of Peru’s hidden gems.

Contents show

Key Points

Full-day hike to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain (Ausangate) from Cusco, Peru with a trek duration of 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit.
Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, professional guide services, and all meals (breakfast, lunch, and snacks) during the tour.
Opportunity to enjoy panoramic 360-degree views and geological insights at the summit of Rainbow Mountain.
Group size limited to a maximum of 10 travelers with fluent English and Spanish-speaking guides.
Tour designed for participants with a moderate level of physical fitness, with options for horseback riding available.

Tour Overview

This full-day hike to Rainbow Mountain (Ausangate) from Cusco, Peru offers trekkers a chance to experience vibrant green valleys and interact with Andean locals.

The trek duration is 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit, where visitors can enjoy 360-degree views and learn about the mountain’s geology.

Meals, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks, are included. The tour also provides hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the services of a professional, fluent English- and Spanish-speaking guide.

A moderate fitness level is required, and optional horseback riding is available for those needing assistance.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco

Itinerary and Logistics

The tour begins with pickup from Cusco accommodations around 2:15 AM, followed by a 3-hour drive to the trailhead.

Before setting out, travelers enjoy a hot breakfast.

The hike starts in a verdant valley and gradually ascends to the summit. The total hike length is approximately 18 km, with the return trip taking 2.5 to 3 hours.

At the trailhead, a private chef serves lunch. Guests can expect to return to Cusco around 7 PM.

Optional horseback riding is available for an additional fee, providing assistance for those who need it during the trek.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price starts from $225.65 per person. This includes:

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco.
Services of a professional, fluent English- and Spanish-speaking guide.
All meals – breakfast, lunch, and snacks – during the tour.

Plus, local taxes and gratuities are covered.

Travelers can also opt for horseback riding at an additional cost of $25 one-way or $45 roundtrip.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility.

Guide and Group Information

Although the maximum group size is limited to 10 travelers, the tour provides a fluent English- and Spanish-speaking guide to lead the expedition. This ensures clear communication and a seamless experience for all participants.

The tour is designed for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, as the hike can be challenging. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Travelers should have a valid passport and be free of any serious medical conditions. Oxygen is available to address altitude concerns, making the trek more accessible for those who may need assistance.

Breathtaking Scenery and Views

Trekking through the verdant valleys en route to Rainbow Mountain promises hikers a visual feast.

The hike offers three awe-inspiring highlights:

Panoramic vistas of the snow-capped Andes peaks that tower above the lush, rolling landscape.
Interaction with Andean locals, who welcome visitors and share their unique cultural traditions.
The grand finale – the breathtaking reveal of Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant, multicolored striations as hikers reach the summit.

These unforgettable sights make the challenging ascent worthwhile, leaving trekkers with a deep appreciation for the natural wonder of this Peruvian gem.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Hiking Considerations

Hikers embarking on the Rainbow Mountain tour should prepare for a moderately challenging trek. The hike spans approximately 18 km, with a 3-4 hour ascent to the summit.

While the initial valley is verdant, the ascent requires a steady climb. Travelers should possess a moderate fitness level, as the high altitude can impact endurance.

Those needing assistance may opt for the horseback riding option, available one-way or roundtrip. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Guides provide fluent English and Spanish support, while oxygen is available to address altitude concerns. Proper hiking gear and hydration are essential for this scenic, but strenuous, excursion.

Reviews and Recommendations

The reviews for the Rainbow Mountain tour are mixed, with one review rating it 3.0 out of 5.

Praise is given for the breathtaking views and scenery, though some criticism is directed at the guide’s engagement and the quality of the lunch.

For those who may need assistance, it’s recommended to consider the optional horseback riding. Plus, oxygen is available for those concerned about altitude sickness.

Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain full-day tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Andes. With a professional guide, delicious meals, and stunning panoramic views, this tour provides an immersive experience in Andean culture and scenery. Hikers can expect a moderate challenge, but the breathtaking landscapes make the effort well worth it. For those seeking an extraordinary day in Peru, this tour is a must-do.