The Rainbow Mountain and optional Red Valley viewpoint in Peru’s Andes offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. This adventure takes explorers on a challenging 2-hour hike, rewarding them with panoramic vistas of vibrant, multicolored landscapes. Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, the tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and ample opportunities to capture unforgettable memories. But beyond the stunning visuals, this journey promises a deeper connection with the region’s unique cultural charm. What secrets might these ancient peaks unveil?

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Key Points

The tour provides a visit to Rainbow Mountain and an optional viewpoint of the Red Valley, lasting approximately 10 hours.
Pickup, transportation, bilingual guide, meals, and equipment like walking sticks and oxygen are included in the $35 per person package.
The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes around 2 hours, and an additional 30-minute walk through the Red Valley is optional.
The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or people over 95, and proper hiking gear is recommended.
Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures a comfortable and safe experience for participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a visit to the stunning Rainbow Mountain and an optional excursion to the Red Valley viewpoint. Priced from $35 per person, the 10-hour experience includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and meals.

Hikers will ascend roughly 2 hours to reach the colorful mountainscape, with opportunities for photos along the way. An optional 30-minute walk through the Red Valley is available.

Flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this an accessible adventure. However, it’s not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those over 95.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary

Pickup from hotels in Cusco occurs between 4:00 – 5:00 am, after which the tour heads to Cusipata for a breakfast stop.

After breakfast, the group embarks on a 2-hour hike to the Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, a bilingual guide provides guided commentary and ample photo opportunities.

For those interested, there’s an optional 30-minute walk through the neighboring Red Valley.

Following the hike, the tour returns to Cusipata for lunch before heading back to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 pm.

Comforts like walking sticks, first aid, and oxygen are provided throughout the journey.

Inclusions

As part of the tour, the package includes pickup from the hotel, round-trip transportation, and a bilingual guide proficient in both Spanish and English. The tour also provides breakfast and lunch, as well as walking sticks, a first aid kit, and oxygen for the hike. Entrance fees are included, with 15 soles for Peruvian nationals and 25 soles for foreign visitors. The tour is equipped to handle the needs of the participants, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Meals | Breakfast and lunch |

| Equipment | Walking sticks, first aid kit, oxygen |

| Fees | National 15 soles, Foreign 25 soles |

Important Information

Not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or people over 95.

Hikers should bring snacks and water for the trek. Drones aren’t allowed during the tour.

This is a challenging hike, with an ascent of about 2 hours to reach Rainbow Mountain. Guests should wear proper hiking shoes and dress in layers to prepare for the changing mountain weather.

The tour provides hiking sticks and first aid kits, and guides carry oxygen in case of altitude sickness.

Flexible booking options are available, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Highlights

One of the highlights of the tour is the 2-hour hike to the stunning 7-color mountain, Rainbow Mountain.

Trekkers are rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the vibrant, striped mountain once they reach the summit. The optional 30-minute walk through the Red Valley further enhances the experience, allowing visitors to witness the valley’s unique reddish hues.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable bilingual guide provides insightful explanations, helping participants fully appreciate the geological and cultural significance of these breathtaking natural wonders.

Flexible booking options make this tour an accessible and memorable adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Booking Options

The tour offers flexible booking options to accommodate traveler preferences. Visitors can reserve the tour now and pay later, which provides convenience and flexibility.

Guests can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. This allows them to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The tour is priced at an affordable rate of $35 per person, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Bring

Preparing for the hike to Rainbow Mountain and the optional Red Valley viewpoint requires a thoughtful packing list.

Bring plenty of water and snacks to fuel the journey. Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking boots to tackle the terrain. Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can fluctuate drastically.

Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Trekking poles can ease the strain on your knees during the descent.

Sun protection and trekking poles are essential for a comfortable and safe descent from Rainbow Mountain.

While drones aren’t allowed, a camera is a must to capture the stunning natural scenery.

With the right gear, adventurers can fully enjoy the beauty of this remarkable destination.

Restrictions

Although the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour offers an incredible opportunity to witness the region’s natural beauty, there are some important restrictions to consider.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or people over 95 due to the strenuous hike. Drones are also not allowed, as they can disrupt the wildlife and detract from the serene atmosphere.

Visitors should come prepared with snacks and water for the hike. By respecting these restrictions, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley.

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, typically from May to October. This period offers clearer skies and drier trail conditions, making the hike more enjoyable and safer for travelers.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator states that the tour is "not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or people over 95," indicating pets would also not be permitted.

Is There an Option to Rent Hiking Gear?

Yes, the tour provides walking sticks for the hike. While it doesn’t offer rentals for other hiking gear, you’re welcome to bring your own. The tour emphasizes flexibility, so you can wear comfortable clothing and footwear for the trek.

Are There Restrooms Available During the Hike?

Yes, there are restrooms available during the hike. Hikers can use the restrooms at the breakfast stop in Cusipata and at the base of Rainbow Mountain before starting the hike.

Can I Take a Horse/Mule up the Mountain Instead of Hiking?

Yes, you can rent a horse or mule to ride up the mountain instead of hiking. This option is available for an additional cost and can be arranged with the tour operator before the tour starts.

Sum Up

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain and the optional Red Valley viewpoint in Peru. This all-inclusive tour provides hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide to ensure an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, a challenging hike, and a delightful lunch as you learn about the stunning natural landscapes of this remarkable destination.