1-Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain in Cusco
PRICE FROM:
$ 25,00 USD
Per person
- GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is one of the most impressive and unique landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. In just one day, you can marvel at this natural phenomenon, famous for its vibrant colors reminiscent of a rainbow. At Explore Peru 360, we are direct tour operators, ensuring a high-quality experience with bilingual guides (Spanish and English), modern transportation, and meals included, all designed for you to enjoy to the fullest.
Additionally, this tour includes a visit to the Red Valley, a fascinating area that simulates a reddish desert, complementing the magic of Vinicunca. Don’t miss the chance to live an unforgettable experience with our exclusive Rainbow Mountain tour. Join Explore Peru 360, the direct operators, and discover the true colors of this spectacular destination.
Hotel or Airbnb Pickup Service:
Schedule: We offer pickup service between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. directly from your accommodation near the center of Cusco. Reservation Information: When booking, make sure to provide us with the name and address of your hotel or Airbnb. If you prefer to meet us at our office, please let us know. Updates: If you haven’t confirmed your accommodation at the time of booking, you can send us the details later at booking@exploreperu360.com.
End of Tour or Return:
Time and place: The tour ends between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. at Plaza Regocijo, just a few steps from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Additional transfer options: If you prefer to be dropped off at the airport or Cusco’s bus terminal, please inform us in advance. We’ll be happy to make the necessary arrangements.
Daily Departures and Reservations:
We have daily departures for this tour. You can book online through our website or directly at our office in Cusco. Reservations are accepted in advance or until 9:00 p.m. the day before the tour, accommodating both early planners and last-minute deciders.
Group size: Our groups range from 14 to 16 people, with a maximum of 18, and are always guided by a bilingual professional in Spanish and English. Tour meals: We offer buffet breakfast and lunch, catering to vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free diets, and other dietary restrictions. Let us know in advance so we can make the necessary adjustments. Free luggage storage: You can leave your extra luggage at our office in Cusco, open from 7:00 a.m. or at 4:45 a.m. on the day of the tour, so you can travel worry-free. Changes to your booking: You can change the date of your tour or switch to a similar tour (such as Palcoyo, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley, or the 7 Lakes of Ausangate) at no extra cost until 7:00 p.m. the day before the tour. Send us the changes by email at booking@exploreperu360.com.
Cancellations and Refunds:
Full refund: If you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour, you will receive a 100% refund. Partial refund: If you cancel within 24 hours but before 7:00 p.m. the day before, you will receive a 50% refund. No refund: Cancellations after 7:00 p.m. the day before the tour will not be refunded. How to cancel: Send us your cancellation request via email to booking@exploreperu360.com.
- ITINERARY
Day 1: CUSCO - CUSIPATA - RAINBOW MOUNTAIN - RED VALLEY - CUSCO
Detailed Itinerary for the Rainbow Mountain Excursion
Early Pickup: Our team will pick you up from your hotel between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. If you prefer, you can also choose to meet us directly at our office at 5:00 a.m.
Departure from Cusco: Once all participants are gathered, we will depart from Cusco at 5:15 a.m. to begin the two-hour journey to the town of Cusipata.
Breakfast in Cusipata: Upon arrival in Cusipata, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant, with plenty of time to rest before continuing.
Trip to the Entry Point: After breakfast, we will continue by vehicle for about another hour to the entry point of Rainbow Mountain, where an entrance fee of 30 soles must be paid.
Hike to Rainbow Mountain: From the checkpoint, the hike begins, which takes approximately 1.5 hours, gradually ascending from 4,700 m to 5,100 m at the summit. Here, you’ll have time to take photos, listen to the guide’s explanations, and interact with the local inhabitants. You will enjoy about one hour at the summit.
Red Valley Option: After taking in the views of Rainbow Mountain, you can choose to explore the stunning Red Valley. The entrance fee is an additional 20 soles. Alternatively, you can return via the same trail you used to ascend. The return hike through the Red Valley takes between 1 and 1.5 hours until you reach the meeting point with the vehicle.
Lunch in Cusipata: Once everyone is back in the vehicle, we will head to Cusipata to enjoy a buffet lunch around 1:30 p.m.
Return to Cusco: After lunch, we will begin the journey back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
This itinerary offers a complete experience combining spectacular landscapes, cultural interactions, and flexible options for your comfort.
Rainbow Mountain Hike Summary:
- Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers.
- Estimated Hiking Duration: Between 3 and 4 hours.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,100 meters above sea level.
- Expected Weather: Cold and windy conditions.
- Additional Note: At the checkpoint, before starting the hike, horses are available for rent to help with the ascent to Rainbow Mountain. The average cost ranges between 80 and 100 soles, and prices are negotiable.
- INCLUDES / EXCLUDED
- INCLUDED
Includes in Your Rainbow Mountain Tour:
- Round-trip Transportation: Travel in complete comfort from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain and back. We have a modern fleet of Mercedes Benz vehicles, specially designed for tourist services.
- Included Meals: Breakfast: Enjoy a selection of natural juices, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, and your choice of bread or pancakes with butter and jam. Buffet Lunch: We offer a varied buffet with options to satisfy all tastes.
- Tour Guide: All our tours are led by professional bilingual guides who speak English to enhance your experience.
- Safety Measures: We have first aid equipment and carry an oxygen tank for emergencies, ensuring that all participants enjoy a safe experience.
- EXCLUDED
- Entrance Fee to Rainbow Mountain: The entrance fee is 30 soles, collected by local communities and the government.
- Entrance Fee to Red Valley: The entrance fee is 20 soles. Make sure to bring cash to cover this fee.
- Personal Equipment: Personal equipment is not included, so make sure to bring everything you need for the hike.
- Tips: Tips for guides and staff are not included but are always appreciated.
Horse Rental at Rainbow Mountain
Availability and Assistance:
If you prefer not to do the entire hike, you have the option to rent a horse at the Rainbow Mountain checkpoint. The locals will be happy to offer you this service, and your tour guide can easily help you arrange it.
Cost and Inclusions:
Renting a horse to ride to the summit costs between 90 and 100 soles (approximately 25-30 USD). This includes a local guide who will lead the horse while you enjoy the effortless ride. If you prefer to descend on horseback as well, the additional cost is between 40 and 60 soles (approximately 10-17 USD).
Price Variability:
Prices may vary depending on the demand of the day. During busier times, costs may be higher, while on quieter days you might find better rates. It’s always a good idea to negotiate kindly! Remember that payments are made in Peruvian soles.
Animal Welfare:
It is very important to treat the horses with respect. We recommend choosing operators that ensure the animals’ well-being and make sure they are well cared for.
Photographic Memories at Rainbow Mountain
Local Culture and Animals:
During your visit, you’ll have many opportunities to capture memorable photos. Locals, often dressed in traditional outfits, are accompanied by llamas and alpacas, creating a colorful and authentic landscape that enhances your photos.
Cost of Photos:
If you decide to take photos with the locals and their animals, a tip of around 5 soles (2 USD) is typically given. This small amount helps the local community and ensures you have a unique keepsake from your trip.
- WHAT TO PACK
Tips for Your Adventure at Rainbow Mountain:
Prepare for Altitude: Rainbow Mountain is over 5,100 meters (16,000 feet) above sea level, so it’s essential to be ready for the effects of altitude. Remember to stay well-hydrated, rest sufficiently, and consult your doctor about altitude sickness medication if necessary.
Dress in Layers: The weather at Vinicunca can be unpredictable. It’s best to dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes. Bring warm clothing for the cold mornings, but also lighter clothes for when the sun is at its peak.
Choose the Right Footwear: While many complete the hike in sneakers, hiking boots are recommended for greater comfort and support. The trails are well-maintained, making the trek easier, but it’s always good to prioritize comfort.
Don’t Forget Sunscreen and Sunglasses: UV radiation is much more intense at these altitudes, so it’s vital to protect yourself with sunscreen and sunglasses.
Bring Water and Snacks: You won’t find any vendors during the hike, so be sure to bring enough water and some snacks to keep your energy up throughout the trek.
Carry Cash: Payments for entrance to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley are only accepted in soles, so don’t forget to bring cash.
Take Care of the Environment: Rainbow Mountain is an impressive and delicate place. Please help protect this beautiful environment by taking any waste with you and respecting the trails to minimize your impact on the ecosystem.
- PRICES
Prices for the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour 2024-2025
Regular Price: $29 USD per person
Promotional Price: $25 USD per person
Special Offer for Machu Picchu Tour Participants
If you already have a reservation for any tour to Machu Picchu, you can access a promotional price for our Rainbow Mountain tour! Simply select the promotional price option when making your reservation, and our team will verify your eligibility for this special offer.
Competitive and Consistent Pricing
We take pride in offering fair and consistent prices that align with standard rates in Cusco. Whether you book online or at our local office, the price of our Rainbow Mountain tour will remain the same. We are committed to providing you with superior service at all times, ensuring that your experience is worth every penny.
- HOW TO BOOK
Booking for the Full-Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
Online Reservation
How to Book:
- Click on the yellow “BOOK NOW” button to access our booking platform.
- Select your date: Choose the day of your trip. Daily availability.
- Complete Information: Fill in your details in the required fields.
- Payment: Proceed to payment with a debit or credit card.
- Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email with tour and payment details. Later, we will send you a second email with personalized and detailed information to help you prepare.
Reservation Deadline: You can book until 9:00 PM the day before the tour.
Online Booking Fee: A processing fee of 2.9% will be applied to the customer.
Reservations at Our Office
Location: Plaza Regocijo, Cusco. Our team will explain all the details of the tour and provide you with a map.
Payment Methods:
- Cash: We accept US dollars, euros, and Peruvian soles.
- Cards: Card payments are subject to a 3.9% commission.
Necessary Information:
- Full name
- Nationality
- Name of your hotel in Cusco
- WhatsApp number (with country code) for easier communication.
Terms and Conditions of Booking
Agency Cancellations:
If Explore Peru 360 cancels the tour due to weather or political reasons, we will refund 100% of the tour cost to the customer.
Changes to the Reservation:
You can modify the date of your tour or change to another similar tour (Palcoyo, Laguna Humantay, Sacred Valley, 7 Lagoons) at no cost until 7 PM the day before the tour starts.
Send any changes to: booking@exploreperu360.com.
Cancellation and Refund Policy:
- Full Refund: Cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour.
- Partial Refund: Cancellations between 24 hours and 7 PM the day before will receive 50%.
- No Refund: Cancellations after 7 PM the day before are not eligible for a refund.
How to Cancel:
Send your cancellation request by email to booking@exploreperu360.com.
Contact our travel advisor to use this itinerary (or others) as a basis for designing your perfect adventure in Peru together!
RELATED TOURS
We offer a variety of additional tours that maintain the same level of excellence and quality you expect. Discover new adventures and possibilities with us without compromising your experience! Our optional trips are designed to enrich your visit to Machu Picchu and other nearby destinations, always guaranteeing first-class service.
BOOK NOW
We do not need the personal details of all participants, only those of one representative.
We do not request any payment in advance until the availability of your reservation on the selected dates is confirmed.
Once availability is confirmed, we will send you an email from booking@exploreperu360.com with the link or payment methods available for your country.
Once your reservation is confirmed, we will take care of everything. We will be waiting for you on the day of your arrival in Cusco. If you have any questions or inquiries, please feel free to contact us.
