Full Itinerary of the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour

We will pick you up at 4:30 in the morning from your hotel in Cusco city from any location inside the city center (Hotels, Airbnb, Apartments, or hostels) and drive you for 3 hours to the trailhead. Our chef will prepare a delicious breakfast for you with multiple options. You will have time to admire the scenery of the surrounding mountains while enjoying a cup of coffee or coca tea in preparation for the 5000 meters mountain hike ahead of us.

Following breakfast, we will set off on the 2-hour hike to the peak of Vinicunca Mountain (Also known as Rainbow Mountain). The trail is a gradual uphill with a steep incline in the last part before you reach the summit. 

Hike along the snow-capped peaks of the Ausangate Mountain range, the highest mountain in the Cusco region. Along the way, you will encounter hundreds of llamas and alpacas. Every meter we ascend brings us closer to the summit, with a more breathtaking panorama than the last.

You will need a warm jacket, headwear, gloves, and a great camera to record the beautiful views during this trip. The temperature will be freezing at the summit, so you need appropriate clothing.

At the peak of Rainbow Mountain, your tour guide will discuss the origin of the colorful hills, the Andes, and the significance of this mountain to the native people of the area.

After taking in the fantastic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes and Vinicunca's summit, which offers a breathtaking panorama in every direction, we will continue our journey by hiking additional 30 minutes to Red Valley, a region that tourists rarely visit due to its remote location. Here, you will find awe-inspiring landscapes that will take your breath away.

We will return to the trailhead; the hike is about 1 hour downhill, where our special picnic lunch will be waiting for us. After lunch, we will board the bus back to Cusco, arriving around 5.30 pm.

Our chefs will prepare the best traditional dishes of Peruvian cuisine using fresh local ingredients from the surrounding areas.

Schedule of Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley tour:

• 4.30 am - Pick up in Cusco city from your hotel
• 3.5 hours drive to the Trailhead
• 8:00 am - Arrival at the Trailhead for Breakfast
• Breakfast is around 45 minutes
• 9:30 am - Start hiking to Rainbow Mountain 
• 11:30 am - arrival at the top of Rainbow Mountain
• 12:00 pm - Start hiking to Red valley
• 12:30 pm - Arrive top Red Valley viewpoint 
• 1.00 pm - Start returning to the trailhead for lunch
• 2.00 pm - Lunch and return to Cusco
• 5:30 pm - Arrival back at your hotel

Times are approximate as it depends on the weather conditions, your speed, and many other external factors.

Additional services:

• You can book the Rainbow Mountain tour as a private one with at least 2 travelers.
•  For larger groups, send us a request, and we will send you a special quote
• You can rent a horse to hike to Rainbow Mountain
• Horse riding is possible on only 70% of the entire trail.
• For the 30% left, you need to hike.
• Return down the hill is not recommended to rent a horse. 
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free meals available on request

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley tour Packing list

Traveling to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley full-day tour, you will not need as much gear as a multi-day hiking trip. Here is a suggested packing list:

Essentials:

Make sure that you have the following items with you when hiking to Rainbow Mountain in Peru. 

• A small to medium-sized backpack (20-30 liters) to carry all your essentials.
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes with good traction
• Trekking poles (Provided bt TreXperience)
• Water around 2 liters (hot water if possible)
• Snacks
• Warm clothes
• Extra money in Soles to rent a horse, souvenirs, and tipping

Clothing:

Dress in layers, so you can easily adjust to changes in temperature.

• Moisture-wicking t-shirt
• Fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket
• Waterproof and windproof jacket or shell
• Warm hat and gloves
• Hiking socks
• Quick-drying shorts or pants

Personal Items:

• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit, including any necessary medications
• Toiletries, including hand sanitizer and toilet paper
• Camera or smartphone for photos

Price for Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour

Price per person   

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• USD$ 160  for a group tour
• USD$ 220  for Private tour (min 2)
• 4+ Travelers, contact us to get a special price

To book Rainbow Mountain, you must make an initial payment of 50.USD per person, the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or Cusco with any credit card at no booking fees at all.

• For larger groups, contact us to send you a special quotation: Info@trexperienceperu.com

Similar tours you might be interested in: 

• Humantay Lake Tour
• Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu Tour
• Classic Inca Trail 4 days
• Short Inca Trail 2 days

Rainbow Mountain Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I book with TreXperience?

If you’re looking for an adventure that will take you off the beaten path, Rainbow Mountain with TreXperience is the best choice. Here’s why:

1. We offer a truly unique experience.TreXperience is the only company that offers tours to see the stunning Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in Peru with picnic meals and expert chefs. This natural wonder is a must-see for any traveler looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience something extraordinary.
2. We’re experts in our field. Our team of experienced guides knows the area like the back of their hand and will ensure you have a safe and memorable journey to and from Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. They’ll also share their knowledge about this fantastic place, so you can learn more about what makes it unique.
3. We care about our clients. We want you to have the best possible experience when you travel with us, which is why we offer flexible itineraries and personalized service. We’ll work with you to ensure your trip is exactly what you’re looking for, whether adding extra activities or lengthening your stay at Rainbow Mountain.

Is Rainbow Mountain very Challenging?

Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is located over 5000 meters – 16000 ft; to reach the top of this mountain without having problems with altitude, you need to acclimate before. We recommend staying in Cusco for a few days before visiting this place.

You should plan your trip to spend a few days in Cusco, travel to Machu Picchu, and in the end, visit Rainbow Mountain. This way, you will have time to adapt to the altitude while visiting other places. The recommended order is as follows:

1. City tour in Cusco
2. Sacred Valley Tour
3. Trekking to Machu Picchu or excursion by train
4. Tour to Rainbow Mountain
5. You can also hike to Humantay Lake

The hike is not very challenging; it’s an easy 2-hike to the highest point of rainbow Mountain and another similar time to return to the trailhead. However, the altitude can make this hike challenging.

How many hours of the hike is the Rainbow Mountain tour?

You can reach Rainbow Mountain with a relatively easy 2-hour hike from the trailhead and a similar time on the way back.

Can I get altitude sickness?

Rainbow Mountain has over 5000 meters/16000 feet, and altitude sickness is a real problem many travelers will face.

To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, you should:

1. Take time to acclimatize to Cusco before visiting Rainbow Mountain
2. Start taking altitude medicine a few days before the hike
3. Drink plenty of water during the hike
4. Drink Coca tea that will be available during breakfast

There is no way to avoid altitude sickness; however, by following the indications above, you can reduce the chances of having problems with altitude.

When is the best time to hike Rainbow Mountain?

Peru has 2 seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. We recommend taking this tour during the dry season. However, we will have visitors all year round.

Recommend months to visit Rainbow Mountain:
April to December

Not recommended
January to March

How large is the group to Rainbow Mountain?

We organize small group tours of a maximum of 8 people. This way, you will have a personalized service.

We can organize larger private groups as well on request. In this case, we will provide 2 or more tour guides.

How far is Rainbow Mountain From Machu Picchu?

Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu are located at opposite sites; while Machu Picchu is located to the North of Cusco, rainbow Mountain is Located to the south of Cusco.

What to wear in Rainbow Mountain?

You need to bring warm clothes to this mountain, the weather is freezing in the mornings and when it is cloudy or raining:

Gloves, fleece jackets, rain gear, sun protection, hat, bennie.

Can I hire a horse?

Yes, you can hire a horse if you struggle or prefer not to hike; a one-way horse ride costs around 80 to 120 soles.

Important Information about Rainbow Mountain tours

Rainbow Mountain is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts. The mountain is known for its vibrant colors and stunning views. However, before you head out on your next adventure, you should know a few things.

Location

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Winikunka, is a peak in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco. Its name is from the stripes of red, purple, yellow, and green minerals covering the mountain's surface. The mountain is about 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level and is part of the Ausangate Region, located on the eastern side of the Andes in the Vilcanota Mountain Range.

Rainbow Mountain is located about 3 hours southeast of Cusco by car. The region is home to many indigenous people who have lived there for centuries. The area is also popular with tourists, who come to see the fantastic landscapes and learn about the culture and history of the site. The Rainbow Mountain gets its name from the colorful stripes that run down its sides. These stripes are caused by minerals deposited on the mountain over time. 

History

Mineral deposits cause the mountain's unique colors in the rocks, including iron oxide and clay. Weathering and erosion have exposed these minerals, resulting in the colorful appearance of the mountain. Locals first discovered Rainbow Mountain, then slowly, travelers going the Ausangate treks posted photos on social media. Since then, Rainbow Mountain has become a popular tourist destination, with thousands of visitors each year.

Weather

The weather on Rainbow Mountain is one of the most varied and exciting in the world. Situated in the Andes, the country experiences a wide range of climates. Rainbow Mountain is home to some of the world's most extreme weather conditions.

The average temperature on Rainbow Mountain is 15°C during the daytime; at night, the temperatures would drop below 0°C. The warmest months are December and January when the average temperature is 20°C. The coolest months are June and July when the average temperature is 10°C.

Rainbow Mountain experiences two seasons: a dry season and a wet season. The dry season lasts from May to October, and the wet season lasts from November to April. During the dry season, there is little to no rainfall, and the days are sunny and dry; however, the temperatures could be below freezing at night.

During the wet season, rainfall is more common, and the days are cooler and damper. Also, at night, the temperatures will not drop too much. 

Altitude

Located in the Andes Mountains, the mountain gets its name from its colorful stripes caused by mineral deposits. The mountain sits at an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), making it one of the highest mountains in Peru. Trekking to the top of Rainbow Mountain is no easy feat. The high altitude and challenging terrain make for a strenuous hike. However, the views from the summit are more than worth it. You can see stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the top. If you're planning on trekking to Rainbow Mountain, take proper precautions.

• Make sure to acclimatize to the high altitude before embarking on your hike.
• Drink plenty of water and pack plenty of snacks to keep your energy levels up.
• And most importantly, be sure to wear proper clothing and footwear.

With a bit of preparation, you'll be able to conquer Rainbow Mountain and enjoy one of Peru's most incredible natural wonders.

Difficulty

At 5,200m above sea level, Rainbow Mountain in Peru is one of the highest day hikes in the world. Most people who sign up for the Rainbow Mountain hike are unprepared for the challenges they will face. Most people underestimate the climb's difficulty, and as a result, many people turn back before reaching the summit. If you are considering hiking Rainbow Mountain, being prepared for a tough challenge is essential.

• Make sure you prepare for this hike
• Arrive a few days before the hike to acclimatize
• Follow the tour guide's instructions 
• Travel with a reputable company

Rainbow Mountain Tour map

Rainbow Mountain vs. Humantay Lake

Regarding natural beauty, few places in the world can compare to Peru. And when it comes to Peruvian destinations, two of the most popular places to visit are Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake. So, which one should you see? Here's a breakdown of what each has to offer:

• Rainbow Mountain: Located in the Cusco region, Rainbow Mountain is one of Peru's most popular tourist destinations. The mountain gets its name from its colorful striations, caused by a combination of mineral deposits and weathering. At an elevation of over 5200 meters, Rainbow Mountain is not for the faint of heart. The hike to the summit is challenging, but the views are more than worth it. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
   
• Humantay Lake: Humantay Lake is another popular destination in Peru. The lake is lower than Rainbow Mountain, at over 4200 meters. The hike to Humantay Lake is challenging, but unlike Rainbow Mountain, the trail doesn't offer many views. However, when you reach the lake, you'll be blown away by its turquoise waters and scenic setting. 

What to expect at Rainbow Mountain?

1. The hike to Rainbow Mountain is relatively short but very steep in the last part.
2. You can expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours hiking to the top
3. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area.
4. Be sure to bring your camera!
5. The descent back down the mountain is much easier than the ascent, but it can still be challenging if you're not used to hiking downhill.
6. It should take you about half an hour to reach the bottom.
7. Once you're back at the trailhead, you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
8. Last, it's time to head back home and start planning your next adventure!

Packing list for Rainbow Mountain

• A small backpack: You'll need a small backpack to carry your extra layers, snacks, and water on the hike.
• Hiking boots or shoes with good traction
• Extra layers: The weather can change quickly at high altitudes, so it's essential to pack additional layers that you can put on if necessary.
• Snacks: energy bars, trail mix, etc., to keep your energy up on the hike.
• Water: at least 2 liters per person.
• Sunscreen: the sun is powerful at high altitudes, so pack sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Sunglasses:  The sun is intense at high altitudes
• Hat: a hat will help protect you from the sun and keep you warm in cold weather.
• Camera: don't forget your camera to capture all the fantastic views!
• First aid kit, including supplies for blisters and altitude sickness

Tips for hiking Rainbow Mountain

Hiking Rainbow Mountain can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Acclimatize: Rainbow Mountain is located at a high altitude, so it's important to acclimatize before attempting the hike. Spend a few days in Cusco and do shorter hikes to help your body adjust to the altitude.
• Dress appropriately: The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring rain gear. You'll also want to wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction.
• Stay hydrated: It's essential to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at high altitudes. During our tours, we have coca tea and coffee at the beginning of the hike to warm up. 
• Pace yourself: Take breaks as needed and pace yourself to avoid altitude sickness. If you start to feel lightheaded or dizzy, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
• Respect the environment: Rainbow Mountain and Reed Valley are unique and fragile ecosystems, so make sure to stay on designated trails and pack out all of your trash. Avoid disturbing any wildlife or vegetation, and respect the local culture and customs.
• Hire a reputable tour operator: Look for tour operators with a good reputation and positive reviews from previous customers.

By following these tips, you'll be better prepared to hike Rainbow Mountain and can enjoy the stunning scenery and unique experience that it offers.