peru rainbow tours

The official information website of

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

Discover the beauty of rainbow mountain peru.

Welcome to the official website of Rainbow Mountain Peru, originally known as Vinicunca, found in the Andes mountains of Peru. Here you’ll find everything you need to know from the history and facts to the must-knows when climbing this increasingly popular travel spot.

Rainbow Mountain Peru Quick Tips 2024:

How to get there:

Take a tour from Cusco (not possible to enter the Rainbow Mountain park area without a tour - official tour operator mentioned below)

How to get to Cusco:

Fly with LATAM Airlines, or take Peru Hop Bus

Official Tour Operator:

Rainbow Mountain Travels - Click Here

When is Rainbow Mountain Rainy Season:

How to get there

Full details on all the ways to get to Rainbow Mountain and to Cusco as well!

General info

The extensive guide of Rainbow Mountain.

Top operators based on a series of traits including safety, quality and more!

Safety advice

Top tips to ensure you have the safest trip possible.

What to bring

Extensive list of absolutely everything you’ll need when visiting.

Ready to start your adventure?

Here are the top-rated tours based on safety, reliability and experience to Rainbow Mountain

REGULAR FULL DAY TOUR

by Rainbow Mountain Travels

PRIVATE FULL DAY TOUR

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN DAY TOUR

by Kantu Peru Tours

FULL DAY TOUR

by Alpaca Expeditions

Where is Rainbow Mountain?

We don’t only discuss the means of getting to the mountain from Cusco, but also your options getting from Lima to Cusco (for those who have just landed in Peru) and your options of trekking the mountain.

Join the adventure!

©  Rainbow Mountain Peru 2024

Rainbow Mountain Travels

Price: 49 USD

Rainbow Mountain Tour

By: Rainbow Mountain Travels

Main details:

Arrive FIRST at the Mountain

Entrance, transport, food & taxes all included

Group size: 6 - 18 people

English-speaking, expert local guide

Have any questions?

You can contact us regarding any questions you have about this tour or Rainbow Mountain in general.

• What’s Included

What to bring

• Important Info

A Rainbow Mountain Tour with Rainbow Mountain Travels is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We are the highest recommended operator for Rainbow Mountain Tours on Tripadvisor and on the official Rainbow Mountain Peru website. Read below for full information about our Rainbow Mountain Tour, from what’s included, the itinerary and everything else you need to know!

Brief Overview of Tour (full itinerary below)

Our Rainbow Mountain Tour starts early morning to ensure you are one of the first to arrive at the top of the Mountain and avoid the crowds!

Pickup at your hotel/hostel. Airbnb’s can choose to meet at the nearest hotel/hostel from our huge list of options.

Local Breakfast stop at Cusipata village, continue on to Fulawasipata where walk/trek starts. Our local expert guides will give you all the info and advice needed.

Walk starts at foot of stunning Ausangate Mountain Range. Trek uphill 1 hour to highest point of Rainbow Mountain at your own pace.

Free time at the Mountain to soak everything in, take pictures, learn about the Mountain’s history

Our Rainbow Mountain Tour ends with a beautiful descent of about 1 hour through the Mountain Range, followed by a delicious local lunch stop before returning to Cusco for drop off mid afternoon.

PRICE: $49 (includes all transport, taxes, guides, food and more! No hidden taxes or fees like other companies)

• Book in advance as tours tend to sell out fast!
• If you have any questions, Whatsapp us on (+51) 936 047 334 .

Rainbow Mountain Travels was established in 2018 and has quickly become the number 1 operator for the Rainbow Mountain. This is due to our high quality customer service, modern equipment and excellent transport. Many informal companies offer this tour and your once-in-a-lifetime experience can be ruined, so be very careful when choosing a company.

03:00am - 03:30am

Hotel/hostels pickups for transport towards Rainbow Mountain

03:30am – 05:00am

Departure from Cusco city takes approximately 1.5 hours to get to Cusipata

05:00am – 06:00am

Arrival and Breakfast in the district of Cusipata

06:00am – 07:15am

Start the uphill trek to Rainbow Mountain

09:00am – 09:30am

Arrival to the Rainbow Mountain. Spend some time at the top of the mountain taking in the view of the beautiful surrounding scenery

09:30am – 10:00am

OPTIONAL – Visit the Red Valley (does not include entrance)

10:00am – 11:30am

Return to the starting point where transportation awaits us

11:30am – 12:30pm

Return in transport to Cusipata district

12:30pm – 1:30pm

Go to a restaurant for lunch before hitting the road back to Cusco

1:30pm – 3:00pm

Takes about 1.5 hours to get back to Plaza Regocijo in Cusco 2 blocks from Plaza de Armas

YOUR ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE AWAITS

What’s included

• Pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco
• Private Comfortable Bus Transport throughout the day (Mountain is over 100km from Cusco)
• Professional Rainbow Mountain Expert Guide (fluent in English & Spanish)
• Local breakfast and a buffet lunch all included
• Entrance to the main Rainbow Mountain Area
• Oxygen tanks for any emergencies as we travel through high altitude (other companies don’t have this)

What’s not included

• Optional Red Valley Entrance of 20 soles ($7 approx) per person payable at the entrance
• Optional Horseback Ride payable to the horse trainer along the route

GOOD to know...

Red Valley has become a traveler favorite, with many mentioning it’s a MUST-DO on your trip. Make sure to add it on!

• Comfortable trainers/shoes for walking in
• Small backpack
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho

Important information

• It is recommended to not take part in the trek if over 60 years of age or in poor physical conditions. Due to the high altitude and steep climbing, it can be dangerous for your health. Other tour operators won’t tell you this, so be very careful.
• The tour operates as normal during December, January, and February, however occasionally visibility may be limited due to the changeable weather.
• Minimum age: 10 years old – must have parents’ permission

Cancellation policy

Rainbow Mountain Travels try to be as flexible as possible when it comes to changes or cancellations

CHANGES ARE FREE: Any changes to the tour date need to be done before 6:00 pm the day before the tour begins

NO SHOWS OR CANCELLATIONS: 90% refund on all cancellations with more than 12 hours notice (If you cancel the day prior to the tour before 6:00 pm Lima time or earlier, a 10% administration fee (+ the card fee) will apply). After this time, you are considered a no-show and there are no refunds as unfortunately its too late for us to sell your seat on the bus.

WARNING – Informal Cusco Operators: When being picked up, check with the guide to ensure your name is on their list. Many local companies go to hostels and try to persuade you to go on their tour even though you have booked with Rainbow Mountain Travels, and then charge you later in the day. Rainbow Mountain Travels is the best rated company for a reason!

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I book the tour in advance?

Yes! Rainbow Mountain Travels excellent reputation has meant that we are by far the biggest operator on the Mountain, but we do try to keep groups small, so to ensure your seat on the day you want to travel, it is recommended to book in advance.

I have not yet booked my accommodation…what pick up location should I select when booking my tour.

For now, select Pariwana Hostel, and then when you finally know where you are staying, email us 24hrs before your tour starts and we can get it updated on our system.

I cannot find my accommodation listed in the operator pick up locations when making my booking. What should I do?

Rainbow Mountain Travels pick you up from the hotel and hostel accommodation listed at the time of booking. This covers over 90% of the accommodation providers in the area. If you are staying somewhere that is not listed, or an Airbnb for example, look on google maps and try to see a hotel/hostel close to you and then see if that’s on our list. If you are still not sure, then drop us an email and we can recommend what pickup location you choose.

Can I rent a horse during this trek?

Yes, you can rent a horse for 90 soles approx for approximately 3 hours, but there are some parts that you will need to walk (approx. 20 to 40 minutes). If you want to hire a horse, you will need to inform the guide at the beginning of the tour and it is subject to availability. It is not possible to reserve a horse in advance, it must be done the day of the tour.

Will I have problems with altitude sickness on this tour?

The main question is whether you will have altitude sickness in Cusco or not. Not everyone gets sick in high altitudes, and it is difficult to predict who is likely to be badly affected by it. For most people, it is nothing more than a headache and a dizzy sensation that diminishes over a short period of time, 1 to 2 days for most people after arriving to Cusco.

If you want to limit your chances of getting sick, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, do not fly directly into high altitude – proceed slowly, allowing your body time to acclimatise as you ascend gradually. However, for many that is not possible, so it’s important to drink lots of water, and to slow down! This sounds simple, but both of these things are very important. Your body is struggling because you don’t have enough oxygen, so avoiding any strenuous activity is a good idea. Chew some coca leaves – the native people of South America have been chewing coca for centuries, thanks to its ability to alleviate mild altitude sickness symptoms. Coca leaves can be bought in any supermarket, and even souvenir shops or street stalls. Take altitude sickness pills (Soroche): these are sold over the counter all over Peru and Bolivia, and are just a few dollars.

OFFICIAL OPERATOR

Want to do a Private Tour? Cost from $89, click here for more info!

Start imagining your adventure

COMPARE TOURS IN SOUTH AMERICA

What make us different.

Verified Operators

No Middleman

Local Operators

Flexible Date Change

Popular Tours

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN FULL DAY

HUARAZ TREK

Rainbow Mountain was stunning, but I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much if I didn’t go with Rainbow Mountain Travels. From the second that we booked they made sure we had the ultimate experience

Cathal Mackintyre

Dublin, ireland.

While we were climbing the mountain our guide was extremely informative. The hike was hard but the colours snd the views were incredible! So worth it!

Simon Kinsella

Los angeles, california.

This place is magical, so worth the early start! Hundreds of colours, the natural beauty of this place is like nothing I have ever seen before! Truly a unique sight in the world. My photographs are incredible!

Sofia D’Aguanno

York, england.

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Peru's Rainbow Mountain Is an Incredible Display of Color — How to Visit

Here's what you need to know about visiting Rainbow Mountain in Peru.

Somewhere over the rainbow might just be in Peru . The South American nation is home to a spectacular array of natural sights , but one, in particular, has become wildly Instagram-famous in the past few years. Vinicunca, also known as Winikunka or Rainbow Mountain, is a striking geological landmark because of its colorful stripes which are made up of layers of 14 different minerals. Located in the Andes Mountains near the city of Cusco, the mountain has become a popular side trip for travelers on their way to and from the ruins of Machu Picchu.

Although many photos you see of Rainbow Mountain online suffer from over-saturation and over-editing, it is still a wonderful sight to behold with your own eyes. Far from dull, even on a rainy day, you can see the mountain's distinct and rare mineral stripes. If you want to visit Vinicunca and capture all the colors of Peru's Rainbow Mountain for yourself, here's everything you need to know.

What to Know About Peru's Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca, also called Montaña de Siete Colores (Mountain of Seven Colors), is located in the Andes in the Cusco region of Peru, and until 2013 when the ice that had always covered the mountain melted away, the colors beneath were completely unknown. The colors look more natural in person, but they're not dull either. You can still see the distinct red, yellow, green, and purple layers even in overcast light.

As HuffPost reported , the colors are a result of the ice that once covered the area. When it began to melt, the water mixed with minerals in the ground, turning the earth into the many colors you see today. Red areas are due to rust mixtures, yellows are due to iron sulfide, purples are from goethite or oxidized limonite, and greens come from chlorite.

Best Time to Visit Rainbow Mountain

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

The colors will be there rain or shine, but the photos you'll get on a sunny day will always be better because the colors will appear more distinctly under direct light. You can increase your chances of catching the mountain on a good day if you plan your trip during the warmer months between November and March. At this time, snow and rain are unlikely, which also makes the trek to the site less difficult. The next thing you have to think about is the time of day you arrive. On a super sunny day, taking photos at high noon will probably also wash out your photographs due to the excess light. The best time to visit will be in the morning or evening hours, either after sunrise or before sunset.

How to Get to Rainbow Mountain

To get to the Rainbow Mountain trailhead in Qesoyuno, you will need to drive three hours from Cusco. From there, you will begin a trek that will take approximately three hours. Between the difficult terrain and the altitude, you should expect a challenging hike, and traveling with a guide is strongly recommended. If you do not spend a few days in Cusco acclimatizing to the altitude, you risk getting altitude sickness on the trail. This can be very dangerous. It's possible to hike to Rainbow Mountain without a guide if you have your own transportation, but many people recommend going with someone who will be looking out for you along the way.

Rainbow Mountain Trail

Once you reach the base, it's about a two- or three-hour hike to the top and another three hours down to the base. The trek is challenging because of the steep inclines and loose gravel, so it is not recommended for beginner hikers or people with limited mobility. Additionally, the mountain sits at a rather high elevation more than 16,000 feet above sea level — 17,060 feet to be exact — so bring plenty of water and take your time on the ascent and descent. If you are feeling the burn a little too much, you may be able to pay a small fee to travel part of the way by horse with a guide.

According to AllTrails , the out-and-back trail clocks in at 6.2 miles in total and it takes an average of three-and-a-half hours to complete. Don't believe us on the altitude? Here's what a few people have to say in the AllTrails comments:

"Altitude was no joke! Had to stop every half kilometer to catch our breath even though it's relatively flat. The last kilometer to the peak is very steep and absolutely brutal," one hiker wrote. "The altitude is very tough," another added. "I recommend taking medicine beforehand. I took the official acetazolamide before going and I still had symptoms. This is a quick hike but tough because of the altitude."

How to Get the Best Photo of Rainbow Mountain

It can't be stressed enough: Many of the photos of Rainbow Mountain on social media have likely been heavily edited. While the mountain is most certainly gorgeous, it can rarely compare to the exaggerations you see online or in travel brochures. As long as you go into it knowing that the colors will be much softer than the most-liked social media post, you can still have an enjoyable experience and get your own photo of the remarkable Vinicunca.

For the best photo, start your hike in the early morning hours or around dusk. Not only will the temperatures be pleasant, but you'll also have the best light. These two times of day are known as the " golden hour ." On a clear day, the light becomes a gorgeous burnt orange hue and makes everything it touches look equally stunning. You can also think of different ways to photograph the mountain. Maybe try taking an extreme close-up of the earthen colors or photographing some of the hikers and locals you encounter (with their permission of course), or think about how you can juxtapose a blue sky to the mountain's many colors. Make it unique, and make it a special photo just for you without worrying about likes. That will end up being the best photo of all.

If you get home and are not happy with your image, you may consider downloading a photo editing app and softly editing your image — and we mean softly. Instead of changing colors completely, enhance the image by increasing the contrast and the exposure.

Guide to Rainbow Mountain in Peru: History, Hikes, Facts, Maps, and Tours

by Miguel Angel Gongora Meza | Feb 25, 2023 | 0 comments

The Rainbow Mountain is l ocated in the Cusco region of the Peruvian Andes, just three hours away by car from Cusco’s historic center, the Vinicunca Mountain, also known as the Rainbow Mountain or the Mountain of the Seven Colors, is becoming the main attraction to see after or before Machu Picchu. As you can guess, the mountain is famous for its natural and multicolored beauty at the astonishing height of 5,200 meters above sea level.

The Rainbow mountain of Peru is located in the vicinity of the snow-capped Ausangate, 140 kilometers by road south of the city of Cusco. It is part of the Vilcanota mountain range between the Cusco provinces of Canchis and Quispicanchi. It owes its rainbow appearance thanks to the concentrated sediments of minerals throughout the area that give it the colors turquoise, lavender, gold, and others.

It was only recently discovered due to the snow melting revealing the hidden gem that to this day is considered sacred by many. Since its discovery, Rainbow Mountain has been slowly gaining popularity and has even been included in National Geographic’s list of the top 100 places to visit before you die.

The Incas used to call some mountains “Apu”, and they attributed mystical powers to them. Most of these majestic mountains were covered with snow, among them one of the most outstanding was Vinicunca in the Vilcanota mountain range.

The year 2019 came to receive every day 1500 visitors in high season. It is expected to return to these figures in the near future.

Its popularity has grown in recent years to attract a third of the daily visitors to the ruins of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, also in Cusco, Peru’s main tourist attraction with 4,000 visitors a day.

There is a wide range of travel agencies to climb Rainbow Mountain. Most of them include meals and guides; however, you have to pay a supplement to rent a horse (optional) and entrance fees.

Depending on the length of the tour and the extras included, prices for the Rainbow Mountain tours can start at $50 and go up to $150.

What is the history of Rainbow Mountain?

The rainbow mountain’s public history really began a few years ago. Rainbow Mountain was completely covered with snow, making it impossible to fully witness its beauty.

Once the mountain’s existence became known outside of the local communities, it began to attract locals and travelers alike. First, with a couple of dozen people and now hundreds of visitors daily.

The formation of the rainbow appearance of Vinicunca is due to marine, lake, and river sediments transported by the water that once covered the area. These sediments date from between the Tertiary and Quaternary periods, approximately 65 million years ago. Over time, these sediments formed layers, which today are the famous colored layers.

The movement of the tectonic plates in the area raised the colorful sediments into large mountains. After this, the mountains acquired their striking colors due to oxidation and erosion of the minerals in the soil.

According to the study of the Directorate of Cultural Landscape of Peru, the pink or fuchsia color of the mountain is due to a mixture of red clay, mudstones (mud), and sand. While the whitish color is visible thanks to the sandstone (quartz stone) and limestone. A mixture of clay, calcium carbonate, and silicates has formed the purple or lavender tones. In addition, the red color is due to the argillites and clays present. Finally, the green tones are due to the clays rich in Ferro magnesium and copper oxide. While the yellowish-brown, mustard or golden browns are formed from limonites, calcareous sandstones rich in sulfide minerals.

The first thing that struck me about Rainbow Mountain was the colors that are not seen anywhere else. But it was not the only thing. It is one of those places where the journey is as surprising as the destination. Llamas, horses, and alpacas are scattered throughout the mountain range, along with local communities that help visitors discover the 7 Colors Mountain. The scenery along the trek is like the pictures; even the pictures don’t do justice. Add to this the natural and local history, and it’s no wonder it’s gaining so much popularity.

What does Rainbow Mountain mean?

As its name suggests, it is a mountain with 7 beautiful colors, but do not imagine the classic brown tones because they are intense colors: fuchsia, turquoise, lavender, and gold. These colors dye its slopes, forming perfectly defined stripes. It is a rainbow, in its own right, made mountain.

When did Rainbow Mountain get its name?

The locals traditionally know the rainbow mountain as Vinicunca, a word originating from the native language of Peru, Quechua, which translates as “mountain of colors.” The inhabitants of the area also call it Cerro Colorado.

What are the colors of Rainbow Mountain?

The colors of Rainbow Mountain are as follows: 

• Pink – Arose because of the red clay, mud, and sand.
• White comes from substances rich in calcium carbonates, such as quartzite, sandstone, and marlstone.
• Red – Formed by clays and clayey stones.
• Green and blue come from a composite of phyllites and more ferromagnesium-rich clays.
• Earthy brown – Composed of rock and magnesium. 
• Yellow – Composed of layers of iron sulfide.

A brief explanation .

Anyone can see the colors of the mountain and the fact that they all stand out so clearly. They don’t blend into each other, and it is clear to name each color that appears.

This occurred due to the erosion of the minerals inside the mountain due to volcanic activity and some tectonic displacements of the Nazca plates. Then, the earth was exposed due to a lot of natural elements by Mother Nature (Pachamama), such as rain, wind and even snowfall.

Eventually, all of this led to the creation of the Rainbow Mountain we see today.

For what purpose was Rainbow Mountain utilized and by what civilization?

The Vinicunca mountain is part of the Qoyllurit’i Andean spiritual center, the largest religious pilgrimage in the Peruvian Andes, which was recognized in 2011 as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity by Unesco. The Rainbow mountain is located on the way to Ausangate, the Sacred Mountain of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire.

What are the myths about Rainbow Mountain?

Listed below are the most important myths about rainbow mountain.

Myth of the Andean Duality . According to history, in ancient times, the Incas used to call some mountains “Apu”, and they attributed mystical powers to them. Most of these majestic mountains were covered with snow; among them, one of the most outstanding was Vinicunca in the Vilcanota mountain range.

The Incas gave Vinicunca a masculine character because it was considered that its foundations sprouted from a masculine energy, the same that fertilized the Pachamama. Nowadays, the inhabitants of the place consider Vinicunca a sacred mountain, so they perform rituals such as ‘the payment’ (grattitude offering) to the earth.

Myth of Salcantay and Ausangate.

The rich stories and traditions of Cuzco allow us to collect the myth of Salcantay and Ausangate on the Vinicunca route.

It is the classic story of brothers who take different paths: it is said that Salcantay and Ausangate were brothers who lived in Cusco, and after a harsh drought, they ventured into strange lands to save their people.

Salcantay went to the north and found the jungle, and there the forbidden love of Veronica; on the other hand, Ausangate went to the south, to the high plateau, and found great production of Andean products, and from there, he sent camelid meat, corn, potatoes, and others. This was the only way to save the people of Cusco. As witnesses of this story, we can find both mountains located in the Cusco region, silent narrators of a story that came to us.

Is Rainbow Mountain important to the history of Peru?

Rainbow is important to Peru’s history as it represents Peru’s amazing geological diversity, including dazzling snow-capped mountains, rugged natural outcrops, and otherworldly landscapes. Moreover, the local people consider Vinicunca a “sacred mountain”, so they perform rituals with high spiritual content in the form of offerings to Mother Earth, which turn the visit into an experience of great mysticism.

Where is Rainbow Mountain located?

The Rainbow Mountain is located on the road to the snow-capped Ausangate, in the Andes of Peru, Cusco Region, between the districts of Cusipata, province of Quispicanchi, and Pitumarca, province of Canchis.

What are the coordinates of Rainbow Mountain?

The coordinates of the Rainbow Mountain are: Latitude: S 13°52’8.518 Longitude: W 71°18’12.765

How did Rainbow Mountain become known?

The Mountain became known in 2015 after photos taken by tourists trekking the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.

It was only recently discovered due to the snow melting, revealing the hidden gem many consider sacred.

The Mountain has been gaining popularity and has even been included in National Geographic’s list of the top 100 places to visit before you die.

Some international and Peruvian media say that Vinicunca was exposed because climate change melted the snow that covered it.

However, many geologists do not support that claim 100%. Juan Carlos Gomez of Peru’s Geophysical Institute (IGP) told BBC Mundo that the Mountain was “partially” covered with ice and received temporary snow until the early 1990s.

“Semana” a Colombian magazine, indicates that thanks to Facebook and Instagram users due to the success and popularity of this phenomenon.

The Rainbow Mountain Cusco or Vinicunca Mountain is unique for its particular coloration. Above all, it is surrounded by mountains, snow-capped peaks, and small Andean villages for its immense picturesque and colorful landscape.

The formation of a mountain is due to the alterations of the terrestrial layer and the movement of the tectonic plates; these alterations have much to do with the environment, climate, and other external factors.

The conical shape of the mountains is because the ice usually forms on the top of the Mountain. Then climate change causes it to thaw and generate streams of water that flow into rivers or lagoons to mix with the ocean, depending on climatic factors. Because of this process, the Mountain is wearing away and taking its conical shape.

The geology of Rainbow Mountain dates back some 24 million years. At that time, there were movements of the tectonic plates by the alterations of the terrestrial layers; then, during the movement, there were different gullies between layers of mineralogical types or soils with a tremendous wealth of sediments of mineral rocks such as sandstone, halite, gravel, limestone ranging from ocher, green, mustard yellow, white and others. These minerals were collected one on top of the other until they were in the form of layers of different colors and mineralogical types.

The formation of these layers depended on the weight of each one of them; at the base was left the heaviest layer, and so successively, the layers were placed according to their weight.

The colors of the mountains are due to their mineralogical composition: the pink color is for the red clay, fangolites (mud), and arilites (sand). The whitish color is due to quartz sandstones and marl, rich in calcium carbonate.

The red comprises clay (iron) and clays belonging to the upper tertiary. The green is composed of phyllites and clays rich in Ferro magnesium. The earthy brown is the product of a fanglomerate composed of magnesium-bearing rock belonging to the Quaternary era. And the mustard yellow color for the calcareous sandstones rich in sulfide minerals.

What are the things needed to trek Rainbow Mountain?

Below is the list of the essential things to climb the Rainbow Mountain

• Rain gear  will be essential as the weather in Vinicunca is unstable due to the high altitude and harsh conditions.  
• Warm outfits  are important as the temperatures might drop below freezing. A quick dry or dry-fit baselayer to deal with the sweat and the cold at the same time is highly recommended. 
• A small backpack  to carry water, snacks and a camera.
• Coca leaves.  They are very helpful in minimizing the effects of high altitude such as dizziness and shortness of breath. 
• Water.  Take at least two litters of water, preferably warm water, in your bottle or camelback.
• Toilet paper.  When in Peru, always take toilet paper with you. Toilets on Rainbow mountain are basic for the most part. 
• Trekking shoes and socks  are mandatory on this hike as the weather conditions and the harshness of the terrain will demand sturdy footwear. 
• Trekking poles  are life savers when it comes to hiking rainbow mountain. They will be crucial when finishing the last part of the climbing to the top and provide lots of stability and balance on the downhill. 
• Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen  Tare essential due to the cold and extreme sunlight on clear days. 

What does the Rainbow Mountain map look like?

What is the geography of Rainbow Mountain like?

The geography and natural landscapes surrounding the Vinicunca Mountain are some of the most amazing and interesting in Peru. It is located in the vicinity of the snow-capped Ausangate, 140 kilometers by road south of the city of Cusco. Belonging to the so-called Vilcanota mountain range, about 5,200 meters above sea level.

The Vilcanota mountain range is a mountain range located in southeastern Peru that is one of the southern branches of the eastern Andean Cordillera. It is the second largest concentration of snow in Peru, with 469 glaciers in an area of 418 km2 and an average thickness of 28.7 meters deep. The mountain range extends for about 120 km through the departments of Cusco and Puno. It reaches its maximum altitude in the snowy Ausangate, at 6,372 meters above sea level followed by the Callangate, at 6,110 meters.

The Vilcanota mountain range is located about 85 kilometers southeast of the city of Cuzco. It lies between 13° 27′ and 14° 29′ south latitude and 70° 41′ and 71° 20′ west latitude, crossing the departments of Cuzco (provinces of Canchis and Quispicanchi) and Puno (province of Melgar). It extends in a northerly direction for about 80 kilometers and then in a westerly direction for about 40 km.

The mountain range is covered by extensive snow-capped mountains and glaciers, which in other times descended further south, on the plateau of Sibinacocha, drained by the tributaries of the Vilcanota River. It has a glacier surface of 418,43, being the Quelccaya glacier the most extensive of the mountain range. There are numerous U-shaped valleys and lagoons of glacial origin, closed by moraines. The main lakes are: Amayuni, Singrenacocha, Challpacocha, Armaccocha and Sibinacocha, the largest of the mountain range.

This mountain range gives birth to a very extensive hydrographic system. To the northwest, between the Ayacachi and central Vilcanota systems, the Paucartambo River is born, which later is called Yavero, to arrive as Urubamba to the Tambo River, which becomes Ucayali at the height of Atalaya.

The Qosñipata and Pilcopata rivers flow down from the north of this mountain range, descending to the Madre de Dios River at the beginning of the Manu National Park boundaries. In addition, the Marcapata and San Gaban rivers flow down from the east, the latter of which joins the Inambari and flows into the Madre de Dios River.

To the south of this mountain range, the Vilcanota River flows down from the Sibinacocha Lagoon, which is joined by the Paria and Santa Rosa Rivers to follow its extensive course northwest through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Besides being a mineral spectacle, the Vinicunca region also has beautiful examples of the typical flora and fauna of the high Peruvian Andes. Camelids such as llamas, alpacas and vicuñas are frequent in the area.

As for the flora, due to the altitude of this region, the ichu or natural grass of the Andes abounds.

What is the geological profile of Rainbow Mountain?

Before we learn about the geology of Rainbow Mountain Peru, we must understand how a mountain is formed.

The Rainbow Mountain Cusco or Vinicunca Mountain is unique for its particular coloration, surrounded by mountains, snow-capped peaks, and small Andean villages, above all for its immense picturesque and colorful landscape.

The formation of a mountain is due to the alterations of the terrestrial layer and the movement of the tectonic plates, in these alterations has much to do the environment, climate and other external. The conical shape of the mountains is due to the fact that the ice usually forms on the top of the mountain.

Then climate change causes it to thaw and generate streams of water that flow down to flow into rivers or lagoons to mix with the ocean depending on climatic factors. Because of this process the mountain is wearing away and taking its conical shape.

To learn about the geology of Rainbow Mountain we have to go back some 24 million years. At that time there were movements of the tectonic plates by the alterations of the terrestrial layers, then during the movement, there were different gullies between layers of mineralogical types or soils with a tremendous wealth of sediments of mineral rocks such as sandstone, halite, gravel, limestone ranging from ocher, green, mustard yellow, white and others.

These minerals were collected one on top of the other until they were in the form of layers of different colours and mineralogical types. The formation of these layers depended on the weight of each one of them, at the base was left the heaviest layer and so successively the layers were placed according to their weight.

The color of Rainbow Mountain

The colors of the mountains are due to their mineralogical composition: the pink color is for the red clay, fangolites (mud), and arilites (sand). The whitish, for the quartz sandstones and marls, rich in calcium carbonate. This information is according to the investigation of the Landscape Officer of the Directorate of Decentralization of Culture of Cusco.

The red is composed of clay (iron) and clays belonging to the upper tertiary. The green is composed of phyllites and clays rich in Ferro magnesium. The earthy brown is the product of fanglomerate composed of magnesium-bearing rock belonging to the Quaternary era. And the mustard yellow colour for the calcareous sandstones rich in sulphide minerals.

What are the Hiking Routes near the Rainbow Mountain?

There are 3 routes to get to Vinicunca Mountain (Rainbow Mountain).

Route 1. Checacupe to Pitumarca. It takes an average of three hours to climb up and 2.5 hours to descend. Hikers arriving in large buses use this route because it is the only one large enough to accommodate large vehicles. Route 2. Via Combapata also includes stopping at the “Bosque de Piedras.” The road allows smaller vehicles to approach the trail, so hiking takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Route 3. Via Cusipata, the newest route goes through the community of Cusipata. The road is narrow, and a small wooden bridge only allows small vehicles to pass. The hike is approximately 1.5 hours.

How many miles is Rainbow Mountain?

The Rainbow Mountain trail is 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long, which may not seem like much, but it makes it take longer to walk when hiking at altitude.

The altitude of the base of the mountain is 4,326 meters and the peak is 5,200 meters above sea level. To put it in perspective, Rainbow Mountain is higher than any other mountain in North America and its summit is about the same altitude as the base camp of Mount Everest.

The Rainbow Mountain is one of the highest treks in all of Peru. It is worth a visit and a hike because of the beautiful and incredible scenery.

When is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time of the year to visit the Rainbow Mountain or Vinicucnca is the by far the dry season; that is from April to Late November. 

The dry season. – This season runs from April to November and it is recommended that you make your trip to Rainbow Mountain during this time to see your surroundings at their best.

Rainy Season. – This is the season in which it is not recommended to visit Rainbow Mountain because the weather is rainy and there are usually thunderstorms, so it is risky to visit between the months of December to March.

You should avoid traveling when there is a chance of rain or snow. This weather will increase the difficulty of the trip and reduce the satisfaction of the sighting.

May to October is said to be the best time for hikers to see the colorful mountains.

The months of June to August usually have bright blue skies and Peru is filled with tourists. If you like to mingle with the crowds, you can plan your visit that way, but if you are not a crowd person, you can choose other options in the dry season time.

What is the climate like on Rainbow Mountain?

The climate in the Mountain of the Seven Colors varies according to the season in which it is, although in general the climate in the mountain Vinicunca is frigid since it is located at an altitude of 5200 meters above sea level, which means that it always has a climate and a cold and dry temperature. In the rainy season the weather is cloudy, rainy and cold, so the temperature drops to 5 ° C at night, and during the day has an average temperature between 10 to 15 ° C. Its temperature in the months of May to November varies between 7 and 12 °C in the daytime and at night it drops to less than 0 °C.

Where to stay at Rainbow Mountain?

Most travelers choose to stay in the hotels in the city of Cusco. You can also plan your stay there. After sighting the mountain of the seven colors, you can take an hour tour of the city and enjoy the admirable archaeological remains of the Inca Empire and Spanish colonial architecture.

The closest hotel services to Vinicunca are in the village of Cusipata. The hotels there are simple but pleasant .

What are the Rainbow Mountain tours?

There is a wide range of private agencies to climb Rainbow Mountain. Most of them include meals and guides; however, you have to pay a supplement to rent a horse (optional) and entrance fees.

Depending on the length of the tour and the extras included, tickets for Rainbow Mountain tours can start at $30 and go up to $100. Compare prices from different ticket providers below.

We present three recognized travel agencies that offer tours to Rainbow Mountain so you can compare and choose the option you prefer.

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TRAVELS

Rainbow Mountain Travels in the opinion of different travelers they provided the best service with the best guides, equipment and depth of information provided on the trek.

Friendly, attentive, bilingual guides with perfectly fluent English and extensive knowledge of all things Rainbow Mountain – First aid training Personalized tour with the safest and most reliable tour operator – early departure to beat the crowds and all the necessary equipment to ensure a safe hike. Day Tour

Duration: 12 hours

Price: 49 USD

Perfect for those who want to be the first on the mountain to get pictures without the crowds. The price includes all equipment, food, transport, guide services and entry fees, with much of it going to the local communities in the region. There are no hidden extras, unlike other companies.

Rainbow Mountain Travels | Discover The Colored Mountain

KANTU PERU TOURS

#2 recommended operator.

First aid kit and trained personnel on each tour.

They have all the equipment and bilingual guides with years of experience to help you with everything you need along the way.

Kantu Peru Tours – Tours to Machu Picchu – Machu Picchu Packages

FEATURES OF PERU

#3 recommended operator

He also leaves relatively early to be among the first to reach the top of Rainbow Mountain.

Professional and bilingual guides who will lead the hike. Safety equipment and emergency oxygen for each group.

All day long. Price:

Peru Features – Travel to Peru from Colombia, Machu Picchu Tour, Peru Tours, Peru Travel Plans

In its tours Rasgos del Peru considers a minimum age of 12 years (with parental authorization) and a maximum of 60 (with medical certificate of optimal health conditions) to take and guide travelers to the Rainbow Mountain.

What are the closest destinations to Rainbow Mountain?

The closest center to Rainbow Mountain in Peru is. This city is also a must-see destination if you visit Peru. It is also located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu.

OTHER ALTERNATIVES TO ADD TO YOUR ITINERARY NEAR THE MOUNTAINS

– Ausangate | Ausangate is absolutely beautiful and one of the most impressive landscapes in the Andes. The great mountains and the turquoise glacial lakes look breathtaking and out of the ordinary;

– The Red Valley : There are many tours that include Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley. The landscape is predominantly red and green and gives the feeling of being on another planet. Although the Red Valley is actually 15 minutes from the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, it is a 2.5 hour detour through the valley.

– Palcoyo Mountain : It allows you to leave Cusco at a more reasonable time, around 7am, and have to deal with much less crowds. It also looks absolutely beautiful.

How to get from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain?

The easiest way to get there if you do not have a tour to facilitate the process is to take the bus from Cusco to Sicuani. The ticket costs about 5 soles and the trip takes about 2 hours. You should get off at the Cusipata bus stop and from there look for a collective transport that will take you to Phulawasipata for approximately 15 soles.

After an hour, and after paying 10 soles, you can start the ascent. It is important to note that this option is only available in the morning, so time is limited.

Another way to get there is to stop in Pitumarca. It is the same bus to Sicuani, but it takes 3 hours to get there and costs 7 soles. Once in Pitumarca is a

matter of looking for a taxi to take you to Pampachiri, from where to start the trekking. The ascent can be done walking or on horseback that brings you closer to the best points where you can see the colors.

What you need to know before going to Rainbow Mountain?

Most people want to visit Rainbow Mountain because of its challenging route. It is the most common reason for hikers to try it. Hikers consider it a great challenge to hike high altitude mountains.

At an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level the hike can take up to 6 hours to reach the attraction. The hiking hours depend on your physical condition. Normally it takes 2 hours to reach the highest peak, but it is always important to think and calculate in some extra hours.

You can hire a horse at any time if you feel you can’t make it to the top on foot. To get used to the difference in altitude and other health reasons, you should arrive in the city of Cusco two days before (very important).

Hikers also choose to make a two-day visit to Rainbow Mountain. It is also possible to camp closer to the mountain and enjoy the mountain and the extraordinary scenery for a longer period of time.

On the highest summit of the Rainbow Mountain, the temperature drops below zero at night. It is advisable for hikers to be aware of this fact beforehand if they are planning to reach Vinicunca after a multi-day trek up Ausangate.

Care must be taken to maintain the oxygen level at such a high altitude. Normally, guides do not advise visitors to stay at the top for more than 10-15 minutes, as breathing becomes difficult due to the lack of oxygen.

At about 5200 meters above sea level, it is very difficult for some people to stay longer than expected.

SOME IMPORTANT ASPECTS TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT

Apart from the above, you should also know the following before planning any excursion to Rainbow Mountain.

o People often neglect the need for travel insurance. But, if you are trekking/ hiking at such a high altitude for the first time, altitude sickness might cause you some problems. It is always better to prepare beforehand.

o If you intend to rent a horse, make sure you take the healthiest ones. At such a high altitude the animals also succumb to diseases.

o You should take note of the weather in Vinicunca from time to time. Because it only takes an hour for the snowy weather to change to heavy overcast or blazing sunshine. The weather at Rainbow Mountain can change rapidly in a short time and is mostly unpredictable.

o You can bring your snacks as you won’t find any on the route. But, you must return with your garbage. You must take care of the surroundings and the environment.

o Check for qualified guides, oxygen tanks and first aid kits if you are travelling with a tour operator. You should also have a tour operator you trust.

o Most travelers choose to stay in the hotels in the city of Cusco. You can also plan your stay there. After seeing the mountain of the seven colors, you can take an hour walk around the city and enjoy the admirable archaeological remains of the Inca Empire and Spanish colonial architecture.

What is the Rainbow Mountain itinerary like?

A day trip to Rainbow Mountain should be considered as such. The pick up in Cuzco is very early, at 3am, then there is a 3 hour drive to the trailhead and, after several hours of hiking, you make the return trip. This can be very strenuous even for those who are in great physical shape, so for those who have the time, taking a 2-day tour may be a good idea. The 2 day tour program has a slower and more enjoyable pace. Not only does it cut down on the long drive to and from Cuzco, but camping closer to Rainbow Mountain allows you to adjust better to the altitude than in Cuzco, so you will feel better during the hike.

How much does it cost to visit Rainbow Mountain?

The cost of a trip to Vinicunca( also known as the Rainbow Mountain or Montaña de Siete Colores) in Peru can vary depending on the type of tour operator and service you choose. On average, you can expect to pay between $50-$150 per person for a day trip which typically includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes a snack or lunch. Some tours may include additional activities such as quad bikes, horseback riding, or visiting nearby attractions such as the impressive red Valley or Valle Rojo. Get the whole Rainbow Mountain experience with an exclusive service that offers much more than traditional tour packages. Enjoy top-tier amenities like private transportation, heating inside your vehicle, and a professionally trained English-speaking guide to ensure you get there first to maximize your adventure.

What is the best vehicle to visit Rainbow Mountain?

Due to the sinuous geography of Ausangate, it is impossible to build a road that leads directly to the 7 Colors Mountain. The only option is to complete the end of the trail via a 5 kilometer hike to Vinicunca. In the community of Pampachiri, the villagers rent their horses for approximately 100 soles (25 dollars). This is a one-way service. The only way to hire a horse is to negotiate directly with the villagers. There is no way to reserve one online. To get to Pampachiri and buy the ticket to the 7 Colors Mountain you have to follow the following steps:

– Hire a taxi or take a bus from the city of Cusco to the village of Cusipata. Buses leave from the Coliseo Cerrado on Huayruropata Avenue (cost 5 soles). The trip takes approximately 2 hours.

– Once in the town of Cusipata, you can rest before continuing the journey to the community of Pampachiri. There are “colectivos” taxis that provide this service (cost 10 soles). The trip lasts approximately 1 hour.

– In the community of Pampachiri you can buy tickets to the 7 Colors Mountain. You can also rent a horse or buy products before the hike.

– The hike to Cerro Colorado takes 2 hours depending on the physical condition of the visitor. The ascent is difficult, but worth it.

If you don’t have a tour booked, when you arrive in Cuzco you can bargain for a taxi for the whole day to take you to Rainbow Mountain. If you are in a group you can easily split the money between everyone, but if you are travelling alone, you can ask at your hostel/hotel if they know other people who would like to join.

Having a taxi for the day means you can negotiate the money as well as the pick-up time. You will have more freedom to enjoy the views if you arrive before the tour companies or later after they leave. They usually arrive at the lookout around 10am and 12am and leave at lunchtime.

The cost will be about 300 soles / 75 dollars approximately) for the whole day, plus entrance fees (10 soles / 2.5 dollars) and meals. It’s less economical, but I think it might be worth it if you’re in a group.

If you have a car, there is always the third option of going on your own, however, it is not advisable because the roads are not in good condition before reaching the parking lot of Rainbow Mountain.

How many hours should a person spend on Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain will take you a full day, but it is definitely worth the effort. The trip up there is an experience in itself and the incredible view from the top is the perfect way to end the adventure.

Vinicunca does not have a defined schedule. The visits are exclusive during the day and part of the afternoon, due to the extremely cold weather when the sun goes down.

The tours to the Mountain of the 7 Colors of 1 day have an approximate schedule of 14 hours (from 4 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

On the highest peak of Rainbow Mountain, the temperature drops below 0 (zero) degrees at night. It is advisable for hikers to be aware of this fact beforehand if they are planning to reach Vinicunca from a multi-day trek on Ausangate.

Care must be taken when trying to maintain the oxygen level at such a high altitude. Usually, guides do not advise visitors to stay at the top for more than 10-15 minutes, as breathing starts to become difficult due to the lack of oxygen.

What is the closest city to Rainbow Mountain?

It is from Cusco that Rainbow Mountain is almost always visited. Cusco is the closest big city, but there are also several ways to visit the mountain from there: by long distance bus, by local bus and by private tour/transfer.

All tours to Rainbow Mountain depart from the city of Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and the closest city to Machu Picchu and many of Peru’s most famous attractions.

This natural wonder is about 140 kilometers southeast of Cusco.

Duration of the trip: 6.5 hours.

It is possible, though rarely done, to visit Rainbow Mountain from Puno en route to Cusco. Buses leaving the Terminal Terrestre bound for Cuzco usually follow highway 3S north: ask to be dropped off at the village of Checacupe, which is reached after about 4.5 hours. From there, taxis are waiting to take you to the starting point of the trek: almost two hours of travel.

How is Rainbow’s past presented to visitors?

The Vinicunca Mountain, or Mountain of the Seven Colors, is one of the most amazing natural wonders on Earth. It is part of the Peruvian Andes and was hidden under ice and snow until recently exposing the geological wonder, which has now become one of the most popular attractions in the city of Cusco. It is possible to climb the mountain, but it is important to note the reason why we can now do so.

Peruvians believe that the mountain is sacred, this should be kept in mind when visiting and act respectfully in accordance with local traditions.

According to a Forbes article, “the rainbow coloration in the stratigraphic layers of Mount Ausangate is largely due to weathering and mineralogy. The red coloration of the sedimentary layers usually indicates iron oxide as a trace mineral. Just as a nail oxidizes and turns red when it rusts, iron-rich sediments change when exposed to oxygen and water”. These stratigraphic layers have been hidden and protected under the ice of a glacier in the Peruvian Andes and can only now be seen.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

The great and renowned magazine considers that Vinicunca has the undeserved reputation of looking better in photos than it does in real life: “However, when the sun shines, the peak also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors more than lives up to its nickname. A three-hour drive from Cuzco and a demanding hike to an altitude of over 4,000 meters will take you to the perfect spot from which to view the multicolored mountain. Sands of shades of red and yellow, pastel pink and mint green – caused by oxidized iron sediments – stretch over the peak. And while you’re unlikely to be alone, it’s worth climbing the last few metres for better views over the heads of other hikers. Afterwards, those who still have energy – and breath – can hike a little further to another descriptively named natural wonder: the Red Valley.”

Is Rainbow Mountain a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Rainbow Mountain is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, in the Cusco Region, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu along with the city of Cusco were the first sites in Peru to enter the World Heritage List of Unesco, on December 9, 1983.

Likewise, in 2014, the Qhapaq Ñan: the great Inca road, which connected Cuzco with the rest of the Andean world, was also named Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco.

Machu Picchu is listed as a Mixed (Cultural and Natural) World Heritage Site. Cusco is considered Cultural Patrimony of Humanity.

Peru has 13 sites inscribed on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), of which eight are cultural, two natural and two mixed.

In South America, Peru is the country with the second most registered sites, after Brazil, and the fifth in the Americas.

World Heritage is the title conferred by Unesco to specific sites on the planet for the valuable natural and cultural legacy they represent for humanity.

Is Rainbow Mountain in danger?

Rainbow Mountain has two serious risks in its near future that must be taken into account.

Concession of Rainbow Mountain for mineral extraction.

On March 16, 2018, the metallic mining concession Red Beds, which is located in the territories of the Cusipata and Pitumarca districts with an area that covers the entire Rainbow Mountain and overlaps with the peasant communities of Chillihuani and Pampachiri, was granted to the Canadian company Camino Minerals Corporation.

On May 21, after the rejection and indignation caused by the news, the company informed the Regional Government of Cusco of its renunciation of the concession. However, the Regional Government indicated that it is the Ministry of Energy and Mines who will have to take the administrative actions to recover possession of these lands. The National Chamber of Tourism of Peru (Canatur) expressed its deep concern about the management of Vinicunca, one of the most important components of the new tourist offer of the country.

On the other hand, more and more visitors are flocking to the site, which means that the ground is wearing away. As long as we stick to the designated path, no harm will be done to the mountain itself, nor to the red valley next to it.

When you visit the mountain you will see that you are not even allowed to touch it. The more people do so, the more it will gradually erode and lose the beautiful appearance it has now.

It is also home to many alpacas and llamas. They do not usually graze or spend time on the mountain, but can be found along the trail. Protecting their natural habitat should be a priority, so keep the trail clean and well maintained.

Can you suffer from altitude sickness while hiking Rainbow Mountain?

The Vinicunca is one of the mountains that make up the Cordillera del Vilcanota, whose highest peak is the snow-capped Ausangate. These landscapes exceed 5 thousand meters of elevation. Because of this it is possible to suffer agitation when breathing due to the low atmospheric pressure and the low level of oxygen in the environment.

As long as you take it easy and have acclimatized for 2 or 3 days in Cuzco, you should not suffer from altitude sickness.

There are travel agencies that recommend, to start the hike, to be at least 12 years old and that people over 60 years old bring a medical certificate of good physical condition before leaving.

Likewise, people with hypertension, asthma, diabetes or heart problems and pregnant women. 

Miguel is a professional tour guide from Cusco, Peru, with almost 20 years of experience leading tours and a deep knowledge of Peru’s cultural and ecological diversity. He is also an advocate of ecotourism and cultural sensitivity and has lectured on these topics in the US and Europe. He co-founded Evolution Treks Peru, a worker-owned travel company based in Cusco.

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"Explore the Inca Trail 🗺️👣 - Adventure to Machu Picchu Awaits, - Save Big with TX2024 on Selected Tours🗻🦙✨"

Explore Rainbow Mountain in small groups with exclusive tour guides, and amaze yourself with the beautiful scenery of the mountains, local villages, llamas, alpacas, and surrounding glaciers. Daily departures to Rainbow Mountain with picnic meals and private transportation!

Our Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley premium tour is the perfect way to see these amazing natural wonders up close! This tour includes a guided hike to Rainbow Mountain, where you'll see the stunning views of the colorful landscape. You'll also explore Red Valley , home to some of the world's most beautiful red rock formations. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of the Andes firsthand!

• Travel Info

Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Full-Day Tour

The Rainbow Mountain in Peru  has recently become one of the most popular one-day hikes in the Cusco region. With more than 5,000 meters (16,000 ft), Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley are truly two unforgettable attractions you can explore in the Vinicunca region.

Vinicunca , Rainbow Mountain, and the Colored Mountain are some of the few names of this fantastic place, a relatively new tourist attraction in Cusco. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drive for 3 hours to the trailhead, where your local chef will serve a picnic breakfast with amazing views of the Vilcanota Mountain range. After breakfast, start a 2-hour hike to the top of Rainbow Mountain. The walk is challenging due to its high altitude, but it's absolutely worth it once there.

The Red Valley  is just meters from Rainbow Mountain; you can reach the iron-rich soil landscapes after enjoying it. Then, you will continue to hike down to the trailhead, where your trekking chef will be waiting with a fresh picnic lunch prepared with local products.

TreXperience’s tours provide door-to-door service (we pick you up from your hotel and drive you back to your hotel), private transportation, an exclusive tour guide, trekking chefs, picnic meals, all entry fees, and the necessary equipment to hike this painted hill of Vinicunca.

Tour Highlights:

• Watch Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in just one day.
• Visit the local Andean communities and interact with them.
• Hike along with llamas and alpacas.
• Enjoy our picnic meals prepared by expert chefs.
• Travel in small groups with an exclusive tour guide.
• Book with Confidence and Flexibility

Tour Schedule:

• 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
• Transportation: TreXperience offers a door-to-door service (pick up and drop off at your hotel)
• Professional tour guide (all our tour local tour guides speak fluent English)
• Picnic Breakfast  & Lunch
• Snacks, water, hot drinks
• Entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain
• Entrance ticket to Red Valley
• First Aid Kit, Oxygen tank, Satellite phones
• Trekking poles
• Trekking chef, porters
• Picnic equipment (Tents, chairs, tables)
• Private portable toilets
• All taxes and booking fees

Not Included:

• Optional horse riding

Know before you book:

• You can book the Rainbow Mountain tour as a private service
• 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
• Only 70% of the trail is suitable for horse riding. The remaining 30% requires hiking.
• Returning down the hill is not recommended when renting a horse. 
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free meals available on request

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 5,000-meter 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 the  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.

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

Price for Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour

Price per person:.

• Group Tour: US$ 160 
• For 4+ Travelers, contact us to get a special price: [email protected]

To book Rainbow Mountain, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 50 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco with any card and without booking fees. 

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 and Red Valley Tour - Travel Info

What to bring.

For the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour, you will not need as much gear as a multi-day hiking trip, but you will need to dress in layers so you can easily adjust to changes in temperature. Here is a suggested packing list:

• 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
• Extra money in soles to rent a horse, souvenirs, and tipping

Rainbow Mountain General Information

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.

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.

It 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.  

Rainbow Mountain gets its name from the colorful stripes that run down its sides. 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, it has become a popular tourist destination, with thousands of visitors each year.

The weather on Rainbow Mountain is one of the most varied and exciting in the world. Situated in the Andes, the area experiences a wide range of climates with some of the most extreme weather conditions.

The average temperature 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. 

Rainbow 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 is no easy task; 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 the surrounding mountains and red 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.

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 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?

• The hike to Rainbow Mountain is relatively short but very steep in the last part.
• You can expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours hiking to the top
• Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Be sure to bring your camera!
• 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.
• It should take you about half an hour to reach the bottom.
• Once you're back at the trailhead, you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
• Last, it's time to head back home and start planning your next adventure!

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: The 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 Red 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.

Rainbow Mountain Frequently Asked Questions

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:

• City tour in Cusco
• Sacred Valley Tour
• Trekking to Machu Picchu  or excursion by train
• Tour to  Rainbow Mountain
• 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 5,000 meters/16,000 feet, and altitude sickness is a real problem many travelers will face.

To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, you should:

• Take time to acclimatize to Cusco before your trip
• Start taking altitude medicine a few days before the hike
• Drink plenty of water during the hike
• 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 rent 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.

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Ausangate Treks & Rainbow Mountain Tours

Of all the alternative treks to the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek is often labeled the most “epic” for its arduous and rewarding journey across the towering peaks, limestone forests, glaciers, and remote trails.  Ausangate is a famous mountain in the Peruvian Andes and is considered a sacred mountain by many. This region’s sparkling lakes and sharp peaks eventually give way to softer and more colorful scenery, thanks to Rainbow Mountain.

Rainbow Mountain is known for its natural array of turquoise, lavender, gold, and maroons created by the sediment of minerals throughout the area—and is a must-see while you’re here in Peru! This area is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a challenge and crave big-sky country.

Why Choose Alpaca Expeditions for your Ausangate Trek?

A dedicated team to make your ausangate trek incredible.

We pride ourselves in offering you top-quality camping equipment, nutritious meals prepared by professional chefs on the trail, and leading safety procedures on every trek.

We Make Sure Your Group is the First to Reach Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain is stunning regardless of conditions, but dense crowds can detract from the moment. When you choose a Rainbow Mountain tour with Alpaca Expeditions, we reach the mountain first thing in the morning. Being the first to arrive will grant you an unobstructed, intimate view of Rainbow Mountain.

You Can Include Machu Picchu in Your Ausangate Trek!

Our 4-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour includes transportation and entrance to Machu Picchu on the last day! You don’t need to choose between these two stunning areas.

Ethical Peru Ecotourism

You can also feel good about supporting a 100% Peruvian company active in its local communities, running several social projects and initiatives in Porter welfare.

Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Availability

All Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Treks are available for daily tour departures, from March – January. The optimal trekking season is April – October. No special permits are needed, unlike the Classic Inca Trail!

Explore 4-Day Trek

Ausangate Trek FAQ - See the top questions and answers about hiking the Ausangate Trek

1. how long is the ausangate trek.

Our Ausangate Trek includes 30 km of walking over three days.

2. How Challenging is The Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek is considered a challenging trek, thanks to the high altitudes and steep climbs that hikers will experience.

3. Ausangate Trek Vs. Inca Trail Trek?

The Inca Trail places a large focus on historical ruins and archeological sites. The draw of the Ausangate Trek is purely natural scenery – witness snow-covered peaks, glaciers, vivid mountain lakes, and, of course, Rainbow Mountain. Ausangate also tends to be less crowded than the ever-popular Inca Trail. Want to trek Ausangate without missing out on Machu Picchu? We do offer an option to include Machu Picchu at the end of your Ausangate Trek so you can have the best of both worlds!

4. Ausangate Trek Vs. Salkantay Trail Trek?

Where the Salkantay Trek covers beautiful scenery and archeological sites, the draw of the Ausangate Trek is purely natural scenery—witness snow-covered peaks, glaciers, vivid mountain lakes, and, of course, Rainbow Mountain. The Salkantay Trek can also be extended to seven days of trekking, whereas the Ausangate is three days.

5. What is the Spiritual Meaning of Ausangate?

Locals know Ausangate as “the father of all mountains.”

6. What is the Elevation of the Ausangate Trek?

Day One Trailhead Elevation: 4200m Day Two Trailhead Elevation: 4700m Day Three Trailhead Elevation: 5030m

7. How Cold is the Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek will have cold mornings and cold evenings, with the potential for warmer days thanks to direct sun exposure. Therefore, many layers and gloves, scarves, and beanies are highly recommended during colder parts of the day.

Rainbow Mountain Tour FAQ - See the top questions and answers about hiking the Ausangate Trek

1. what makes rainbow mountain colorful.

The Rainbow Mountains are composed of stratified layers of sandstone. These fine-grained rock layers contain abundant iron and other mineral compounds, which provide the pigments for the various colored stripes of the mountains.

2. Can you Hike Rainbow Mountain in One Day?

Yes! We offer a Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco that will take you to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley in a single day.

3. What is the Elevation of Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.

4. Why is Rainbow Mountain Popular?

Rainbow Mountain is unique in its vibrant, diverse coloring, creating a rainbow-striped mountain. This natural phenomenon has quickly gained popularity through stunning photos and word of mouth about the natural beauty of this area.

5. What is the Best Time Of Year to See Rainbow Mountain?

Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, making late spring through early fall a fantastic time to visit Rainbow Mountain.

6. How Cold is it at Rainbow Mountain?

Regardless of the time of year, it can be cold at Rainbow Mountain. Rainbow Mountain temps rarely surpass 61 degrees F. Treks in the Andes involve various microclimates, and it helps to be prepared for each one. No matter what month you visit Rainbow Mountain, ensure you have plenty of layers. Layers are always vital since the help you quickly adjust to different temperature changes.

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More than 2K trips made safely with our Satellite Phones

Cooking classes are on all our camping treks . Learn to cook traditional, delicious dishes in open air classroom of the magical Andes mountains!

Explore All Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour Options

Find the Ausangate trek that best suits your interests. Do you want a rigorous hike that includes 4 days of Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu views? Then choose the 4-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour with Machu Picchu . Want a quicker day hike that gets you right to Rainbow Mountain? Then choose the 1-day Rainbow Mountain Hike & Red Valley Tour! No matter what adventure you crave, our team can help you achieve your goals to reach Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain.

4-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek Ausangate + Machu Picchu

3-Day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain Tour & Red Valley Hike 1-Day Trip

7 Lakes Trek in Ausangate Full-Day Trip

Check 4, 5 & 7 day inca trail availability, get in touch, alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

Rainbow Mountain Peru: Complete Visitor’s Guide

A visit to Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca (its Quechua name) or the montaña de siete colores (seven-colored mountain), is an absolute must for all those who love stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. Nestled in a remote region of the Andes Mountains, Rainbow Mountain was once a spectacle only to be admired by trekkers along the Ausangate Trek , but now you can witness this display of natural beauty in all its glory on a shorter 1- or 2-day hike as part of your Peru vacation . We also currently offer a Rainbow Mountain & 2-day Inca trail package that takes you up to Machu Picchu before visiting Rainbow Mountain.

Table of Contents:

How to Get There

• Best Time to Visit

What to Bring

• Altitude Sickness

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for visitors, plan your trip, vinicunca overview.

Turquoise, scarlet, and mustard-colored sediments drape down Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, and give the mountain its striking appearance. These different layers of color represent distinct mineral contents and were formed over the course of millions of years before being exposed by the tectonic movements and intense wind erosion of the high Andes. The mountain was once covered by a glacier which has since melted due to the effects of global warming. It then became a popular side excursion on the Ausangate Trek before shorter 1- and 2-day tour routes were developed in recent years.

At 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, Rainbow Mountain’s altitude is more than half that of Mount Everest. Those who wish to see this beautiful site for themselves must be prepared for a difficult 3-hour hike at high altitude. Weather conditions can also complicate the journey, with both blistering cold temperatures and intense UV rays due to the elevation. But while getting there might be a little tough, the extraordinary view once you reach the top will make it all worth it.

Quick Facts:

Elevation: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level. Duration: 3-4 hours, depending on pace. Distance: 7 km. Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, depending on level of physical fitness.

All tours to Rainbow Mountain leave from the city of Cusco , the former capital of the Inca Empire and the closest major city to Machu Picchu and many of Peru’s most famous attractions. After departing from Cusco your tour will take you on a 2-hour drive south of the city to the town of Pitumarca. Not far from here is where you’ll find the Rainbow Mountain trailhead to start your hike.

The story of how the colored mountain was discovered is not too old. Snow used to cover the colorful lines of Vinicunca, however, due to climate change, the snow covering the hills slowly melted away. Locals say the mountain was discovered in 2013, and since then, thousands of visitors looking to take peek at the multicolored mountain make the difficult trek to see the site.

Related Tours:

Rainbow Mountain Hike

The hike to Rainbow Mountain will usually take around 3 hours depending on your speed and level of physical fitness. The trail itself is mostly flat until the final ascent, but the high altitude is what makes it challenging. Because of the strain that high altitude can cause on the body, it’s generally recommended to walk at a relaxed pace (which you’ll want to do anyway so that you can enjoy the natural beauty around you). For those who prefer not to hike, there are usually horses available for rent along the trail. However, they can only bring you to the end of the flat part of the trail where you’ll have to dismount and climb the final stretch on foot to reach the summit.

The local people surrounding Rainbow Mountain also keep herds of llamas and alpacas, so you’ll have the chance to see many of these furry creatures along the way. Once you reach the summit’s lookout point you’ll have sweeping panoramic views of not only Rainbow Mountain but also the nearby Red Valley (some extended tours also hike through the Red Valley itself via an alternate trail to the mountain).

Don’t forget to take a lot of pictures of this amazing landscape! Surrounding the mountain you’ll also have the chance to see other rainbow hills. Thanks to the interesting geography and geology of the place, there are many colorful mountains, although Rainbow Mountain is the most picturesque.

When is the best Time to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The Peruvian Andes are subject to two distinct seasons: the dry season, lasting from roughly April until October; and the rainy season, lasting from November until March (with the months of heaviest precipitation being January and February). April and October are also pleasant since its usually when the seasons are transitioning.

Because of its high altitude and frigid air, the rainy season in the region often turns into snowfall at Rainbow Mountain. Visitors to Rainbow Mountain should come prepared with clothes for all weather, as conditions can also change quickly. For more information about when to visit, make sure to check out our blog on the best time to visit Peru .

• A water bottle with plenty of water.
• Snacks for the hike (making sure to bring back any trash with you). There are also locals selling candies, water and soda, and small snacks near the trailhead.
• Peruvian soles in smaller bills (S/.20 and S/.40) if you want to pay for a horse ride.
• Comfortable hiking shoes with good traction.
• A warm hat.
• Multiple layers of clothing in order to be prepared for all weather conditions.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses. This is important not to forget, since the sun’s UV rays are very harsh at high altitude.
• A camera to capture all the Mountain of 7 colors (Rainbow Mountain) in all its beauty.

How High is Rainbow Mountain? What about Altitude Sickness?

The possibility of experiencing altitude sickness is one of the most common concerns for visitors to Rainbow Mountain. Altitude sickness is caused by a lack of oxygen at higher altitudes and can set in at altitudes above 2,500 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level, putting Rainbow Mountain’s altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) well above the minimum elevation where it can occur.

The symptoms of altitude sickness (known as “soroche” in Peru) can include headache, vomiting, dizziness, tiredness and shortness of breath. In rare cases these symptoms can develop into more serious illnesses. Due to the strain placed on the heart by lower oxygen levels, those with a history of heart problems should not hike Rainbow Mountain. If you are not sure whether or not you should hike Rainbow Mountain, make sure to discuss your concerns with a doctor before coming to Peru.

After you’ve discussed any health concerns with your doctor and decided that hiking Rainbow Mountain is safe for you, make sure to keep the following tips in mind for your tour:

• Always take the time to acclimatize to the altitude for a day or two before attempting to hike Rainbow Mountain or completing any other strenuous physical activity.
• Consult with your physician at home for any suggested medications you can take to ease your acclimation at high altitudes.
• Drink coca tea, an herbal remedy for altitude sickness used by local peoples for thousands of years.
• Avoid heavy meals, alcoholic beverages and smoking cigarettes.
• Make sure to keep well-hydrated.

For more information about altitude sickness and how to manage its symptoms, make sure to check out our blog about altitude sickness in Peru .

Below you’ll find our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the hike to Peru’s most colorful mountain.

What is the trail to Rainbow Mountain like?

The trail starts as an even, gradual incline through a valley until you arrive to a steeper climb up to Rainbow Mountain.

To get the classic view, you have to climb a very steep, hard-packed dirt mountainside that’s across from Rainbow Mountain. Because the mountainside is sheer, the terrain can be slippery when wet. The summit allows you to see the full streaking of the mountainside and the stellar views of lush, green scenery that fade into steely snowcapped mountain peaks.

How hard is the hike up to Rainbow Mountain?

Many people don’t realize beforehand that Rainbow Mountain is a high altitude hike . The altitude, more so than the incline of the trail, adds to the challenge factor of the hike. The trailhead starts at around 4,300 meters (14,000 feet) and climbs to just over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Many people have a hard time and end up paying for a horseback ride offered by one of the locals walking along the trail.

What is the weather like?

The weather at Rainbow Mountain is very unpredictable, changing frequently and quickly. You might see warm weather and sunny skies one minute and then cloudy skies and snowfall the next. The best idea is to make sure you’re prepared for all weather by dressing in layers.

Are there restrooms along the trail?

Very basic bathroom facilities  are available along the trail. These bathrooms are very rustic, but it’s the only option that is available in such a remote area. Make sure to carry a roll of toilet paper with you just in case.

Do you recommend a 1- or 2-day tour?

A 1-day tour to Rainbow Mountain ends up being a very long day. Pick-up in Cusco is very early at 3am, then it’s a 3-hour drive to the trailhead, and then after several hours of hiking, you make the return drive. This can be very exhausting even for those in great physical shape, so for those who have the time, taking a 2-day tour may be a good idea.  The schedule for 2-day tours is at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Not only does it break down the long roundtrip drive to and from Cusco, but camping closer to Rainbow Mountain allows you to adjust better to the altitude than in Cusco so you feel better during the hike.

Why is Rainbow Mountain in Peru colorful?

The colors of the mountain actually come from the rich mineral deposits compressed into layers over millions of years. The red layers are iron oxide, while oxidized limonite gives some layers a brown hue. Chlorite gives off a green hue in other layers, and finally, iron sulfide is what makes Rainbow Mountains Yellow layers.

• Once you reach the base of Rainbow Mountain where the majority of tourists take photos, try hiking up the hill behind the first vista point for less crowded views.
• Be sure to leave early to avoid the larger crowds, the earliest tours leave between 2-3 AM.
• Weather can be unpredictable at the summit of Rainbow Mountain, be sure to pack a windbreaker and sunscreen in case conditions change.
• Dont hesitate to rest, listen to your body while completing the hike, Rainbow Mountain’s height is above Cusco’s.

Want to see the incredible Rainbow Mountain for yourself? Don’t hesitate to contact us so that one of our expert travel advisors can start planning your trip today! Peru For Less prioritizes the sites you want to see, we can customize itineraries based on your preferred pace of travel and number of days. Take a look at our other packages for other inspiring locations like Rainbow Mountain.

Britt is a California native who now calls Peru home. She is a traveler with a passion for all things outdoors, scuba diving, and capturing memories with her camera.

Related posts:

Ausangate Trek: The Complete Trekker’s Guide

The Ausangate Trek is a challenging high altitude trek through 70 km of the Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range and features some of Peru’s most extraordinary scenery.

27 Best Treks in Peru: Hiking in the Andes and Beyond

Check out our list of the top 27 best treks in Peru, with hikes like Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, Laguna 69, Inca Trail, Kuelap, Huayna Picchu and more.

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Home » Rainbow Mountain Tours

Rainbow Mountain Tours

Rainbow mountain with exploor peru.

The Rainbow Mountains (Vinicunca and Palccoyo) are nestled high in the Peruvian Andes. 

The more popular Vinicunca Mountain is a breathtaking formation of colorful mineral deposits spread across sandstone rocks. Although the site is located just 3 hours away from Cusco, it is still a unique natural wonder that promises a memorable, high-altitude adventure. 

Book a Rainbow Mountain day trip and trek to the top of the Vinicunca Mountain. Be one of the first ones to reach the top, and on your way back, hike along off-the-beaten paths in the jaw-dropping Red Valley. 

If you don’t want to miss out on the colorful landscapes – but the Vinicunca trek seems challenging – check out our Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain alternative tour. This hike takes you to the top in just one hour, while providing an amazing view in one of Peru’s most picturesque areas. The best of all is that there are almost no tourists around!

The Rainbow Mountains (Vinicunca and Palccoyo) are nestled high in the Peruvian Andes.

Alternative Rainbow Mountain Palccoyo Tour

See 3 Rainbow Mountains without any crowds around

Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca Tour

1-Day Trekking Tour to Cusco’s famous Rainbow Mountain

Cusco's Rainbow Mountains

The vinicunca rainbow mountain.

The Rainbow Mountain wasn’t discovered until a few years ago, when the thick layers of ice and snow covering the mountain began to melt, revealing technicolor mineral deposits. 

The Rainbow Mountain is a unique place to visit. And although it isn’t considered a long hike, getting to the peak can be challenging due to constantly-changing weather conditions and high altitudes. 

You can only access the mountain by foot (and in some parts, on horseback). The hike takes about two hours to reach the top, depending on your fitness level. If you decide to visit the Vinicunca Mountain, be prepared for a rewarding but challenging hike that can take between 4 to 6 hours in total, depending on the route you take.

The Rainbow Mountain Palccoyo is an excellent alternative to the Vinicunca day trip . The paths are less steep, the distance is shorter, and the views are just as impressive. 

During the Palccoyo tour, you’ll see 3 rainbow mountains and optionally, you can hike to the stone forest which is the highest point of this tour. This area is known for Instagram-level views over the entire valley and all 3 rainbow mountains.

The alternative Rainbow Mountain tour is perfect for novice hikers or for travelers who want to take it easy and soak in the scenery.

No matter which mountain you decide to visit, ensure you get the most of your Rainbow Mountain day trip by booking your tour with Exploor Peru!

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Perú Rainbow Mountain – Complete Visitor’s Guide

Home » Travel Information » Perú Rainbow Mountain – Complete Visitor’s Guide

Perú Rainbow Mountain

Peru’s Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a spectacular multi-colored mountain in the Andes, near Cusco. The mountain is famous for its unique striated layers of vibrant colors, which include shades of red, green, yellow, purple, and blue.

The Rainbow Mountain is located in Cusco – Perú, with an altitude of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level, making it a challenging but rewarding destination for adventurous travelers. Visitors can hike to the summit of the mountain, where they can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including snow-capped peaks and deep valleys.

The Rainbow Mountain was formed by weathering, environmental conditions and sedimentary deposits over time. The reason for the formation of these colors is the ice that used to cover the area. When it began to melt, the water mixed with the minerals in the ground, turning the soil into the many colors seen today.

Despite being discovered only recently, the Rainbow Mountain has quickly become a popular tourist destination in Peru, attracting visitors from around the world.

Rainbow Mountain Peru Elevation

Rainbow Mountain Perú has an elevation of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level. The high altitude and thin air can make hiking to the summit a challenging experience, especially for those who are not used to high altitudes. It is strongly recommended that visitors spend a few days in Cuzco or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize to the altitude before attempting to climb to the summit of Rainbow Mountain. There are also options to hire horses or take a guided tour to help make the hike more manageable for those who need it. Despite the challenge, the views from the top of the Rainbow Mountain are breathtaking and well worth the effort.

Why is Rainbow Mountain Peru Colorful

The Rainbow Mountain of Peru is so colorful because of the presence of various minerals in the rock formations that compose it. Over millions of years, layers of sedimentary rock have been exposed and eroded, revealing stunning bands of colors ranging from reds, oranges, yellows, greens, blues and purples. The colors are due to the various mineral deposits in the rock, such as iron oxide, copper sulfate and magnesium, which have been exposed by the erosion of the mountain many years ago. The bright and shining colors of Rainbow Mountain make it a unique and beautiful natural wonder, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its striking beauty.

How cold is Peru Rainbow Mountain?

Vinicunca or Montaña de Colores is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru and can experience very cold temperatures. The average temperature at the base of the mountain is around 10°C (50°F), but temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations.

At the summit of Rainbow Mountain, the temperature can drop below freezing, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to -10°C (14°F) on average. It is important to note that temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of day and the season. It is recommended to dress in warm layers and bring appropriate gear if you plan to hike or visit Rainbow Mountain.

How long is Rainbow Mountain hike?

• Maximum altitude: 5200 m (17000 ft) above sea level
• Total hiking distance: (5.2 miles) approx.
• Difficulty level: difficult
• Best time to visit: from March to November

How difficult is the hike to Perú Rainbow Mountain?

The trek to and from Rainbow Mountain is a day-long stagger at over 14,000 feet in elevation, tracing a dirt path between looming peaks of green and and the amazing red rocks.

It’s a magnificent route, passing through local villages and sparkling mountain streams.

But the altitude is exhausting. As you make your way to the top you will struggle against buffeting winds and try to soak in every second of the view.  but all this will worth it. Once you get to the top you will feel like a champion, every effort made during the journey will be rewarded with beautiful views of Rainbow Mountain, a unique place with a panoramic view that stretches across the Andes mountains adorned with snow-capped mountains and blue skies.

What to Pack for a Rainbow Mountain tour in Perú?

If you’re planning a trip to Rainbow Mountain, you’ll want to make sure you have the right gear and equipment for the trip. Here’s a list of things that you might want to consider:

Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it’s important to take warm clothing, a windbreaker or waterproof jacket.

Comfortable Hiking Shoes: The trek to Rainbow Mountain is a long and steep climb, so make sure you wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes.

Sunscreen: At an altitude of over 16,000 feet, the sun is intense, so you’ll want to protect your skin with a high SPF sunscreen.

Sunglasses: The glare of the sun on the snow and ice can be blinding, so make sure to pack sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Hat or Headband: To keep warm and protect yourself from the sun, consider bringing a hat or headband that covers your ears.

Backpack: You’ll want to bring a small backpack to carry water, snacks, and extra layers.

Water: Staying hydrated is important, so bring at least 2 liters of water per person.

Snacks: Bring some light snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or fruit to keep your energy up during the trek.

Cash: You may need to pay an entrance fee or for the use of restroom facilities, so it’s a good idea to bring some cash.

Camera: Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera or your smartphone to capture the stunning views of the rainbow-colored mountain and surrounding landscape.

The Best Time to visit Perú Rainbow Mountain

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain in Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, which makes for better hiking conditions and better visibility of the colorful rock formations.

However, it’s important to note that temperatures can still be quite cold during the dry season, especially at higher elevations, so be sure to dress warmly and bring appropriate gear.

The wet season in Peru runs from November to March, and during this time, there is a higher chance of rain and snow, which can make hiking more challenging and can also obscure the views of the mountain.

Overall, the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, specifically in May or June, when the weather is typically the clearest and driest. It’s also worth noting that the mountain can get quite crowded, so visitors should plan to arrive early in the day to beat the crowds.

Altitude sickness at Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain is located at an altitude of around 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level. As a result, visitors may experience altitude sickness, also known as Soroche, which is caused by the decreased amount of oxygen at high altitudes.

Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, altitude sickness can be life-threatening, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent and manage the condition.

Here are some tips to prevent altitude sickness at Rainbow Mountain:

acclimatize gradually: Give your body time to adjust to the high altitude by spending a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude locations before heading to Rainbow Mountain.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

Drink coca tea: The Coca tea will help reduce the symptoms, is highly recommended. Muña tea is also an excellent alternative to Coca tea. Hotels and restaurants in Cusco also offer it.

Eat light, high-carbohydrate meals: Avoid heavy, fatty meals, which can make altitude sickness worse.

Take it easy: Avoid strenuous activity for the first day or two at high altitude.

Listen to your body: If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

Alternative Rainbow Mountain hikes

Palccoyo rainbow mountain.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, also known as the Palccoyo Mountain Range, is another popular rainbow mountain in Peru located about 3 hours away from Cusco. It is not as well-known as the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, but it is a beautiful natural wonder worth visiting.

Similar to Vinicunca, Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain features colorful stripes and bands of sedimentary rock, creating a rainbow-like effect. The elevation of Palccoyo is around 4,900 meters (16,000 feet) above sea level, so visitors should be prepared for high altitude and cold temperatures.

Compared to Vinicunca, Palccoyo is a bit easier to access and less strenuous to hike. It is also less crowded, making it a good alternative for those who want to avoid the crowds at Vinicunca.

Best Day Trips to Rainbow Mountain in Perú

There are many tour operators that offer trips to Rainbow Mountain in Peru. Here are some steps to consider when planning a tour:

Choose a reputable tour operator: Look for tour companies that have good reviews and a solid reputation. You can also have a look at our reviews.

Decide on a tour package: There are different tour packages available that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some tours include transportation, meals, and guide services, while others are more basic.

Check the itinerary: Make sure the itinerary includes a visit to Rainbow Mountain and other destinations that you’re interested in. Some tours may also include stops at other attractions in the region, such as hot springs or archaeological sites.

Consider the duration: The tour to the rainbow mountain typically lasts 12 hours. The trip can start at 3am from Cusco and you will be dropped off in Cusco at 3pm. However, if you wish to start later, take a private tour which will adjust to your interests and provide a more personalized service.

Note: If you are looking for a customized tour to the amazing Rainbow Mountain you can also book with us. Contact one of our specialists and we will contact you immediately.

Get in Touch with “Come see Peru Tours”

Let us know how we can help and we’ll be in touch soon. If you are on tour and this is an emergency, call our 24/7  Emergency Support Team  

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Rainbow Mountain Peru 1-Day Tour

Hike to the astounding multi-colored mountain.

Close to the city of Cusco is one of the most stunning natural sights you can imagine — the mountain of seven colors, aka, Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca. If you’re looking for an exciting day out of the city, that’ll challenge you but give you the most fantastic rewards, this is the perfect option.

Get ready to discover one of the most impressive natural wonders on the planet in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. If you visit Cusco, this day trip is a must! Our one-day tour to Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, will take you through remote high-altitude barren lands and through isolated communities found in the Vilcanota mountain range. You’ll also be able to witness the immensity of the sacred Ausangate mountain (6,372 m/ 20,905 ft), the highest in the region.

• Before You Go
• Packing List

Join us on this epic one-day trip away from the city and get out into nature, among the most beautiful landscapes imaginable. Whether you’re traveling by yourself, as a couple, or in a larger group, we have daily departures to accommodate you. This tour is designed for travelers with little time and great physical resistance.

Along the route, the difficulty ranges from moderate to challenging, which is mainly due to the high altitude that reaches over 5,000 meters. We recommend you spend a day or two in Cusco to acclimatize before joining one of our tours.

Despite the fact that Rainbow Mountain is usually full of tourists, we start our adventure very early to be the first to arrive. This way, you can enjoy the peacefulness and beauty without many interruptions. We take our time and enjoy the hike without pressure.

On the hike, expect to immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the inhabitants in the small communities, observe numerous herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in the mountains, and be a first-hand witness of millions of years of geological history. The imposing mountain landscape is sure to be the protagonist of your photographs. Choose Salkantay Trekking for the ultimate tour in the Andes.

• Hike among some of the most stunning Andean landscapes imaginable and let Mother Nature whisk you away in her sheer beauty.
• Immerse yourself in the small mountain communities and witness how they live their lives so far away from the city.
• Observe the unique flora and fauna and see alpacas and llamas grazing in the mountains and roaming free.
• Hike to one of the most unique places on our planet and snap some special photos of the spectacular geological formation.
• Enjoy views of the highest mountain in the Cusco region, Ausangate, whose snowy peak stands tall nearby.

What's it like

Detailed itinerary, cusco |cusipata - llactoc - rainbow mountain peru, vinicunca.

Highlight of the day: Arriving at the spectacular Rainbow Mountain and enjoying the amazing panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

Hike to the Mountain of Seven Colors

We’ll pick you up bright and early today to start our adventure. We’ll stop off along the way for some breakfast to give us the energy we need and then continue to the start of our hike. We’ll walk for an hour and a half through gorgeous landscapes and observe some unique Andean wildlife as we make our way along the challenging path to Rainbow Mountain. Once at the stop, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the 360° view and snap some memorable photos.

Once it’s time to come back down, it’ll take us another hour to reach the starting point of the day’s hike. From there, our transport will take us to a restaurant for lunch and then back to Cusco city. Your day will end when we drop you back off at your accommodation.

Our epic adventure begins at 4:00 am. We’ll pick you up from the door of your accommodation to head for 3 hours towards the Southern Valley of Cusco in our private transport. Despite the early morning, you’ll have the opportunity to catch some more z’s along the way in our comfortable transport with the cozy blankets that we provide for you.

Along the way, we’ll observe picturesque Andean towns, agricultural platforms from the Inca period, fertile valleys, and beautiful rolling mountains. We’ll stop off and observe the herds of llamas and alpacas that’ll entertain you while you enjoy a delicious continental breakfast to give you the nourishing boost you need to begin the hike.

We’ll continue our journey until we reach the starting point of the hike at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. There we’ll start by heading along a meandering path in the middle of the Andean mountains that follows a pretty stream. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with the impressive view of the Ausangate Mountain (6,372 m / 20,905 ft). Take a few minutes to try to understand why this mountain is a living deity for the Andean people.

This remote region is home to many people, and you’ll have the opportunity to see them working the land. You’ll also be amazed to see the traditional clothing they use and make themselves thanks to the artistic textile talents that they’ve inherited from their ancestors. This is one of the many ways an ancient culture is preserved in the rural regions of Peru that refuses to be submitted by the rules of the western world. Your guide will teach you about the meaning of some garments and, if you want, you can ask him to teach you some words in Quechua, the native language of many inhabitants of the zone and one that’s been spoken since Inca times.

After an hour-and-a-half of walking, we’ll reach the amazing Rainbow Mountain of Cusco (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Take your time to admire the astounding beauty of this impressive natural formation and feel the thrill of witnessing a unique natural site. You’ll explore the surroundings a little and take in the stunning landscape while your guide explains the theories that exist regarding the origin of this mountain that seems like it’s been taken from a colorful dream. Use this opportunity to take some incredible photos or simply immerse yourself in the landscape. We’ll spend around 30 minutes to an hour at the top, depending on how fast you hiked and the weather conditions. If you wish to spend more time there, let your guide know.

It’ll take us another hour until we reach the starting point of the hike, from where we’ll board our transport to the restaurant in Cusipata and enjoy a buffet lunch. Then, we’ll board our private transport once again to get back to the city of Cusco. We’ll leave you at the door of your accommodation to rest your tired legs.

Why Travel with us

Your safety is our priority, expert guides, sustainable tourism, small groups.

At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.

What Is Included?

Permits & entrance tickets, entry to the rainbow mountain, high quality service & safety, pre-departure briefing.

You'll meet your tour guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trip begins.

Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.

English and spanish speaking official tour guide. All our guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We choose them for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and sincere desire to proudly share in our culture and history. He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time worry-free!

Medical Kit or First AID Kit - Our guides are trained to deal with basic emergencies.

All Salkantay Trekking guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers' diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.

Extras Included in our Service - You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.

We believe that attention to small details is what sets us apart from other local companies. You’ll receive a pair of walking sticks with rubber tips (or trekking poles) and a rain poncho.

24/7 Customer Service - We have 24 hours a day telephone service.

We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication with Salkantay Trekking leading up to your trek.

Breakfast & Lunch

Snacks and water.

Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. In addition, you'll receive a bottle of water.

One cloth snack bag per person

To avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment, we'll give you a cloth bag for your snacks.

Hygiene Products

You’ll be provided with a small towel and soap before each meal to clean your hands.

Transportation

All your transportation is included in this package. We will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the starting point of the hike. Once you complete the tour, we will take you back to the door of your hotel in Cusco.

What Is Not Included?

Hiking clothes, travel insurance, tips for our staff.

Tipping is the norm on any excursion in Peru. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do.

Additional costs or delays beyond our control

Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.

Here we leave you with a brief list of extras that you can enjoy during this package.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu is the mountain behind Machu Picchu and which can be climbed in 45 minutes. Although this excursion is up to you, our guide will take you to the place of entry. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can assure for you if we have enough time in advance.

Your entry ticket will be purchased to coincide with the dates of your excursion on the Inca Trail. The entry can be done in two shifts: from 7:00 am to 8:00 am or from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. We buy the tickets in the second shift so that our clients can fully enjoy their guided tour of Machu Picchu. Remember, the shifts only indicate the time of entry. You can go up and down Huayna Picchu without haste.

The ticket for Huayna Picchu costs US$ 75.00 per person.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers even more incredible views than Huayna Picchu, but it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can assure for you if we have time in advance.

The excursion entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain is open in two shifts as well, the first from 7:00 am to 8:00 am, and the second from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain costs US$ 75.00 per person.

Vistadome Train

All our tours include the PeruRail Expedition train. This train leaves Aguas Calientes at 2:55 pm. The Vistadome train is a higher category service that offers more comfortable seats, a panoramic design that will allow you to see through the roof, as well as an entertainment show on board. The Vistadome train leaves Aguas Calientes at 2:55 pm as well (subject to availability), and goes to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, we’ll take you on our transport to your hotel in Cusco.

You can access this service for an additional payment of US$ 70.00 per person.

We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.

Briefing or Informative Meeting

All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.

Pick up of guests

Please note:

• All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
• Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
• Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
• Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.

Group Tours

Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.

It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.

Strikes and demonstrations

Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.

Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost objects

Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport or restaurant. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

RECOMMENDED

"Rainbow Mountain Peru 1-Day Tour" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.

2024 Land Cost

Group Price: US$ 100.00 per person

This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.

Notice that PayPal charges a fee of 5%, which we ask the client to cover since it's due to the use of its service. This tax is just for online deposits.

Extensions & Offers

There are several extensions you can include to your Peru Adventure.

• Sacred Valley:  US$ 100.00   US$ 80.00
• City Tour:  US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.

Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.

Our Pledge |  Your privacy is respected and protected. The Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.

Personal Details

Trip details.

Remember |  One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.

Note |  Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!

Feel free to reach us via email at [email protected] or by calling us directly at (+51) 958 191 179

Every Day: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Triunfo Street 346 - Main Square of Cusco, Peru

• Email [email protected]

Related Peru Tours & Treks

Alternative journeys you may be interested in.

Here you have other options that will suit your needs from the Rainbow Mountain Peru Trek

Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley

Rainbow mountain & red valley.

Our Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 2 Day package is designed for you to discover the incredible scenery of a remote area that seems like something out of a dream. In addition, you will be able to capture the impressive views of the majestic Apu Ausangate (6,372 masl / 20,900 fasl).

Ausangate - Rainbow Mountain

Ausangate & rainbow mountain.

Get ready to discover the magic and the impressive colours of the Rainbow Mountain of Peru, also known as Vinicunca. This great spectacle of nature is located in the Vilcanota mountain range, near the highest snow-capped peak in the Cusco region, the Apu Ausangate (6,350 masl / 20,833 fasl)

Rainbow Mountain - Machu Picchu

Rainbow mountain & machu picchu.

Explore the living history and breathtaking scenery of the Peruvian highlands on this incredible experience. Starting in the Imperial City, discover what made Cusco the center of the Inca Empire! In the Sacred Valley you’ll visit the giant agricultural laboratory of Moray, as well as the Maras salt mines.

Machu Picchu - Ausangate - Rainbow Mountain

The spirit of machu picchu.

This package is the most fantastic adventure in the Andes; it combines Cusco's most amazing places (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ausangate and, Rainbow Mountain). Discover the personality of the Andes on a long-winded trek.

Soraypampa - Humantay Lake

Humantay lake.

The immense mountains of Peru keep innumerable precious stones in their basins: blue, turquoise, green, yellow, and red lagoons. Among all of them, one of the most dazzling jewels that’s located in the Cusco region stands out: The Humantay Lake.

Qoricocha Lake - Huchuy Qosqo

Huchuy qosqo trek.

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek takes you to the lovely trek to the lesser-known Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo. This site is situated on a plateau with stunning views overlooking the Sacred valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba range.

Acopia - Waqrapukara

Waqrapukara trek.

Discover the majestic pre-Inca construction of Waqrapukara or Fortress of the Horns located in the mighty Apurímac River's canyon. If you're looking for something completely different and with few people, Waqrapukara is ideal for you.

Languilayo Lake - Pallay Punchu

Pallay punchu trek.

Discover the new rainbow mountain in Peru, just a few hours from the city of Cusco. In the middle of a practically virgin tourist circuit is one of the most impressive natural wonders of Latin America. Travel towards the Cusco highlands and be amazed by a mountain that seems to have been wrapped in a colorful Andean poncho full of ancestral iconography.

Wiñaywayna - Machu Picchu

Our One Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the best way to get to Machu Picchu for those without the time to hike the full Inca trail. The Inca Trail appeal is the stunning cultural show of Inca ruins, exotic mountain views, primitive lush vegetation,

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Machu Picchu Tours

• Machu Picchu Full Day Tour
• 2 Day Tour Machu Picchu Sacred Valley
• Machu Picchu Tour + Maras Salt Mines – 2 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour + Sacred Valley Tour – 3 Days Valley
• Machu Picchu Tour – 4 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour – 5 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour – 6 Days
• Machu Picchu Photo Tour – 6 Days
• Machu Picchu by Belmond Hiram Bingham Train

Machu Picchu the Lost City of the Incas

Visit this wonder of the world on these tours to machu picchu..

The tourist packages to Machu Picchu are one of the best decisions to travel through the Andes of Machu Picchu and the outstanding tourist circuits of the Cusco region, with extensions to other tourist destinations like Puno and Arequipa. Outdoor tours among Inca ruins, archeological parks, and short nature walks in the Andes are the perfect vacation for your next travel destination in Peru, South America.

Rainbow Mountain Tours

• Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain by Horse 1 Day
• Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour
• Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
• Rainbow Mountain Trek Full Day
• Rainbow Mountain Trek – 2 Days
• Pallay Punchu, Full Day Trek
• Machupicchu + Rainbow Mountain – 2 Days
• Rainbow Mountain Travel Package – 3 Days

Rainbow Mountain Treks

In the Andes Mountains, Rainbow Mountain, often called Vinicunca Mountain, soars 5,200 meters (17,100 feet) above Cusco. The mountain is well known for its vivid colors, which are brought on by various minerals. Red, yellow, orange, and green represent the hues that create a truly captivating display.

The Rainbow Mountain Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The views from the mountain’s peak make the challenging walk up there worthwhile. The views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and glaciers are visible from the summit.

Our journeys include lunch, a professional guide, and transportation. Also, we provide a range of departure times to work with your schedule.

A breathtaking view of this incredible mountain

Cusco Day Tours

• Cusco City Tour Half Day
• Cusco City Tour Full Day
• Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour – Half Day
• Moray Private Tour Full-Day
• South Valley Cusco Tour
• Full-Day Tour Tipon, Pisac, Sacsayhuaman
• Urubamba River Rafting Cusco
• Tour Inti Raymi 2024, Festival of the Sun

Cusco Day Hikes

• Q’eswachaka Inca Rope Bridge Tour: Full Day Tour
• Waqrapukara Trek Full Day Tour
• Humantay Lake Full Day Tour
• Condor Sightings Near Cusco
• Sunrise at tres cruces Paucartambo

Cusco Biking Tours

• Full Day Mountain Bike – Tour to Maras and Moray
• Ollantaytambo-Pachar Bike Tour
• Lares Downhill Mountain Bike Tour

Peru’s Best Sacred Valley Tours

• Sacred Valley Private Tour, Full Day Tour
• Super Sacred Valley Full-Day Tour
• Sacred Valley Trip from Ollantaytambo
• Sacred Valley Tour from Urubamba
• Full-Day Tour Ancasmarca Ruins
• Ñaupa Iglesia Tour Choquequilla
• Full-Day Moonstone Tour
• Pisac Ruins Hike 01-Day
• Maras Moray Hike – Sightseeing views from Snow Mountains

Custom Sacred Valley Tours

• Potato Park Pisac
• Sacsayhuaman Megalithic Tour
• Chinchero Ruins Full-Day Tour
• Alternative Tour Ollantaytambo Full-Day
• Day Trip to Pisac + Textiles + Traditional Market
• Sacred Valley ATV Tour – Full Day
• Chinchero textile Experience & Easy hike
• Hike to Urquillos, 1-day hike in the Sacred Valley
• Pumamarca Ruins Hike

BEST Inca Trail Tours

• Short Inca Trail 2 Days
• 4 Day Inca Trail
• 5 Day Inca Trail
• 3 Day Inca Trail
• 1 Day Inca Trail
• Salkantay Trek with Classic Inca Trail – 6 Days

Inca Trail Enhanced Packages

• Trek The Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail
• Short Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 3 Days
• Salkantay Trek with Short Inca Trail – 5 Days
• Choquequirao Trek + Short Inca Trail – 7 Days
• Ancascocha Trek with Short Inca Trail – 5 Days
• Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail + Vinicunca 4 Days

Inca Jungle Trips

• Inca Jungle Trek – 2 Days
• Inca Jungle Trek – 3 Days
• Inca Jungle Trek – 4 Days
• Inca Jungle Trek + Short Inca Trail 4-Day

Salkantay Treks

• Salkantay Trek 3 Days
• Salkantay Trek 4 Days
• Salkantay Trek 5 Days
• Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail 5 Days
• Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail 6 Days
• 2 Day Salkantay Trek With Machu Picchu
• 2 Day Humantay Lake With Machu Picchu

Choquequirao Treks

• Choquequirao Trek – 3 Days
• Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days
• Choquequirao Trek – 5 Days
• Choquequirao Trek – 7 Days
• Choquequirao Trek – 8 Days
• Choquequirao Trek – 9 Days
• Choquequirao 4-day trek in Lodge

Lares Treks

• Lares Trek Full-Day
• Lares Trek – 2 Days
• Lares Trek – 3 Days
• Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
• Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail 4 Days

Ancascocha Treks

• Ancascocha Trek – 3 Days
• Ancascocha Trek – 4 Days
• Ancascocha Trek – 5 Days
• Ancascocha Trek + Short Inca Trail 5 Days
• Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
• Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Huchuy Qosqo Trek

• Huchuy Qosqo Trek Full Day + Via Lamay
• Huchuy Qosqo Full Day
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek – 2 Days
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek – 3 Days

Ausangate Treks

• 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek Full-Day
• Ausangate Trek 5 Days
• Ausangate Trek 6 Days

Spiritual Sessions

• Andean Wedding Ceremony (Kasaracuy)
• 1 Day Private Ayahuasca Retreats Cusco
• Wachuma Ceremony Cusco 1 Day
• Pilgrimages to Awakening Ways of Consciousness 13 Day
• 2 Day Ayahuasca Retreat
• 3 Day Ayahuasca Retreat
• 4 Day Ayahuasca Retreat
• 5 Day Ayahuasca Retreat

Spiritual Experiences in Cusco Tours

If you are interested in learning more about Andean cosmology and traditions or looking for a spiritual experience, then a spiritual tour in Cusco is a great option. Many different experiences are available, so you can find one that fits your interests and needs.

During these spiritual sessions, individuals may engage in various activities and ceremonies to establish a connection with the spiritual realm and foster personal growth and healing. These practices often draw inspiration from the natural elements, mountains, lakes, and other sacred sites that hold significance in the Andean culture.

Amazon Rainforest

• Puerto Maldonado Amazon Tour 4-Day
• Puerto Maldonado 3 Day Tour
• Puerto Maldonado 2 Day Tour
• Amazon Rainforest Peru 8-Day
• Amazon Rainforest Peru 14 Days
• Macaw Clay Lick Tambopata 3-Day

The Amazon of Peru is a unique and mysterious place. The diversity and fantastic flora of the Amazon rainforest have long drawn us in, and our photographer’s hearts have yearned to capture stunning images of the abundant wildlife there. Visiting the Amazon Rainforest in Peru is one of the best travel experiences, “it has something to offer everyone,” whether you’re exploring it from a lodge or on a boat.

Enjoy the diversity of nature while exploring trails, looking for caiman and river otters, and standing on platforms in the thick canopy of the Amazon rainforest.

After spending the day exploring the most biodiverse region on earth, our Amazon vacation packages include transfers, knowledgeable local guides, and a cozy jungle lodge to unwind in.

Peru and Machu Picchu Packages

• Package Amazon Rainforest Peru 8-Day
• Peru Highlights Tour 10-Day
• Peru Vacation Package 14-Day
• Christmas in Machu Picchu 2023
• New Year’s in Machupicchu 2024
• Archaeological & Ancient Civilizations
• Machupicchu Women Only Tours
• Machupicchu Senior Travel
• Family Trip to Machu Picchu
• Helicopter Charters – Inca land flights
• Travel Programs for Students in Peru
• Accessible Machupicchu Tour (Wheelchair)

Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tours

• Colca Canyon Tour in Arequipa Full Day
• Colca Canyon 2 Day Tour
• Arequipa Salt Flats Full-Day
• City Tour Arequipa
• Arequipa Sillar Route
• Colca Canyon 3 Day Trek
• Colca Canyon 2 Day Trek

Ica and Nazca Lines Tours

• Nazca Lines Flight from Pisco
• Nazca Lines from Lima
• Nazca Lines Flight from Ica
• Nazca Lines Tour 2 Days
• Nazca Lines Tour from Cusco
• Nazca Lines Flight
• Flight Over Palpa Lines
• Ballestas Islands Tour
• Paracas National Reserve
• Huacachina Sand Buggy

Titicaca and Puno Tours

• Cusco to Puno by Car
• Aramu Muru Portal “Gate of the Gods”
• Taquile Island Lake Titicaca One Day
• Lake Titicaca Uros Floating Islands
• Amantani Island Tour, Two Days
• Lake Titicaca Extension 4 Days
• Tour Temple of Fertility Peru
• Cutimbo Inca Ruins Tour
• Sillustani Tour
• Tiwanaku Tour Bolivia From Puno
• Belmond Andean Explorer Lake Titicaca

Rainbow Mountain by Horse 1 Day

Ride a horse to Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, Peru, and take in the breathtaking scenery along the way as well as the lovely Vinicunca Mountain. On the way, we get to see some amazing Andean views.

Tour Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain Peru: A Remarkable Adventure

Rainbow Mountain on horseback is Cusco’s second-most popular attraction after Machu Picchu! Visit Peru’s renowned Rainbow Mountain without worrying about hiking over 5,100 meters (16,732 feet). This tour offers a full-day adventure with a 1-hour uphill horse-riding experience and a 19-minute walk to the Rainbow Mountain Pass . Along the way, you will see beautiful views of the Andes and alpacas. The tour includes hotel pickup, transport, lunch, horses , entrance tickets, and a certified guide .

Getting outdoors on a horseback riding tour through the scenic terrain is the best way to explore the area. Vacationers take enough photos to fill this week’s social media feed. Realize your dream and visit the most popular new attraction in Cusco, Peru, Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca! It’s an ideal one-day trip for you. Welcome to this great experience.

Rainbow   Mountain   Horse   Ride Tour : Make this trip to Peru even more special by  riding  a  horse through the beautiful terrain leading up to the incredible Rainbow   Mountain ! Explore the vibrant colors of these incredible geo-forms as you experience the wonders of nature.

Tour Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain Overview

• Rainbow Mountain by Horse ; Pick-up Locations: Any Cusco Hotel
• Door-to-door pickup and return: We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel reception.
• The travel time from Cusco to Cusipata Llactoc is 3 hours.
• The starting point of our R ainbow Mountain Horse Tour  is Llactoc (4,900 m/16,076 feet).
• Tour duration: This adventure takes 3 hours.
• Distance: 7 km/4.3 miles; horseback riding;  same return mileage.
• Hike: 19 min. Challenging! The distance that must be covered on foot to reach the pass
• We visit the Rainbow Mountains summit at 5,100 m (16,732 feet).
• Difficulty: Easy-moderate!
• Enjoy spectacular views of the Peruvian-colored mountain pass and the Ausangate Snow Summit.
• The return to Cuzco will take place between 13:30 and 15:30.

Note: It is a horse for each client plus a local muleteer.

Rainbow Mountain Horseback Full Day H ighlights

• Visit Rainbow Mountain by horse near the Ausangate Valley in Cusco, Peru, and enjoy the beautiful Vinicunca Mountain and the spectacular landscapes on the trail.
• Tour Rainbow Mountain by horse . Visit a remote and stunning region of colored mountains in Peru. Enjoy the spectacular Andean scenery and the massive Ausangate mountains.
• Why you will love the Rainbow Mountain Peru horseback experience: Alpacas can be seen from Cusipata, “which means a happy place,” to Llactoq while riding a horse in Rainbow Mountain, Peru. For more images from  2024 , we suggest visiting Kondor Path Tours’ Instagram .

Rainbow Mountain Peru, by horse Itinerary

Horseback riding rainbow mountain cusco.

Pickup from the Cusco Hotel at 05:00; embark on a grand adventure as you explore the Andes on this one-day horseback tour.

• To get to Rainbow Mountain, we must drive for three hours.
• Riding a horse up to the vantage point takes approximately fifty minutes.
• Take pictures and spend 45 minutes at the vantage point.
• It takes about 50 minutes to ride the horse back down to the private bus.
• It will take about 3 hours to travel back to Cusco.
• About nine hours have passed overall—quite a long day.

We arrive at your hotel in Cusco at 15:30 as the magnificent landscape fades after a fantastic day. Looking back on the hiking we completed, the cold beer in our hands has been hard-won.

NOTE: Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain, Peru: For this adventure, one horse is involved per client, plus a local muleteer (man or woman).

• The horses do the most significant work from one place to another; horseback riding takes about 50 minutes “one way.” Each horse has a local muleteer to pull and handle the horse.
• Since horses cannot climb Rainbow Mountain Pass due to the slope of the mountains, the client must walk for about 19 minutes to reach it.

Recommendations of the operating agency

• Adventure vehicles have regular technical inspections and tourist operation licenses to ensure a pleasant trip.
• Help travelers with horseback riding
• Help visitors pull the horse
• The muleteers walk beside the horse
• Our guides have work experience as “same tour guides on the Inca Trail.”
• Alpacas are smaller than llamas
• The ascent is 420 meters (1377 feet) from the bottom to the top.
• Our adventure leaders are equipped with a first-aid kit and an oxygen tank, and they are trained to administer first aid in an emergency.
• Several picturesque locations, including Tipon, Urcos, and Cusipata, can be seen while traveling south of Cusco.
• If we continue the expedition to the Red Valley, the height of the Andes will be more favorable. We advise experienced hikers to take the path after passing Rainbow Mountain.
• Groups and visitors should bring thermal clothing to stay warm.
• To buy souvenirs, locals only use the soles, the national currency of Peru.”

Kondor Path Tours offers a stunning excursion to the Rainbow Mountains in Peru . This experience allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Andean landscape while also enjoying the thrill of riding on horseback.

Guided by Local Expertise

On the tour, you’ll be guided by experienced local horsemen who know the terrain like the back of their hands. They’ll ensure your safety and provide insights into the area’s history and culture, adding depth to your adventure.

Learn about the local culture and history.

Your guide will share stories and insights about the indigenous communities that call this region home and the significance of Rainbow Mountain in their culture and traditions. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for its people and history.

Physical Level

3, Demanding

Walking Distance

A light walk, Mainly by horse (100 min.)

Hiking Time

36-minutes (up & down)

Starting Altitude

Llactoq: 4,900m (16,076 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Highest altitude.

Rainbow Pass: 5,100m (16,732 ft)

Tour Rainbow Mountain horseback INCLUSION

• English-speaking guide: “The entire Vinicunca adventure.”
• Rainbow Mountains, Peru, entrance fee
• Private tour vehicle with fuel and a professional driver.
• A local muleteer per horse
• Meals: Box lunch.
• Oxygen tank.
• First aid kit.

Note: The transportation options to reach Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain are shown in the prices section’s photo.”

1 Day Rainbow Mountain by horse NO INCLUSION 

• Hotel or Airbnb.
• Breakfast at your hotel.
• Taking two small bottles of 700 milliliters to the expedition is advisable.
• Items of a personal nature

What should we bring for our rainbow mountain by horse?

It is impossible to appropriately dress for a day of horseback riding on Rainbow Mountain in Peru . When you leave Cusco at around 5:00 (05:30), you want to wear a few layers of gloves, and you’re most likely freezing.

We were still shaking when the bus dropped us off at the beginning of the ride. When we saw people wearing shorts and T-shirts, we thought they were crazy. However, later in the day, the sun went down, bringing skin to the boil, and these travelers in shorts wore appropriate clothing. It was about our visit, but the travelers had a snowstorm the day before, so anything was possible.

• An excellent daypack would be the Eagle Creek Afar Backpack or a suitable pack for carrying your items!
• Lighter trekking boots with good ankle support!
• One pair of hiking pants—not jeans!
• Be sure to carry one rain jacket.
• One warm/winter jacket or glove, a scarf, a cold cap, and thermal clothing for the entire body— necessary : “Changing weather all the time.”
• Bring some meds!
• Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness
• Sun protection cream (SPF 45 or higher is recommended)
• A reusable container for your water.
• Bandages or moleskin
• Extra money.

Travel Guide

Read faqs about rainbow mountain trip by horse .

Explore the enthralling Rainbow Mountain by horseback. This geological wonder has captivated the imaginations of adventurers and nature lovers. Imagine immersing yourself in this captivating scenery while riding on horseback—an experience that elevates your journey to a new level.

What is the Rainbow Mountain Horse Tour?

The Rainbow Mountain Horse Tour is a guided excursion to Vinicunca, commonly known as Rainbow Mountain, located in the Andes near Cusco, Peru. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the mountain’s stunning, multicolored mineral deposits.

What is the best way to explore Rainbow Mountain in Peru?

The best way to explore Rainbow Mountain in Peru is by taking a guided horse tour. This immersive experience allows you to traverse the breathtaking landscapes comfortably and enjoy the journey fully.

Can you take a horse to Rainbow Mountain?

You can circumnavigate the Ausangate on a horse to reach Rainbow Mountain. This is a popular choice for those who are uneasy about hiking or worried about altitude sickness.

Are there horse tours available for Rainbow Mountain, and how do I book one?

Yes, there are horseback tours available for Rainbow Mountain. To book a tour, visit our website, www.kondorpathtours.com, or contact us directly at [email protected].

What is the significance of a horse tour to Rainbow Mountain in Cusco?

A horseback tour to Rainbow Mountain in Peru provides a unique perspective of the stunning scenery and a convenient way to reach higher altitudes, minimizing the impact of altitude sickness. It’s a memorable adventure suitable for all skill levels.

Is it possible to arrange a private horse tour to Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, Kondor Path Tours offers the option to arrange private horse tours for a more personalized experience. Contact us at [email protected] for details and pricing to make your Rainbow Mountain adventure memorable in Peru.

Can you go horseback riding to Rainbow Mountain?

Kondor Path Tours offers horseback riding options to Rainbow Mountain in Peru. It’s a popular alternative for those who may find the trekking route challenging.

How long does it take to reach Rainbow Mountain on horseback?

The duration of the horseback ride can vary depending on the starting point and the pace of the tour around Vinicunca. On average, it may take around 50 to 60 minutes one way.

Can beginners participate in the horse tours to Rainbow Mountain in Vinicunca?

Absolutely! Our horse tours are designed to cater to all levels of riders, including beginners. Our well-trained horses and experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Do you need prior horseback riding experience at the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca?

No, prior horseback riding experience is typically not required. The horses for these tours are accustomed to the terrain and well-trained.

What is the best time of the year for horseback riding to Rainbow Mountain?

From May to September, the dry season is generally the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain in Peru. During this period, the weather is more stable, and there is less chance of rain, making the journey more comfortable.

What should I wear for a horseback riding trip to Rainbow Mountain in Peru?

For a Rainbow Mountain horse tour, wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Layers are advisable, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket are recommended.

Should I book a tour in advance, or can I arrange one on-site?

It’s generally recommended to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How can I book a horseback tour to Rainbow Mountain?

Book a horseback tour through Kondor Path Tours in Cusco or online at www.kondorpathtours.com. Read our TripAdvisor reviews and our recommended service for the horseback riding excursion to the rainbow mountains of Vinicunca in Peru.

What is the altitude of Rainbow Mountain in Vinicunca, and are there any precautions for altitude sickness?

Rainbow Mountain is located at a high altitude, around 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so spending a few days acclimatizing in Cusco is advisable before attempting the journey.

How long does the tour typically last?

The tour duration can vary, but it usually takes a full day, starting early in the morning and returning in the afternoon.

Are horses provided for the entire journey, or is it a hiking tour with the option of horseback riding?

Typically, both options are available. Some people hike the entire way, while others opt for hiking and horseback riding.

What is the level of difficulty for the Rainbow Mountain Horse Tour?

The difficulty can vary, but it’s generally considered a moderate-to-challenging trek, especially if you choose to hike rather than ride horses. Altitude can also be a factor, as Rainbow Mountain is over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) above sea level.

What measures are in place to ensure the safety of participants during the horse tour?

Safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides provide thorough instructions, and our horses are well-trained. We also equip participants with safety gear, ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey to Rainbow Mountain in Peru.

Capturing the Perfect Shot by Horse: Photography Tips?

It takes more than just a camera to capture the beauty of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain ; you also need an artistic eye and a grasp of the subtleties of the surrounding environment. To help you capture your adventure forever, consider the following photography advice:

• Golden Hours : Use soft, warm tones that highlight the mountain’s colors to your advantage by taking advantage of early morning or late afternoon light.
• Leading Lines : Utilize the natural lines and curves of the landscape to lead the viewer’s eye and create depth in your photos.
• Foreground Interest : Use foreground elements, like a grazing llama or a wildflower, to give your pictures depth and context.
• Focus on Details : Although the entire mountain is magnificent, don’t forget to take pictures of the intricate textures and patterns created by the mineral deposits.
• Tell a Story : Use your photography to describe the experience by capturing the surroundings, feelings, and interactions as you go.

Is the horse tour appropriate for older adults and children?

Children over seven can participate in the family-friendly Rainbow Mountain by Horse Tour in Cusco, Peru. However, it’s crucial to consider older participants’ high altitude and physical demands.

What is the best way to avoid altitude sickness during the horse tour?

Pre-acclimatize in Cusco before the horse tour, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion during the hike to reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness on the Rainbow Mountain Tour on horseback in Peru.

What dangers exist when traveling to Rainbow Mountain on a horse?

The main danger of horseback riding on Rainbow Mountain in Peru is altitude sickness. You could experience headaches, nausea, and dizziness if you are unfamiliar with high altitudes. You should stop and take a break if you experience these signs.

What guidelines must be followed when riding a horse to Rainbow Mountain?

The following guidelines should be followed when riding a horse to Rainbow Mountain in Peru:

• Always wear a helmet.
• Obey the instructions of your guide.
• Do not feed or touch the horses.
• Do not litter.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience for the Rainbow Mountain by Horse Tour?

Joining the Rainbow Mountain by Horse Tour in Peru does not require any prior horseback riding experience. These tours use well-mannered horses accustomed to pulling riders of all abilities.

What’s it like?

• Explore Peru’s stunning Rainbow Mountain from a new perspective—horseback riding!
• Our knowledgeable guides will show you all the highlights of this fantastic landscape in one day as you discover the beauty of Peru’s breathtaking Rainbow Mountain on an exclusive horse tour.
• Enjoy breathtaking scenery while getting closer to nature on a horse as you embark on an unforgettable horseback ride to Peru’s majestic Rainbow Mountain.
• Our horseback tours are the perfect way to explore this incredible landscape and take in the scenery!

Rainbow Mountain by Horse New Map

Pricing Breakdown

Tour rainbow mountain by horse, 1 day cost.

Season 2024 PRIVATE SERVICE:

With our special horseback riding tour, you can ride to Rainbow Mountain in Peru and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, clean air, and unforgettable views.

Rainbow Mountain by Horse and Cars

* Kondor Path Tours offers horseback riding on Rainbow Mountain.

INQUIRE ABOUT THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN HORSE TOUR

Join us for an exhilarating ride through breathtaking landscapes and rich history as you enjoy a unique perspective of this magical location. Trip Rainbow Mountain by Horse 1 Day : Explore the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain in Peru on horseback.

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Rainbow Mountain by Horse

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Peru Destinations

Top Best Places and Tourist Attractions to Visit in Peru and Cusco

• Machu Picchu Tours
• Sacred Valley
• Lares Treks
• Huchuy Qosqo
• Rainbow Mountain
• Inca Trails Treks
• Choquequirao
• Inca Quarry

Live an unique vacation in Peru with our personalized itineraries designed exclusively through authentic tours, in harmony with the natural world. Travel to Peru and fuel your imagination on a diet of ancient treasures and wonderful landscapes. Surrounded by majestic Andean peaks, world wonder Machu Picchu and the historic city of Cusco highlight Peru’s dramatic birth from the encounter between Incas and Spaniards. Peru is one of the most diverse travel destinations on the entire planet. Full of wilderness, adventure, history, world-renowned cuisine and a colorful culture, this is a country that offers several exciting options for, literally, any type of traveler.

Custom Tours, Trips & Travel Packages in Peru

The best travel packages and tours to peru.

• Machu Picchu Tour with Rainbow Mountain Trek 5 Days
• Sacred Valley with Short Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Tour – 4 Days

Explore our selection of Peru tours and packages and get inspire with our journeys and find your perfect itinerary. Come to Peru to discover its mystical land with ancient citadels, magnificent natural beauty, traces of ancient civilizations, rich history, and vibrant culture, of course, Peru is a memorable destination. No matter your inclination or age, Peru Spirit Adventure has an exhilarating adventure ready to take you deep into the heart of Peru. From coastal metropolises, the lively Lima city, with its museums, galleries, and buzzing cuisine scene to the Peruvian Andes to explore Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, Sacred Valley with its bustling markets overflowing with vivid textiles and handicrafts, and end up with the most revered ruins in the world like Machu Picchu or keep exploring the dramatic snow-capped peaks, the vivid colors of Rainbow Mountain in the Andes Mountains with our carefully crafted custom tour packages in Southern of Peru

Best Tours & Trips to Machu Picchu

Embark an exceptional private tours of machu picchu in peru with an expert tour guide.

• Tour to Machu Picchu with Vistadome Train 1 Day
• Machu Picchu Tour by Train – 2 Days / 1 Night
• Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour 2D/1N
• Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour 3D/2N
• Sacred Valley 2 Day & Machu Picchu – 3 Days / 2 Nights
• 4D/3N Cusco City, Sacred Valley 2 Day & Machu Picchu Tour
• Sacred Valley & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 3D/2N
• 2-Day Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Machu Picchu Tour

The spectacular Inca citadel of Machu Picchu – Is the world’s greatest travel destination, a New Wonder of the World, South America’s top attraction, or purely a postcard-worthy ancient site that must be seen to be believed. Whether you travel to Machu Picchu by scenic train, hike the world-famous Inca Trail or venture off the beaten path, you’ll be able to enjoy a unique experience and discover the Lost City’s secrets. Once you step foot into this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll discover its refined architecture, spiritual meaning and astronomical importance. Machu Picchu – a bucket list experience!!

Best Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu Peru

Hike the famous inca trail to machu picchu, the best trekking route in all of south america.

• Inca Trail 4 Days Trek to Machu Picchu 
• Inca Trail 5 Days Tour to Machu Picchu
• Inca Trail Short 2 Days Trek to Machu Picchu
• Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail 6D/5N
• 1 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• 2 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail – Is one of the most iconic and famous trails in South America – perhaps the world – and a must-do, life-changing experience. This 26-mile (42km) trail to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu goes across the Andes mountains reaching 13,829 ft (4,215m) and it’s hiked in 4 days and 5 days. Along the route you’ll get to see some fascinating archaeological sites that can only be accessed by foot and witness a mix of ecosystems with abundance in fauna and flora where you’ll have high chances to spot gorgeous orchids, tall mountains ranging from the snow-capped Andes to the luscious cloud forest and in the middle of this region is where you’ll camp every night and live an unforgettable experience and this original Inca steps ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the entrance to Machu Picchu city.

The Greatest Hikes in Peru

Alternative Treks To Machu Picchu & Off The Beaten Path Adventure Travel in Peru

SALKANTAY TREKS

• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
• Salkantay Challenge Trek 3 Days
• Salkantay Trek + Classic Inca Trail 6 Days
• Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu & Zipline 5 Days

AUSANGATE TREKS

• Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains – 4 Days
• Ausangate 5 Day Trek + Rainbow Mountains Cusco
• Ausangate & Sibinacocha Lake 7D/6N

LARES TREKS

• Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 3D/2N
• Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail 5D/4N
• Lares Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu

HUCHUY QOSQO TREKS

• Huchuy Qosqo 1 Day Hike
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days (With Machu Picchu)
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3D/2N

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKS

• Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N
• Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N

ANCASCOCHA TREKS

• Ancascocha Challenge Trek 4D/3N
• Ancascocha Trek 5D/4N

INCA QUARRY TREKS

• Inca Quarry Trek 4D/3N
• Inca Quarry Trek + Short Inca Trail 5D/4N

INCA JUNGLE TOURS

• Inca Jungle 4 Days
• Inca Jungle 3 Days

DAY TRIPS IN CUSCO

Enjoy the best of the city of Cusco & surrond

• City Tour Cusco Half Day Tour – Morning or Afternoon 
• Cusco City Highlights & Surroundings Tour – 1 Day
• Maras Moray & Salt Mines Tour – Half Day
• 1-Day South Valley Tour of Cusco
• Walking Tour Cusco Half Day Tour
• Cusco Horseback riding – Half day

FULL DAY HIKES

Off The Beaten Path Cusco Day Hikes

• Full-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek
• Inca Quarry Trail 1-Day Hike
• Chinchero to Urquillos One Day Trek
• Pumamarca Hike to Ollantaytambo – 1 Day
• Qeswachaka Bridge One Day Tour
• Tipon, Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas Tour – 1 Day

BEST SELLER DAY TOURS IN CUSCO

Discover the Best Day Hikes in Peru

• Rainbow Mountain One Day Tour
• Horseback Ride Rainbow Mountain 1-Day Tour
• Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain 1-Day Tour
• Humantay Lake One Day Tour
• 1-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
• Ausangate 7 Lakes 1-Day Hike

Peru's Best Sacred Valley Tours in Private Service

Discover the best of sacred valley with a customized tour on your terms.

• CLASSIC Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac & Ollantaytambo)
• ALTERNATIVE Sacred Valley Tour (Chinchero, Moray, Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo)
• EXTENDED Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac, Salt Mines, Moray & Ollantaytambo)
• SUPER Sacred Valley Tour (Chinchero, Salt Mines, Moray, Ollantaytambo & Pisac)
• FULL-DAY TOUR ( Moray, Salt Ponds of Maras & Pisac)
• SACRED VALLEY TOUR from OLLANTAYTAMBO to CUSCO

Peru’s Sacred Valley – Just one hour away from Cusco, it’s a destination full of adventure, culture, and glimpses into local Andean life; nestled in the verdant foothills of the snow-capped Andes, with a stunning landscape, dotted with little villages and ruins. Explore Pisac and Ollantaytambo to witness and wander around stunning hillside Incan ruins, visit Chinchero to experience a traditional market day in the valley. Do not miss the ancient salt pans, known as the Maras Salt Mines and the Inca experimental terraces of Moray.

Rainbow Mountain Treks & Tours

Hike to the incredible rainbow mountain or vinicunca mountain in peru.

• Rainbow Mountain Trek & Red Valley 2 Days
• Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Days
• Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains 4 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 

Vinicunca Mountain — also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, or more simply Rainbow Mountain — was discovered four years ago when the snow covering it melted, revealing the natural beauty of the rock beneath. A visit to Rainbow Mountain is an absolute must for all those who love stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. This hike to Rainbow Mountain offer you one of the earth’s most amazing natural wonders in Peru.

Private Rainbow Mountain Treks & Hiking Tours

Mountain of 7 colors of the Andes

Explore the rainbow mountain peru.

Rainbow Mountain Private Treks & Hiking Tours in Peru — Explore the Rainbow Mountain of Peru in the southern end of Cusco, Peru; hiking along a stunning wild route and remote colorful landscape with endless scenery fills. Our private tours and treks to  Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain  from Cusco is an unforgettable adventure with fantastic views that will take you through beautiful villages where the  Quechua  speaking inhabitants have lived for thousands of years.

The tour to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain in  Peru  is a must-do for any hiker in  Cusco  and, will enable the traveler to discover the absolute best experience while trekking through the Peruvian Andes. Our day hikes or multi-day hikes to Rainbow Mountains of Peru is tucked away in the Vilcanota Mountain range. Hiking tour to Rainbow Mountains or Vinicunca Mountains with a great view at the background of Ausangate is unique. We hike to places that provide amazing views of the snow-capped mountains, lakes, eroded mountains, herds of llamas and alpacas with locals. Our custom Rainbow Mountain tour is surrounded by glacial mountains, this route treks in the shadow of the highest mountain in the Cusco Region, Ausangate (63,00m/21,000ft).

These Rainbow Mountain Private tours and treks making a complete loop for an absolute exploration of the gem of this wilderness of the Andes. Visit the amazing Rainbow Mountain and see the best of it on a private tour with a friendly and experienced Peru Spirit Adventure’s guide! This tour usually departs from Cusco. Find the perfect itinerary below, or customize your own Rainbow Mountain tour with us.

Highlights Of The Rainbow Mountain Of Peru

• Visit the Rainbow Mountains of Peru under managed by Peru Spirit Adventure’s experienced guides.
• Explore more and see more of the wonder of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain that hides in the heart of the Peruvian Andes; embarking on the small private group of Peru Spirt Adventure
• Discover the hidden gems and breathtaking scenery taken a phenomenal full-day trek or multi-day hikes to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain from Cusco and enjoy the breathtaking views of Ausangate and also interact with the local indigenous people.

Travel with confidence

Book with flexibility and peace of mind, and live epic adventures and authentic travel experience in Peru by taking our incredible itineraries.

Locally Owned & Operated

We Operate 100% of Our Tours & Treks! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!

Small Group & Private Tours

We focus on small group and custom private tours; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experience.

We Focus on Details

Your experience is our top priority, we are the experts in customizing all tours, trips, treks and a travel package curated just for you.

Knowledge and Expertise

Our professional guides experienced, chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

BEST RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PRIVATE TOURS & HIKES IN PERU

We offer several tours and treks options to Rainbow Mountains Cusco, Peru! With different durations for different schedules and physical fitness levels for trekking activities, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the pristine wilderness in the Peruvian Andes, embarking on our Rainbow Mountain private tours and have a once in a lifetime experience! Take advantage of our day hike and multi-day hikes with and without Machu Picchu.

Our Rainbow Mountain tours do not require permits and are one of our most popular alternative Peru treks. Peru Spirit Adventure is dedicated to excellent customer service and adventure experiences. We have carefully designed three different hiking alternatives for people who travel to the spectacular Rainbow Mountains of Cusco. Here we have a list of them, click on each option for more information.

Rainbow Mountains 1 Day Hike

Rainbow Mountain of Peru / Walk through deserted highland paths & isolated communities

Max Altitude:

5,200 m / 17,060 feet.

Activity Level:

Moderate (high altitude)

Group Size:

Min 2 ppl, Max 8 ppl

BEST Rainbow Mountain by Horse 1 Day Tour

Rainbow Mountain on horseback is Cusco’s second-most popular attraction after Machu Picchu! Visit Peru’s renowned Rainbow Mountain without worrying about hiking over 5,100 meters (16,732 feet) and see alpacas and llamas grazing in the mountains and roaming free as you go horseback riding to Rainbow Mountain.

5,200 m / 17,000 ft

Light-Moderate (Easy, gentle walk, stone steps)

100% Private Tour - Only You and Your Party

Rainbow Mountain Peru and Red Valley Trek

Wonderful Mountain of Colors and Red Mars-like Landscape

5,100 m / 16,732 ft

Active / Moderate to challenging

Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Days

Challenging (Strenuous, lengthy, high altitude)

4-Day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek

5 Day Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain

In this 5 days tour through Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain you will be able to see all the most beautiful places that Cusco has to offer.

Explore the best of Cusco city, the Sacred Valley tour, Machu Picchu Citadel, and the Rainbow Mountain with an Authentic Local Expert. Discover the ancient landmarks of the Inca Empire and unamissable destinations of Cusco with a private guide on a 5-day tour from Cusco.

5,200 m /17,060 ft

Inquiry Now

Book it now with us.

Reservations for the 2022 season have already started, more than 500 clients with reservations secured!

Very limited spaces

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The Incredible Rainbow Mountain Tours & Treks — Private Service

Rainbow mountain private tours, custom trips & peru treks.

Hike to the incredibly colorful  Vinicunca  or  famous Rainbow Mountains  along a wild and remote colorful striated mountains route past snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, glacial peaks, and relaxing hot springs with endless scenery fills!

Our  day hike  and  multi-day hikes  in the southern end of  Cusco  is an amazing trek runs next to the spectacular snow-capped “Apu” of Ausangate (6,300mt. /21,900ft.), tucked away in a well-hidden section of the  Vilcanota Mountain range.

This  Rainbow Mountains Trek  is a true off the beaten path wilderness hike on a new route located in the high Andean mountains of  Peru , and through the best trails of uncrowded Ausangate trail with incredible views of the Andes and glacial peaks. Along the Rainbow Mountain Trek, you will see turquoise lakes, glacial mountains, llamas, alpacas, chinchillas, and maybe even a wild vicuña, and also, will take you through beautiful villages where the  Quechua  speaking inhabitants have lived for thousands of years.

Our  4-day trek to Rainbow Mountains , also known as “ Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains 4 Days ” combines with the Ausangate Trail and is considered the jewel in the crown of the Andes. This is not a trek for everyone, but for those who want to get off the beaten path and find this an experience of a lifetime. Which includes 4 days of high altitude wilderness hiking and 3 nights of camping. This 4-day trek to Rainbow Mountains is fully supported trek in a smoother and leisurely pace to get the ultimate destination Rainbow Mountain. Our 4-day trek to the Rainbow Mountains is moderate to strenuous due to lengthy mileage (52km / 32.3 miles) and very high altitude passes (up to 5050mt./16,568ft.).

We can also customize this tour to be a 6-day trek with a tour of  Sacred Valley  on Day 5 and magical  Machu Picchu  on Day 6! This trek can be combined with the Ausangate Trail, hiking, camping and be extended further into the Rainbow Mountains to create an itinerary of 6, 7 or 8 days of trekking! In the Peruvian Andes.

We also offer  Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Day s via Ausangate Trail, this trek is perfect if you’re looking for an adventure that’s as challenging as it is rewarding and at the same time to see the best part of Ausangate and reach to Vinicunca/ Rainbow Mountains through colored red valleys, without all the crowds!  

Don’t have much time? Then join our short  Rainbow Mountain Trek 2 Days , Best Option  — A great way to beat the crowds! This two-day tour to the Rainbow Mountains is for those who don’t have a lot of time or don’t want the fuss of camping but still want to experience the breathtaking beauty of these striated mountains! Our  1 Day Rainbow Mountain Hike  is a moderate-strenuous hike up to the highest point of Rainbow Mountains, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Vinicunca / Rainbow Mountains, also known as “ Mountain of 7 colors “.

Our  Rainbow Mountains Day Trip by Horse  is for all ages and fitness levels with only a short walk to the Rainbow Mountains Pass, this horseback ride up Rainbow Mountains is also an ideal trip for you to avoid the heights between (4,000mt. / 13,123 ft.) to (5,020mt. / 16, 469 ft.).

For these  Rainbow Mountain Private Tours & Treks , it is essential to be properly acclimatized by spending at least two or three days in Cusco (or equivalent altitude) before beginning the trek to Peru’s famous Rainbow Mountains. The campsites are at high elevations and therefore will be quite cold, below freezing, in the evenings. Minimum passengers necessary 2 people to confirm departure (max 8 / average 4). We can customize this private trek just for you. Rainbow Mountain Private Tours with  Local Experts in Per u.

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Rainbow Mountain, The choice is yours

The Rainbow Mountain is a highlight of any custom Peru tour— Rainbow Mountain can be started from any point of Cusco, Sacred Valley/Urubamba, and Airport, it doesn’t matter where you are. All tours include Pick-Ups and Drop-Offs to the respective hotels, whether you are in Cusco, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Airport or another place, and can be extended to Machu Picchu and combined with other exciting tours like Cusco City Tour, Day Trip to Humantay Lagoon, Etc. We also offer a tour that particularly combines the Sacred Valley tour and Machu Picchu which is a 2 day/1-night tour, so please contact us if you want more information about this itinerary.

Our tours will be conducted under the guidance of experienced guides who grew up in this region and who have a true passion for teaching their heritage. Book our day tour to Peru’s Sacred Valley in advance, which offers a safe and well-organized experience! If you stay in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba after your trip to Machu Picchu, enjoy the highlights of the Sacred Valley, we also offer Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo to Cusco for you not to miss out on anything on your way back to Cusco.

What you need to take for Rainbow Mountain from Cusco

• Clothing: The weather in the Rainbow Mountain changes quickly, so bring a lot of layers to be prepared. Pack t-shirts and add warmth with long-sleeve clothing and a fleece jacket. Lightweight pants for hiking.
• Footwear:  Comfortable hiking shoes or athletic sneakers with good traction are perfect for walking up to and around the Inca archaeological complexes. Multi-day hikes you will definitely want the boots for ankle support.
• Sun protection:  Don’t forget your hat, glasses, and sunblock for sun protection.
• Day excursions:  When traveling outside Cusco for a day. Bring a daypack with snug straps to carry your water, camera, snacks and other personal belongings.
• Rainy season:  During the rainy season months, pack a waterproof jacket or a travel-size umbrella or plastic ponchos. Plastic ponchos are also available to buy in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
• Bottled wáter:  It is not recommended to drink tap water in Peru. But staying hydrated is important for preventing altitude sickness.
• Money:  It is good to have small bills and coins in the Sacred Valley because market vendors and small stores may not have adequate change to break larger bills.
• Snacks:  Energy bars, candies, cookies, etc (you can also buy fresh fruits at one of the villages’ markets).
• Insect repellent:  There are mosquitoes in the secred valley.
• Portable chargers:  It is recommended to bring charger because phone batteries run out quicky.
• Toilet paper:  Some toilets dont have toilet paper and antibacterial hand gel.
• Some small plastic bags for disposals.

BEST RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PRIVATE TOURS & HIKES IN

We offer several  tours and treks options  to Rainbow Mountains Cusco,  Peru ! With different durations for different  schedules and physical fitness levels  for trekking activities, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the pristine wilderness in the  Peruvian Andes , embarking on our Rainbow Mountain private tours and have a once in a lifetime experience! Take advantage of our  day hike  and  multi-day hikes  with and without Machu Picchu. Our Rainbow Mountain tours do not require permits and are one of our most popular alternative  Peru  treks.  Peru Spirit Adventure  is dedicated to excellent customer service and adventure experiences. We have carefully designed three different hiking alternatives for people who travel to the spectacular Rainbow Mountains of Cusco. Here we have a list of them, click on each option for more information.

Tour Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

5 Days & 4 Nights Tour Package | Starting From: $ per person

RECOMENDED TOURS

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PERU 1-DAY TOUR

From: $ 150.00 per person Get ready to discover one of the most impressive natural wonders on the planet in the midd

2 Days Tour

Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Trek

From: $ 400.00 per person Rainbow Mountain Trek 2 Days – Discover and enjoy Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley o

Rainbow Mountain Ride Horse - 1 Day

From: $ per person Rainbow Mountain by horse 1 Day, Visit rainbow mountain by a horse near the Ausangate vall

Highlight of Rainbow Mountain

The Pisac archaeological site is located at the beginning of the Sacred Valley. It is considered one of the region's most important Incan sites, mainly known for its impressive agricultural terraces and beautiful hilltop views.

The site is believed to have been constructed during the Incan Empire (1438-1532) and served as a strategic military and religious center for the Incas. The ruins at Pisac include a temple complex, a residential area, and several administrative and military buildings.

One of the most impressive features of Pisac is its agricultural terraces, built into the steep mountainside and used for farming crops such as corn, potatoes, and quinoa. The terraces were designed to maximize irrigation and prevent erosion, and they are still used by local farmers today.

Pisac Market is a vibrant outdoor market located in the town of Pisac. It is famous for its colorful displays of handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Peruvian foods.

The market is open daily, but it is especially lively on Sundays when vendors from the surrounding villages come to sell their goods. Visitors to Pisac Market can browse various products, including alpaca wool clothing, ceramics, jewelry, and musical instruments.

One of the market's highlights is its selection of traditional Peruvian foods. Vendors sell freshly prepared dishes such as roasted guinea pig, ceviche, empanadas, and various fruits, vegetables, and spices. Visitors can also sample traditional Peruvian drinks such as chicha, a fermented corn drink, and pisco, a grape brandy that is the national drink of Peru.

Ollantaytambo is a small town located approximately 38 miles (61 km) from Cusco. It is known for its well-preserved Incan ruins and its role as a transportation hub for travelers to Machu Picchu.

Ollantaytambo was named one of the world's best tourist villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The town was recognized for its well-preserved Incan architecture, rich cultural heritage, and role as a gateway to Machu Picchu. The UNWTO's "Best Tourism Villages" initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism in rural areas and to recognize the vital role that small villages can play in the tourism industry.

The selection criteria for the initiative include the preservation of cultural heritage, the promotion of local products and services, and the implementation of sustainable tourism practices.

Moray is an archaeological site located in the upper part of the Sacred Valley, approximately 31 miles (50 km) from Cusco. It is known for its impressive circular terraces that the Incas used for agricultural experiments.

The terraces at Moray were built into a natural depression in the earth, and they are arranged in concentric circles that decrease in size as they descend. The Incas used these terraces to test different agricultural techniques and grow crops, including corn, potatoes, and quinoa.

One of the most exciting features of Moray is its microclimates. The temperature at the center of the circular terraces is several degrees warmer than at the edges, creating a range of growing conditions that allowed the Incas to test the adaptability of different crops to different climates.

They are also known as the "Ciudad de las Portadas," a nickname given to the town of Maras due to its numerous colonial-era doorways and arches, known as "portadas" in Spanish. These doorways are a distinctive feature of the town's architecture and are highly valued for their historical and cultural significance.

Many of the "portadas" in Maras are made of carved stone and feature intricate designs and motifs. They were built by Spanish colonizers in the 16th and 17th centuries and were used to mark the entrances to important buildings and homes.

The "portadas" is an important part of Maras' cultural heritage, and the town takes great pride in preserving them. The local government has implemented measures to protect and restore the doorways. Visitors to Maras can take guided tours to learn about the history and significance of these unique architectural features.

The Salt Ponds of Maras, also known as Salineras de Maras, is a series of salt evaporation ponds in the Sacred Valley at 3200 m (10498 ft). The salt ponds have been used since pre-Columbian times and are still operated using traditional methods today.

The salt ponds are situated on a steep hillside just outside the town of Maras and cover an area of several hectares. They consist of thousands of small terraced pools that are filled with salty water from a natural underground stream. The water is left to evaporate in the sun, leaving behind salt crystals that local families harvest.

The salt from the Salineras de Maras is highly valued for its purity and unique flavor. It is used for cooking and preserving food, as well as for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The salt is also an important source of income for local families, who work together to maintain the ponds and harvest the salt.

Chinchero is a small Andean town located at 3,762 m (12,343 ft). It is known as the "Land of Great Weavers" due to the town's rich textile traditions, passed down through generations. The local people are skilled in weaving intricate patterns and designs into textiles using traditional techniques and natural dyes.

Chinchero is also home to a beautiful archaeological site with a large colonial church built on top of an Inca palace. The church, known as the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat, was built by the Spanish in the early 17th century using stones taken from the nearby Inca site.

The Inca palace, located underneath the church, is believed to have been built by the Inca ruler Tupac Yupanqui. The palace featured impressive stonework and a large central courtyard and was likely used for ceremonial and administrative purposes.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Chinchero is known for its stunning views of the Andes Mountains and its vibrant local markets, where visitors can purchase handcrafted textiles and other artisanal goods.

Mirador Taray is a scenic viewpoint located in the Sacred Valley. It is known for its stunning panoramic mountains, valleys, and farmland views.

The viewpoint is approximately 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level. It offers visitors a breathtaking view of the region's natural beauty. From Mirador Taray, you can see the Urubamba River winding its way through the valley below and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes Mountains in the distance.

Faqs About Rainbow Mountain Tour

Falta redactar.

Here is the best of what is on offer on Machu Picchu private tours, take advantage of our full Day Sacred Valley Tours where you will encounter magnificent Inca ruins and temples, beautiful terraced mountains and shop in wonderful Indian Markets. Scroll down our main list of Machu Picchu Private Tours that we have selected for you to reach this wonderful place, these tours are completely customizable and make multi-day tours according to your interest and budget. Contact us to get more info or shoot us an e-mail [email protected]

BEST PHOTOS OF OUR CUSTOM VINICUNCA RAINBOW MOUNTAINS TOURS

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Your adventure. our expertise., why travel with peru spirit adventure, superior service.

Custom itineraries designed just for yo

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Conserving wildlife and supporting communities

Inca Trail Specialists

12+ years on the trail knowledge and experience

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Peace of mind with your money, Secure in hands you can trus

BEFORE YOU GO, WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

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How to plan the BEST Sacred Valley Tour from CUSCO

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Cusco Alternative Treks – Inca Trail Alternative Treks

Hiking the  Cusco alternative treks to Machu Picchu  is “off the beaten path” that  combines spectacular high Andean scenery  with own charm & unique vistas some of Cusco alternative treks  culminate at the glorious ruins of Machu Picchu  and some of them no. Most treks last four or five days and we offer enhanced holidays.  All treks require several days acclimatization to high altitude & a good level of fitness . Also, Hiking the Inca Trail can be very challenging.

Active  Peru Spirit Adventure  offers a wide range of Cusco alternative treks to Machu Picchu with unique experiences to little known and less touristy places that will take you away from the beaten track. The hiking adventure in the Andes is our passion that we would like to share with you . Contact an expert local company to assure trip planning is seamless to Cusco alternative treks or Classic Inca Trail. Please take a look below for available options of the Cusco alternative treks.

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• Peru Spirit Adventure vacations and itineraries
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Peru Spirit Adventure

100% direct local tour operator.

Thank you so much for reaching out to us. We will respond to all email inquiries within 24 hours. We are also reachable by chat and phone and look forward to connecting.

Our main email:  [email protected] / [email protected] Address:  Urb. Picchu Alto J – 5, Cusco – Peru​ Mobile:  +51 957 326 998 | +51 965 730 786 WhatsApp:  +51 957 326 998

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Sacred Valley Private Tours & Tailor Made with Local Experts

Connect with peru spirit adventure – 100% direct local tour operator.

Thank you so much for reaching out to us. Please complete the contact form below to tell us more about your dates, interests, the number of travelers, pick-up and drop-off places etc. We will do our best to help you organize your trip. You can be assured you will hear from us within 24 hours. Our Sacred Valley tour is available only in Private Service that offer you  the flexibility to design your own trip exactly how you like it, as well as the duration of the visit in each case, not being subject to a larger group itinerary and timings.

Terms & Conditions

Thank you for booking and/or traveling on a Peru Spirit Adventure tour with Peru Spirit Adventure. We are 100% local Cusqueñan company and legally recognized by Peruvian law. These Terms and Conditions apply to any travel products and/or services purchased from Peru Spirit Adventure. A contract is entered into once PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE receives your booking form and deposit, and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE. All Peru Spirit Adventure based treks and tours are operated by Peru Spirit Adventure.

BOOKING & PAYMENT

To reserve any of our tours and treks services, the customer must submit his or her personal information and a deposit. The personal information we require is the following: Full name (as appears on passport), Date of Birth, Nationality, Gender, and Passport number.

• A picture of their passport photo page. A camera phone picture or similar is acceptable.

Once the customer confirms their reservation, we will send an email within 24 hours with a confirmation of their tour or trek and the deposit amount and also, details of the services included and not included in the service price. Once we send this information to the customer, if we do not receive any response from the customer it will be assumed by the company that the customer has accepted all terms and conditions. We provide a full pre-tour briefing at your hotel in Cusco. This gives the customer the chance to ask any questions they may have about the tour or trek itinerary. — ABOUT THE BRIEFING:  The night before your tour or trek, there will be a pre-tour talk (briefing) at your hotel in Cusco at either 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm. (exact time will be confirmed by email). Once you receive your briefing time, if we do not hear back we will assume it is confirmed by you. Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, ensuring you arrive in time for the briefing. If your tour or trek begins on a Monday then the briefing will be scheduled for the Saturday before.

• Please note that it is difficult to change the briefing time and date at short notice. Therefore, if we receive a request for a briefing change less than 48 hours prior to the scheduled briefing, we most likely will not be able to change the briefing time or date. We will, however, do everything we can to change to try and accommodate the schedule change.

We use PayPal for sending deposits, that way you can use your credit card. There is a 6% fee for deposits using PayPal (for the international transfer). We also use Western Union for sending deposits, Deposits through Western Union have variable fees. The deposit amount depends on the type of itinerary you will book, as follows;

• For all trek and multi-day tours,  we require a deposit of $250 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Rainbow Mountain tours & hikes  we require a deposit of $100 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Humantay Lake Day Trip,  we require a deposit of $100 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Sacred Valley Tours & Trips,  we require a deposit of $100 USD (for the group) — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Cusco Half Day Tours,  we require a deposit of $50 USD (for the group) — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For large groups, we accept wire transfer for deposits and final balances due. If you would like more information about the wire transfer option, please email us at  [email protected]

FINAL PAYMENTS:  We accept cash and PayPal for final payments. A client may not depart for the tour or trek until payment in full is received, either in cash or by PayPal.

• Cash payments  are due the day before tour or trek departure and can be paid at the pre-tour or trek briefing. We accept US dollars and Peruvian soles for cash payments. If you will pay in US dollars.  Take note.  The Peruvian banks are extremely strict about the “quality” of dollars they will accept. Therefore, we have to request that your bills are what they call “unbroken”. Broken bills will not be accepted. Broken means — any tear (even as small as 3 mm) or excessive wrinkling
• PayPal payments  are due one week before the tour or trek departure.  a)  There is an 8% fee on balance due payments using PayPal.  b)  If the balance via PayPal is not paid by 3 days prior to trek departure, the PayPal fee will be 10%. Our PayPal email is: [email protected]
• All banking fees will be covered by the client

CANCELLATION POLICY FOR TOURS & TREKS:

Notification

• Notification of cancellation must always be made in writing by the person that made the booking and paid the deposit to  [email protected] .
• Your deposit for the tours and treks are 100% non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, as you approach your tour start date, there may be additional cost due. There are no exceptions due to the fact, that  PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE  expends a great deal of expense purchasing permits, entrance tickets, and making deposits for reservations or services, most of which are non-changeable, non-transferable, and non-refundable by government regulation. We also do not accept medical notes of any kind, as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.

CANCELLATION FEES

• Cancellations made 30 days in advance have no charge (with the exception of the non-refundable deposit) with the following exception:
• Inca Trail treks
• In the case of cancellation, the customer will not receive a refund of their deposit
• If the customer cancels between 30 and 10 days before their trek, they must pay 50% of the total trip cost.
• If the customer cancels between 10 and 3 days before their trek, they must pay 80% of the total cost.
• If the customer cancels 2 days or less before their trek, they must pay 100% of the total cost.
• In the exceptional case that a customer decides to leave once they have started the trek, no refund will be given. The customer must also pay any additional expenses they incur such as food, lodging, and transportation. On the last day, the customer will be able to rejoin the group and participate in the Machu Picchu tour.
• If after the tour has started a client cannot participate in the trek or tour (due to sickness, physical problems, etc.) no refund will be given. The customer must also pay any additional costs they incur for transportation, lodging, and food. On the last day, the tourist will be able to rejoin the group and participate in the Machu Picchu tour.
• In the case of natural disaster that prevents a service being completed, the customer will receive a 50% refund.
• In the case of a natural disaster that requires a change in the trek route, but the trek is still completed, there will be no refund.
• In the very unlikely circumstance that your service is not completed due to a fault of Peru Spirit Adventure, you will receive a full refund (including your deposit).

INCA TRAIL TOURS

• PERMITS:  Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Peru Spirit Adventure (or any agency).
• In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Peru Spirit Adventure will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
• Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

CHANGES MADE BY CLIENT

• Please note that for the Inca Trail, permits are not-changeable, not-transferable, and not-refundable. Dates can never be changed by government policy.

With the exception of the Inca Trail treks, we are generally able to change a trek date.

• To change the date of your non-Inca Trail trek, there is a fee of US $75 per person if the change occurs more than 30 days prior to trek departure.
• If the change occurs 21 to 30 days prior to trek departure, the fee is US $100 per person.
• If the change occurs 10 to 20 days before trek departure, the fee is US $150 per person.
• Changes less than 10 days prior to trek departure will have varying fees, which can be discussed at the time the change is being made.
• Changes made must be to another group trek for a minimum of 2 individuals. If a single traveler needs to change dates, and there is not an existing option for that date, the change will not be possible.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

• We highly recommend travel insurance for all of our customers.
• Coverage should include baggage loss, accident, emergency air rescue and trip cancellation. Trip cancellation insurance should reimburse you for non-recoverable air or land expenses should you cancel your trip due to personal or family illness, as well as covering any medical or emergency evacuation expenses if you become ill during your trip.
• In the case of illness or injury on one of our treks or tours, we are trained to provide emergency first aid and arrange transportation to a proper medical facility. However, we are not responsible for the cost of those transportation services or the cost of medical care.

ABOUT YOUR PASSPORT IN MACHU PICCHU, HUAYNA PICCHU AND ON THE INCA TRAIL:

• Once you book your tour, we send your information immediately to “Machu Picchu Park” in order for permits to be issued as soon as possible.
• You will need to bring your actual passport for all services. A photocopy will not be accepted.
• If your passport number changes between reserving your spot and the start of your trek, you will need to bring your old as well as your new passport to the start of the Trek.
• If any of the information on your passport does not match the information we were previously provided, you won’t be able to start the trek.
• If you arrive in Cusco and did not advise us that you have a new passport number, and that your information has changed, Peru Spirit Adventure will not be held responsible. In this situation it will be the responsibility of the customer to pay the extra expense of returning to Cusco or Machu Picchu (transportation, food and other expenses).

TRAVEL IN PERU:   Peru Spirit Adventure  operates in regions, where standards of accommodation can vary. Transportation and other services might not be like those you would normally have back home. However, we strive with all due care and skill, to provide the best service for our clients. Traveling in Peru requires flexibility, patience, broad-mindedness, good humor and an understanding that changes may be made without notice due to circumstances or occurrences beyond our control. For example: a strike, protest, landslide, bad weather, etc. ( Force Majeure ). By booking any of our tours & treks, you agree to allow  Peru Spirit Adventure  to make necessary changes without liability.

FORCE MAJEURE

Force Majeure is any event that PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE cannot with all due care foresee, control or avoid. This covers events such as war or threat of war, riot, civil strike, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, fire or all similar events beyond our control. In this case, PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE will not accept liability and reserves the right to change, postpone or even cancel trips. (This is a last option, of course!)

By booking any of our adventure trips (Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Lares, Salkantay, Ausangate, Choquequirao, Rainbow Mountain trek and more) you assume the risks associated with personal accidents, medical emergencies, air travel problems etc. For these treks, PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE Agency accepts no responsibility.

FULL TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR ADVENTURE TOURS & TREKS

• You must advise Peru Spirit Adventure of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
• You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
• All balances need to be paid in either cash or PayPal (see “ FINAL PAYMENTS ” section above).
• In order to receive a student discount, you must send your valid University ID to Peru Spirit Adventure at the time of booking. ID must have your name, photo and valid expiration date. Any card without an expiration date will not be accepted. You will then be required to bring your student card with you on the trek – they will not allow you to pass through the checkpoint without this original card.
• You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
• Cancellations: Your deposit is 100% non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, as you approach your tour start date, there may be additional cost due. There are absolutely no exceptions (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us (see  “CANCELLATION FEES”  section above).
• PERMITS: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE (or any agency).
• All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
• If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter airlifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment.
• PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Peru Spirit Adventure cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
• PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.

VERY IMPORTANT:

• We strongly suggest spending time at high altitude (above 3000 meters / 9842 feet)- in Cusco or another high altitude area for a minimum of 2- 4 days before undertaking your trip. This is in order to minimize the possible effects of altitude sickness. By drinking plenty of fluids, adding sugar to your drinks, eating food high in carbohydrates, avoiding cigarettes, alcohol, and drinking coca tea (ancient traditional leaf) will help your body acclimatize.
• We recommend you arrive in Cusco 48 hours or more before trek departure because occasionally we need to leave earlier than scheduled in case of strikes or other events out of our control (see ‘Force Majeure’ section below)

RIGHT TO USE PICTURES

You accept and grant to Peru Spirit Adventure – Tour Operator the right to use your images, photos, and videos that show or describe during your participation in any tour, trekking or adventure, in any advertising of any type, without payment of any additional consideration.

Thanks again for choosing us and we look forward to seeing you in Cusco!

Peru Spirit Adventure Team!

Who is  Peru Spirit Adventure ? We are a small tour operator company owned by a local  Peruvian experts  with more than 10 years of experience as a guide.  Our office is based in Cusc o, a city in the Peruvian Andes and is located near the central square, Plaza del Armas. Our team is made up of  knowledgeable  and  passionate  tour guides from  Cusco  and  Andes  with many years of experience  Read more

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Hike the Colorful Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain in Peru

Hidden from the outside world, surrounded by gorgeous valleys with tiny villages and hundreds of Alpacas is the Rainbow Mountain in Peru. Mountain tops at 5000 meters (16400 ft) are covered with a dozen different colours as if it’s painted on there while it’s actually due to various kinds of metals. And we are not talking about the immensely popular Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain but its unknown brother; Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain in Peru.

Peru Rainbow Mountain Tour

A tour to the Rainbow Mountains in Peru starts at 3 – 4 AM with a 3-hour to arrive at sunrise time. Both Vinicunca Mountain and Palccoyo Mountain can be visited on a Rainbow Mountain day tour from Cusco .

Also read: 14 Things To Do in Cusco, Peru

The sad truth behind this all is that less than 10 years ago, snow covers the mountain tops year-round. But due to climate change, the snow melts in summer and reveals these incredible colors.

See tickets and availability for a Rainbow Mountain Tour here

Vinicunca or Palccoyo Mountain?

Peru is fortunate to have two rainbow mountain locations. Both have their pros and cons, so it depends on personal preference which mountain you choose.

Vinicunca is popular, sometimes crowded, the heights of both located at 5,200 meters, a 3-hour steep, somewhat difficult hike, and offers multiple rainbow mountain tops.

Must-read: Complete 3-week Peru Travel Guide

Palccoyo, on the other hand, is located lower at 5,000 meters, a mostly flat and easy 1.5-hour walk up, just a handful of tourists per day but has fewer colored mountain tops. To avoid standing at a busy mountain top visiting Palccoyo is the best choice.

Also: Discover the surprising capital Lima, Peru .

Rainbow Mountain Altitude Sickness

Both require you to have a good condition, and both will cause altitude sickness as this usually starts to get worse at 4,000 meters. Your guide will take perfect care of you and carries coca leaves, candy, and other items that will help against altitude sickness.

Read: Everything about Arequipa, the white city of Peru

Hike the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain in Peru

To get to Palccoyo, you have to drive through an incredible valley over a dirt road for one hour. High snow-top mountains, water streaming down the valley that’s surrounded by Alpacas. 

Book this Alternative Rainbow Mountain Tour .

The locals in this area suffer from the cold weather in the winter as it is remote and hard to reach during that time of the year. Elderly, babies and a lot of Alpacas, unfortunately, die every winter. 

Please take: warm clothing or blankets and donate them to the villages to help them get through the winter.

Also read: Machu Picchu Tour Guide

Hiking the Palccoyo Mountain in Peru

After 3 hours of driving from Cusco, you will arrive at the start of the hiking path. If you look around, you can already spot the first colors. Yes, the colors are real. Red, yellow, blue, orange, and a few more are covering the mountains, therefore: Rainbow Mountain.

Read:   14 Things to do in Cusco

Together with your guide, take the walk to the different viewpoints and finish at the Stone Forest at 5,000 meters. It will be a hike of 90 minutes, where only the last 15 minutes are steep uphill. Take a lot of water; you need to drink 3 liters per day at this height.

Tip: Take small coins with you that you can use to walk with an Alpaca or to wear traditional clothing.

When to visit the Rainbow Mountain in Peru?

Visiting the Rainbow Mountain in Peru is best during the dry season (April till November). June till August are the best months to visit the Rainbow Mountains. To fly a drone: you need to purchase a permit at the entrance.

Book a day tour to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco

What to wear at the Rainbow Mountain?

Expect freezing weather during your morning hike. The weather can be very unpredictable. For this reason, wear layers that you can remove or add during the hike. Here’s what to wear:

• Sunblock – The sun is intense at this height!
• Hiking or sport shoes
• One or two pairs of long socks
• Long trousers
• Tank top and t-shirt

Here are all your hotel options in Rainbow Mountain.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Rentalcars.com
• Find Flights to Rainbow Mountain via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Peru Travel Guide: The Ultimate 3-Week Itinerary

Paracas, peru: best things to do, huacachina: the desert oasis of peru.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

I have booked a 10-day tour of Peru next month and it includes Rainbow Mountain and Macchu Picchu. Can’t wait to be there.

Amazing! Have the best time.

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Rainbow Mountain Tour

Rainbow Mountain Tour: 2024 Updated information about Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, Peru from how to get there, itineraries, prices, and FAQs.

Rainbow Mountain Brief Summary:

• Discovered after the snow melted in 2013, Rainbow Mountain Tours have become one of the best things to do in Peru.
• Tours start in Cusco (fly there with Latam Airlines or take Peru Hop bus). Impossible to enter the Mountain without being part of an official Rainbow Mountain Tour.
• Do NOT travel with informal companies, often with prices too cheap to be true…you will ruin your once-in-a-lifetime trip.
• Rainbow Mountain Travels is our recommended tour operator. Alpaca Expeditions is another good operator although quite expensive.
• Visit the Official Rainbow Mountain Peru website for information about tours, things to know before you go, and how to get there.

Below we have created our extensive guide to Rainbow Mountain based on our expert local knowledge having helped to transport over 250,000 travelers here since our formation in 2013.

Rainbow Mountain Guide Contents:

• Rainbow Mountain Tour Information – Check time, prices, and more.
• How to get to Rainbow Mountain – Compare transportation options.
• What to bring to Rainbow Mountain? – Be prepared for your tour.
• Rainbow Mountain FAQs – We answer your frequently asked questions.
• Did you know? – Rainbow Mountain fun facts.
• Photo Gallery – A few of the best photos of the Rainbow Mountain.

Want to discover the colored mountain?

Peru Hop Day Trip!

Voted #1 thing to do in Lima

Peru Hop voted #1 thing to do in Lima!

Rainbow Mountain Tour Information

Peru Hop does not operate any tours to Rainbow Mountain. To see Peru Hop’s recommended operators for this tour read below.

Rainbow Mountain Tour with Rainbow Mountain Travels

Price: $49 USD

Duration: Approximately 12 hours

Pick-ups: Hotels and hostels in Cusco, Airbnbs can get picked up at a hotel close by

Important Note: See Rainbow Mountain Travels website HERE for much more info about the tour

03:00am – 03:30am

Pick-ups from hotels and hostels

06:00am – 07:00am

Arrive to Cusipata and have breakfast

08:15am – 10:00am

Trek to the peak of Rainbow Mountain walking through stunning and colorful scenery.

10:00am – 10:30am

Reach the peak of the mountain. Once at the top, enjoy the view of the majestic mountains surrounding the area.

11:00am – 12:30pm

Return to the starting point where the transportation awaits

1:30pm – 2:30pm

Lunch before heading back to Cusco

Arrive back at Cusco

• Pick-up from your hotel/hostel in the center of Cusco
• Tourist bus transportation during the tour
• Professional bilingual guide (Engish & Spanish)
• 1 simple breakfast / 1 buffet lunch
• Entrance to the park
• First aid kit
• Oxygen tanks for emergencies

Not included:

• Entrance to Red Valley – 20 soles (optional)

If doing a tour of Rainbow Mountain we recommend you use Rainbow Mountain Travels for the highest quality tour at an affordable price!

BOOK A RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR NOW

How to get to the Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain is located in Cusco, just 3 hours away from the main city. The best way is to get a tour or trek that includes transportation from and to Cusco city.

If you are looking for information on the best buses to take to Cusco, visit our passes page. Just browse our passes and find the perfect one for you.

What to bring and wear to Rainbow Mountain?

• Small backpack
• Extra water
• Personal medication
• Warm layers
• Comfortable sneakers or trekking shoes
• Sunglasses and a hat
• Rain jacket or poncho

Rainbow Mountain FAQs

Are there chances of suffering altitude sickness during the trek?

Altitude sickness can catch many travellers a little bit off guard. Not everyone gets sick at high altitudes, and it is difficult to predict who is likely to be badly affected by it. For most people, it is nothing more than a headache and a dizzy sensation that diminishes over a short period of time (1-2 days).

We strongly recommend acclimatizing to the altitude before partaking in the trek. If short on time, consult your doctor on taking altitude sickness (acetazolamide/Diamox) or go for the natural remedy of locals, chewing coca leaves.

Rainbow Mountain Travels counts with a first-aid kit and oxygen tank as well as trained and professional guides prepared for any type of emergency that can occur during the trek.

What do I do if I get tired/exhausted during the trek?

There are horses available throughout the whole trek which you can ride for however long you want. NOTE no tour operator offers this, it’s run the by locals that live in the surrounding communities.

Like mentioned in the previous Q&A, Rainbow Mountain Travels counts with a first-aid kit and oxygen tank as well as trained and professional guides prepared for any type of emergency that can occur during the trek.

Does it actually look like the pictures?

Yes! And it’s definitely what makes the trek much more gratifying. There are unlucky days where the weather does ruin a little bit of the beauty, but it adds a mystical effect.

Did you know?

• It was only recently discovered due to the ice melting on top of the mountains.
• Its base altitude is 4,326 meters (14,189 feet), and its peak altitude is 5,200 meters (17,060 feet).
• The local Ausangate community is one of the only shepherding (raising llamas and alpacas) communities left in the world.

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RAINBOW MOUNTAIN EXPEDITIONS EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF THE PERUVIAN ANDES

Our Rainbow Mountaintrip agency  provides an unforgettable experience allowing you to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Peruvian Andes. If you are a person that likes nature and extraordinary places, our luxury Cusco tourism agency  is the ideal travel companion for you. When you travel with us, you’ll receive the best service and guides. Our affordable online tour guides will help you explore the beautiful sites across Cusco and nearby areas, giving you both the exposure and the fun of travel.

Our   Rainbow Mountain Cusco Tours  have the most experienced guides with a wide variety of options, and also the option to customize your private tour. Rainbow Mountain Expeditions have created amazing itineraries that will have you enjoying every step of the way leading to the Rainbow Mountain of love in Peru.

We have the best trekking tours in Cusco, including the 7 Colors Mountain Tour, Humantay Lagoon Tour, Ausangate Trekking, Lares Trek, The famous Salkantay Route, Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, and a great variety of adventure and trekking tours in Cusco and glamping in Peru. Get in touch with our tourism company to find the ideal vacation trek for you.

As a leading touring agency in the area, Rainbow Mountain Expeditions   provides an unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Peruvian Andes. If you are a person wholikes nature and extraordinary places, ourRainbow Mountain tour agency   is the ideal travel companion for you. When you travel with us, you’ll receive the best service and guides. From the spell-binding hills of the colorful Rainbow Mountains to the vibrant communities living and thriving in Cusco, your trekking tours will be nothing short of mesmerizing!

All of our Rainbow Mountain toursare accompanied by the most experienced guides who are well-versed in all trekking and hiking routes to tailor the journey for your unique preferences. You will also have the option to embark on a private tour, taking in the sights at your pace and stopping whenever and wherever you’d like to. In addition, the tour guides at Rainbow Mountain Expeditions have crafted amazing itineraries that will have you enjoying every step of the way.

Our touring agency offers some of the best Cusco trekking tours, including but not limited to the Ausangate Trek, the Humantay Lagoon Trek, A tour of the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains, and many other exciting locations. On your treks, you’ll also get to engage with local communities, exploring their markets and indigenous cuisines as you learn about their history and culture. Get in touch with our team today to explore our Rainbow Mountain tours and explore the wonders the Peruvian Andes has to offer!

REACH HIGHER

At an altitude of 5,200 meters you will appreciate an amazing Peruvian wonder that receives thousands of visitors each day.

With over 5,000 customers served, we know the Rainbow Mountain like the palm of our hands. We have the experience and expertise you are looking for.

Take you to the Mountain

We have the most convenient and comfortable transportation from Cusco.

Have Expert Guides

Our guides have more than a decade of experience, and are here to assist you.

Offer Customized Tours

Want your own customized tour? we have many options and we can adapt to your specific needs.

CUSCO TOURS - BEST DAY TOURS

Rainbow mountain tour vinicunca from cusco, rainbow mountain tour palccoyo from cusco, rainbow mountain sunrise and photography tour, rainbow mountain tour & puno, rainbow mountain atv tour full day, rainbow mountain by horse tour, ready to start this amazing trip, there’s nothing like it.

These views will make you think as if you are on another planet!

We value our customers and our reviews speak for themselves. Our tours have what you expect and more. If you need more information or have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us; We would love to hear from you and find out what we can do to customize our Rainbow Mountain tours to your needs.

¡Welcome to the future gem of Ausangate!

Imagine waking up in a dream dome with views of snow-capped peaks and nature in its purest form. Our upcoming accommodation will blend comfort with the charm of dome architecture, offering a unique experience in Ausangate.

Explore nearby attractions such as mysterious lagoons , the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain , or the captivating Red Valley . Embark on thrilling adventures, whether it’s riding ATVS or other exciting experiences that await.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Soon, you’ll be able to book your stay on our website. ¡Stay tuned for the opening of our paradise in the Andes!

@rainbowmountainexpeditions

Rainbow Mountain Expeditions organizes special day trips to Rainbow Mountain. Shorter hikes, exclusive locations, lesser crowd.

BOOK YOUR TOUR TO CUSCO

[email protected], +51 973 514 107.

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Peru Holidays

Discover holidays to peru.

From Machu Picchu and Andean peaks, to virgin Amazonian rainforest via dugout canoes, a Peru holiday promises adventure amidst dramatic landscapes. Follow Incan tracks through craggy peaks and cross colossal canyons with condors overhead. Explore cosmopolitan cities, charming mountain villages and the mysterious ruins of lost civilisations for just a taster of Peru’s rich heritage. Whatever you do, you can be certain you’ll be well fed along the way. With ceviche, antichuchos and pollo la brasa washed down with Pisco sours, Peru is the culinary capital of South America.

Some of Our Peru Holiday Ideas

Wonders of Peru Holiday

Our Wonders of Peru tailor-made tour encompasses the key highlights of a holiday to Peru and is the perfect in depth int...

14 nights from £4,795 p/p

Peru Express

For those short on time or just seeking a taste of Peru’s most famous sights look no further than Peru Express. Starting...

9 nights from £3,495 p/p

Ultimate Peru Adventure

Peru is a dream destination for the adventurous traveller, with a range of things to do and see to suit all levels of ac...

13 nights from £5,195 p/p

Best Time To Visit Peru

Average time

Quick Country Facts

Time Zone: GMT -5 hours

Captial: Lima

Currency: Peruvian Nuevo Sol

Why visit Peru?

There are numerous wonders to discover when you explore Peru. With a tailor-made itinerary, you can see bucket list highlights, such as Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Amazon, as well as lesser known historic and natural wonders. Combine your trip with other Latin American countries for a longer adventure - you could include Peru with Bolivia and a journey across Lake Titicaca, the Iguazu Falls in Argentina or Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. 

Travel Specialist

Explore mysterious Incan ruins

Most holidays to Peru either start or finish with Machu Picchu, Peru’s most spectacular archaeological site. Skip the crowds on the Inca trail and instead head for the high altitude ruins via the Salkantay Trail. Not only will enjoy a little more solitude but you’ll pass through lowland jungle and vaporous cloud forest, as well as enjoying views over the immense, snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range. The best part? There are so many, but it’s hard to beat the thrill of catching a glimpse of this ancient wonder amid the towering green peaks for the first time.  Machu Picchu grabs the headlines but Peru is thick with lesser explored Incan ruins. Don’t miss a trip to Sacsayhuaman, a colossal complex just outside of the ancient Incan capital at Cuzco. 

Lakes, jungles and wildlife galore

The Peruvian Amazon, a vast mass of rainforests and wetlands, offers plenty of opportunities to have close encounters with local wildlife.  Take to the Amazon River at Iquitos to find Peru’s famed pink dolphins dancing alongside your kayak and all manner of monkeys (capuchins, howlers, squirrels) in the canopy above you as wind through the water. Venture deeper into the forest on guided walks to villages for a glimpse of traditional life, learn about the medicinal value of indigenous plants or follow tributaries in dug-out canoes to spot sloth, rare birds, butterflies, snakes and pumas.

The best Peru holidays

To cover off Peru’s star draws and more besides, opt for Rainbow Tours’  Treasures of Peru  tour with time spent in Lima, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. Embark on a jungle adventure on the Gourmet Peru and Amazon in Style tour to discover Peru’s diverse flora and fauna and learn about tribal traditions, all the while enjoying the exotic and indigenous flavours of Peru on your luxurious riverboat. If you want to see more than Machu Picchu, seek out some of the country’s lesser-known sites on the Northern Routes of Peru & Beach tour including vast abode city of Chan Chan and the Sun and Moon Temples of Valle de Moche.

Where to go in Peru

Colca Canyon

Lake Titicaca

Northern Peru

Nazca, Paracas & Ica

Machu Picchu

Peru's Amazon Rainforest

Sacred Valley

Trekking Holidays

Holiday types.

Whether you want to explore the natural world with the whole family or encounter rare species with just a few other travellers.

Choose the tailor-made itinerary that's right for you.

Adventure Holidays

Wildlife Holidays

Culture & History Holidays

What our clients say.

We have had the most amazing time. I am delighted to say everything worked like clockwork and we had an amazing holiday. Thank you so much Rainbow Tours for fulfilling my dream of a 'holiday of a lifetime'.

Will certainly recommend your company to our friends. Thank you Rainbow Tours and all your staff for a memorable trip to South America. We have over 2,000 photos after several deletions!! Well done. .

Thanks for a great trip - very well organised. Both your partners in Peru & Bolivia were excellent.

Excellent holiday. Very grateful to Rainbow Tours who put the itinerary together. The guides in Peru & Argentina were excellent. .

In Peru, your local partner's complete attention to all aspects of my itinerary was beyond reproach. They were always on time, always at airports and hotels without question. In fact they were very very good. Even when our luggage was left in the Sacred Valley they had it transferred to our hote...

The representatives in Peru were amazing. The rep in Iguazu (Edber) was the best of the lot. He was informative, funny and arranged a fabulous night of entertainment for us. He also got out luggage checked in early so that we could go to the bird park rather than wasting time sitting at the airport....

Throughly enjoyed the whole experience. Naila took on board all of my requirements and fears and put together a good package. .

Your agents in Peru are absolutely fantastic, very reliable and efficient. The whole holiday was well planned and enjoyable. Overall, I would have no hesitation in recommending Rainbow Tours and will look forward to travelling with you again. .

A big thank you to all concerned with the most excellent arrangements for this adventure.

Wow.. Just wanted to say Peter and I had an absolutely brilliant trip to S America, and practically every day we had wonderful surprises and enjoyed all the various different experiences and adventures! Once again we marvelled at the amazing beautiful world we live in, and it was so good to experien...

Overall, a great holiday - lovely country and lovely people. Lots of interesting sites and great hotels! The local operators were excellent. .

The trip overall was excellent and the tour guides were very good. Your local partners were there every time to meet us and were knowledgeable and helpful. Could not fault the organisation. Peru is a great country and we saw some amazing sights!

Looking for inspiration?

You'll find expert travel guides, holiday ideas and insider tips now on the Rainbow blog

Amazing places to sleep in Latin America

The Expert's Travel Guide to Peru - Classic Vs Off The Beaten Track

Top 5 other things to do in Peru!

Why choose us, passionate travel experts.

• We've been leading wildlife travel since our first South Africa tours over 25 years ago
• Our Travel Specialists have lived in their specialist area for years
• We work with local guides to immerse you deeper in our diverse range of experiences

Personal & tailor-made

• You'll speak to your own expert who'll share their first-hand knowledge
• We'll make your itinerary seamless with 24/7 emergency contact available
• Your Travel Specialist will listen to ensure you have the best chance of seeing the wildlife you love

Responsible by nature

• We take care to actively contribute to the conservation of environments we visit
• For select countries, we make a charitable donation on your behalf when you make your booking
• We've partnered with conservation experts and NGOs to curate responsible tours

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware

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Rainbow Tours is part of ITC travel group and is a trading name of International Travel Connections Limited, Bridgetown House, 80 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, CH1 1RU Registered in England No. 01030986 Vat No. GB 203 9167 24

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Rainbow Mountain Tour in One Day!

Get set for an amazing day at the heart of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain! Allow Kantu Peru Tours to be your cheerful guide as we journey through awe-inspiring landscapes painted with vibrant hues.

Immerse yourself in enchanting ancestral tales that spring to life with every step. Hurry and reserve your spot for this vibrant adventure now! 🌈✨

SEE ITINERARY

Rainbow Mountain  Tour

PRICE 35.00  USD

Reserve Now

The most amazing Rainbow Mountains in Peru

Hello, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts!

Have you ever heard of the amazing Rainbow Mountains in Peru? It’s like a nature painting tucked away in the stunning Andes mountains. Picture a landscape bursting with all kinds of beautiful colors, as if someone used a giant palette to paint the mountain!

These wonders sit up high in the Cusco region, showing off layers of rocks in shades of red, orange, green, and blue—like a vibrant quilt made by nature over thousands of years.

You’ll see incredible views of tall peaks, valleys, and clear blue skies when you hike there.

Breathing in the fresh mountain air will energize you and make this journey even more magical. You’ll also get to experience the local culture, meet friendly people, and taste delicious traditional food.

So, pack your excitement, wear comfy hiking shoes, and join us for a trip to Rainbow Mountain in Peru. It’s a magic adventure full of colors and a trip you’ll always remember! 🌈🏔️

Local Tour Guides

Our guides at Rainbow Mountain Peru are local experts, well-acquainted with not only the trails but also the rich stories and traditions that make Montaña de Colores special.

Ecological Commitment

Our commitment lies in safeguarding the Rainbow Mountains in Peru and cherishing our natural and cultural heritage.

We prioritize conducting every tour with the highest regard for the environment and the well-being of local communities.

Personalized Attention

Every individual traveler is distinct, and our goal is to provide a personalized service that aligns with your specific requirements, ensuring an unforgettable and genuine adventure.

The most amazing Peru´s Rainbow Mountain Packages!

Embark on an enchanting expedition through the wonders of Cusco with our exclusive tour packages, centered around the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain Peru. Immerse yourself in the captivating spectrum of colors that adorn the Colored Mountain, a natural marvel that promises an unforgettable experience.

As you traverse this vibrant landscape, we invite you to unveil the well-preserved secrets of Machu Picchu, adding a layer of mystique to your journey of exploration.

Our meticulously curated packages ensure every detail is seamlessly arranged for your utmost comfort and enjoyment. All you need to do is fuel your adventurous spirit and pack your enthusiasm for discovery.

Join us as we lead you to the hidden treasures of Cusco, where every step reveals a new facet of beauty and wonder.

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 7 Days Tour

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 6 Days Tour

Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain 5 Days Tour

¡vinicunca.

Get ready for an incredible journey, where you’ll witness the kaleidoscope of colors at Vinicunca and soak up the ancient grandeur of Machu Picchu. Picture yourself surrounded by the vibrant hues of the mountain and the timeless stones of the lost city—a memory to treasure forever.

Our friendly local experts will be by your side, unveiling the secrets and marvels of these iconic destinations. Let’s sprinkle a bit of magic onto your trip as we guide you to discover the hidden jewels of Cusco. It’s going to be an adventure you won’t want to miss! 🌈✨

Explore More

• Rainbow Mountain Tour with Picnic
• Location: Cusco
• Difficulties: Tour Moderado
• Places to visit:

• Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour (Optional)

• Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco
• Difficulties: Moderate Tour

The Best Rainbow Mountain Tours

Dive into extraordinary adventures with “Summit Experiences” by Rainbow Mountain Peru. Explore sacred peaks and starlit nights in remote locales, transcending the ordinary. Elevate your expectations and join us for a journey unlike any other! 🌄✨

Our Peru Destinations

Uncover the most enchanting corners of Peru with our exclusive selection of destinations. From hidden gems to iconic wonders, “Peru Destinations” invites you to get a sneak preview of places that will take your breath away. Whether you find yourself dreaming of new adventures or simply want to be inspired for your next trip, dive into these samples and feel the call of Peruvian destinations waiting to be explored. 🇵🇪✨

Sacred Valley

Machupicchu Mountain

Salt mines of Maras

7 Colors Mountain

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about your next adventure? In our FAQ section, we’ve compiled the most common questions from our travelers to give you clear and concise answers – explore, discover and prepare with confidence!

Yes, there are rainbow mountains in Peru. The most famous are Vinicunca, Palccoyo, and Pallay Puncho, located in the Andes near Cusco.

It is located in the Cusco region of Peru, specifically in the Ausangate Mountain Range.

Rainbow Mountain’s colorful appearance is due to the presence of various mineral deposits, which give the mountain its distinctive striped, rainbow-like patterns.

It is approximately 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) southeast of Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain stands at an altitude of approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.

Whether Rainbow Mountain is worth visiting depends on individual preferences. Many people find it to be a unique and breathtaking natural wonder, but it does require a challenging hike to reach the viewpoint. It’s important to consider your fitness level and ability to handle high altitudes when deciding if it’s worth it for you.

It was not well-known to the outside world until relatively recently, becoming a popular tourist destination around 2015. However, it has been known to local communities for a long time.

Yes, the rainbow mountains in Peru, including Vunicunca Rainbow Mountain, are real natural formations characterized by their colorful mineral deposits.

Until 2021, it was common to visit Rainbow Mountain with a guided tour due to its remote location and the need for acclimatization. However, regulations and requirements may change, so it’s advisable to check the current rules and conditions for visiting Rainbow Mountain in Peru.

To get a close view, you need to hike or trek to the viewpoint. There is no direct road access to the mountain’s summit, so hiking is the primary way to see it up close.

It can be quite cold, especially in the morning and at higher elevations. Temperatures can drop below freezing, so visitors should be prepared with warm clothing, including layers and proper gear for high-altitude conditions.

The difficulty of the Rainbow Mountain hike can vary depending on your fitness level and how well you’ve acclimatized to the high altitude. The hike is considered moderately to highly challenging due to the steep terrain and high elevation. Proper acclimatization is crucial to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain and back typically takes a full day, and it can take around 3 to 4 hours of hiking to complete the round trip, including time at the summit.

No, Rainbow Mountain is not near Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is located in a different region of Cusco near the jungle, while Rainbow Mountain is situated near the Andes.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, which is typically from April to October. These months offer more stable weather conditions and clearer views of the mountain. However, it’s essential to check the local conditions and any updates on regulations or accessibility before planning your visit.

A medium to good level of physical conditioning is required, given that these are hikes at altitude and with certain slopes.

You must inform the agency at the time of booking and also inform your guide before starting the tour.

We do offer poles for those who request them, but we recommend that travelers bring their own boots to ensure comfort.

Our experienced guides are well-equipped to address altitude sickness and carry comprehensive first aid kits, including oxygen for any emergency situations. Your safety is our top priority, so if you ever begin to feel unwell due to the high altitude, please don’t hesitate to inform your guide immediately.

While there might be an occasional cell signal at certain stopping points, we cannot guarantee a continuous Wi-Fi connection or a consistent signal throughout the entire journey. We recommend being ready to unplug and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings for the best experience

Diseñado y desarrollado por SKYNETCUSCO mas informacion visita Paginas web en cusco

• Rainbow Mountain
• 1 Day Trek to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco
• Travel packages

• Client Support
• Travel Guide
• +51 987189304
• [email protected]
• Guided Walking tour in the Inca Capital Cusco 1 Day
• Queswachaca Tour Full Day
• Rafting In The River Urubamba 1 Day
• Rainbow Mountain Tour – Vinicunca 1 Day
• South Valley Tour – Cusco
• Waqrapucara Tour 2 Days

Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

Inca trail 2 days 1 night with hotel, short inca trail; 2 days 1 night with camping..

• Choquequirao Trek 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Choquequirao Trek 4 Days Tour
• Ausangate Trek Traditional 6 Days / 5 Nights.
• Ausangate Trek 4 Days

Salkantay – Machu Picchu Trek 4 Days.

Salkantay trek to machu picchu 5 days and 4 nights., salkantay trek 5 days to machu picchu + zip line.

• Trek to Lares Valley 3 Days / 2 Nights
• Sacred Valley Tour – 1 Day tour
• Sacred Valley Extended Tour
• Quad Bikes Cusco, Sacred Valley Tour
• Maras and Moray Salt Mines Tour

Tour Machupicchu Full Day

Tambopata classic tour 4 days, tour tambopata 3 days, tambopata tour 3 days, tambopata tour 2 days 1 night.

• Uyuni Salt Tour – Bolivia 3 Days
• Coroico, The Death Route – Bolivia
• Cusco, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain – 5 Days
• Ica, Paracas, Cusco, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain – 7 Days
• Ica, Paracas, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain – 7 Days
• Lima, Huacachina, Cusco, Machupicchu, Humantay, Rainbow Mountain, Amantani, Titicaca – 16 Days
• Lima, Ica, Cusco, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain – 9 Days
• Lima, Ica, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Puno – 12 Days
• Lima, Ica, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Puno – 11 Days
• Lima, Nazca, Cusco, Machupicchu, Rainbow Mountain, 11 Day
• Machupicchu, Cusco, Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake – 6 Day
• Machupicchu, Humantay, Rainbow Mountain – 5 Days

Machupicchu, Rainbow Mountain, Titicaca – 9 Days

• Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Amantani, Taquile, Titicaca – 7 Dias
• Paracas, Cusco, Rainbow Mountain – 8 Days
• Arequipa Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery + Visit Mommy Juanita
• Arequipa Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery with private transportation
• Colca Canyon Tour 3 Days
• Colca Canyon Tour 2 Days
• Colca Canyon Tour 1 Day
• Tour Sillustani Pukara Lampa 1 Day
• Half Day Sillustani Chullpas Tour
• Chucuito Aramuro Muro Tour – Mystical Tour 1 Day
• Tour Uros Taquile – Amantani 1 day
• Lima Tour Classic Full Day Tour

Let Us Take You to a Place You’ve Never Been Before

Find your adventure.

Experience a Custom Private Adventure Made Just for You

Book Your 2023 Peru Journey, With our Shared Group Tours

Enjoy a special price booking with your Air Tickets

With our discounted airfare and tour packages, you can save big while experiencing some of the world’s most breathtaking sights and cultural experiences. Our team of expert travel planners has crafted a range of tour packages that cater to a variety of interests, from beach getaways to city tours, from historical landmarks to culinary adventures.

The Pioneers of Luxury Travel

Rainbow Peru Travel pioneered the luxury adventure 10 years ago. Today we are the Peru undisputed luxury-travel leader, offering an award-winning combination of exclusivity, comfort and authenticity on all Peru Destinations.

The Best Guides

Our experienced, handpicked guides reveal a local’s daily life, informed by decades — if not a lifetime — of firsthand experience.

An Exceptional Network

Rainbow Peru Travel experts in Peru manage every aspect of your journey with seamless, 24/7 support.

Authentic Insider Access

Our robust local connections take you beyond the guidebook and behind the scenes, and in to the heart of authentic experiences as no other travel company can.

Ways to Travel with Rainbow Peru Travel

Small Group Journeys

Our iconic small group travel experiences led by a our Manager

Luxury Expeditions

Exclusively chartered, all-inclusive voyages with an award-winning Expedition Team

Tailor Made Travel

Custom-created journeys, made just for you and your private tour in Peru

Peru Private Tours

The ultimate journey for no more than 5 Persons, in our private tour expeditions

Hiking on a Luxury Expedition Trek with Special Offers

Book select 2023–24 luxury small-ship adventures and save up to $4,000 per person).

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days trek Taking a tour along the Inca Trail of 4 days and 3 ni

Short Inca Trail This amazing Inca Trail has been declared a new seven wonder, part of a network of

Short Inca Trail with Camping Short Inca Trail Tour Description: This version of the Inca Trail is a

Salkantay Trekking in 5 Days  + Zipline This incredible hike runs under the magnificent Salkanta

Salkantay Trekking in 4 Days It is an old and remote alternative to the Inca Trail, has much more sp

Salkantay Trekking in 5 Days The famous “Salcantay and Machupicchu” (or Salcantay Trek) trek,

Tours to Machu Picchu with Special Offers

Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour 2 Days

Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was built in the 15

Tour Machu Picchu 5 Days

We highly recommend a 5-day travel package that allows you to experience the most important sites in

Excursion to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes, early transfer at 5:30 am to the bus stop for the

Machu Picchu tour 3 Days

Are you planning to visit Cusco for a few days? We have the perfect package for you to explore all t

Choose Your Journey of a Lifetime

Peru Tour Package 15 Days

A 15-day tour of Peru is an adventure-packed journey through the country’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, trek through the majestic Andes mountains, discover the colonial charm of Cusco, and soak up the coastal vibes of Lima.

Peru Tour Package 20 Days

A 20-day tour of Peru offers an immersive experience of the country’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions. Discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, hike through the stunning Colca Canyon, explore the Amazon rainforest, and witness the beauty of Lake Titicaca.

Trending Now: Wings Over the World Journeys

Trending tours in Peru include Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, the Amazon rainforest, and food and culinary tours, offering immersive experiences for diverse interests.

Lima, Huacachina, Cusco, Machupicchu, Humantay, Rain

Lima, Huacachina, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay, Rainbow Mountain, Amantani, and Titicaca are some o

The Machupicchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Titicaca tour is a nine-day adventure that will take you to s

Lima, Ica, Cusco, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbo

The tour of Lima, Ica, Cusco, Machupicchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain is a comprehensive itiner

Lima, Nazca, Cusco, Machupicchu, Rainbow Mountain, 1

The 11-day tour of Lima, Nazca, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain is a comprehensive itinerary t

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Machu Picchu Travel Guide

Discover destinations ideal for a tailor made peru journey.

The best places in the world to experience a made-to-order, Luxury Tailor Made journey, designed by our experts.

Amazon Rainforest

Ausangate Treks

Bolivia Tours

Cusco Tours

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Machu Picchu Tour

Sacred Valley Tours

Salkantay Treks

Amazon rainforest tours.

4 Days From USD $ 250.00

2 Days From USD $ 245.00

3 Days From USD $ 430.00

3 days From USD $ 430.00

TripAdvisor Reviews

ATYPICAL ADVENTURE

Acclaimed purveyors of some of the world's best cruises, we specialize in exhilarating expeditions to remote corners of the earth, exotic destinations home to unimaginable biodiversity and unparalleled adventure.

PRIVATE EXPERT GUIDES

Consistently praised for their professionalism, passion and knowledge, our hand-picked, local expert guides bring each destination to life on intimate and enriching private-only land tours crafted to complement your cruise.

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL

Meticulously made to exceed your every desire, our destination specialists devise immersive and inspirational itineraries personalized uniquely to you, featuring felicitous excursions and only the most authentic of accommodations.

A TRIP TO MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Machu Picchu:

Unique cultural experience: Machu Picchu is a living testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of the Inca people. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their rich culture and history, and see firsthand the incredible feats of engineering that allowed them to build this city in such a remote and challenging location.

Natural beauty: The Andes Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the site, and the lush green landscape surrounding Machu Picchu is a true feast for the eyes. Whether you’re exploring the terraced gardens, hiking along the mountain trails, or simply admiring the view from one of the ruins, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Adventure and excitement: With a range of outdoor activities available, such as hiking, trekking, and zip lining, Machu Picchu offers plenty of adventure and excitement. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a new challenge, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape and push your limits.

A chance to disconnect: With its remote location, Machu Picchu offers a unique opportunity to escape from the fast-paced world and connect with nature. Whether you’re spending time in one of the tranquil ruins or simply taking in the view from a quiet spot on the site, you’ll have the chance to slow down, relax, and recharge.

Overall, visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty in one unique destination. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this incredible place!

BEST TOURS & TRANSPORT OPTIONS

Rainbow Peru Travel has been offering the best tours options in Peruru for over a decade. We are well known for organizing the best & safest tours to the Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno, and Jungle Tours. We are licenced Travel Agent and Oficial Operator

FULLY LICENCED & LOCAL PRICES

We are a fully licensed Travel Operator and have people in country ready to answer your tour questions and offer on the ground assistance should you need when you are here. We are a local operator, employing local people and all profits stay in country. 

TRUSTWORTHY, SAFE & SECURE

Book online with confidence and security in our website uses the most secure practices to process online payments and bookings.You can use Paypal or visa to make your purchase immediately. If you have any questions about your tour, do not hesitate to contact us and we will arrange everything for you.

Code of Conduct against the ESNNA and our Commitment

The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru has established its commitment against the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents through the Code of Conduct against CSEC.

This important initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) consists of raising awareness and training all those involved in the tourism sector of our country with the aim of preventing and eradicating the sexual exploitation of minors (under 18 years of age).

In RAINBOW PERU TRAVEL we are committed to promote and develop a series of joint actions in order to prevent and eradicate the problem of Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents in the development of our services and through all members of our team (stakeholders or interest groups) along our value chain.

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Thank you for your interest in learning more about our tour packages, our specialists will create the most exciting experience for your vacation.

Rainbow Mountain Tour

• Hiking/Trekking
• Year Around
• Challenging
• 8 km (4,97 mi)

Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour - 1 Day

Book your Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour – 1 Day trek with us and be there among the first people! There is only one spot to take the classical picture of this mountain

• WHAT TO PACK
• ADDITIONAL INFO

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 1 DAY TREK HIGHLIGHTS

Throughout your Rainbow Mountain 1 day Hike, you will hike through a vibrant green valley with the Magnificent views of snow-capped Mountains, seeing Llamas, Alpacas and Ausangate Glacier towering in the distance, on the final part, you will hike through the gorgeous red valley, where you feel as though you are on planet Mars.

Don’t miss to visit the Classic Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) with AB expeditions and beat the crowds!

Why you should hike Rainbow Mountain with us?

• We skip the crowds!— Everybody else goes to Rainbow Mountain at the same time. That means they’re all up at the top at the same time. There is only one spot to take the classical picture of the Rainbow Mountain(Vinicunca) and it wouldn’t be pleased with a huge crowd of people. Since we leave from Cusco at 03:00 am.  You will get the Rainbow Mountain before the crowd.
• Our guide always bring oxygen tanks which is important as you get over 5040 meters/16,500 feet above sea level! Not all travel agencies offer this, so this is definitely something to look out for when choosing the best Rainbow Mountain tour operator.
• We also visit to the Red Valley.
• Small groups(a maximum 06 people ).
• You will take your time and you will enjoy the hike without pressure.
• Friendly, attentive, tour guides with fluent English and ample knowledge of all things concerning Rainbow Mountain(vinicunca) Peru.
• AB Expeditions is the most reliable tour operator. Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor.
• We will get back to Cusco around 3 pm so you can fly the same day if you have a flight. 

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PERU TOUR ITINERARY:

You will be picked up from your hotel around 03:00 am. We proceed to drive nearly 3 hours in a private van to the trailhead where we will provide you box breakfast upon arrival to fuel up for the trek ahead of you. After enjoying our breakfast we start hiking. We are going to hike for around 1 hour roughly until the top of the RAINBOW MOUNTAIN, we will have time to explore the area and take pictures. You will spend approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (depending on your trekking speed and weather conditions).

After enjoying the Rainbow Mountains for about one hour, we go to visit the RED VALLEY which takes another 30 minutes. Then we get back to the trailhead (1 hour roughly), where we will have our delicious BoxLunch. After our meal, we drive back to Cusco. We will drop you off at your hotel around 3 p.m roughly.

• English speaking guide. 
• First aid kit, including oxygen.
• Box breakfast and  and box lunch.
• Snacks for the trek.
• Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco.
• Pick up and drop off from the hotel.
• Wooden walking sticks

Not Included

• Entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain. It cost 30 Peruvian soles which you will pay at the trailhead. 
• Entrance fees to the Red Valley. It cost 30 Peruvian soles.    
• Gratitudes for guides.
• Personal riding horse. It cost 90 peruvian Soles round trip which you will pay at the trailhead. 

WHAT TO BRING FOR RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PERU TOUR

• 1 Liter and half of the water (per person- at least!).
• Personal snacks (optional).
• Water-resistant trekking shoes.
• Warm clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, and socks).
• Waterproof clothing (poncho).
• Synthetic or cotton clothing (socks, trousers, shorts, t-shirts).
• Sunhat and sunglasses.
• Water bottles such as Nalgene.
• Basic medications.
• Walking sticks.
• Personal items.

ADDITIONAL INFO FOR RAINBOW MOUNTAIN DAY TRIP

• It is not recommended for people who have heart problem or other serious medical condition
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Minimum age is 08 years old.
• Not recommended for people over 60 years of age.
• It is not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• Not wheelchair accessible

THINGS TO KNOW

• Higher elevation also means colder, nearly freezing temperatures, so be prepared. Whether you decide to take a one-day tour, make sure to wear very warm clothes. Also bring coca leaves to fight off altitude sickness and carry the minimum gear possible to ease the hike.
• Try to go all the way to the viewpoint. You get a 360° view not just a rainbow Mountain, but of the nearby glacier and a gorgeous valley in the other direction. We think most people didn’t realize what they were missing by not going all the way up.
• The best time to visit the Rainbow Mountain is going to be in the morning or evening hours, either right after sunrise, or right before sunset.
• The hike to the top is no joke. Constantly changing weather conditions, combined with high altitude, can be a challenge for experienced hikers. But if done right it’s manageable even for those who don’t hike much.
• Don’t go to the Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon in the rainy season because of lighting. Since the high concentration of mineral. There is a high chance to get stricken by lighting.
• When you go to the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, you’ll find tons of agencies that offer this same tour “cheap” but remember: you get what you pay for. In many cases, some agencies may charge much less but will send you on a tour where the groups are 25, 35 more tourists and one guide. We offer our exclusive service tour where the minimum is 2 and the maximum is 8 people per group.
• Dont forget Passport stamp on Rainbow mountain. It cost 2 soles. 

OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

• Make sure you are acclimatized to Cusco’s altitude before you set off on your hike to the Rainbow Mountain. This is by far the best insurance for a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend you spend at least 2 days in Cusco prior to the excursion.
• Don’t forget wáter!. Drinking lots of water will help with the altitude. We advise bringing at least 2 liters per person on the hike with you and have an extra bottle to leave in the van for when you get back.
• Go to sleep early and try to avoid drinking or partying the night before, because We will pick you up at 03:00 am and the physically challenging trek will be much more bearable without a hangover.
• If you have altitude sickness symptoms, descend as quickly as you can. It’s nothing to mess around with.
• If you are going to Machu Picchu the day before your trip to the Rainbow Mountain, tell your travel company to book your return train ticket early.

FREQUENT ASK QUESTION

How to book the rainbow mountain 1-day trek with ab expeditions.

In order to book your Rainbow Mountain with us, you need to click on the BOOK NOW button above, then select the day of your departure, then, fill out all your personal information of each participant and the last step is the payment of your deposit of $20 per person. Once we receive your deposit, we will send a confirmation to your email. So your trip to Rainbow Mountain is 100% confirmed.

WHEN SHOULD I PAY THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?

 Your remaining balance can be made in cash at our office in Cusco 1 day earlier your trip in USD or soles or if you prefer Credit Card at least one week prior to your trip(a 5% service fee applies). It is better to pay us with cash because there is not any transaction fee. Please let us know what you prefer.

IS THE ANY STUDENT DISCOUNT?

Unfortunately, we don’t have a student discount for our Rainbow Mountain day trip.

WHY IS YOUR PRICE MORE EXPENSIVE THAN THE OTHER TRAVEL AGENCIES?

Of course, you will find a Rainbow Mountain trip for a lower price on the Street. They take 20 people in a group with one guide thats why their Price is cheaper. Also, the guides are students who are learning to guide so they charge less and they don’t even bring oxygen. However, we take small groups maximum of 6 people with an English-speaking tour guide who has a lot of experience. Also, we bring our cook who will prepare the food. As well as our drivers drive carefully. We can even mention more things but those are the most important ones.

DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE  RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PERU TOUR?

It is not mandatory to bring your Passport. But if you want to have a stamp on it, bring it. The stamp on your Passport costs 2 soles.

CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TRIP?

Not, because our Rainbow Mountain tour groups leave from Cusco. If you stay in the sacred valley, we can take you in private service and there will be an upgrade of $30 for the transport from the sacred valley.

CAN I RENT A HORSE IN THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN?

Local people at Rainbow Mountain offer horse rentals for visitors. Upon reaching the checkpoint, you can conveniently rent horses directly from the locals, with assistance from our tour guide. The cost for the ride up ranges from 70 to100 soles, equivalent to approximately 20 to 25 dollars. This fee includes a person who will lead the horse up to the mountain, allowing you to simply enjoy the ride.

It’s worth noting that horse rental prices can fluctuate based on the day’s demand. During peak times with a high number of visitors to Rainbow Mountain, prices may increase, while they may remain lower during low season(November to March. Negotiating with the friendly locals is a common practice, and it’s important to be aware that they only accept Peruvian soles as payment.

BEST TIME TO HIKE THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN?

The best time to visit  Rainbow Mountain is between April and November, coinciding with the dry season. In contrast, the months from December to March constitute the rainy season, the the trail may be muddy, wet and the Mountain might be covered with snow and misty.

IS IT COLD AT THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN?

Typically, during breakfast hours, the morning tends to be chilly, often reaching temperatures below freezing. As the sun rises, the weather tends to become milder. At higher elevations, such as the mountain top, conditions are cold and windy, with temperatures ranging between 5-15°C (40-60°F). In overcast and rainy conditions, the temperature typically falls within the range of 0-10°C (32-50°F). For an optimal experience, the recommended months to visit Rainbow Mountain are from April to November.

IF ONE EXPERIENCES ALTITUDE SICKNESS, WHAT DO YOU DO?

Given that the trailhead is situated at an elevation of 4600m / 15,091ft and Rainbow Mountain reaches 5034m / 16,515ft, the altitude is notably high, presenting a considerable risk of altitude sickness. We consistently recommends dedicating a minimum of two days to acclimatization in Cusco before embarking on this Rainbow Mountain hike. We highly advise you to carry altitude sickness pills, such as “soroche” pills (available in local pharmacies in Cusco city), or any prescribed medication from home to facilitate adjustment to high altitudes.

Also, all of our tour guides are equipped with oxygen tanks so you will be provided with it then we will take you to the lower elevation as soon as possible.

Our Recommendation

Related trips

• Monday through Saturday 9AM - 1PM & 3PM - 7PM
• Sunday 5 PM - 7PM
• +51976510080
• [email protected]
• Marquez Street 250, Two Blocks from the Plaza de Armas (upper floor of the market, third door on the right)

SALES TEAM HOURS

• Monday through Saturday 8AM - 1PM & 4 PM - 7 PM
• Sunday is closed

• SOCIAL PROJECTS

Ausangate Trek 2 Days

Ausangate trek to rainbow mountain 3 days, ausangate trek 4 days / 3 nights, ausangate trek 5 days, rainbow mountain & red valley 1 day, rainbow mountain and red valley 2 days, quelccaya glacier trek 2 days / 1 night, quelccaya trek 3 days / 2 nights, ausangate trek to machu picchu 4 day, machu picchu and rainbow mountain 2 days.

• Why Ausangate?

Ausangate Trek

Know the details and prices of this trip, the incredible treks in the peruvian andes.

Ausangate tours is the #1 tour operator based in Cusco, specialists on different excursions to Ausangate mountain, Rainbow Mountain , Quelccaya and Machu Picchu, we provide different tours than other companies do.  Our team are 100% professional with large experience on these routes. We focus on each guest individually and create  a lifetime experiences during your journey in Peru. Whether you seek ancient history, untouched nature, vibrant culture or a unique combination of all Peru has to offer.

AUSANGATE TREK PERU

Ausangate Trek   is an excellent and quiet/remote trekking circuit offering stunning features such as spectacular mountain scenery, snow-capped peaks, hot springs, turquoise lakes, glaciers, herds of llamas, alpacas, wild vicuñas, picturesque villages, and traditionally dressed Quechua people who still preserve their culture, traditions and history. We have designed special itineraries that allows you to explore more that one highlights, Ausangate trek,   Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu.  This is a moderate to challenging trek, not technical, with several high passes and often freezing cold nights. It is essential to be properly acclimatized for this hike, spending at least two or three days in Cusco (or equivalent altitude) before starting.

Ausangate Treks are moderate too strenuous with high altitude passes and remote wilderness camping and hiking. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore a true off the beaten path area of Cusco.

When you hike around Apu Ausangate, you will feel the energy of the mountains , meet yourself and understand how big and amazing is this world, each corner will amazed you with its spectacular views that you can find only on this site of the Andes.

Have a look below our different excursions to this remote Andean area and discover the real Andean culture.

Be ready for an incredible adventure  in a remote area less explored!

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The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 3D offers you an unforgettable experience in just three days! If you like to get off the normal tourist routes and are ...

Ausangate Trek 4 Days offers you a real taste of the Andean life, as you will find and see modest communities where natives still speak the Inca language ...

The Ausangate trek 5 days offers an array of wildlife including soaring condors, Alpacas, Viscachas, vicuñas, Condors, bobcats and pumas. Our private campsites ...

Why Choose Ausangate Tours for Your Next Trek or Tour?

Make your journey worthwhile by choosing to travel with a local company. expert travel advice, unique itineraries and happy trips that are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. enjoy flexible private tours and tailor-made personalized packages that matches your idea of your perfect holiday., locally owned & operated.

We are direct operator. You book with us, your Treks & Tours. We are a local trekking & tour agency in Peru.

Legally Licensed

We are registered and licensed Tour Company, accredited by the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism DIRCETUR CUSCO.

Unforgettable Experiences

We offer personalized high quality services. Reliability & caring are our strengths, which has earned us a high reputation.

Expert Local Guides

Safety is our top priority and our primal concern! All of our mountain & trekking guides are regularly trained & their skills are updated every year.

Small Groups

A big part of the experience is our small groups. It's these people that make travelling with...

We pride ourselves on providing 5 stars service before, during, and after your trip. Ausangate Tours is dedicated to excellent customer service and adventure experiences.

Local Guides

They are the story when it comes to traveling with us. You'll be guided by personable, friendly, active, empathetic people, who love showing off our superb trip destinations, but more than just that, they love watching you experience it.

Safety is always a priority when you're exploring in the wilderness, and we have an impeccable record. Our guides are trained extensively, they have their outdoor First Aid certificate, food safety certificate, they undergo our customized and comprehensive guide training trip.

When trekking through rugged mountain terrain with unpredictable weather, it is essential to have the best equipment available. We provide 4 season tents, mattress pads, dry bags, and more, to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.

Our groups average about 8 guests per departure, and are typically a mix of solo travelers, friends travelling together, and couples, all of varying ages, backgrounds and nationalities. Come prepared to make lots of new best friends!

The Physical Side

Our trips are sometimes physically and mentally challenging. That said, our trips are designed for people who understand that a little challenge means a lot of reward. You might not be an athlete, or have even done any serious trekking before, but if you’ve got a little bit inside you that wants to take on a physical challenge, be it big or small, then we can help you light the fire!

No Hidden Cost

Our treks and tours are truly 5 star and all inclusive. We do not charge extra to “upgrade” as we offer the best option included in the price already. There are no hidden costs or booking fees!

We Give Back

Joining the dots between hiking trails, we'll often pass through small, traditional towns, opting to stay the night to introduce our guests to the local way of life. We wouldn't still be running adventure tours if we hadn't taken the time to acknowledge and support small communities. After all, it's communities like this that make our trips special and unique. We also support some epic charities! As you can imagine, we have a lot of outdoor equipment, such as tents, packs and sleeping bags. We upgrade this gear as necessary, to keep you nice and comfortable in the backcountry, and we donate our second-hand equipment to schools in Christchurch. You could consider it an investment in our future Active Adventures guides!

Rainbow Mountain Peru

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Quelccaya Tours

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DAY 1, Cusco – Sibinacocha – Phinaya – Base Camp To begin our adventure on the high Andes of Cusco, our guide will pick you up from your hotel in our private bus, then we will drive for abou

DAY 1, Cusco – Tinky – Upis We depart Cusco early morning 5:00am. Then, we drive for about 3 hours in our private bus to the small village of Tinki where we will have a stop to take the breakfast,

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ATV RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

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• EXPERIENTIAL TOURISM CHINCHERO CUSCO - FULL DAY
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• MARAS MORAY TOUR BY CAR
• SACRED VALLEY FULL DAY
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• Cusco Coffee Tour - Full Day
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ATV Rainbow Mountain is part of "X TRAVEL PERU", a company with huge experience organizing tours. We offer you a complete service during your trips, with the responsibility and security that characterizes us.

Coffee tour, a new and innovative activity in the Cusco region. Dare to know this organic coffee process next to local producers.

Tour Red Valley plus Mountain of Colors, two important places to visit in Cusco. We will wait for you.

Mountain of colors has become a popular tourist destination in the imperial city of Cusco. Do not stay without knowing this beautiful place.

The tour in the Abode of the ATV Gods (Apukunaq Tianan) is an alternative that will fill you with adrenaline, come with us on this adventure near the city of Cusco.

ATV tours to Maras and Moray, dare to be part of this activity full of adventure and adrenaline in the sacred valley of the Incas.

Enjoy this new adventure in the middle of South Valley - Cusco.

WHAT WE DO?

Are you ready to travel with us.

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