A Rainbow Mountain Tour and Red Valley 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 experience, from what’s included, the itinerary and everything else you need to know!
Vinicunca, Cusco, Peru
Rainbow Mountain Tour & Red Valley
1
Up to 16
5,036 m (16,522 ft)
Challenging
Overview
About this tour
What you'll experience
- Hike to the colorful Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at over 5,000 meters
- Witness the mountain’s unique natural mineral colors
- Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through the Andes to the trailhead
- Experience a challenging but rewarding 2-hour hike to the summit
- Travel with professional guides for a rich cultural and educational experience
- Private transportation with experienced drivers for safety and comfort
Day by day
Itinerary
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01 Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Trek
Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Trek
Early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. Drive approximately 2.5 hours to the trailhead where a freshly prepared breakfast awaits. After breakfast, begin a scenic uphill hike of about 2 hours toward Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at over 5,000 meters. Along the way, your guide will explain the geography and local culture, and you may see llamas and alpacas grazing in the highlands. At the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the colorful mountain landscape and the majestic Ausangate peak. After time for photos and exploration, continue the hike toward the impressive Red Valley before descending to the end of the trail. A freshly prepared lunch will be served before driving back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon.
Hotel pickup in Cusco (4:00 – 4:30 AM) Scenic drive to the trailhead (about 2.5 hours) Freshly prepared breakfast at the trailhead Guided hike to Rainbow Mountain summit Views of Ausangate and surrounding valleys Photography and exploration time at the summit Hike through the Red Valley viewpoint Descent to the trailhead Freshly prepared lunch Return drive to Cusco
Good to know
Photo Gallery
From
$39per person
Good to know
What's Included
Included
Guide & Staff
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Experienced driver
- Chef for meal preparation
Meals & Water
- Freshly prepared breakfast at the trailhead
- Hot lunch after the trek
- Snacks during the tour
- Drinking water
Transportation
- Private round-trip transportation from Cusco
- Pickup from any hotel, Airbnb, or hostel in Cusco
Permits & Tickets
- Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain
- Entrance fee to Red Valley
Not Included
- Tips for your guide, driver, and staff
Good to know
Everything You Need to Know
Safety First
Your safety is our priority
- Expert guides with first-aid certification
- 24/7 emergency support throughout the tour
- Quality safety equipment provided
- Real-time weather monitoring
Flexible Booking
Plans change — we understand
- Tours run rain or shine
- Free reschedule up to 24h before
- Full refund for weather cancellations
- Dress recommendations provided
Book with confidence
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour. No hidden fees, no surprises — just amazing adventures.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the trek?
This is a challenging trek due to the high altitude (5,036m). We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 2-3 days before attempting this trek.
Can I use a horse?
Yes, horses are available to rent at the trailhead for approximately $20 USD for most of the route.
What if the weather is bad?
If conditions are dangerous, the tour may be rescheduled. Light rain usually does not cancel the tour.
Still have questions? We're here to help.
Contact UsReady for this adventure?
Tell us your dates and we'll take care of the rest.
From$39per person
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