Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco with Red Valley Included
Duration
1 Day
Type of Tour
Trekking, Adventure ,
Difficulty
challenging
Gruop size
2 min. - 8 max.
Overview
Enjoy a memorable and exciting day tour with 69 Explorer. As we guide you through the vibrant hues and stunning views of Rainbow Mountain. This full-day tour, a perfect addition to your Peruvian adventure, an experience like no other.
The trip to Rainbow Mountain begins in the early morning at 4:00am. The guide will pick you up directly from your hotel. As we set off on our trek to Rainbow Mountain, prepare for the natural splendor that surrounds us. The drive be around 1.5 hours and takes us through landscapes that seem almost unreal. Even though the trek is challenging your guide will keep your spirits up making the hike much more enjoyable. They will share fascinating stories about the local ecology and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The Heart of the Rainbow Mountain Tour
Reaching the top of the mountain is a momentous achievement. Standing at over 5,000 m (about 16,400 ft), Rainbow Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views. The vibrant mineral deposits paint the mountain in an array of colors and is truly a sight to behold. It’s a palette of red, gold, lavender, and turquoise – a natural masterpiece.
We understand that preparation is key to enjoying this mountain tour to the fullest. We recommend booking your Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco at least 24 hours in advance to ensure a seamless experience. This also allows us to provide you with essential information to prepare for the high altitudes and variable weather conditions.
Return to Cusco around 5:00 PM, marking the end of an extraordinary day filled with unforgettable memories and picturesque landscapes. The Rainbow Mountain Tour is not just a journey; it’s a testament to the natural wonders of the world, and we at 69 Explorer are excited to share this remarkable experience with you.
Itinerary
69 Explorer Machu Pichu Guaranty :
We promise your entry to Machu Picchu Citadel or we’ll refund your money.
Note: Bookings made with 8 or less weeks in prior to the trip, may require adjustments in the itinerary to ensure validity of the ticket including earlier start or rescheduling of certain activities. In order to guarantee your whole experience.
Your amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek Adventure with 69 Explorer begins early in the morning. With your pick up from the hotel at 4:00 AM. The anticipation builds as we set out on a 3-hour drive through the picturesque South Valley, heading towards the trailhead at Llacto, which sits at an elevation of 4,638 meters (15,216 feet). The journey itself is a visual feast, with stunning views of farming Inca terraces, quaint traditional villages, verdant valleys, and towering Andean peaks.
Once at the breakfast spot, we will spot herds of alpacas and llamas. This scenery will provide authentic Andean experience. Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast, fueling up for the adventure ahead. After breakfast, a brief 5-minute drive takes us to the trailhead, where our hike begins.
Starting the Hike
The hike follows a picturesque stream, offering breathtaking views of the Ausangate Mountain and its majestic glaciers. This path is more than just a trail; it’s a cultural immersion. Here, you will interact with the local people, guardians of traditional Quechua culture. Seize this opportunity to learn about their traditional clothing and the significance of the different hats worn by the men. Feel free to ask your guide to teach you a few words in Quechua, enhancing your connection to this rich cultural tapestry.
After a hike of approximately 1.5 hours, we’ll reach our breathtaking destination: the Rainbow Mountain (5,020 meters /16,466 feet). The vivid colors of the mountain unfold before your eyes, a natural canvas of red, gold, lavender, and turquoise. You will have about 30 minutes to explore this unique landscape, capture stunning photos, or simply absorb the awe-inspiring views.
The Rainbow Mountain Tour with Local Guides, journey continues as we hike across to the Red Valley for 45 minutes. Experience mesmerizing landscape of red-hued mountains and valleys. After marveling at the Red Valley, walk back to the trailhead, carrying memories of these extraordinary landscapes.
Your guide will take you in our private van all the way back to your hotel dropping you off around 5:00pm.
Key Statistics of the Full Day Rainbow Mountain Tour with Local Guides:
- Total Distance Covered: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)
- Highest Altitude: 5,020 meters (16,466 feet)
- Lowest Altitude (Trailhead): 4,638 meters (15,216 feet)
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
5
Reasons Travelers Choose Us in 2026
Authentic & Expertly Curated Adventures – We design unique experiences across Peru, carefully planed to match your interests, pace, and travel style.
Seasoned Local Guides – Our experienced guides are trained professionals. They are locals who are proudly knowledgeable on culture, history, and hidden gems.
Small Groups, Big Connections – Traveling in small groups means a more personal, safe, and enriching experience, fostering genuine connections along the way.
Dedicated Care from Start to Finish – Our experienced team handles every single detail to assure a top experience with 69 Explorer.
Unmatched Value for Quality – Our exceptional service & comfort, during authentic experiences promise unforgettable moments. Best price guaranteed — no hidden costs, just real value.
What’s included?
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
We provide convenient pick-up and drop-off services to and from your hotel in.
Transportation
Private comfortable transportation in well maintained and mountain capable vans.
Professional Bilingual Guide
Our experienced and knowledgeable guides are fluent in both English and Spanish. They will provide valuable insights about the Rainbow Mountain, the local culture, and the natural surroundings.
Breakfast and Lunch
Nutritious and satisfying meals are provided to keep you energized throughout the day. You’ll have breakfast before starting the hike and lunch after the hike.
Entrance Fees
You won’t need to worry about any additional costs for accessing these sites.
First Aid and Emergency Oxygen
For your safety, we carry a first aid kit and emergency oxygen. In case of altitude sickness our guides are trained to assist.
Hiking Poles
To aid in your hike, we provide hiking poles. These are especially helpful for navigating the varying terrain and assisting with balance at high altitudes.
Interaction with Local Communities
The tour includes opportunities to interact with local Andean communities. This cultural exchange is a unique aspect of the trek.
Photography Opportunities
The tour offers numerous stunning photography opportunities.
Excludes
- Dinner: The tour includes breakfast and lunch, but dinner is not provided. Guests will need to arrange their evening meal independently after the tour concludes.
- Travel Insurance: Participants are strongly advised to have their own travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, drinks outside of the provided meals, and other personal items are not included.
- Tips for Guides and Staff: While not mandatory, tipping for guides and staff is a common practice as a way of showing appreciation for their service. These gratuities are not included in the tour price.
- Additional Activities or Side Excursions: Any activities or side excursions outside of the planned itinerary are not included. This includes any detours or visits to attractions not listed in the tour.
- Rental Gear: If you need to rent any specific gear for the hike (like trekking boots, warm jackets, etc.), these are not included in the tour package and would incur additional costs.
- Horse Rental: For those who may find the trek challenging, horses can sometimes be rented from local villagers. This service is not included in the tour cost and is subject to availability.
- Water and Drinks: While meals are provided, water and other beverages during the hike are not included and should be carried by the participants.
- Emergency Transportation: In the unlikely event of a severe medical emergency requiring special transport (like a helicopter), the cost of such transportation is not included.
Recommend to carry
Day Bag
A small to medium-sized backpack to carry your personal items and snacks.
Water Bottle or Water bladder
Bring at least 2 liters (about 68 ounces) of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
High-Energy Snacks
Pack energy bars, fruits, or nuts for quick energy boosts during the trek.
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Wear comfortable, broken-in hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
Layered Clothing
The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers. This could include a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
Rain Gear
A rain jacket or poncho, as weather conditions can change quickly at high altitudes.
Warm Hat and Gloves
These are essential, especially in the early morning and at higher altitudes where it can be quite cold.
Sun Protection
Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and a sun hat or cap to protect against strong UV rays.
Personal Medications
Include any personal medications, altitude sickness pills (if prone), and basic first-aid like band-aids and pain relievers.
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing the stunning landscapes and memories of your adventure.
Headlamp or Flashlight
Useful for early morning departure or in case of any delays.
Toilet Paper hand sanitizer
In order to keep yourself clean while on the trail.
Cash
For small purchases, tips, or in case of emergency (there are no ATMs on the mountain).
ID and Tour Documents
Keep a form of identification and any tour-related documents handy.
Treking Poles
Can be a huge help especially if you have sensitive knees.
Lip Balm
To prevent chapped lips due to cold and windy conditions.
Portable Battery Pack
For keeping your phone or camera charged.
Lightweight Thermal Blanket
In case of emergencies or unexpected weather changes.
Price
Final price, itinerary and inclusion will be depending on the service you choose and it will be determinated at booking time!
GROUP SERVICE
Price per person
Rainbow Mt Tour
Rainbow Mt Tour
Standar Service Big Group up to 18 people & Operated by 3rd party
Before: $47.00
Now: $39.00
*** Final price and inclusion will be determinated at booking time!
PRIVATE SERVICE
PRICE PER GROUP
Rainbow Mt Tour
Rainbow Mt Tour
*** Final price and inclusion will be determinated at booking time!
Frequently asked questions
The Rainbow Mountain Tour is a full-day hiking excursion to Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, famous for its unique, multi-colored mineral formations. It’s located in the Andes of Peru near Cusco.
The trek to Rainbow Mountain is approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) round trip, typically taking about 1.5 hours to ascend and a bit less to descend.
Although the hike is short the high altitude makes this hike moderately difficult.
Rainbow Mountain Tour reaches an altitude of about 5,020 meters (16,466 feet) above sea level, making acclimatization important.
It is essential to spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before hiking Rainbow Mountain. Rainbow mountain is one of the highest hikes in the region, if you must hike the first few days you arrive choose one of the lower altitude hikes.
Key items include water, snacks, sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, sun protection, personal medications, a camera, and cash. It’s also wise to carry a small first-aid kit.
To ensure your safety and to inform you about the history and culture of the region we highly recommend hiring a guide.
On our Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco with Red Valley Included the groups go from minimum 2 persons to 8 persons.
Client Cancellation:
To cancel, send a written notice to “69 Explorer.” The initial deposit is not refundable. Check your insurance for potential coverage for cancellation reasons.
Cancellations more than 15 days before departure result in a 50% deposit forfeiture. For cancellations between 7 and 15 days before departure, if full payment has been made, 50% of the total cost will be refunded. No refunds are given for cancellations less than 48 hours before departure or for partial tour cancellations.
Alterations/Cancellations by Us:
In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as technical issues, adverse weather, strikes, government actions, or civil disturbances, “69 Explorer” will try to provide alternative arrangements or equivalent trips, without offering refunds. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary, but we will aim to maintain the agreed services.
Significant changes will be communicated before your trip, with comparable alternative plans offered. Any additional costs from these changes are the client’s responsibility. We cannot compensate for expenses like international flights, visas, vaccinations, etc.
If “69 Explorer” cancels a tour, a full refund will be provided.
All 69 Explorer trips are guided by Local Experienced, English-speaking guides familiar with the trail and Incan history.
For our Group Experiences we recommend 18 – 45 years old.
Families with kids or seniors can opt for a Private Trip Experience.
Yes, we can arrange customized trips in Peru.
We offer an extensive range of experiences in Cusco, like hikes or treks, Salkantay & Humantay, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail & Alternative Inca Trail, South Valley & Sacred Valley, Ausangate & Vilcanota Range experiences and recently we added E-biking to our brochure.
Contact us for tailored experiences, we can arrange the perfect plan for your Peru Vacation.
Yes, we count with all the legal permits and the experience to make your dream trip to Peru a reality.
Plus, all of our local guides have degrees in tourism and a minimum of 2 years experience. They all speak English and Spanish and many also speak Quechua, the native language of Peru.
