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Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco with Red Valley Included

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

Premium Service Small Group up to 8 people

Before: $130.00

Now: $97.00

 

*** Final price and inclusion will be determinated at booking time!

PRIVATE SERVICE

PRICE PER GROUP

Rainbow Mt Tour

Rainbow Mt Tour

1 or 2 persons

Before: $230.00

Now: $197.00

3 to 4 persons

Before: $290.00

Now: $250.00

6 to 8 persons

Before: $490.00

Now: $450.00

9 or more persons

Before: $790.00

Now: $697.00

 

*** Final price and inclusion will be determinated at booking time!

Frequently asked questions

What is the Rainbow Mountain Tour?

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.

Customer Reviews

HAPPY TRAVELERS

At 69 Explorer, we take pride in our reviews. We believe they are a true reflection of our business and help us improve our services performance. We encourage all customers to leave a review, whether it is positive or negative . We take feedback seriously, as it helps us grow and improve as a business. We are thankful with all of our customers who have taken the time to leave a review.

tripadvisor user

Genevieve R

Couples

En nuestro último día en Cusco, hicimos el city tour con 69 Explorer, nuestro guía Jhony fue muy informativo y nos dio la mejor información sobre la ciudad de Cusco y Sacsayhuaman.

September 12, 2025
tripadvisor user

Alison Massey

8 reseñas

Pasamos dos días bajo la experta atención de Ray, nuestro guía turístico. Ray nos acompañó a todos los sitios históricos del Valle Sagrado y luego a Machu Picchu. Ray fue muy amable con nosotros y nos explicó nuestros horarios a diario, ya que algunas mañanas madrugaban mucho, así que sabíamos en cada paso del camino dónde encontrarnos y a qué hora. Su vasto conocimiento sobre todos los sitios que visitamos fue increíble; es un maestro en su oficio. Nos animó a hacer preguntas, las cuales respondimos con gran acierto. Al final de nuestro tour, sentimos que se había convertido en un amigo, más que solo en un guía. ¡Recomendamos ampliamente su experiencia y conocimiento sobre todo lo relacionado con los incas! 12 de 10 para Ray. 😊

Hace 2 meses
tripadvisor user

Lidia Z

Solo

Take the 7-color mountain tour with 69 explorers, the whole organization was spectacular, from start to finish. Our guide Ray, he was very patient with the group, helped us all be together and we could get to the top. The views are spectacular and everything was worth it.

September 3, 2025
tripadvisor user

Julio P

Couples

Visiting Machu Picchu with 69 Explorer Perú was the best thing we did, everything was perfect and our guide was super helpfull.

July 15, 2025
tripadvisor user

Luka I

Business

We were very lucky to have found 69 Explorer Peru, they got us tickets at the last minute to do the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The whole organization was great and our guide Josep did a great job.

July 5, 2025
tripadvisor user

Sintia Páuccar vilca

4 opiniones

Muy recomendado! Tuve tours en Cusco y el valle sagrado, todo muy bien organizado y a tiempo. En todo momento asistencia del equipo de ruta 7 expeditions. Mis lugares favoritos fueron las 7 lagunas y la montaña de colores. Gracias!

Hace un año
EXPERIENCE PERU

JOIN 69 EXPLORER FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY

At 69 Explorer, we are committed to providing an exceptional experience. Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities.

  • 100% Locally Owned and Operated
  • 3+ Years of Experience in the Budget Tourism Segment
  • Knowledgeable Local Staff ready to deliver the Best Service
  • Best Value Group Tours and Treks
  • Best Value Tailored Tours and Treks
69 Explorer

Why Choose us?

We are specialists in the Budget Tourism Segment, delivering the Best Value experiences without sacrificing top quality and service.

Superior Service

Attention to detail and focus on the best experience possible.

Inca Trail Specialists

Machu Picchu and Inca Trail Specialists

Local Impact

We believe in Tourism as a Local Economy Developer

Small groups

Personalized experiences for the Best Enjoyment

stands out

69 Explorer stands out

Based in Cusco, Peru, 69 Explorer is a trusted local agency committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences through expert guidance and personalized journeys crafted around every traveler’s interests.

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