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Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco with Red Valley Included
-
Recommended
Rainbow mountain, Red valley
Duration
1 day
Travel Style
Trekking, Adventure ,
Difficulty
challenging
Group size
Min 2 - Max 8
Embark on an unforgettable journey with 69 Explorer, your premier tour operator, 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, promises an experience like no other.
Your day trip to Rainbow Mountain begins in the early morning at 4:00am. Your guide will pick you up directly from your hotel in one of our private vans. 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 will take us through landscapes that seem almost otherworldly. Even though the trek is difficult your guide will keep your spirits up the whole time making the hike much more enjoyable. They will share fascinating insights about the local ecology and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
A Breathtaking Ascent: The Heart of the Rainbow Mountain Tour
Reaching the top of the mountain is a momentous achievement. Standing at over 5,000m (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.
Remember, on this full-day tour you’ll 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 our planet holds, and we at 69 Explorer are excited to share this remarkable experience with you.
From
US$ 35
95% of travelers recommend this experience
Important information
Includes
- 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.
Itinerary
Your amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek Adventure with 69 Explorer begins bright and early. We will pick you up from your 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.
As dawn breaks, the herds of alpacas and llamas near your breakfast spot provide a charming, authentic Andean experience. You will 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 will reach our breathtaking destination: the Rainbow Mountain (5,020 meters /16,466 feet). Here, 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.
Our journey continues as we hike across to the Red Valley for 45 minutes, a mesmerizing landscape of red-hued mountains and valleys. After marveling at the Red Valley, we will walk back to the trailhead, carrying memories of these extraordinary landscapes in our hearts.
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:
- 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
Gallery
- 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
FAQs
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 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.
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Why choose us
These popular destinations have a lot to offerAt 69 Explorer, we are committed to providing an exceptional experience. Your safety, comfort, and enjoyment are our top priorities. We continuously strive to exceed expectations and ensure that every trip with us becomes a cherished memory.
PaymentLocal Experience
Our guides are locals with extensive knowledge about the history, myths, and secrets of the region.
Small personalized groups
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you an unforgettable experience
Our experience
Our With seven years of experience and more than 20 packages to Machu Picchu alone, our team knows how to carry out a successful expedition.
Sustainable Travel
We believe in responsible tourism. Our tours are designed to respect the local communities and environment, ensuring a positive impact.