Rainbow Mountain Tour
Rainbow Mountain Tour
5.0 (38 Reviews)
Rainbow Mountain Tour, 1 Day Hike from Cusco
Experience the spectacular natural wonder of the Vilcanota Mountain range where the famous Rainbow Mountain is located, on our 1-day tour from Cusco city — this is a perfect day adventure for those seeking an unforgettable experience in the Andes.
From Cusco, you will embark on a journey through a remote region of the Andes Mountains, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes and local culture of this destination. As you trek through the beautiful highland valleys, you will encounter traditional Quechua communities and witness the daily life of locals who still keep their ancient culture alive. You’ll be surrounded by snowcapped peaks, herds of alpaca and llamas in their natural habitat, and gorgeous natural beauty as you trek to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain – also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors.
From the top of Rainbow Mountain, you’ll witness the impressive view of Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region and considered a holy mountain by local communities. Our expert local guide will lead you providing insight into the history, culture, and nature of the Peruvian Andes. Once at the very top (lookout point), over 16,000ft above sea level, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley in the distance. The altitude may take your breath away, but the sense of connection to the Mountains and Mother Nature will leave you feeling invigorated and inspired.
Join our Rainbow Mountain Tour, accompanied by a knowledgeable local Beyond Andes Travel Guide, and witness the natural amazing colors of Rainbow Mountain.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS IN BRIEF:
Trip Summary
Rainbow Mountain Tour Summary
- Pre-trip briefing: A day before the tour at 5:00 PM at the client’s hotel
- Tour start point: Cusco – Hotel pick-up at 4:00 AM
- Tour end point: Cusco – Hotel drop-off around 4:00 PM
- Pick-up & Drop-off: Cusco city or airport.
- Guides: Knowledgeable, Funny, and Friendly (unique character of Beyond Andes Guides).
- Service Type: Private and Semi-private service.
- Departure: Daily departures, available for booking on any date, we require 2 people to open a new departure.
- Group Size: Up to 10 participants
- Rainbow Mountain Tickets: Included in the tour cost.
- Dietary Options: Breakfast and lunch included (we provide Vegetarian/Vegan food upon request at no extra charge)
- Best time to hike: From May through October.
- Day temperature: Very cold when is overcast and warm when is sunny. Around the top of Rainbow Mountain is usually windy and cold, make sure to bring winter-type clothing.
Itinerary
1Hike to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Rainbow Mountain 1-Day Hike Tour program. The day kicks off bright and early, with a 4:00 am pick-up from your Cusco hotel. From there, we’ll hop in a car and journey south for two hours to reach the charming village of Cusipata, where a delicious breakfast awaits.
Following breakfast, we’ll continue our journey by car for an additional hour until we arrive at Phulawasipata, the trailhead where our trek will begin. Over the next 1.5 to 2 hours, we’ll make our way through the stunning Andean landscape, surrounded by the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Along the way, we’ll encounter some of the most iconic animals of the Andes, including Llamas and Alpacas.
Upon reaching the viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca (5020 m / 16,470 ft.), our expert guide will provide a detailed description of the mountain’s orography, ecosystem, and unique coloring. We’ll have plenty of time to soak in the breathtaking views and snap some unforgettable photos to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After taking in all the beauty of Rainbow Mountain, we’ll retrace our steps and return to Phulawasipata, where our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusipata for a delicious lunch. Finally, we’ll head back to the city of Cusco, arriving between 4 and 5 in the afternoon, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders with our expert guides by your side.
Food
Breakfast and lunch included
Physical Level
Easy to Moderate
Walking Distance
5 miles
Hiking Time
4+ hours
Starting Altitude
4,300m/ 14,108 ft
Highest Altitude
5,030m/ 16,503 ft
Weather
Nov-April Wet season, May-Oct Dry season
Note on Itinerary
Although we strive to strictly adhere to the itinerary outlined above, please be advised that it is subject to change due to a variety of factors beyond our control. These factors may include incidents in the location where the trip will be operated, strikes, political disputes, entry or border difficulties, extreme weather conditions, flight cancellations, and other unforeseeable circumstances. Please note that & Beyond Andes Travel is not responsible for any changes or amendments resulting from such circumstances.
In the event that we must deviate from the original schedule, we will make every effort to provide the best alternative options available to ensure a fantastic experience. However, any additional expenses that may be incurred will be the sole responsibility of the client and not of & Beyond Andes Travel.
Included
- Rainbow Mountain entrance tickets
- Round trip private Van or SUV
- Professional Beyond Andes Travel Guide
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco city and drop off at the same place.
- Oxygen tank
- Breakfast and lunch (packed breakfast and packed lunch if restaurants aren’t available) with options for vegetarians.
Not Included
- Hotels
- Travel insurance
- PayPal fees
- Horse if needed (easy to find along the trail if need one, its cost is $30/ PEN100).
What to bring
- Comfortable, lightweight trekking clothes or activewear (layers recommended)
- Waterproof, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and traction, especially if traveling in the wet season from November to April.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Small daypack or backpack (approximately 25L)
- Down jacket
- Hat and gloves
- Hand sanitizer
- Sun hat or cap
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Water (at least 1L)
- Personal medication
- Muscle relaxers
- Painkillers or anti-inflammatories
- Band-Aids (especially those made for blisters)
- Toilet paper
- Camera
- Cash (in small denominations of Peruvian Nuevos soles or $)
Recommendations
Please, allow yourself 2 days at least to get acclimated for this hike.
Pricing List
Private Service
Tour Payment Schedule
- At time of reservation: 50% of the total balance.
- 60 days prior to departure: Balance should be paid fully, or once upon your arrival in Cusco the other 50% of final balance must be paid fully.
Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule
- Minimum fee: $30 per person
- 61-90 days prior to departure: 30% of trip cost
- 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
- 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost
| Number of persons | Price per person | |
| 1 Persons | $ USD 320.00 | Inquire Now |
| 2 Persons | $ USD 160.00 | Inquire Now |
| 3 Persons | $ USD 140.00 | Inquire Now |
| 4 Persons | $ USD 120.00 | Inquire Now |
| 5 Persons | $ USD 100.00 | Inquire Now |
Faqs Rainbow Mountain Tour
The hike to Rainbow Mountain depends on your speed and level of physical fitness. On average, the hike to Rainbow Mountain viewpoint takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Total round-trip walking time (up and back down) is approximately 3 to 4 hours (this includes short breaks en route).
The best time of the year to go to Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, from May through August. These months are actually in winter in the Andes, Peruvian highland winter is the dry season so the days are with blue skies, amazing views, and the sunshine makes it the best comfortable hiking conditions. However, the trek is available year-round.
We recommend shoulder-seasons just before and after the rains that is late April, May, and September, October, and early November. During those months the weather is still dry, temperatures are pleasant, and the trail is less crowded, just some light rain is expected.
December through March is the rainy season in the Andes and hiking to the Rainbow Mountain is not recommended. Sustained, heavy rains can make the trail unsafe. Rain quite often means snow at higher elevations as well, which is not only unpleasant to hike through, but could dramatically ruin your views of the Rainbow Mountain!
Trekking during the shoulder season (April, September, October) is weather-dependent. We are willing to book a Rainbow Mountain Tour 1 day during this time, but if conditions are poor we reserve the right to cancel or modify your trip.
This may just be a day trip to Rainbow Mountain, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. In fact, Rainbow Mountain is considered a moderately difficult hike, so come prepared!
Rainbow Mountain Tour 1 day starts at an altitude of 4,400m (14,436 ft) and it has a hiking duration of 1.5h to 2h up to Rainbow Mountain Pass, the classic viewpoint. While Rainbow Mountain itself has an altitude of 5,030m (16,503 ft), Vinicunca Pass is located at 5040m (16, 535 ft), the highest point you will actually reach on this hike. That’s enough to take your breath away – literally! We strongly recommend you to come in proper hiking gear and have acclimated for this hike.
While the hike is only a couple of hours, it is a very steep, uphill climb, with an elevation gain of nearly 400m (1312 ft). This can be very strenuous for most people. Of course, others will find the return trip down even harder!
Nevertheless, traveling on Rainbow Mountain by horse is a good option for travelers who can’t, or don’t, want to handle hiking in the altitude. Therefore, we suggest booking activities such as Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley prior to trekking Rainbow Mountain or Horseback Riding to Rainbow Mountain. This will allow for proper acclimatization, and prevent altitude sickness. Check out our tour packages linking the Rainbow Mountain hike with Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. If you are wanting a longer trek check out our Ausangate trek + Rainbow mountain we offer 3, 4, 5 and 6 days options.
The weather in Rainbow Mountain area is very unpredictable, changing frequently and quickly. There are two seasons in the Cusco Region—Wet Season (December to April) and Dry Season (May to November).
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 conditions by dressing in layers. The weather during the dry season is usually sunny with little chance of rain. During the wet season, there are significant amounts of rain and snow.
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