Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Premium Day Trip with Meals

4.9 (2,455 reviews) Cusco, Peru
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Duration12h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Beat the crowds with early access to Rainbow Mountain (Mt. Vinicunca) and Red Valley on this full-day guided tour from Cusco. Admire the vibrant colors of this Andean gem, and, for those seeking even more, opt for the scenic hike to Red Valley - an otherworldly expanse of crimson peaks and dramatic vistas. Along the way, enjoy warm hospitality with a hearty Andean breakfast and a satisfying buffet lunch featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Our experienced local guides are by your side every step of the way, equipped with oxygen tanks and safety gear to ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as it is unforgettable.

Why Travelers Love This Experience:
Be one of the first to summit Rainbow Mountain—crowd-free and serene
Capture breathtaking views from panoramic lookout points
Enjoy a hearty local breakfast and a delicious buffet lunch
Hike with confidence thanks to expert guides, oxygen support, and safety equipment

What's included

  • Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
  • Blanket, first aid kit and oxygen mask
  • Professional English and Spanish-speaking guide
  • Drop-off at Avenida El Sol, in front of Qorikancha temple
  • Hearty Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
  • Entrance to the Vinicunca & Cusipata (other providers will charge you)
  • Private and comfortable transportation
  • Optional Red Valley entrance fee (30 soles, cash)

What to expect

  1. Cusco
    Pass by
    Your day trip begins bright and early, with hotel pickups between 3:00 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. in Cusco. By setting off before sunrise, you'll arrive at Rainbow Mountain (Mt. Vinicunca) ahead of the crowds and enjoy the stunning scenery in peace - perfect for photos and a more serene experience. The first leg of the journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes as we drive to Cusipata, where your high-altitude adventure begins.
  2. Cusipata
    30m
    Our first stop is in the town of Cusipata, where you'll enjoy a warm, traditional Andean breakfast to energize you for the day ahead. This 30-minute pause is the perfect opportunity to relax, acclimate, and savor local flavors before the adventure continues.

    After breakfast, we drive for about 1 hour through scenic highland landscapes and the village of Pitumarca, arriving at Hanchipata–Llama Chimpana, the starting point of the hike to Rainbow Mountain.
  3. Vinicunca Mountain
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Set off on your trek at the foot of the Ausangate mountain range, starting a 1-hour and 45-minute ascent to the summit of Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, you may spot various South American camelids, such as llamas and alpacas. Upon reaching the red hill, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the vibrant landscape.
  4. 1h
    After reaching Rainbow Mountain (Mt. Vinicunca), adventurers have the option to continue with a 1 hour hike to the breathtaking Red Valley. Far less crowded than Rainbow Mountain, this hidden gem offers otherworldly red and copper landscapes that look like they've been painted by nature itself.

    No worries about the altitude? We've got you covered. Oxygen tanks and essential safety equipment are always on hand, and our experienced guides are trained to assist at every step!
  5. Cusco
    1h
    After completing the hike, enjoy a scenic 1 hour descent back to the trailhead, where your driver will be waiting. From there, we return to the District of Cusipata to reward your efforts with a well-deserved, one-hour buffet lunch. Savor a variety of traditional Andean dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

    After lunch, we begin the drive back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival around 3:30 p.m. - plenty of time to relax and relive the highlights of your Rainbow Mountain journey.

    Drop off will be at Avenida El Sol, in front of Qorikancha temple, around 4:30 pm

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Pickup is available from hotels in Cusco's historic center (excluding private residences, Airbnbs, bus terminals, etc.). For hotels located in downtown areas with inaccessible narrow streets or private apartments, we'll arrange the nearest meeting point. Please send us an email if your hotel is not on the list and we're happy to assist!

Additional information

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (2,455)
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$49.00 $39.20 per person
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  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Rainbow Mountain Travels · Booked through Viator
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