Rainbow Mountain Hike (Red Valley Optional)

Rainbow Mountain Tour – 1 Day

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is one of the most incredible attractions Cusco has to offer as of late. The Montaña de Siete Colores only recently jumped to the attention of tourists. Lying on the road to the highest mountain of the Vilcanota Mountain range, Ausangate Mountain (6384 meters) how could it be missed one can ask himself. Local guides say that this is a result of climate change. The ice on top of the mountain melting revealed a bright rainbow pattern in the composition of the mountain. Formed after ages by layers of sediment rock, changing colors depending on the influencing environmental conditions, this unique landscape came as if a present packed for now.

You will never forget this experience, as it involves quite a strenuous hike to arrive at an extremely unique destination. You will need to be physically and mentally prepared for this hike, which takes you through the chain of mountains of the Ausangate Glacier. National Geographic has labeled Vinicunca as one of the 100 places you should go before you die. Do not miss out on this opportunity to embark on this unforgettable adventure and discover the vivid colors of Rainbow Mountain Boasting in the sun.

The Red Valley in Cusco is another tourist attraction apart from the one, which has become very popular in the last few months, apart from the marvelous Rainbow Mountain. This beautiful red valley receives more than 500 visits a day. It is a chain of mountains and ravines of pure red earth, forming beautiful peaks that are very striking for any tourist.

We advise you to combine this tour with seeing the Red Valley in all its brilliance. The Valley is located only 15 minutes away from the mountain and is a real pearl for the eye.

A full-day adventure to one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Estimated Itinerary

• 04:30 am – Hotel pick-up in Cusco
  We begin the journey early to take advantage of the clear morning skies. A van will pick you up from your hotel.
• 07:00 am – Breakfast stop in Cusipata
  Enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast in a local restaurant before continuing the trip.
• 08:30 am – Arrival at the trailhead (Llaqto – 4,600 m)
  Start of the hike. Our guide will explain the route and give you tips for the ascent.
• 08:45 am to 10:15 am – Hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca – 5,036 m)
  Walk at your own pace with breathtaking views of the Ausangate range. Option to rent a horse along the way (not included).
• Optional hike: to the Red Valley (Cerro Colorado), situated just behind Rainbow Mountain, for a more immersive natural experience.
• 10:30 am – Arrival at Rainbow Mountain
  Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views and capture photos at the summit. Short explanation from your guide. 
• 11:00 am – Descent and return to the trailhead
• 01:00 pm – Lunch in Cusipata: Recharge with a buffet lunch before returning to Cusco.
• 02:00 pm – Departure to Cusco
• 05:00 pm – Drop-off at your hotel in Cusco

Note: The Red Valley (Valle Rojo) is optional and accessible with an additional short hike at the summit. Entry fee may apply.

Group Tour: $45.00

Private Tour: for more detailed information contact us at info@coclatours.com

Service includes:

• Transportation round-trip
• Guide
• 1 Breakfast
• 1 buffet Lunch
• Entrance Ticket to the Rainbow Mountain
• quilt and walking stick
• First Aid Equipment 

Also, consider that the rainbow mountain is located over 5000 masl; because of that, it is not recommended for people who suffer from high blood pressure, asthma, or have any allergies or issues that can put you at risk.

Does Not Include

• Additional ticket if you ask for hiking the red valley s/. 20.00 ($7.00)
• Guide for the red valley s/. 10.00 ($4.00)
• Rent of a horse and muleteer, you could rent by 90 soles ($30), you pay the local people directly
• Snacks and personal expenses

Hike level:

The difficulty of the trek is listed between 1 and 4.

• Level1: Simple on flat grounds, with no major difficulty
• Level2: Between the flat ground and a few slopes
• Level3: Few flatlands (greater slope)
• Level4: Pending and rough lands.

In this case, the trek is considered Level 2: flat ground and few slopes.

Useful Information

• Maximum altitude: 5,080 masl.
• Cold weather.
• Distance: 6 km
• Walking time: 3-4 hours.

Red Valley 

For anyone who wants to know the Rainbow Mountain, you should know that you can take advantage of a new route that will allow you to pass through the famous Red Valley. Without a doubt, this tour is the perfect complement for nature-loving travelers.

The red valley in Cusco is another tourist attraction, which has become very popular in the last few months. Apart from the marvelous Rainbow Mountain Cusco, it is a chain of mountains and ravines of pure red earth, forming beautiful peaks that are very striking for any tourist.

It is located on the Vinicunca route. Formerly, it was completely covered in snow, although there are still seasons that are covered in snow throughout the valley. Due to the reddish color of the valley and the proximity to the mountain of Vinicunca, this red valley has become Vinicunca’s first sister. At the moment, the Red Valley receives approximately 500 daily tourists, both nationals and foreigners.

Does not include:

• Ticket to red valley s/. 20.00 ($7.00)
• Horses s/. 90.00 ($30), bring soles
• Extra guide for red valley s/. 20.00 ($8.00)
• Tips
• Money Transfer Fee

It is recommended to carry:

• A small backpack.
• Thermal underwear to beat the cold
• Comfortable shoes
• Rain poncho
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Personal medicines