Rainbow Mountain - Vinicunca Hike | Andes Adventure Tours

Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca &
Red Valley Day Tour:
A Colorful Adventure in the Andes

What to Bring:

Your Rainbow Mountain Trek

Warm Clothing: Even though the sun can be strong, temperatures in the morning can be cold. Bring a jacket, hat, and gloves.

Comfortable Hiking Boots: The terrain is rocky and uneven, so make sure your footwear is sturdy and comfortable.

Sun Protection: High-altitude sun is intense. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Water and Snacks: Bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated, and pack any personal snacks you might need for the trek.

Camera: Capture the vibrant beauty of Rainbow Mountain with plenty of photos!

Rain Gear: A light rain jacket or poncho is recommended, especially if you’re trekking during the rainy season (November to March).

Know Before You Go:

Tips for a Smooth and Safe Hike

Altitude Awareness: Rainbow Mountain sits at a high elevation (5,200 meters / 17,060 feet). If you’re not acclimated to the altitude, we recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before attempting the trek to minimize altitude sickness.

Physical Preparation: The hike is moderate to challenging, so make sure you’re in good physical shape. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed.

Weather Conditions: The weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s best to be prepared for sun, wind, and possibly rain.

Timing: The tour departs early to catch the best weather and avoid crowds, so be sure to be on time.

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Trek:

A Short but Epic High-Altitude Adventure

Early Morning Departure & Breakfast (3:00 AM - 6:30 AM)

Your adventure begins before dawn! We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 3:00 AM and set off on a scenic drive through the Andean countryside. Along the way, we’ll stop for a hearty breakfast in a local village, giving you time to fuel up and acclimate before the hike. After breakfast, we’ll continue to the trailhead at 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), where our guides will provide a final briefing to ensure you’re ready for the trek ahead.

Arrival at the Trailhead (6:30 AM - 7:00 AM)
As we reach the starting point of the trek, take a moment to soak in the crisp mountain air and stretch before beginning the ascent. The landscape around you is already breathtaking, with towering peaks and wide-open valleys stretching into the distance.

Hiking to Rainbow Mountain (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
The trek begins! As you hike along the winding trail, you’ll pass through rugged high-altitude terrain, spot herds of alpacas and llamas, and see local communities going about their daily lives in the mountains. The climb is short but steep, with every step bringing you closer to the incredible colors of Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain.

At the summit, standing at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), take in the jaw-dropping panoramic views of the painted slopes and the towering Ausangate Glacier in the distance. Our guides will share the history and geological significance of this natural wonder while you snap photos of one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.

Exploring the Red Valley (9:30 AM - 11:30 AM)
Rather than heading straight back, we’ll take the scenic route through the Red Valley, a stunning yet less-visited landscape that looks like something from another planet. The vibrant red and orange mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a peaceful and surreal contrast to the bustling Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.

This extra hike is well worth it, as it provides a quieter, more immersive experience in the Andean highlands. The descent through the valley is more gradual, making for a pleasant return journey.

Lunch & Relaxation (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
After making your way back to the trailhead, a delicious buffet lunch awaits in a nearby village. Enjoy a variety of Peruvian dishes, rehydrate, and take in the peaceful surroundings before we begin our drive back to Cusco.

Return to Cusco (1:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
With full hearts (and full stomachs!), we’ll begin the journey back to Cusco. Sit back, relax, and reflect on an unforgettable day in the Andes. You’ll arrive in Cusco between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to rest or explore more of the city in the evening.

Hike Details:

Distance: ~9 km (5.6 miles) round trip (includes Red Valley)
Starting Elevation: 5,000 meters (16,400 feet)
Highest Elevation: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)
Elevation Gain: ~200 meters (660 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate (challenging due to altitude)
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

What’s Included:

Your Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Round-Trip Transportation: Comfortable transport from Cusco to the trailhead and back.

Professional Guide: A knowledgeable and friendly guide who will provide fascinating insights into the area and help you throughout the trek.

Entrance Fees: Access to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and surrounding areas.

Snacks and Water: Energy-packed snacks and water for the trek.

Lunch: Enjoy a hearty meal after the hike, either at the base or on the way back to Cusco.

First-Aid Kit: For your safety, a first-aid kit is on hand, and your guide is trained to handle emergencies.

FAQ: All Your Rainbow Mountain Questions Answered

How hard is the Rainbow Mountain hike?

The hike is moderate to challenging, especially due to the altitude. It’s a steady uphill climb for about 2 hours, but with plenty of breaks to help you adjust to the altitude. If you're in good physical shape, it’s definitely doable!

How long does the tour take?

The tour typically lasts around 10–12 hours, with an early morning departure and a late afternoon return to Cusco.

Can I do this tour if I’m not acclimated to the altitude?

We recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before taking on the trek to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. However, some travelers experience mild symptoms, so take it slow and listen to your body.

What happens if it rains?

Rain is possible, especially in the rainy season (November to March). But don't worry, the trek is still possible in light rain. Just be sure to bring rain gear for comfort.

Is lunch included?

Yes, a hearty lunch is included, typically after the hike on your way back to Cusco.

Can I go at my own pace?

Absolutely! Your guide will help you manage the altitude and pace, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take breaks and go at your own speed.

1 Full day

Availability: Year-round

Difficulty: Moderate

Up to 8 people

Distance: 4 miles/7 km

Vertical gain: 660 ft/200 m

Price:

Starting at $75 USD per person

Private Trips:

1 Hiker (Private): $280 USD per person

2 Hikers (Private): $150 USD per person

Ready for an adventure that’s as vibrant as the Andes themselves? The Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca & Red Valley tour takes you on a thrilling journey to two of the most stunning natural wonders in Peru. Hike through high-altitude landscapes, breathe in crisp mountain air, and witness the surreal, multi-colored slopes of Rainbow Mountain, followed by the deep crimson hues of the Red Valley—a less-visited but equally breathtaking destination. Join us for a day of awe, excitement, and unparalleled views!

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WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

We’re here to make this the ultimate adventure for you. Consider us your adventure buddies—ready to guide, inspire, and share every step of the journey. Are you ready to dive in?

Lifetime Friends

It's more than just an adventure—experience the Andes with a close-knit group where friendships are forged for a lifetime. Share unforgettable moments with fellow travelers and join the founder on future trips to explore more of the Andes.

Small Groups

Enjoy a more personal and immersive experience with our small group treks. Connect with fellow travelers, receive personalized attention, and truly embrace the beauty of the Andes without the crowd.

Passion

Your adventure is our passion, and your safety is our promise. We craft unforgettable journeys through the Andes that are as secure as they are inspiring. Trust us to keep you safe, so you can focus on embracing the thrill of discovery and the beauty of the journey.