Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

PRICE FROM

$25.00

Overview

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) 1-Day Adventure

Experience one of the most breathtaking and unique landscapes in the Peruvian Andes with our Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) 1-Day Adventure. Renowned for its vivid, rainbow-like colors, Rainbow Mountain offers a stunning natural spectacle that you can explore in just one day. At Salkantay Trekkers Peru, we pride ourselves on being direct tour operators, ensuring a top-notch experience with bilingual (English and Spanish) guides, modern transportation, and included meals—all designed for your utmost enjoyment.


Tour Highlights

  • Stunning Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Witness the vibrant, multi-colored slopes of Rainbow Mountain, a true natural wonder in the Peruvian Andes.
  • Red Valley Visit: Explore the extraordinary Red Valley, an area that mirrors a red desert and beautifully enhances the Vinicunca experience.
  • Scenic Train Ride: Enjoy a comfortable and scenic train journey through the captivating landscapes surrounding Rainbow Mountain.
  • Bilingual Professional Guides: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of our bilingual guides, ensuring a rich and informative experience.
  • Included Meals: Savor nutritious breakfast and buffet lunch, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free diets.

Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

PRICE FROM:

$25.00

Per person

Group Size:

Max: 10 People per group

Physical Level:

Regular

Tour location:

Cusco - Peru

Tour type:

Hiking

Meals:

1B, D, 1L

Departures:

Daily Departures

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco to Cusipata – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

Begin your unforgettable adventure early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. Alternatively, you can choose to meet us directly at our office located at Calle Garcilaso 210, near Plaza de Armas at 5:00 AM. Once all participants are gathered, we will depart from Cusco around 5:15 AM for a scenic two-hour drive to the charming village of Cusipata.

Upon arrival in Cusipata, indulge in a nutritious breakfast at a local restaurant, giving you the energy needed for the day ahead. After breakfast, we will continue our journey by vehicle for another hour to reach the entry point of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Here, you will need to pay a 30 soles entrance fee to access the trailhead.

From the checkpoint, your hike to Rainbow Mountain begins. This trek lasts approximately 1.5 hours, gradually ascending from 4700m to 5100m. As you reach the summit, take in the mesmerizing views of Rainbow Mountain’s vivid, multi-colored slopes. Spend about an hour at the top, capturing stunning photos, listening to your guide’s insightful explanations, and interacting with local inhabitants who share their unique perspectives.

For those seeking an enhanced experience, you have the option to visit the Red Valley. Entrance to the Red Valley requires an additional 20 soles fee. Alternatively, you can choose to return via the same path you ascended. The hike back through the Red Valley takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to the meeting point with the vehicle.

Once reunited with the group, we will drive back to Cusipata for a buffet lunch around 1:30 PM, offering a variety of delicious local dishes to replenish your energy. After lunch, we will embark on an approximately two-hour drive back to Cusco, aiming to arrive between 4:30 and 5:00 PM. This itinerary provides a comprehensive experience, blending natural wonders with cultural interactions, ensuring your comfort and enjoyment throughout the day.


Summary: Rainbow Mountain Hike

  • Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Hiking Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers
  • Estimated Trekking Duration: 3 to 4 hours
  • Elevation: Rainbow Mountain at 5100 meters above sea level
  • Weather Forecast: Expect cold and windy conditions
  • Accommodation: Not included (Day trip)
  • Additional Note: At the checkpoint before beginning the hike, saddle horses are available for rent to help with the ascent of Rainbow Mountain. The cost typically ranges from 80 to 100 soles and may be negotiable.

Important Notice Regarding Our Machu Picchu Excursions

Each of our tours to Machu Picchu includes a standard entry ticket, typically corresponding to Circuit 02, subject to availability at the time of booking. To secure your preferred circuit, we recommend booking well in advance. Additional options are available to enhance your travel package, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences. For real-time availability, specific ticket details, and information on the various circuits of Machu Picchu, please visit our website or contact us directly.


Trip Tips for Your Rainbow Mountain Adventure

  • Prepare for the Altitude: Rainbow Mountain is located at over 5100m/16,000 feet, so it’s crucial to be prepared for high altitude effects. Drink plenty of water, rest as needed, and consider taking altitude sickness medication if recommended by your doctor.
  • Dress in Layers: Weather can be unpredictable. Bring warm clothing for cold temperatures and lighter layers for sunny conditions.
  • Recommended Footwear: Comfortable sports or hiking shoes are ideal. Mountain hiking shoes are highly recommended for optimal comfort and support.
  • Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against intense UV rays.
  • Bring Snacks and Water: There are no food or drink vendors along the Rainbow Mountain trail, so ensure you have enough snacks and water to stay hydrated and energized.
  • Bring Cash: Ensure you have soles in cash to purchase entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, as these sites only accept cash payments.
  • Respect the Environment: Protect the natural beauty by leaving no trace. Pack out any trash and stay on designated trails to preserve the fragile ecosystem.

Included

Included in the Tour

  • Round Trip Transportation: Comfortable travel from Cusco to the Colorful Mountain in modern Mercedes Benz vehicles.
  • Meals:
    • Breakfast: Fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, bread, or pancakes with butter and jam.
    • Buffet Lunch: A variety of dishes to suit all preferences.
  • Professional Tour Guide: English-speaking guide to enrich your experience.
  • Safety Measures: First-aid kit and oxygen bottle provided for emergencies.

Not Included

  • Entrance Fee for Rainbow Mountain: 30 Soles. This fee is charged by the local government and communities.
  • Entrance Fee for the Red Valley: 20 Soles. Please ensure you have cash available for this fee.
  • Personal Gear: Please bring any necessary personal gear for the tour.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides and staff are not included and are greatly appreciated.Horse Rental for Riding at Rainbow Mountain:Availability and Assistance:
    • Riding horses are available for rent from locals at the Rainbow Mountain checkpoint. Your tour guide will help facilitate the rental process if you wish to ride.

    Cost and Inclusions:

    • The rental fee for a horse ride to the summit is between 90 to 100 soles (approximately $25 to $30 USD). This fee includes the guidance of a local who will lead the horse up the mountain, allowing you to simply sit back and enjoy the ascent. If you decide to rent a horse for the return journey as well, the cost will be an additional 40 to 60 soles (about $10 to $17 USD).

    Pricing Variability:

    • The cost of horse rentals can fluctuate based on daily demand. Prices may be higher on busy days and lower during quieter periods. Negotiation is recommended, and the locals are typically amiable and open to discussion. Payment must be in Peruvian soles.

    Animal Welfare:

    • It’s crucial to treat the horses with kindness and respect. Select a tour operator that ensures the proper treatment and well-being of their animals.

    Photo Souvenirs at Rainbow Mountain:

    Local Culture and Animals:

    • Rainbow Mountain offers excellent opportunities for unique photographs. You’ll frequently encounter locals in traditional attire with llamas and alpacas, providing a colorful and authentic backdrop for photos.

    Cost for Photos:

    • If you opt to take pictures with the locals and their animals, a tip of about 5 soles ($2 USD) is typically expected. This small amount helps support the local community and compensates them for contributing to your travel memories.

Prices

Recommendations

Maps

Frequent questions FAQ´S

What is Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain, also called Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores in Spanish, is a striking natural wonder in the Andes of Peru. Its vibrant colors come from layers of sedimentary rock that have been exposed over time through erosion.

How to Get to Rainbow Mountain

The trek typically begins in Cusco or Cusipata. Most tours include round-trip transportation from these locations to the trailhead. Booking with a reliable tour operator ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Trek Difficulty

The Rainbow Mountain hike is considered challenging due to its steep sections and high altitude, which exceeds 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). The trek covers about 10 kilometers and requires good physical fitness. Spending a few days in Cusco beforehand helps with altitude acclimation.

What to Bring

Pack warm clothing, as the summit can be quite cold. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential to protect against strong sunlight. Don’t forget plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.

Is the Trek Safe?

Yes, the trek is generally safe if you travel with a reputable tour company. Following your guide’s instructions and preparing for high-altitude conditions ensure a better experience. Travel insurance and a health consultation before the trip are also recommended.

Age Recommendations

There are no strict age limits for the Rainbow Mountain tour. However, participants should consider the physical demands of the trek. Children under 8 years old should be accompanied by an adult, and older participants should assess their altitude tolerance before joining.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, from May to September. While the weather is generally clear, it’s a good idea to check the forecast before planning your trip.

Price from:

$25.00

Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Full Day
$25.00 Per person (Group service)
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