FULL DAY RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR.

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The Full Day Rainbow Mountain Tour gives you the chance to experience one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, right in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Known as Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain stuns with its vibrant, multi-colored slopes, formed over centuries of geological evolution.

On this full-day adventure, you’ll travel through traditional Andean villages, take in stunning views of glacial peaks, and spot unique highland wildlife. With a professional guide by your side, you’ll hike to over 5,000 meters (16,500 feet) above sea level to reach the summit.

From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Rainbow Mountain and the surrounding landscape, including the towering Ausangate Mountain. This unforgettable journey blends culture, nature, and physical challenge into one truly incredible experience.

Language

Spanish or English

Altitude

16469.82 ft

Transportation

Minibus

Difficulty

Moderate

Itinerary

05:00 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco

We begin our day early with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Hop aboard our comfortable minibus for the 1.5-hour journey to the village of Cusipata, where we will stop for breakfast.

06:30 AM – Breakfast in Cusipata

After the scenic drive through the Andes, we’ll arrive at Cusipata for a delicious breakfast of traditional Andean food, which will fuel us for the adventure ahead.

08:00 AM – Travel to the trailhead (Bus parking at 4600m.o.s.l.)

We board the minibus for another 1.5-hour drive to the bus parking area, where the real adventure begins. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the Andean highlands and the chance to spot wildlife.

09:30 AM – Start the Hike to Rainbow Mountain

Upon arriving at the bus parking (4600m.o.s.l.), we begin the hike to Rainbow Mountain. The trek will take about 2 hours, passing through rugged terrain with spectacular views at every turn. At 5000 meters (16,500 feet), we will take a break to snap some photos.

11:00 AM – Reach the Summit at 5020m.o.s.l. (16510 ft)

The final push takes us to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, where we will spend approximately 45 minutes marveling at the colorful landscape, taking photos, and enjoying the surrounding scenery.

12:30 PM – Descent Back to the Bus Parking

After taking in the views, we begin our descent, retracing our steps back to the bus parking. The hike down will take around 1.5 hours.

02:00 PM – Lunch at Cusipata

We return to Cusipata, where we will enjoy a delicious, traditional Andean lunch. Relax and refuel before the return journey to Cusco.

03:00 PM – Return to Cusco

After lunch, we board the minibus once more for the scenic drive back to Cusco.

04:30 PM – Drop-off at Your Hotel in Cusco

After an incredible day of adventure, we will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco, where you can relax and reflect on the amazing experience.

Include

Professional tour guide (English or Spanish)
Round-trip transportation in a comfortable minibus
Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain
Breakfast and lunch
Safety equipment and guidance

Not Include

Tips for the guide and driver
Snacks or additional drinks
Photos

Recommendation

Altitude Acclimatization:
Due to the high altitude of the trek (up to 5020 meters above sea level), it is important to be properly acclimatized. If you haven't spent time in Cusco, it is recommended to arrive at least a day before to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Hydration:
Bring plenty of water for the hike, as the air at high altitudes is dry and you can lose water quickly. Staying hydrated is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
Appropriate Clothing:
Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Make sure to wear layers of clothing that allow you to adjust to temperature changes. Bring lightweight clothing for the day (but pack a rain jacket or warm clothing for the cold) and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Comfortable, Sturdy Shoes:
The hike to the summit of Rainbow Mountain is moderate but challenging, so proper footwear is essential. Hiking boots or comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended for the trek.
Avoid Taking Altitude Medication (Without Supervision):
It’s not recommended to take altitude sickness medication without consulting a doctor first. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, dizziness), notify your guide, who will be prepared to assist you.
Sun Protection:
Be sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense sun at high altitudes.
Extra Money:
Bring some extra money in case you want to buy souvenirs, snacks, or tip your guide and driver. Many places do not accept credit cards.

Prices

Extras

Is this trip right for you?

This trip visits places at high altitudes, and as a result, some people may experience altitude sickness regardless of age or physical condition. Please refer to the Medical and Health Information section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
This journey involves extensive walking to visit the sites, and if you choose to trek the Inca Trail or the Quarry Trail, you will face strenuous hikes. We recommend this trip for those with a good level of fitness. It is important to bring comfortable footwear suitable for hiking. See the “Packing” section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
For those trekking the Inca Trail or the Quarry Trail, accommodation will be in campsites with basic facilities. Undoubtedly, this experience is not just about reaching the final destination (Machu Picchu) but about the incredible journey itself.
According to Machu Picchu’s visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site in a single direction. Once the guided tour begins, exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. After the guided visit concludes, visitors must leave the site, and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not allowed. Please refer to the Itinerary for more details.
Travelers who choose different ways to reach Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail, or Train) will not follow the same routes within the site. This means that you may not be able to take photos together overlooking Machu Picchu, whether traveling on the same booking or separate bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the hike to the summit is moderate, the altitude can make it more challenging. It is recommended to have a basic level of fitness, but you do not need to be an expert hiker. If you have difficulty with the altitude, you can take more frequent breaks and go at your own pace.

If you’re not used to high altitudes, it’s essential to spend at least 1-2 days in Cusco to acclimatize before doing the tour. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart or respiratory problems, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking the tour.

Our guides are trained to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness and will provide assistance if needed. If you experience headaches, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, let the guide know immediately so they can assist you. In some cases, it may be necessary to descend to a lower altitude.

While the tour is designed for adults, children can participate if they are in good physical condition. Keep in mind that the hike is challenging, and the altitude can affect younger children. Make sure the children are well-prepared for walking and acclimatizing to the altitude.

Yes! Rainbow Mountain is an incredibly photogenic location, and you will have time to take photos during the stops. However, remember that altitude can affect your energy, so make sure to rest before you start taking photos to fully enjoy the experience.