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+51 918 885 164 info@happygringotours.com

Rainbow Mountain Cusco – Cusco to Rainbow Mountain Tour

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Cusco to Rainbow Mountain Tour Details
Rainbow Mountain Cusco

The Cusco to Rainbow Mountain Tour is a popular full-day tour in the Cusco region. Locally known as montaña de siete colores, the yellow, red, ochre, white, and turquoise mineral stripes on Rainbow Mountain Cusco lend it wow appeal. Due to the lack of rain and clear skies during the dry season, Rainbow Mountain Cusco can be thoroughly enjoyed.

Rainbow Mountain Cusco is the second most visited destination in the country after Machu Picchu. 

From the summit, you will have a staggering 360-degree view, including nearby Snow-Capped Apu Ausangate Mountain (6384m), the highest mountain in southern Peru. 

Rainbow Mountain Cusco

Rainbow Mountain Travel offers breathtaking views that easily allow you to forget about the 2-hour struggle you leave behind. The Ausangate glacier on one side and bizarre, colorful peaks on the other. 

This memorable high-altitude hike in South America is an experience to remember forever! You will have the opportunity to click enough pictures to fill your social media feed. 

After relishing the vires from the summit of Rainbow Mountain, Peru, the descent is just as spectacular. As the outstanding views slowly start to disappear, you maneuver your way back to the lunch spot through herds of alpacas, sheep, and Andean people in colorful clothes riding their horses. 

A fresh, homemade buffet lunch will be served as we end the Cusco to Rainbow Mountain Tour.

Why hike Rainbow Mountain Peru with us?

We are a fully locally owned tour company in Cusco. To avoid altitude sickness, it is strongly recommended that you spend 2-3 days in Cusco before visiting Rainbow Mountain. 

For further information, we highly recommend you read our detailed article about the Rainbow Mountains.

If you are unwilling to hike, look at our Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Trip from Cusco. Alternatively, you can experience the vibrant beauty of Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain like never before with our thrilling and accessible ATV Rainbow Mountain Tour. It is perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

Do take a moment to check our review on Trip Advisor. 

Departure & Return Location

Cusco Hotel Transfer

Departure Time

0430 AM

Price Includes

  • Cusco hotel transfer
  • Pick up & drop off - Door-to-door
  • English speaking experienced professional mountain guide
  • 6-8 people with 1 guide, 2 Guides for a group of 9-17 trekkers
  • Breakfast and Lunch
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Water and soap to wash your hands
  • Free luggage storage at Happy Gringo Tours office

Price Excludes

  • Guide Service Fee (Optional)
  • Travel and health insurance for the duration of your tour
  • Entrance to Rainbow Mountain (25 Soles)

Recommended To Carry

  • Sunscreen and Sunglasses
  • Waterbottle and snacks
  • Peruvian Soles in Cash
Tips on hiking Rainbow Mountain Cusco
  • Carry a small backpack with plenty of water, snacks and toilet paper
  • The entrance fee tothe local community is 10 Soles. It is not included in the price of the tour.
  • There are two Rainbow Mountains - Vinicunca and Palccoyo. Palccoyo involves less hiking.
  • The weather in Rainbow Mountain  is unprecedented can change in seconds when you’re high up. So be sure to pack sun block, sunglasses, a rain jacket, a hat and wear some thick hiking socks; but also bring a spare pair of socks just in case.
  • Try and beat the altitude by chewing on coca leaves – Ask our tour guide for some
Itinerary

Rainbow Mountain Cusco - Cusco to Rainbow Mountain Tour

Your epic full-day trip to Rainbow Mountain, Peru, begins early in the morning at 0500, and we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. We will then embark on a three-hour drive along the South Valley of Cusco to the Hanchi Pacha community in Pitumarca Village. 

Here, we will serve a traditional breakfast. After a short safety briefing, we will begin the Rainbow Mountain Trek, which will take us two and a half hours to the summit at 5030 meters (16502 ft.) above sea level.

Along the hike, you will see beautiful landscapes, Llamas, Alpacas, local people, and spectacular, colorful rocky mountains. 

You will also be hiking through different highland Andean communities. Our tour guide will give you an immersive insight into their life and traditions. 

Locals here practice a ritual called Apacheta. They pile stones on each other to honor the Mountain God (Apus). They then use three coca leaves (K’intu) to seek blessings. It is a belief that this would safeguard their path to the summit. 

You can rent horses at the base camp if you are unsure about hiking at high altitudes. Make sure to negotiate the price before getting on one. 

The Red Valley lies farther and can be hiked on a two-day trek. 

After enjoying the seven-colored mountain, we will hike for two hours down the hill back to where we started the hike. Here, we will serve you lunch. After lunch, we will drive you back to Cusco City.

Video
Photos
Infographic
Rainbow Mountain Tour
FAQs

How does Vinicunca mountain get it colors?

Seldom anyone knew about the existence of Rainbow Mountains of Vinicunca until 2016. It was covered in dense snow, when the snow started to melt, the colours started to appear. The region is dense in minerals. Infact, many mining companies have placed a bid to start mining here. The colours are a result of minerals. 

Where is Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is 82 kilometres (51 miles) to the south of Cusco city. It is near Pitumarca town. The easiest and the cheapest way to get there is by signing up for an organised tour as the guides will be there to assist you in case if you feel altitude sickness. 

How long is the hike to Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca?

From the base camp, it normally takes 2-2.5 hours of hike to reach to the summit of the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca. If you are not keen on hiking, you can always pay extra to locals and jump on a horse back. 

What causes Rainbow Mountains?

The yellow, red, ochre, white and turquoise mineral stripes are a result of mineral deposits in the mountain that lend the wow appeal to it. 

How high is Rainbow Mountain?

The Rainbow Mountain of Cusco also known as Vinicunca is 5200 metres (17060 feet) above sea level. It is located some 100 kilometres to the south east of Cusco city. 

How Does the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Work?

The 2 Day Inca Trail is a shorter version of the classic trek, offering breathtaking scenery and cultural insights. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience the journey to Machu Picchu in a condensed yet memorable way.

How challenging is the Two Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Two Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a moderate trek suitable for most people in good physical condition. It involves some uphill climbs, but nothing too strenuous. The second day is the most rewarding as you hike through the Sun Gate and get your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. It’s a great option for those who want to experience the Inca Trail but don’t have the time or energy for the full four-day hike.

What is the Short Inca Trail and how is it different from the full Inca Trail?

The Short Inca Trail is a 1-day trek, whereas the traditional Inca Trail takes 4 days. The short trail offers a quick but rewarding experience of the Inca civilization, passing through ancient ruins and beautiful scenery before reaching Machu Picchu. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to explore the Inca Trail without committing to the longer version.

Do I need to be physically fit for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

While the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a challenging hike, it is designed for people with average fitness levels. The trek involves some uphill climbs and altitude changes, so it’s important to prepare by walking and hiking beforehand. If you’re physically prepared, you’ll be able to enjoy the trek and the stunning views of the Andes without much difficulty.

How long is the Two Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and what can I expect?

The Two Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu covers approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) over two days. You’ll experience breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and rich Inca history. On the second day, you’ll arrive early at Machu Picchu and have plenty of time to explore the site before returning to Cusco.

What Our Customers Say About Us

Each review from our users is important to continue growing and offering the best service to each of our clients. Our priority will always be that you enjoy your trip to the fullest while our professional team works to fulfill it.

  • star rating  The 1-day trip to Machu Picchu was very well organized!
    Our vacation was great to the land of the Incas in Perú with Gringo Tours.

    We strongly recommend traveling... read more

    avatar thumb 986nayelliv
    February 5, 2023

    star rating  We had a dream of hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and were unable to get permit so ended up doing thjis. This is genuinely the best alternative as... read more

    avatar thumb nelsonj820
    February 3, 2023

    star rating  We booked Machu Picchu tour 1 day from Cusco with Happy Gringo. The tour was very well organized, our pick up was on time, the train had good panoramic views,... read more

    avatar thumb Benitha10
    January 23, 2023

    star rating  The views and history were amazing and the guide (Rubens) was incredibly passionate and knowledgeable. It was great to learn about the culture and history from his eyes.... read more

    avatar thumb 396matthewe
    January 11, 2023
  • star rating  Great Experience with Happy Gringos!

    My family had difficulty to find a travel agent to book the Machu Picchu tour, however the workers of Gringo Tours were very helpful... read more

    avatar thumb Atomk2044
    January 11, 2023

    star rating  I bought the service at the very last minute, when other big tours could not provide the service due to insufficient participants (most people canceled for the political unrest that... read more

    avatar thumb Gofar T
    December 31, 2022

    star rating  We booked the tour at the last minute. But we are still able to make it to Machu Picchu. Our guide Eder is interesting and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tour!... read more

    avatar thumb Nora a
    December 22, 2022

    star rating  An unforgettable, majestic experience to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - Despite the distances involved, from beginning to end, the trip was very well-organized and everything happened according to plan. The tour guide at the destination was very insightful and answered... read more

    avatar thumb Derick L
    December 22, 2022
  • star rating  An unforgettable, majestic experience to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - Despite the distances involved, from beginning to end, the trip was very well-organized and everything happened according to plan. The tour guide at the destination was very insightful and answered... read more

    123derickl
    December 22, 2022

    star rating  Highly recommended - We booked the tour at the last minute. But we are still able to make it to Machu Picchu. Our guide Eder is interesting and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tour!... read more

    noraaM4722CJ
    December 22, 2022

    star rating  Even though we had news that the train may not be in operation to Picchu, we would have expected the local operator to contact us and give us updates. We... read more

    avatar thumb Mike D
    December 19, 2022

    star rating  An Impressive 2-day trail to Machu Picchu :)(: - We booked the Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days with Gringo Tours!

    The communication was great, the pick up was on time, the box lunch was very delicious,... read more

    Olgha098
    December 19, 2022
  • star rating  We highly recommend traveling to Machupichu with Gringo tours in Peru!
    We booked the 2 days tour to Machu Picchu. The service was very well organised from Cusco, the Communication... read more

    avatar thumb humberth01
    December 15, 2022

    star rating  The trip was amazing. The views were out of this world. I want to give a specially shoutout and thanks to Mauro. He did an amazing job. Explained the history... read more

    avatar thumb Lxrsd
    December 10, 2022

    star rating  Was really worried about this tour because the night before I found out I’d be the only one going BUR the tour company made me feel super safe and my... read more

    avatar thumb Billie N
    December 2, 2022

    star rating  Lifetime Experience with Gringo Tours - We book the Machu Picchu tour with gringo tours. We strongly recommend how they work and did their best to find our Machu Picchu ticket when all the travel agencies... read more

    Wilbert0122
    November 26, 2022