TRIP ITINERARY
CUSCO - CUSIPATA - RAINBOW MOUNTAIN - RED VALLEY - CUSCO
Early in the morning from 4:30 to 5:00 am, our team will pick you up from where you are staying in Cusco, whether it’s a hotel, Airbnb, apartment, or hostel. We’ll start our journey with a three-hour drive through beautiful landscapes to get to the starting point of our hike. Once there, our chef will prepare a delicious breakfast for you with many options. You can enjoy your meal surrounded by tall mountains, and drink a cup of coffee or coca tea to get ready for the hike ahead.
After breakfast, we’ll begin our two-hour hike towards the top of Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca Mountain. The path starts easy and gets steeper as we approach the summit.
As we walk up, we’ll pass through the snowy peaks of the Ausangate Mountain range, the highest in the region, and you might see many llamas and alpacas. The views get better as we climb, so make sure you’re wearing warm clothes like a jacket, hat, gloves, and bring a good camera.
When we reach the top of Rainbow Mountain, your guide will tell you about the colorful hills, the Andes mountains, and why this place is important to the local people.
Then, we’ll hike for another 30 minutes to the Red Valley, a quiet and stunning area that not many people visit.
After enjoying the views, we’ll head back down for about an hour to where we started, where a special picnic lunch will be waiting. After lunch, we’ll take the bus back to Cusco, aiming to get back around 5:30 pm.
Inclusions
Included
Round Trip Transportation
- Travel in comfort from Cusco to the Colorful Mountain and back. Our fleet includes modern Mercedes Benz vehicles designed for tourist services.
Meals Included
- Breakfast: Enjoy a selection of fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, and your choice of bread or pancakes with butter and jam.
- Buffet Lunch: A buffet-style lunch offers a variety of options to suit all tastes.
Tour Guide
- Our tours are led by professional, English-speaking guides to enhance your journey.
Safety Measures
- We provide first-aid equipment and an oxygen bottle for emergencies, ensuring a safe experience for all participants.
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.
What to Pack
HOW TO DRESS FOR THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR
The Rainbow mountain tour is located in the Andes mountains of Peru and can involve a fair amount of hiking and outdoor activity. Therefore, it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions and the physical demands of the tour. Here are some tips on how to dress for the Rainbow mountain tour:
- Layers: The temperature can fluctuate greatly during the day, so it’s best to wear layers that you can add or remove as needed.
- Pants: Comfortable and durable pants are a must for the tour. Opt for pants that are lightweight, quick-drying, and offer plenty of mobility. Hiking pants or leggings are a great option.
- Footwear: It’s important to wear sturdy and comfortable footwear that can handle the rough terrain. Hiking boots or shoes with good traction and ankle support are recommended. Avoid wearing sandals or flip flops.
- Accessories: A hat or beanie, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential items to protect you from the sun’s harsh rays. Additionally, bring gloves and a scarf or buff for added warmth.
- Backpack: Bring a comfortable and sturdy backpack to carry your water bottle, snacks, and extra layers. Make sure the backpack is well-fitted and distributes the weight evenly to avoid strain on your back.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be intense at high altitudes, so it’s important to bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.
Bring rain gear or poncho: In case the weather turned to rainy
Bring snacks and water: There are no food or drink vendors along the Rainbow Mountain trail, so be sure to bring snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated and energized.
Overall, dressing in layers and choosing comfortable and durable clothing and footwear will help you enjoy the Rainbow mountain tour to the fullest.
Pricing
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Pricing Details for 2024 and 2025: Full-Day Group Tour of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
- Regular Price: $29 USD per person
- Promotional Price: $25 USD per person
**Promotional Price: Special Promotional Pricing for Machu Picchu Tour Guests, If you have a reservation for any Machu Picchu tour, you qualify for a promotional price on our Rainbow Mountain tour. Simply select the promotional price when booking, and our team will confirm your eligibility.
**Consistent and Competitive Pricing for Rainbow Mountain Tours: Our prices for the Rainbow Mountain tour are competitive and align with standard rates in Cusco. Whether you book online or directly at our office in Cusco, you’ll find the price remains consistent. We are committed to providing the best service quality at all times, ensuring value for your experience.
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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 assist you in renting a horse if needed.
- Cost and Inclusions: The rental fee for a horse ride to the top of the mountain ranges from 70 to 90 soles (approximately $20 to $25 USD). This price includes assistance from a local who will lead the horse up the mountain. You are only required to sit and enjoy the ride. If you wish to rent a horse for the return journey as well, it will cost an additional 40 to 60 soles (about $10 to $17 USD).
- Pricing Variability: Horse rental prices may vary based on daily demand. On busy days, prices may increase, while on quieter days, you might find lower rates. It’s advisable to negotiate with the locals, who are generally very friendly. Please note that they only accept Peruvian soles.
- Animal Welfare: Always treat the horses with kindness and respect. Choose a tour operator that prioritizes the well-being of their animals.
Photo Souvenirs at Rainbow Mountain:
- Local Culture and Animals: The mountain is a great place to capture memorable photographs. You’ll often find local people in traditional costumes holding llamas and alpacas, or with these animals dressed uniquely, which can make for striking photos.
- Cost for Photos: If you wish to take photos with the locals and their animals, they typically ask for a tip of about 5 soles ($3 USD). This small contribution supports the local community and acknowledges their participation in your memories.
How to Book with Machu Picchu Reservation
BOOKING RAINBOW MOUNTAIN + RED VALLEY FULLD AY TOUR
BOOKING ONLINE:
- Booking the Raimbow mountain tour is very easy, you can click on the yellow button that says BOOK ONLINE which will take you to a reservation platform where you can choose the DATE OF YOUR TRIP (we have daily availability) then it will ask you for general information which you have to fill them, then you can proceed with the payment of the tour, the payment you can make with any type of debit or credit card.
- Once you finish filling in the data and confirm the payment, you will receive an email confirming the tour and payment, then you will receive a personalized and detailed email about the tour that you keep in mind all the details of your trip to Rainbow Mountain.
- You can book until 7:00 pm one day before starting the tour.
- Booking Online has a fee of 2.9% covered by the customer
BOOKING AT THE OFFICE:
- If you like, you can come to our office in Cusco we are located in the Downtown – Portal Nuevo 270 Plaza Regocijo. One of our counters will explain the details of the tour and you get a map of the tour.
Payment method in the office
- You can pay in cash, we accept dollars, euros, and Peruvian soles.
- You can pay with any type of card but there is a fee of 3.9% covered by the customer
TO BOOK RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR WE NEED THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION
- Full name
- Nationality
- WhatsApp number or Peruvian cellphone number
- Hotel name in Cusco
PAYMENT, CANCELLATION AND CHANGING POLICY
- If you cancel the tour 48 hours in advance, we will refund 100% of the amount you paid for the tour. To cancel the tour, you have to send an email to machupicchureservations@gmail.com
- If you cancel the tour 24 hours in advance, we will refund 50% of the amount you paid for the tour. To cancel the tour, you have to send an email to machupicchureservations@gmail.com
- Machu Picchu reservations may cancel the tour 24 hours before due to weather reasons, such as landslides, river floods or police situations, such as strikes that do not provide the security of the case; we will refund 100% of the amount paid for the tour.
- If you do not show up the tour at the agreed place and time, there is no refund.
- If you are already on tour and, perhaps for some reason, you cannot continue, there is no refund, but our guides will assist you to help you with any emergency that may arise.
- You can change the date of your tour within 24 hours without any penalty, you just have to send us a clear email with the new date you want to do the tour: Email us to: machupicchureservations@gmail.com
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions FULL-DAY TOUR OF RAINBOW MOUNTAIN AND RED VALLEY: Discover Peru’s Colorful Landscapes
What is Rainbow Mountain?
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores in Spanish, is a mountain in the Andes of Peru that is known for its vibrant colors. The mountain is made up of sedimentary rock that has been eroded over time, revealing layers of different colors.
How do I get to Rainbow Mountain Hike?
The Rainbow Mountain trek usually starts from Cusco or the nearby town of Cusipata. The trek itself is a day trip, and most tour operators provide transportation to and from the starting point of the trek. It’s best to book a tour with a reputable company to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
How difficult is the trek to Rainbow Mountain Trek?
The trek to Rainbow Mountain is considered to be challenging due to the high altitude and steep inclines. The trek is approximately 10 kilometers long and reaches an altitude of over 5,000 meters above sea level. It’s recommended that you spend at least a few days in Cusco before attempting the trek to acclimate to the high altitude.
What should I bring with me on the trek to Rainbow Mountain Trek?
It’s important to bring warm clothing, as temperatures at the top of the mountain can be very cold. You should also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. It’s also important to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during the trek.
How difficult is the rainbow mountain trek?
The difficulty of the rainbow mountain trek can vary depending on the route and the level of physical fitness of the participant. Generally, it’s considered a moderately difficult trek, with some steep sections and high altitude. It’s recommended that participants acclimate to the altitude for a few days before attempting the trek.
Is it safe to go on a rainbow mountain tour?
Yes, it’s generally safe to go on a rainbow mountain tour. However, it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator and to follow the instructions of your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s also recommended that participants have travel insurance and consult with a doctor before traveling to high-altitude destinations.
Are there any age restrictions for the rainbow mountain tour?
There are no specific age restrictions for the rainbow mountain tour. However, it’s important to consider the physical fitness and altitude tolerance of children and elderly participants before booking the tour. It’s also recommended that children under the age of 08 are accompanied by an adult.
What is the best time to go on a rainbow mountain tour?
The best time to go on a rainbow mountain tour is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. However, it’s important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before booking your tour.
Travel Guide
Rainbow Mountain trek, also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a stunning natural wonder located in the Andes of Peru. The mountain’s unique geological formations and colors have made it a popular destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
How to Get Rainbow Mountain: The Rainbow Mountain is located about three hours away from Cusco, so the best way to get there is by taking a guided tour. Most tours offer transportation to and from your hotel, as well as food and drinks along the way.
What to Expect: The trek to the top of Rainbow Mountain is a challenging hike, but the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile. The trail is about 7 km long and takes between 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit. The altitude can be challenging, as the mountain is located at an elevation of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), so it is recommended to take a few days in Cusco to acclimate before taking on this trek.
When to Go to Rainbow Mountain: The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is from April to November, during the dry season. During the rainy season, which runs from December to March, the trail can be more difficult and dangerous due to the mudslides and rockfalls.
What to Bring to Rainbow Mountain Trek: It’s important to pack properly for the trek, so you can be comfortable and safe throughout the journey. Some essential items to bring include:
- Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Warm layers, including a waterproof jacket and fleece or down jacket
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the strong UV rays at high altitude
- A backpack with snacks, water, and any medication you may need
- Cash, as there may be locals selling souvenirs and snacks along the way
- A camera or phone to capture the stunning views
Tips for the Rainbow Mountain Trek:
- Take it slow: As you climb higher in elevation, it’s important to go at a slow and steady pace to avoid altitude sickness.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the hike to stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness.
- Take breaks: It’s essential to take regular breaks and listen to your body. If you feel tired or dizzy, take a break and let your body rest.
- Be prepared for the weather: The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack layers and waterproof gear.
- Respect the environment: As with any natural wonder, it’s important to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter or damage the mountain in any way.
Overall, Rainbow Mountain is a challenging but incredibly rewarding trek that offers stunning views of one of nature’s wonders. With proper preparation, gear, and a positive attitude, you can make the most of your trek and enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Recommendations
- Physical Fitness: Rainbow Mountain is a high-altitude destination, reaching elevations of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). It is essential to be physically fit and acclimatized to high altitudes before attempting the trek. Engage in regular exercise and spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco or other high-altitude areas before embarking on the trip.
- Acclimatization: Take your time to acclimatize properly to the altitude. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and consider taking altitude sickness medication as recommended by a healthcare professional.
- Proper Gear: Wear comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky terrain. Dress in layers to accommodate the changing weather conditions, including a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and sunscreen. Don’t forget sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense mountain sun.
- Water and Snacks: Carry sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the trek. Pack energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, fruits, or nuts to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
- Local Guides: It is highly recommended to hire a local guide for the Rainbow Mountain trek. They are knowledgeable about the route, can provide information about the area’s history and culture, and ensure your safety throughout the journey.
- Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath. If you experience severe symptoms, descend to a lower altitude and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Photography: Rainbow Mountain offers stunning views and vibrant colors. Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking landscapes. Remember to respect the environment and avoid leaving any waste behind.
- Time of Visit: To avoid crowds, consider visiting Rainbow Mountain during the off-peak season or opt for an early morning departure. The site can get crowded, especially during peak hours, so arriving early allows for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
- Responsible Tourism: Respect the local community, their customs, and the environment. Follow designated trails, avoid stepping on fragile vegetation, and dispose of waste properly. Support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs or services from local vendors and communities.
- Weather Conditions: Rainbow Mountain’s weather can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature and the possibility of rain or snow. Check the weather forecast beforehand and come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.
- Physical Limitations: Rainbow Mountain trek involves steep inclines and challenging terrain. Assess your physical capabilities and be honest with yourself about your fitness level. If you have any physical limitations or health concerns, consult with a healthcare professional before attempting the trek.
- Respectful Behavior: Remember that Rainbow Mountain is a sacred site for the local communities. Show respect for their traditions, customs, and sacred spaces. Do not remove or damage any natural or cultural artifacts.
Talk to an Specialist
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TripAdvisor Reviews
Machu Picchu Reservations has received excellent reviews on TripAdvisor . These reviews highlight our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Thank you for trusting us and for your valuable feedback!", we have 5,692 reviews
Helena G2024-03-26Bucket list experience This was an experience of a lifetime! I wouldn’t have done it with any other company. They really look after you and ensure you have the best experience as possible. We were served delicious freshly made traditional Peruvian food everyday and served an array of different hot drinks. Along the way we were welcomed by the amazing views of the Peruvian Andes and Amazon rainforest. Juel was an incredible tour guide, very passionate about his Inca ancestors and about the nature around us.
Charlotte T2024-03-26Great, rewarding experience This tour was a great experience, not only seeing Machu Picchu itself but also beautiful lakes, viewpoints and Inca sites. The food was absolutely incredible and there was more than enough for each of us. Joel was a great guide, very passionate and knowledgable about the Incan empire. I would definitely recommend hiring the walking poles and sleeping bag. The whole experience was very rewarding and Joel made sure the morale of the group was high. The only downside was the return bus company from Hidroelectrica to Cusco. We booked via bus and had to leave Machu Picchu early to catch this bus. The organisers made us wait for over an hour for our bus, which meant we could have had more time at the site.
Stefan G2024-03-254-Days Salkantay Trek with superb guide Aurelio I did the 4-days Salkantay Trek with Machu Picchu Reservations together with a friend. Our guide Aurelio was really good and you felt that he completely identifies with the Anden culture! He always made sure that everybody in the group was able to follow. Also he gave us a lot of interesting insights into the Anden culture and nature. In general the organisation of the tour was good (briefing one day ahead of the tour, information flyer etc.). It could have been better, if we would have been better prepared for the rainy weather. Drying wet clothes was challenging in the accommodations which we had.
Kelan J2024-03-245 day trek review with Juan Oros (guide) The salkantay trek under the expert guidance of Juan Oros was a life highlight of mine. We completed the hike across 5 days and were blessed with plenty of breaks in the weather given it was wet season. If you're completing the hike in March, do NOT forget a poncho, plastic bags/dry bags, and extra pairs of socks/clothes for when your stuff gets wet (it's very hard to dry stuff after it's wet). Juan was optimistic, knowledgeable, understanding and went out of his way constantly to ensure our experience was a good one. Additionally, he was transparent and gave us options when the conditions affected the normal route. Machu Picchu reservations are accommodating for dietary requirements and provide comfortable accommodation along the hike. All-in-all, some incredible views, plenty of laughing, great and varied hiking, good food, and an incredible guide. Thank you Juan and Machu Picchu Reservations for an unforgettable experience!
Hélio J2024-03-24Tour Vale Sagrado e Salkantay 2D1N Viajamos a Cusco na segunda semana de março. Reservamos dois passeios com a agência, o tour do Vale Sagrado e o passeio Salkantay de dois dias e uma noite. Na agência fomos atendidos por Jimmy, que foi bastante solícito e respondeu todas as nossas dúvidas. Nos dois passeios ocorreu tudo bem. Eles foram pontuais e seguiram exatamente conforme programado. Gostaria de deixar um elogio especial ao guia Nestor, que nos acompanhou no Tour Salkantay. Nestor foi muito atencioso e respondeu todas as nossas dúvidas, desde o briefing até o retorno a Cusco. Nos ajudou bastante durante nossa estadia no acampamento e na volta. Só temos elogios e agradecimentos, muito obrigado Nestor e todos os funcionários da agência!
Alex Proskurnya2024-03-24Marco’s Muchachos - A Tale of Adventure, Laughter, and Friendship Words cannot even begin to describe the experience Marco provided for myself, my mate from work, and our Aussie, British, and English friends. Aside from the natural beauty of Humantay Lake, rich culture of the Incas, majesty of Salkantay Peak, and, of course, the grandiose beauty of Machu Picchu itself, the experience was truly made unforgettable because of Marco’s guiding service. Incredibly knowledgeable, considerate, and fun, Marco guided us through the 4 day, 3 night trek stopping to elaborate on the fascinating history of the trail and of the Incan people culminating in a well-earned view of the historic ruins themselves. As an avid traveller and hiker, I would strongly recommend THIS particular company with specifically Marco as the leading guide.claireK6420PL2024-03-24ChoquequirWOW I can't recommend this tour enough. Our tour guide Renzo was organised, professional and incredibly intelligent. I felt like I was in safe hands and benefitted so much from his vast local knowledge and prefect English. The food was a great opportunity to try local Peruvian cuisine and as a vegan I was very grateful for the effort our hosts, Renzo and horseman Jon went to to make sure I had delicious meals. The hike was challenging but the constant stunning views made it worthwhile and I felt so accomplished afterwards. Plus Renzon provided us with lots of encouragement and support. Choquequirao itself was like nothing I have ever seen before. We only saw 13 people not in our group there (including the ricket collector). The site is impressive and feels special, especially with everything Renzo told us about it. Having a whole day to explore the site was brilliant as we could take our time ot enjoy and appreciate it rather than rushing off, like others we saw did. It meant we had a lovely lunch there, kindly delivered by Jon, and had the site to ourselves for the afternoon. If you are in Peru you must visit Choquequirao and I strongly recommend ypu use Machu Pichu adventures for the perfectly curated experience.
Sarah C2024-03-23Incredible Trip! Incredible trip!! Our guide, Bruno, was phenomenal and a crucial part of why our experience was so great. He let us set our own pace and had meeting points each 1-1.5hrs of hiking. He taught us so much about local culture and history and made us appreciate the scenery we were walking through even more. The views are truly stunning. Each camp was comfortable and the meals were great! Tons of food and always felt fueled up for long days. I would recommend Machu Picchu Reservations again! We had nightly briefings about each day of the trek and they ensured we had everything we needed for a safe and enjoyable trek. I have been to Machu Picchu before but going via Salkantay Trek was a far better experience and I would recommend this trek over and over--truly an unforgettable experience!
Sam H2024-03-234 day Salkantay trek with Angel Me and my friend Conor did the 4-day Salkantay trek with our guide Angel. Angel was a fun and attentive guide who taught us a lot about the surrounding area and showed us some breath taking scenery. He always gave us a lot of information about the day ahead, made sure we were comfortable and helped make the trek a really memorable experience. Reaching the 4600m peak of Salkantay was incredible and finally getting to see Machu Pichu were definitely highlights of the journey. Would recommend.
Sarah-Jane D2024-03-21Marco’s Salkantay Tour Marco took us on the 4 day Salkantay Trek. He was so enthusiastic and friendly so it didn’t take long for the whole group to bond very well. Marco was very supportive of all abilities and very knowledgeable. The food and the organisation was incredible and the whole team kept us safe. We loved every second and each challenge was met with a reward of the beautiful views. A highlight of South America
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