Cusco: Red Valley Hike and Rainbow Mountain
ID: GYG1143228-1753525
Category:
Country: Peru
Duration:
13:00 hours
Description
Hike to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley on a guided tour from Cusco. Enjoy a scenic drive through the South Valley, interact with locals, and take in breathtaking views.
Begin your adventure with a 4:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Drive for 3 hours through the South Valley to the trailhead at Llacto. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Inca farming terraces, traditional villages, valleys, and towering Andean peaks.
Stop for breakfast and be entertained by herds of alpacas and llamas in the early morning light. After a filling breakfast, proceed with a final 5-minute drive to the trailhead.
Begin your hike along a picturesque stream, offering views of Ausangate Mountain and its glaciers. Interact with local people, who preserve traditional Quechua culture. Learn about their traditional clothing and the significance of the different hats worn by the men. Feel free to ask your guide to teach you a few Quechua phrases.
After hiking for about 1.5 hours, reach Rainbow Mountain. Take time to appreciate the unique beauty of this colorful terrain, capturing photos or simply soaking in the scenery. Spend around 30 minutes at the summit before hiking 45 minutes to the Red Valley to experience its vibrant colors. Return to the trailhead and drive back to Cusco.
Highlights
- Marvel at the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the South Valley to the trailhead at Llacto
- Hike along a picturesque stream with views of Ausangate Mountain
- Interact with local people and learn about traditional Quechua culture
- Capture stunning photos of the colorful terrain and breathtaking views
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The trek starts early in the morning at 4am
The altitude can be challenging, acclimatization is recommended
Weather can be cold, warm clothing is advised
INCLUDED
- Hotel pickup within the historic center (according to the option selected)
- Drop-off in downtown Cusco
- Private transportation
- Professional bilingual guide
- Breakfast and buffet lunch (with vegetarian options available)
- Emergency oxygen supply
- One wooden walking stick (optional)
- First-aid kit
NOT INCLUDED
- Horse rental (available for S/100 per person, cash payment required)
- Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (S/30 per person, cash only)
- Optional entrance to the Red Valley (S/30 per person, cash only)
- Gratuities
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
