Cusco: Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Guided Hike

Hike to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley in one day from Cusco, in a small group with a slower ascent and planned rest stops for travelers new to high altitude. Breakfast and lunch included.
Rainbow Mountain is located at an altitude of approximately 5,000 m (16,400 ft); it is precisely this elevation rather than the distance that makes the hike challenging. The tour is designed with this in mind: it takes place in groups, the guide adjusts the pace to match that of the slowest person, and strategic stops are included during the ascent to catch one’s breath, ensuring the trek does not turn into a race to the summit.

After hotel pickup in Cusco, you drive south to Cusipata for a buffet breakfast at Casa Ausangate. From the trailhead at Phulawasipata, you climb for about 2 hours past alpaca and llama herds, with the snow-capped Ausangate range in view. At the summit you have time for photos and your guide explains how mineral layers created the mountain’s colors and what these peaks mean in Andean tradition.

Instead of heading straight back down, you continue to the Red Valley, a rust-colored valley next to Rainbow Mountain that many tours sell separately. Then you descend to the vehicle and return to Cusipata for a buffet lunch with local dishes before driving back to Cusco.

This tour is a good fit if you want to see Rainbow Mountain but are worried about the altitude, and you would rather take your time with a small group than keep pace with a large one.

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.

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.