Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Early Access Hike with Meals
Beat the crowds with early access to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley on this full-day guided tour from Cusco. Admire the vibrant colors of this Andean gem, and, for those seeking even more, opt for the scenic hike to Red Valley - an otherworldly expanse of crimson peaks and dramatic vistas. Along the way, enjoy warm hospitality with a hearty Andean breakfast and a satisfying buffet lunch featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine.
Our experienced local guides are by your side every step of the way, equipped with oxygen tanks and safety gear to ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as it is unforgettable.
Why Travelers Love This Experience: Be one of the first to summit Rainbow Mountain—crowd-free and serene Capture breathtaking views from panoramic lookout points Enjoy a hearty local breakfast and a delicious buffet lunch Hike with confidence thanks to expert guides, oxygen support, and safety equipment
Options
Rainbow Mountain Guided Tour
Entrance to Rainbow Mountain
Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
Pickup included
What's included in Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Early Access Hike with Meals
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
CuscoPass-by Only
Your day trip begins bright and early, with hotel pickups between 3:00 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. in Cusco. By setting off before sunrise, you'll arrive at Rainbow Mountain ahead of the crowds and enjoy the stunning scenery in peace - perfect for photos and a more serene experience. The first leg of the journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes as we drive to Cusipata, where your high-altitude adventure begins.
Cusipata
Our first stop is in the town of Cusipata, where you'll enjoy a warm, traditional Andean breakfast to energize you for the day ahead. This 30-minute pause is the perfect opportunity to relax, acclimate, and savor local flavors before the adventure continues. After breakfast, we drive for about 1 hour through scenic highland landscapes and the village of Pitumarca, arriving at Hanchipata–Llama Chimpana, the starting point of the hike to Rainbow Mountain.
Vinicunca Mountain
Set off on your trek at the foot of the Ausangate mountain range, starting a 1-hour and 45-minute ascent to the summit of Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, you may spot various South American camelids, such as llamas and alpacas. Upon reaching the red hill, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the vibrant landscape.
Inclusions
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Blanket, first aid kit and oxygen mask
- Professional English and Spanish-speaking guide
- Hearty Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
- Entrance to the Vinicunca & Cusipata (other providers will charge you)
- Drop-off in Regocijo square (Cusco Central Point) or Airport if needed
- Private and comfortable transportation
- Optional Red Valley entrance fee (30 soles, cash)
- Horse rental available at an additional cost
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 30 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
Pickup is available from hotels in Cusco's historic center (excluding private residences, Airbnbs, bus terminals, etc.). For hotels located in downtown areas with inaccessible narrow streets or private apartments, we'll arrange the nearest meeting point. Please send us an email if your hotel is not on the list and we're happy to assist!