Cusco: Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley Early Access Hike with Meals

4.9
(2,210 reviews)

12 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

Beat the crowds with early access to Rainbow Mountain (Mt. Vinicunca) 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

What's Included

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
Blanket, first aid kit and oxygen mask
Professional English and Spanish-speaking guide
Drop-off at Avenida El Sol, in front of Qorikancha temple
Hearty Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
Entrance to the Vinicunca & Cusipata (other providers will charge you)
Private and comfortable transportation
Optional Red Valley entrance fee (30 soles, cash)
Horse rental available at an additional cost

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

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!

Itinerary

Duration: 12 hours (approximately)
  • Cusco (Pass by)

    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 (Mt. Vinicunca) 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.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    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.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    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.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 3

    After reaching Rainbow Mountain (Mt. Vinicunca), adventurers have the option to continue with a 1 hour hike to the breathtaking Red Valley. Far less crowded than Rainbow Mountain, this hidden gem offers otherworldly red and copper landscapes that look like they've been painted by nature itself. No worries about the altitude? We've got you covered. Oxygen tanks and essential safety equipment are always on hand, and our experienced guides are trained to assist at every step!

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Cusco

    After completing the hike, enjoy a scenic 1 hour descent back to the trailhead, where your driver will be waiting. From there, we return to the District of Cusipata to reward your efforts with a well-deserved, one-hour buffet lunch. Savor a variety of traditional Andean dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. After lunch, we begin the drive back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival around 3:30 p.m. - plenty of time to relax and relive the highlights of your Rainbow Mountain journey. Drop off will be at Avenida El Sol, in front of Qorikancha temple, around 4:30 pm

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
Supplied by Rainbow Mountain Travels

Tags

Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Excellent Quality
Adventure Tours
Best Conversion
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 2210 2210 reviews
5 stars
2032
4 stars
117
3 stars
23
2 stars
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1 star
27
from per person
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