Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley - Full Day

Duration

Full Day

Tour Type

Trekking

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English, Spanish

TOUR DESCRIPTION

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the high Andes and discover two of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Red Valley. This full-day tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, awe-inspiring landscapes, and cultural connection.

Located over 5,000 meters above sea level, Rainbow Mountain is famous for its vibrant mineral stripes that form a natural rainbow painted on stone. The nearby Red Valley, with its striking crimson terrain, offers a quieter, equally stunning hike surrounded by pure Andean silence. This journey is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurous spirits seeking unique and less-traveled paths.

 

ITINERARY

  •  04:00 – 04:30 a.m. | Hotel Pick-Up (Cusco)
    We begin the day by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco. From there, we head south through the beautiful valleys and traditional villages of the Cusco region.
  • 04:30 – 07:00 a.m. | Drive to Cusipata – Breakfast Stop
    Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately 2.5 hours to the small town of Cusipata, where we will have a freshly prepared local breakfast to energize for the hike.
  • 07:00 – 08:00 a.m. | Drive to the Trailhead – Phulawasipata (4,600 m)
    We continue driving for one more hour to Phulawasipata, the starting point of our trek. Here, we’ll get ready with a brief orientation and safety tips from our guide.
  • 08:00 – 10:00 a.m. | Hike to Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m)
    We begin our moderate 2-hour hike up the mountainside. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas, and remote Andean villages. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to enjoy the magnificent view of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) and learn about the geology and cultural significance of the area.
  • 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. | Optional Hike to Red Valley
    For those who wish to continue, we’ll begin a short hike to the Red Valley, a less-visited but equally impressive area. The trail is slightly steeper but rewards you with panoramic views of crimson hills and solitude.
  • 11:00 – 12:30 p.m. | Return Hike to Trailhead
    After soaking in the scenery and capturing amazing photos, we begin our descent back to the starting point.
  • 12:30 – 13:30 p.m. | Drive to Cusipata – Lunch Stop
    Return to Cusipata for a delicious buffet-style lunch with local Andean flavors.
  • 13:30 – 16:00 p.m. | Return to Cusco
    After lunch, we head back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 4:00 p.m., ending a day filled with natural wonders and unforgettable memories.

Included / Excluded

  • Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco
  • Round-trip transportation in a tourist vehicle
  • Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
  • Breakfast and buffet lunch (vegetarian options available)
  • First aid kit and oxygen bottle
  • Entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
  • Horse rental (optional, approx. 80–100 soles round trip)
  • Snacks and water
  • Walking sticks (available for rent)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for the guide and driver (optional but appreciated)

reviews

RELATED TOURS