Full-Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley + Meals Included

Peru’s Rainbow Mountain

Also known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of 7 Colors, it is one of the world’s most striking natural wonders and a symbol of Andean tourism in the Cusco region. Located in the Vilcanota mountain range, more than 5,200 meters above sea level, this geological formation was, for centuries, a mountain covered in a dense layer of snow. However, after the gradual melting of the glaciers around 2013, its impressive natural hues were revealed, ranging from intense red to green, yellow, violet, and turquoise, the result of the oxidation of various minerals such as iron, sulfur, copper, and carbonates present in its sedimentary strata.

The Quechua name “Winikunka” means “narrow neck,” and according to the Andean worldview, the mountain is considered a sacred Apu, a protective deity of the local communities of Cusipata and Pitumarca, who continue to perform ancestral rituals of gratitude to the earth, the sun, and the mountains. Vinikunca is not only a natural destination but also a spiritual one, representing the living connection between Andean people and Pachamama.

To get there from the city of Cusco

You travel approximately 100 to 120 kilometers southeast (about 3 hours by car). There are two main routes: the Pitumarca route, with a final 1.5-km hike (1 to 1.5 hours of ascent), and the Cusipata route, a longer but less crowded 3-km trail (2 to 2.5 hours of hiking), ideal for those seeking tranquility and contact with high Andean communities. Both routes offer high mountain landscapes, with views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountains and beautiful natural formations.

During the hike, visitors can observe Andean wildlife, especially llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, as well as high-altitude birds soaring over the valleys and gorges. Along the trail, visitors can purchase handwoven crafts, enjoy traditional hot drinks, and capture unparalleled panoramic views of the Peruvian Andes. The hike is considered moderate to challenging due to the altitude, so it is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco at least two days before the tour.

Very close to Vinicunca is the Red Valley, a less-visited but extraordinarily beautiful landscape, where the mountains take on intense reddish hues due to the presence of iron-rich clays. From its natural viewpoints, visitors enjoy a quiet and majestic setting, ideal for photography and contemplation.

The climate in the area is cold and dry

With temperatures ranging from -5°C at dawn to 12°C during the day. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October), when clear skies allow you to admire the colors in their full splendor. During the rainy season (November to April), access can be more difficult due to mud and snow.

The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour has become one of the most sought-after experiences in Cusco, combining adventure, culture, and nature. It is a journey that not only dazzles with its visual beauty but also invites travelers to connect with the spirituality of the Andes, breathe fresh air, and feel part of a setting that nature took millions of years to sculpt. Without a doubt, Vinicunca is a destination that excites and leaves an indelible mark on those who have the privilege of contemplating it.

🌄 Pickup from your hotel in Cusco

The day starts very early to take advantage of the best weather conditions. Our team visits hotels in the historic center and surrounding areas to begin the journey south to the Cusco Valley. During the journey, your guide provides an introduction to the geography, culture, and customs of the Andean people.

☕ Breakfast in Cusipata (3,310 m above sea level)

After approximately two and a half hours of travel on a paved road, we arrive at the town of Cusipata, where we will enjoy a typical Andean breakfast with hot drinks, freshly baked breads, fruits, natural juices, and vegetarian options. Here, you can also use the restrooms and acclimatize a bit before continuing.

🚐 Transfer to the community of Phulawasipata

From Cusipata, we embark on a roughly 1-hour drive on a paved road to reach Phulawasipata, the starting point of the hike. Along the way, you can admire the Salka River valley, grazing alpacas, and the snow-capped peaks of Ausangate, Cusco’s most sacred mountain.

🥾 Start of the hike to Rainbow Mountain

The adventure begins with a hike of approximately 3 km (1.5 to 2 hours of ascent) at a leisurely pace. The trail is steep and runs through open valleys, pastures, and meltwater streams.

Alternative option: Those who prefer to conserve energy can rent a horse with a local guide (optional service, paid directly).
During the ascent, it is recommended to walk slowly, hydrate with small sips, and enjoy the Andean landscape with its multi-hued mountains.

🏞️ Arrival at the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint (5,200 m above sea level)

Upon reaching the main viewpoint, you will have free time to contemplate the natural spectacle of Vinicunca, take panoramic photos, and take a short break. From this point, you can appreciate the reddish, ochre, yellow, green, and blue hues of the mountain, as well as the majestic Ausangate snow-capped mountain in the background.
The guides often perform a small offering ceremony to Pachamama here, inviting travelers to connect with the energy of the Andes.

🔴 Optional hike to the Red Valley (alternative viewpoint)

For those who wish to extend their experience, there is an additional 45-minute round-trip hike to the Red Valley, a landscape formed by iron-rich clays that color the mountains with intense reddish tones. This is a less-visited area, ideal for photography and enjoying a quieter natural setting.

⛰️ Descent to Phulawasipata

After enjoying the views, we begin the approximately 1 hour and 15-minute return hike to the starting point. The descent is easier, but it is recommended to take it easy to avoid fatigue.

🍽️ Buffet lunch in Cusipata

We return by vehicle to Cusipata, where an Andean buffet lunch awaits us with typical dishes such as quinoa, chaufa rice, alpaca stews, sautéed vegetables, homemade soups, and vegetarian options.
After lunch, there will be time to rest for a few minutes and share experiences with other travelers.

🚐 Return to Cusco

✅ INCLUDES – Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour Services

🚐 Complete tourist transfers (round-trip Cusco – Vinicunca – Cusco)

Service in modern, safe, and comfortable tourist transportation with reclining seats, on-board oxygen, and a first aid kit. Pickup is provided directly from the passenger’s hotel in the historic center of Cusco, ensuring punctuality and comfort throughout the tour.

👨‍🏫 Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)

Accompanied by a local guide specialized in high mountain activities, trained in first aid and knowledgeable about Andean history, geology, and worldview. During the hike, your guide will share information about the spiritual significance of Vinicunca, the sacred Apus, and the traditions of the high Andean communities.

🥐 Typical Andean Breakfast in Cusipata

You’ll enjoy an energetic breakfast with hot drinks, freshly baked Andean breads, eggs, regional fruits, and coca tea, ideal for acclimatizing and preparing for the hike. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available upon request.

🍽️ Buffet Lunch at a Tourist Restaurant in Cusipata

At the end of the hike, a varied buffet lunch will await you with typical Cusco dishes such as alpaca stew, quinoa, hot soups, rice, sautéed vegetables, and regional desserts. Hot drinks and vegetarian options are included. All meals are prepared with fresh, local produce.

🎟️ Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Includes official access to the conservation area and the main viewpoint of Vinicunca, managed by the local communities of Cusipata or Pitumarca. Direct payment to the community helps conserve the natural environment and support sustainable tourism.

🩺 First aid kit and medical oxygen

Throughout the tour, the guide will have first aid equipment, medical oxygen, and radio communication in case of any inconvenience due to altitude or physical exertion.

💬 Personalized assistance throughout the tour

From booking to return, a support team will provide continuous assistance, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and organized experience at every stage of the trip.

🌤️ Photo stops at strategic points

During the journey, we will make brief stops at panoramic locations to observe Andean wildlife (alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas), glacial valleys, and the Ausangate Mountains.

We begin the return journey to Cusco. Along the way, you can see small Andean villages, agricultural terraces, and valleys surrounded by mountains.

🌇 Arrival at your hotel in Cusco

Approximate arrival in Cusco and transfer to your accommodation. The tour ends with an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes, full of color, culture, and connection with nature.

❌ NOT INCLUDED – Services not included in the Tour

🐎 Support horse during the hike (optional)

Horse rental is not included, as it is managed directly by local residents. The average cost varies between S/ 60.00 and S/ 100.00 per trip, depending on the distance and the passenger’s weight.

🎟️ Entrance to the Red Valley (optional)

Entrance to the Red Valley is optional and has an additional cost of S/ 10.00 per person, payable directly to the community that manages the access. This complementary tour allows you to enjoy mountainous landscapes with intense reddish hues.

💧 Additional drinks and personal snacks

Bottled drinks, energy drinks, or extra snacks are not included. It is recommended to bring water, fruit, or nuts for the hike.

🪙 Tips and Personal Expenses

Tips for the guide, driver, or local communities are not included and are at the traveler’s discretion. Personal expenses such as souvenirs, handicrafts, or services outside the itinerary are also excluded.

💵 Travel Insurance or International Medical Assistance

Travel insurance is not included, although it is recommended to purchase one that covers medical emergencies and altitude.

🥾 Trekking Poles or Personal Equipment

Trekking poles are not included, but it is recommended to bring your own or rent them in Cusco before the tour.

🏨 Pickup outside Cusco’s historic center

Accommodations located outside the center (for example, in Poroy or San Jerónimo) may require a designated meeting point or an additional transfer fee.

🎒 Recommendations for visiting the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

Visiting the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is an unforgettable experience, but also challenging due to the altitude and weather conditions typical of the Andean mountain range. Below, we present the most important recommendations to fully enjoy the tour and experience it safely and comfortably.

🌬️ 1. Acclimatization and physical preparation

• It is essential to acclimatize for at least two days in Cusco before starting the tour. This will help your body adapt to the less oxygenated air of the Andes (over 3,000 meters above sea level).
• Take gentle walks or city tours during the first few days to ease your adjustment.
• If you suffer from high blood pressure, asthma, or heart problems, consult your doctor before the trip.
• Always carry altitude sickness pills (such as sorojchi pills) or natural infusions of coca and muña leaves.
• Drink water regularly in small sips throughout the hike to avoid dehydration.

🧣 2. Recommended Clothing and Equipment

The weather in Vinicunca is changeable: it can go from intense sun to freezing wind in a matter of minutes. Therefore, dress in layers to easily adapt to the variations.
Recommended:

• Thermal jacket or windbreaker, hat, and gloves.
• Comfortable trekking or quick-drying pants.
• Non-slip hiking shoes or boots are essential for steep and rocky sections.
• A sun hat or cap, UV-filtering sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 50).
• A small backpack (20–25 L) with water, snacks, a camera, and a light coat.
• A waterproof or windproof poncho, especially during the rainy season (November to April).

🌞 3. Climate and Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is from May to October, when the weather is dry and the skies are clear.
• During the rainy season (November to April), rain can make hiking difficult and cover the mountain’s colors with snow.
• The average temperature ranges from -5°C in the early morning to 12°C during the day, so the thermal contrast is stark.
• The sun at 5,000 meters is very intense; don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours and use lip balm.

🧭 4. Nutrition and Energy

• Eat a good breakfast before starting the trek and avoid heavy or greasy foods.
• Bring light snacks such as nuts, energy bars, or chocolates.
• Avoid alcohol or heavy meals the night before, as these could hinder your physical performance.
• Drink hot coca or muña tea to improve circulation and reduce the effects of altitude sickness.

🐾 5. Tips during the hike

• Advance at your own pace. Don’t rush, as the ascent is constant and the altitude can cause fatigue if you speed up.
• Make short stops every 15–20 minutes to hydrate, rest, and enjoy the scenery.
• If you feel tired or short of breath, immediately inform your guide, who will provide oxygen and assistance.
• Follow the guide’s instructions and stay on the marked trail.
• Carry a bag for your waste and help keep this natural environment clean.

🦙 6. Culture and Local Respect

• The Rainbow Mountain is considered a sacred Apu by the local Quechua communities.
• Avoid shouting or behaving disrespectfully; this place holds deep spiritual significance for the Andean people.
• Support community tourism by purchasing handicrafts or hiring local services (horses, drinks, souvenirs).
• Learning a few Quechua words like “Allin p’unchay” (good day) or “Tupananchiskama” (until we meet again) will enrich your cultural experience.

💵 7. Additional Practical Tips

• Bring cash in soles, as there are no ATMs or card payments in high Andean communities.
• Keep your documents and belongings in a secure, waterproof bag.
• If you are traveling during peak season, book your tour in advance, as visitor numbers are high.
• Don’t forget your passport or ID, especially if you plan to apply for student discounts.
• Bring a portable battery or power bank for your camera or cell phone; the views deserve more than one photo.

❤️ 8. Protect the Environment

• Don’t litter or waste along the trail.
• Don’t touch or remove colored stones or sediments; these are part of the protected natural geology.
• Respect the local flora and fauna: don’t feed the animals and avoid invading their resting areas.
• Participate in sustainable tourism practices, leaving only footprints and taking only souvenirs.

🌄 9. Final Recommendation

Visiting Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley is much more than a hike: it’s an encounter with the essence of the Andean world. Every step in Vinicunca connects you with the power of the Apus, the history of the Quechua people, and the pure energy of the Peruvian Andes. Prepare yourself, take a deep breath, and marvel at one of the most impressive landscapes on the planet.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time is between May and October, when the weather is dry and the trails are firm. During the rainy season (November to April), the colors may be obscured by snow or clouds.

2. What is the difficulty level of the hike?

The hike is moderate to challenging, mainly due to the altitude (over 5,000 meters above sea level). It is recommended to walk slowly, hydrate, and acclimatize in Cusco beforehand.

3. Is it possible to rent horses during the hike?

Yes. Locals offer horses for rent with a guide from S/. 60.00 to S/. 100.00, depending on the route.

4. Are there restrooms along the route?

Yes, there are eco-friendly restrooms at specific points such as Cusipata and Phulawasipata, although their condition may be basic due to the altitude.

5. Can I visit the Red Valley on the same day?

Yes, the visit to the Red Valley is optional and takes place after the Vinicunca viewpoint. The entrance fee is affordable (S/ 10.00) and is worth it for its unique views.

6. What should I do if the altitude affects me?

The guide provides oxygen and an emergency kit. You can also consume coca tea or sorojchi pills before the trip.

7. What time do we return to Cusco?

The return trip is usually around 5:30 p.m., depending on the group’s pace and trail conditions.