About this experience
Experience Peru’s ‘true colors’ during this adventurous full-day trek to ‘Ausangate,’ also known as the Rainbow Mountain. Hike through postcard-worthy landscapes, and get a taste for daily life among area locals as you head to this colorful alpine destination. You’ll cap off the adventure from a vantage point offering 360 views of the colored minerals that give the site its unexpected vista. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are also included.
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Local guides to help you plan
Rainbow Mountain Day Trip From Cusco
Plan a Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco with practical guidance on altitude, tour options, costs, access, packing, and the demanding full-day schedule.
Machu Picchu Mountain Guide
Plan Machu Picchu Mountain with the correct Ruta 1-A ticket, clear Circuit 1 comparisons, arrival rules, packing restrictions, and live-status checks.
What is included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Local taxes
Not included
- Gratuities
- Horseback available upon request, at an additional cost (US $25 one way and US $45 roundtrip)
Itinerary and highlights
Start in Cusco with an early-morning pickup at 4:00 am , continuing for 3 hours aboard a private van to the start of the trail. You will be given a hot breakfast at the trailhead to fuel up for the hike ahead. The hike to the “Rainbow Mountain” will take around 3-4 hours, depending on your fitness level.
During the hike, you will pass through a vibrant green valley with breathtaking views of the majestic Ausangate Mountain in the distance. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to observe local communities and their traditional lifestyle.
As you approach Rainbow Mountain, you will begin to see the unique mineral colors that create its famous “painted” appearance. Your guide will provide an explanation of the geology of the area and support you during the final ascent to a viewpoint offering a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Here, you will have time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
Afterward, you will descend back to the trailhead (approximately 1 to 1.5 hours), where your transportation will be waiting. You will then return to the restaurant where you previously had breakfast. Both breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style.
Finally, you will continue your journey back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 4:00 pm.
Meeting and pickup information
- Location Name: At your accommodation in Cusco City (Downtown). We need you to provide us with your accommodation details in advance. Return Location: Return to your accommodation in Cusco (downtown)
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Apu Andino Travel Peru
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Fluent English- and Spanish-speaking trekking guide
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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Return Location: Return to your accommodation in Cusco (downtown)
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