About this experience
Enjoy a unique hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain. Due to the rich minerals, the mountain is full of deep colors, that create a unique and amazing pattern. The visit to the Rainbow Mountain will be a lifetime unique experience. On this trek you will see quaint villages, beautiful adobe style houses, herds of llamas and alpacas and you will have magnificent views of the Ausangate Glacier (6,385 m / 20,945 ft), the highest mountain in the Cusco region
At a glance
- Duration: 10 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 10 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
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
- Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days before your trek.
- Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide
- Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit
- Hotel Pickup and drop-off
- Admission ticket
- Breakfast, Lunch and one bottle of water
Not included
- Travel/health/emergency insurance
- Dinner
- Horses (Option to hire one if you need at the beginning of the trek) 120 Peruvian sol
Itinerary and highlights
4:15 AM – 4:30 AM: Hotel Pick-up & Departure from Cusco
Our professional guide and transport team will collect you directly from your hotel lobby. We begin a scenic drive south of Cusco, a journey that takes approximately 2 hours to reach the district of Cusipata.
6:30 AM: Breakfast in Cusipata
We will stop in the charming village of Cusipata for breakfast, providing essential energy for the trek ahead.
6:30 AM: Breakfast in Cusipata
We will stop in the charming village of Cusipata for breakfast, providing essential energy for the trek ahead.
7:15 AM: Continue Journey to Trailhead
After breakfast, we continue the drive for approximately another 1 hour on a dirt road to the trailhead at Fulawasipata (4,660m / 15,177 ft. above sea level).
8:15 AM: Begin the Trek to Rainbow Mountain
From the trailhead, we begin our guided hike. The trek is a moderate to challenging ascent that typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the highest viewpoint of Vinicunca (5,036m / 16,522 ft. a.s.l.). Along the trail, you'll have the opportunity to observe diverse South American camelid species such as alpacas, llamas, and the wild vicuñas amidst breathtaking Andean landscapes.
10:00 AM: Summit & Panoramic Views
Upon reaching the summit, you will have free time (approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on weather and group pace) to rest, soak in the impressive landscapes, and photograph the mountain's imposing natural colors: red, pink, turquoise, and yellow.
11:00 AM: Descent & Return Journey
After enjoying the views, we will begin the descent back to Fulawasipata (the parking area). The return hike is mostly downhill and usually takes about 1 hour.
12:00 PM: Travel to Cusipata for Lunch
Once back at the transport, we drive for approximately one hour to the Cusipata district for a well-deserved, satisfying buffet lunch featuring local cuisine.
1:30 PM: Depart for Cusco
After lunch and some relaxation time, we begin our drive back to Cusco, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Arrival back in Cusco
We will arrive back in Cusco and you will be dropped off near the main square (Qoricancha) or at your hotel, concluding the day's adventure.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Machupicchu Latin America
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Minimum of 2 people (100% guaranteed to depart with 2 people)
- Small groups maximum 8 people or private tour availble
- Lowest Elevation: 4,326 m
- Highest Elevation: 5,020 m
- Distance to walk: 15 km / 9.25 miles
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Note: If you require an infant seat, we can assign one for an extra cost.
- This tour does not have specific restrictions unless you are in a very bad serious health conditions
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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