About this experience
This is an unforgettable day hike through the breathtaking Vilcanota Mountain Range, located near one of the most sacred and highest peaks in southern Peru: Ausangate (6,377 m / 20,922 ft). Known as an “Apu” (sacred mountain spirit), Ausangate is considered a life-giving guardian of one of the most pristine ecosystems in the Andes.
Throughout the journey, you will be surrounded by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and herds of llamas and alpacas. This hike offers incredible opportunities to observe local wildlife and admire some of the most spectacular landscapes in Peru. It will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your visit.
The Red Valley is a stunning natural attraction located near Rainbow Mountain. It is known for its deep red tones, caused by the high mineral content of the soil, creating a unique and dramatic landscape surrounded by Andean scenery. It is an ideal destination for trekking and photography enthusiasts seeking a less crowded and equally impressive experience.
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
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
- Pick up from the Hotel city center
- oxygen assistance
- Lunch
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- walk sticks
- Breakfast
- Professional tour guide (ENG/ESP)
Not included
- Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Entrance to Red Valley
Itinerary and highlights
We will pick you up from your hotel at 4:30 AM and begin our incredible journey with a 2-hour drive through the South Valley until we reach the town of Cusipata.
In Cusipata, we will enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast. After breakfast, we will continue our journey to the trailhead (4,326 m / 14,189 ft), where you will receive final instructions before beginning a moderate hike of approximately 2 hours.
At around 10:30 AM, we will arrive at our destination, Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m / 16,466 ft). Here, you will have ample time to take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy this unique natural wonder.
An optional visit to the Red Valley is available. If you would like to include this hike, please inform your guide before starting. There is no additional cost for the hike itself; however, the Red Valley entrance fee is not included.
After visiting Rainbow Mountain, we will return to the trailhead, where our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusipata. There, we will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. After a short break, we will begin our return journey to Cusco, arriving at approximately 4:30 PM.
At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off one block from the main square.
Meeting and pickup information
- Pickup is available from hotels located in the city center. The tour ends one block from the main square.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Machupicchu Adventure
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
The tour ends one block from the main square.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
Traveller experiences load when you reach this section.
