Discover to the Astounding Rainbow Mountain Tour
Discover the most incredible spot in the Andes of Peru. The Rainbow Mountain day tour is well recommended in Peru. Prepare to explore the natural marvel in the Andes. Machu Picchu by Locals is a direct tour operator offering exclusive service with our local expert guides, private transportation, and meals included.
Also known as Vinicunca, at 5,036 m (16,522 ft) near to the sacred mountain Ausangate, you will also have the option to explore the stunning views at the Red Valley, which will transport you to another landscape that, for many, looks like Mars.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Recommendations
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
On the Rainbow Mountain hike, expect to immerse yourself in the lifestyle of the inhabitants in the small communities, observe numerous herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in the mountains, and be a first-hand witness of millions of years of geological history. The imposing mountain landscape is sure to be the protagonist of your photographs. Choose Machu Picchu by Locals for the ultimate tour in the Andes.
Highlights: Rainbow Mountain
Hiking distance: 8 km/4.8 miles (3-hour hike round trip)
Considerations: Acclimatization is required
Season: March to December
Max. Altitude: 5,036 m / 16,522 ft
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day01
Cusco - Cusipata - Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley - Cusco
Discover the natural marvel in the high Andes mountains. Vibrant natural colors and rich culture.
Cusco | Cusipata - Llactoc - Rainbow Mountain Peru, Red Valley
Highlight of the day: Vibrant colors of the Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley
The Rainbow Mountain 1 Day Tour starts early in the morning to enjoy this natural marvel at its best. Between 3:30 and 4:00 am, we will collect you directly from your hotel to start our ride to Cusipata town. First, we will drive for around two hours, where we will stop for 30 minutes to enjoy our typical Andean breakfast.
After, we continue our journey for another hour to the head of the trail, Llacto (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), where the guide will provide you with the information and safety talk before starting hiking. From there, at the foot of the sacred mountain, Ausangate, we begin our hike. We start with an approximately 1.30-hour ascent, with our destination being Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, with an elevation of (5,036 meters / 16,522 ft).
Along the way, we get the opportunity to observe diverse South American camelid species like alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. When we reach the Seven Colors Mountain, or Rainbow Mountain, you will have some time to rest, enjoy the impressive landscape, and take photos of Vinicunca Mountain, which shows us all its imposing colors: red, pink, turquoise, and yellow.
Additionally, you will have the option to hike towards the Red Valley, located just 20 minutes from Rainbow Mountain. This is an unreal place that offers different and unique landscapes; enjoy it before the crowds arrive.
At this point, it will be time to start descending along our return route. We descend for an hour towards the bus station, where we will board the bus and drive to our restaurant in Cusipata, where we enjoy an energizing lunch.
Finally we return back to Cusco city, arriving at approximately 3:30pm to 4:00pm.
At Machu Picchu by Locals we are transparent and provide the specific details of what is included and excluded in our Rainbow Mountain Tour. We know this is very important so that you know exactly what to bring and you don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your tour.
WE INCLUDE
Machu Picchu by Locals Team Provide
- Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your adventure guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Humantay Lagoon departure. During this briefing, you will receive important details of the tour.
- Professional Cultural Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation in customer service. Our tour guides have graduated with tourism careers from the National University of San Antonio Abad of Cusco. They have also studied English in a private language institute. Through their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for adventure, and pride in having been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our tour guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the Rainbow Mountain.
Transportation
- Private Transport
We included all the transportation during your tour. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the beginning of the trail. The bus returning from the Humantay tour to Cusco will drop you off at your hotel.
Food
- Meals
At Machu Picchu by Locals, we know food is such an important part of any vacation and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial… We include breakfast and lunch, and of course, we cater to all dietary restrictions Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others); just let us know.
- Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides of Machu Picchu by Locals are very well trained in first aid. They received training courses every 6 months on how to assist someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained how to supply a balloon of oxygen in the case that someone requires it.
WE NOT INCLUDED
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Water bottle
Every customer need water during this tour; we will stop in a shop where you can purchase some water bottles and snacks
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Entrance Fees
The entrance fees are not included, and you can pay them directly at the control; in total, it will be S/30 soles for the 2026 season and S/20 soles for the Red Valley.
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Travel Insurance
We recommend buying travel insurance before leaving your country in case something happens during your visit to Peru.
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Tips for our team
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion in Cusco. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team’s hard work.
RAINBOW MOUNTAIN DAY TOUR PACKING LIST
At Machu Picchu by Locals, we focus on making your trip an unforgettable experience, and we want to provide all the details that you need to know before you leave your country and start your life experience in Peru.
What do you need to pack?
Important
- Passport
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: a water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged—but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking pants
- Trekking poles
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:
Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. If it is larger, try to bring it as light as possible.
- Rain gear
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks, and Tips
- Personal medication or Own first aid kit
- Snacks (Chocolate, energizing bars, caramels, etc.)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR
Here some frequently asked question about our day tours in Cusco
WHAT IS THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN?
Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a stunning natural wonder located in the Peruvian Andes. Its striking multicolored stripes are created by layers of different minerals and sediments, making it one of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes.
HOW FAR IS RAINBOW MOUNTAIN FROM CUSCO?
Rainbow Mountain is located approximately 3 hours from Cusco by road. The tour typically departs very early in the morning to make the most of the day and avoid afternoon weather changes.
HOW DIFFICULT IS THE HIKE TO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN?
The hike is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, reaching approximately 17,060 feet (5,200 meters) above sea level. The trail is about 4 to 5 miles round trip, taking roughly 2 to 3 hours each way depending on your fitness level.
HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR THE ALTITUDE ON THIS TOUR?
We strongly recommend spending at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco before attempting the hike. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking altitude medication such as Diamox if advised by your doctor can also help significantly.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR AND BRING ON THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR?
Wear warm, layered clothing, as temperatures can be very cold at the summit, even in summer. Bring waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, gloves, and plenty of water. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.
ARE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH INCLUDED IN THE TOUR?
Yes, we include breakfast and lunch along the Rainbow Mountain tour. Of course we care about your food restrictions or any allergies.
IS THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?
The tour is not recommended for individuals with heart conditions, respiratory issues, or those who have not acclimatized to high altitude. Children, elderly travelers, and those with health concerns should consult a doctor before booking.
CAN I RIDE A HORSE TO THE SUMMIT INSTEAD OF HIKING?
Yes! Horse riding is available along the trail for an additional cost, making the experience more accessible for those who prefer not to hike the entire route. This can be arranged locally at the trailhead.
CAN I COMBINE THIS TOUR WITH MACHU PICCHU?
Yes! You can add an extra day for the Machu Picchu tour; after the Rainbow Mountain trip, we can drop you off at the Sacred Valley and depart for Machu Picchu.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT RAINBOW MOUNTAIN?
The dry season between April and October is the best time to visit, offering clearer skies and better visibility of the mountain’s vivid colors. During the rainy season, snow and clouds can sometimes obscure the colors.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE IN A TYPICAL RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR GROUP?
Group sizes vary depending on the operator. With Machu Picchu By Locals, we strive to keep groups of 16 people to ensure a comfortable experience, giving you more time to enjoy this incredible natural wonder without feeling rushed.
From: USD 45.00 per person
USD 40.00: from 4 people to more
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Machu Picchu by Locals. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. Machu Picchu by Locals will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Feel free to reach us via email at sales@machupicchubylocals.com or by calling us directly at +51 951 359 694
Monday - Friday:
09:00 to 18:00 Hrs.
Saturday:
09:00 to 13:00 Hrs.
Prolongacion Av. Grau L-8, Santiago - Cusco
Day Tour
Rainbow Mountain Day Tour with Red Valley
What's it like!!
Map of Rainbow Mountain Day Tour with Red Valley
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
At Machu Picchu by Locals we offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
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Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 8 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
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Hotel: During our excursion to Machu Picchu, we offer a private hostel stay for the last night. This ensures you are well rested and ready to explore Machu Picchu.
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Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture.
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Best Camping Equipment: We have the state-of-the-art camping equipment for our excursion. The equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after every excursion.
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Best Trekking team: At Machu Picchu by Locals we focus to create the best experience during our excursions. Our team that consists of tour guides, cooks, porters, horse drivers are handpicked. We train our team to offer you the best service. We take care of our team by providing them with good equipment and paying them fairly.
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