Day trip to Rainbow Mountain and Red valley

Duration: 1 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 0 - 10 km / 0 - 6 mi per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m / 1640 - 3281 ft ascent per day

+ Hike the Rainbow Mountain
+ Visit the Red Valley
+ Picnic breakfast and lunch included
- Optional horse ride

During this day to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is the perfect way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Cusco. Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a must-see for any traveller to Cusco. The mountain gets its name from its colourful stripes, which are caused by mineral deposits in the earth. The Red Valley is another must-see located just 30 minutes from Rainbow Mountain. The valley gets its name from the red rocks that line it. It's a beautiful place to take a hike and enjoy the views.

Itinerary

Day
1

Cusco - Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley - Cusco

Duration: 04:00 h
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
Ascent: 575 m / 1886 ft
Descent: 575 m / 1886 ft
Highest Point: 5036 m / 16522 ft

4:30 am: We will pick you up from your hotel in the city of Cusco, or any other accommodation close to the city centre, and drive you 3 hours to the trailhead.

8:00 am: Upon arrival at the trailhead, our chef will prepare a delicious breakfast with several options. You will have time to admire the scenery of the surrounding mountains while enjoying a cup of coffee or coca tea in preparation for the 5,000m trek ahead.

9:30 am: After breakfast we set off on a 2 hour hike to the top of Vinicunca Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain. The trail climbs gradually, with a steep incline on the last stretch before reaching the summit at over 5,000m. Hike along the snow-capped peaks of the Ausangate mountain range, the highest mountain in the Cusco region. Along the way you will see hundreds of llamas and alpacas. Every metre we climb brings us closer to the summit, with each view more breathtaking than the last. You will need a warm jacket, hat, gloves and a good camera to capture the beautiful views. The temperature at the summit is freezing, so dress accordingly.

11:30 am: At the top of Rainbow Mountain your guide will explain the origin of the colourful hills, the Andes and the importance of this mountain to the indigenous people of the area.

12:00 pm: After taking in the fantastic scenery of the Peruvian Andes and the summit of Vinicunca, which offers breathtaking views in every direction, we continue our journey by trekking a further 30 minutes to the Red Valley, which is rarely visited by tourists due to its remote location. Here you will find awe-inspiring landscapes that will take your breath away.

1:00 pm: We return to the trailhead for a 1 hour descent where our special picnic lunch awaits.

2:00 pm: Our chefs will prepare the best traditional Peruvian dishes using fresh local ingredients. After lunch we board the bus back to Cusco.

5:30 pm: Arrival back to your hotel in Cusco.

Note: Times are approximate as they depend on weather conditions, your walking speed and various other external factors.

Included

  • Guides

    A well-trained English-speaking guide is included in the price. The guides all grew up in the Cusco region and are committed to sharing their history and culture with visitors. The guides are friendly and professional and will make sure you don't miss anything.

  • Taxes and fees

    All tourist taxes and permit fees applicable are included in the listed price.

  • First aid

    Your guide has received training in first aid from a physician. Mandatory training sessions are conducted every year. Your tour guide will always have a first-aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. You will be escorted off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible, if needed, and taken to a clinic for treatment.

  • Food and water

    Food and water are included and will be provided as per the itinerary. Water is boiled, filtered, and then cooled before distributing. You must bring your water bottles and or camelback. We recommend carrying about 3L worth per day. You will be able to restock your water supplies at each meal.

Excluded

  • Travel Insurance Including Repatriation

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers adventures at a high altitude. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before you travel to Peru.

  • Tipping

    Tips for guides, cook and porters are not included. You decide what you want to tip, but be generous.

FAQ

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Zulema del Pozo Moral
Zulema del Pozo Moral
This trek is operated by
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