Cusco: 7-color mountain plus breakfast and lunch buffet included.

Cusco: 7-color Mountain Plus Breakfast and Lunch Buffet Included

Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $29 per person
Supplier Name: Inkadventours Perú
Similar Experiences: Rainbow Mountain Guided Day with Meals, Humantay Lake with Breakfast and Buffet Lunch, and more in the listed links.

Experience this tour if you’re craving a full day of natural beauty, adventure, and a taste of Peruvian hospitality for an unbeatable value. Starting early, around 3:30-4:00 am, this 12-hour round-trip journey takes you from Cusco’s central hotels to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, a geological marvel with its striking multicolored strata. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast in Cusipata, hike through scenic valleys teeming with llamas and alpacas, and savor a buffet lunch before heading back to the city.

Two things we particularly like? First, the expert bilingual guides who heighten the experience with insightful explanations about the mountain’s colors and geological history. Second, the well-organized logistics, from hotel pickup to the smooth transfer and timely stops, make what can be a long day feel manageable and enjoyable.

One consideration? The early start and high-altitude trek might challenge some travelers—be prepared for the 4,500-meter elevation. This tour is best suited for active travelers, those with a bit of hiking stamina, and anyone eager to see one of the most colorful natural sights in South America.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Bilingual professionals who share interesting facts and safety tips.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfast and buffet lunch included, adding convenience and value.
• Early Start: Begins between 3:30-4:00 am, ideal for avoiding crowds and catching clear skies.
• Challenging Hike: About 2 hours of gradual ascent at high elevation—good for active travelers.
• Spectacular Views: The rainbow stripes of Vinicunca are a one-of-a-kind spectacle.
• Authentic Experience: Opportunity to see local flora, fauna, and traditional villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in the Life: Exploring the Rainbow Mountain with Inkadventours Perú

The journey begins before dawn. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco, with the tour starting early to beat the crowds and catch the best light. The ride to Cusipata takes about two hours, but the scenic route and lively chatter with your guide will make the time fly. Once in Cusipata, you’ll break for breakfast, which is an appreciated perk after the early wake-up call. Here, you’ll have a chance to buy snacks and hydrating drinks for the trek ahead.

The next leg involves a scenic one-hour drive to Chillihuani, the starting point of the hike. This small community offers a dramatic view of high peaks and lush valleys. After a brief introduction from your guide—who will share safety tips and interesting facts—you’ll set off on the 2-hour ascent. The trail is gradual, and support like walking sticks is provided, making it accessible for most physically fit travelers.

During the hike, you’ll pass herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in the high-altitude pastures, and you’ll see several lagoons, streams, and valleys that highlight the diverse landscape. Many travelers note the unique beauty of the mountain’s colors, formed over millions of years by layers of sediments, as a highlight. One reviewer said, “The view of the rainbow stripes was like nature’s own art gallery,” which resonates with anyone lucky enough to see Vinicunca firsthand.

Reaching Rainbow Mountain is a highlight many mention. You have about an hour to take photos, relax, and explore this surreal landscape. The colors are even more vibrant in person, and the panoramic views extend across snow-capped peaks and rolling valleys. This is your moment to soak in the natural splendor and snap some memorable pictures.

After enjoying the mountain, you’ll descend, heading back to Cusipata for a well-deserved buffet lunch—often praised for its quality and variety. The return trip takes about 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure. The tour wraps up around 5:00 pm back at San Francisco Square in Cusco, leaving you with plenty of evening to explore or unwind.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

First, the guides. The reviews constantly emphasize their knowledge and friendliness. One traveler shared, “Our guide was incredibly helpful, explaining the geology and history with enthusiasm.” This personal touch enriches the experience beyond just hiking.

Second, the logistics. The organized transfers, breakfast, and buffet lunch make this a seamless day, especially considering the early start. The included meals add significant value, saving you from the hassle of finding food at high altitude and remote locations.

A few potential drawbacks: The high elevation can be tough, especially for those with altitude sensitivity. The early morning wake-up might not suit everyone, and the trek, while manageable, demands a good level of fitness. It’s also a relatively long day, so if you’re not a morning person or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re active, eager for an authentic adventure, and want a well-organized experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for travelers on a budget who want to see the Rainbow Mountain with included meals, making the most of their time and money.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup in Cusco in the early morning starts your day with a brief but essential briefing from your guide, setting expectations and safety tips. The early start means avoiding the crowds and catching the mountain’s vibrant colors in the best light, which many reviews mention as a major perk.

Breakfast in Cusipata is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to fuel up and prepare for the high-altitude ascent. The stop here also offers a chance to buy some snacks or hydration drinks, which many find helpful for the upcoming hike.

The long drive to Chillihuani offers stunning views of the Andes, giving travelers a sense of the landscape’s grandeur. Your guide will share insights into the area’s geology, culture, and local traditions, making the journey educational as well as scenic.

Once at the starting point, the hike begins. The trail is about 2 hours of gentle ascent, with support like walking sticks provided—important at this altitude. The gradual climb is designed to minimize altitude sickness risks, but some may still feel the effects of 4,500 meters. The panoramic scenery, including lagoons, streams, and diverse flora and fauna, rewards your effort.

The highlight: Rainbow Mountain itself. Many describe it as an otherworldly place where nature’s palette is on full display. The colors are caused by layers of sediments, which over millions of years have been exposed by erosion. It’s a striking sight that photos simply can’t do justice. You’ll have free time here to take pictures, soak in the atmosphere, and marvel at the landscape.

Descending and lunch in Cusipata offers a relaxing break, and the buffet often impresses travelers with its variety and quality. Afterward, the drive back to Cusco provides a chance to unwind and share highlights from the day. The tour concludes at the San Francisco Square, with plenty of time left to explore more of Cusco or rest.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Rainbow Mountain tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity and want to see a natural wonder without fuss. The inclusion of meals, hotel pickup, and a knowledgeable guide makes it especially appealing for those seeking value and convenience.

If you’re not comfortable with early mornings or high-altitude hikes, this might not be your best fit. However, for most active visitors eager to tick off one of South America’s most Instagram-worthy sights, this tour offers a well-balanced combination of scenery, culture, and comfort.

The guide’s expertise and friendly approach stand out, making the experience informative and engaging. Overall, it’s a fantastic, budget-friendly way to add a memorable highlight to your Cusco adventure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins between 3.30 and 4.00 am, depending on your hotel pickup, to maximize daylight and avoid crowds.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 12 hours, ending around 5:00 pm in Cusco.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers hotel pickup in Cusco, private transportation round-trip, a professional bilingual guide, breakfast, lunch, walking support, and basic safety equipment like a first aid kit.

Are vegetarian or special diets available?
Yes, special diets including vegetarian options can be requested.

Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, the entrance ticket costs 25 SOLES, payable on the day of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a high-altitude hike. Elderly or those with altitude sensitivity should consider their physical condition before booking.

Can I take a horseback ride instead of hiking?
Yes, horseback riding is available for an additional USD 30, but it’s optional and not included in the base price.

In summary, this tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to experience Rainbow Mountain’s vivid colors and stunning vistas. With knowledgeable guides, included meals, and a smooth itinerary, it provides excellent value for travelers eager to add this iconic sight to their Cusco trip. Prepare for an adventure that’s as rewarding physically as it is visually.