Imagine starting your day before dawn, loaded into a vehicle that whisks you from the bustling streets of Cusco to the dramatic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. For $80, this full-day ATV tour offers a unique way to see Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, along with a taste of local life, history, and spectacular scenery. Led by friendly guides, you’ll ride through colorful valleys, snap photos at breathtaking viewpoints, and enjoy hearty meals that fuel your adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it blends active exploration with cultural insights—riding through the Red Valley with llamas grazing nearby is a treat no bus tour can match. Plus, the inclusion of meals means you won’t go hungry after all that riding and sightseeing.

One thing to consider is the early start, with pickup between 4:00 and 4:30 am—this can be a bit tough after a late evening or if you’re not an early riser. Also, since the tour involves ATV riding, it’s best suited for those comfortable with off-road vehicles and moderate physical activity. If you’re seeking an active, immersive way to experience Rainbow Mountain and local culture, this could be your perfect day.

This tour is best for travelers who enjoy adventure, want to see Rainbow Mountain from a different perspective, and are open to a full day of travel and activity. It’s ideal for those who appreciate spectacular landscapes, local traditions, and are comfortable with an early start and some physical exertion.

Key Points

Unique ATV Experience: Ride through the Red Valley and enjoy incredible views on an ATV guided by friendly experts.
Cultural Stops: Visit colonial and Inca bridges, offering insight into local history and architecture.
Spectacular Scenery: Expect panoramic views of snowy mountains, colorful valleys, and herds of llamas and alpacas.
Delicious Meals: A hearty breakfast at Cusipata and a satisfying lunch help you keep energized for the day.
Authentic Encounters: See local people in traditional clothing and enjoy the tranquility of less crowded paths.
Early Start & Long Day: Prepare for a 4 am pickup and a packed schedule that ends back in Cusco around 5 pm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour

Planning more time in Cusco? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Starting Early for a Day Full of Discovery

The adventure kicks off bright and early around 4 to 4:30 am. This might seem brutal at first, but the payoff is worth it. Early mornings mean fewer crowds at Rainbow Mountain and a chance to enjoy the stunning dawn light over the mountains. Plus, your transport takes you on a scenic two-hour drive from Cusco to Cusipata, where you’ll enjoy a filling breakfast. Think hearty Peruvian staples—fresh bread, eggs, maybe some tropical fruit—perfect fuel before hitting the trails.

The First Cultural Stops: Checacupe and the Bridges

After breakfast, the journey continues to Checacupe, about an hour away. Here, your guide will point out the colonial bridge and the Inca bridge, both perched at around 3,450 meters above sea level. These structures are more than just photo ops—they offer a glimpse into the regional history and engineering. We loved the way the colonial and Inca structures coexist side-by-side, a tangible link between past and present.

Approaching the Red Valley: Starting the ATV Adventure

Next, your group heads to the Red Valley, the launching point for the ATV ride. The landscape here is striking—vivid red earth contrasting sharply with the snow-capped peaks in the distance. Before getting on the quads, your guide will give a quick, clear tutorial on driving, ensuring everyone feels comfortable navigating the terrain. It’s reassuring and makes the experience accessible even for first-timers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Riding Through Spectacular Landscapes

Once underway, you’ll traverse “incredible landscapes,” as one reviewer put it. The route offers brief stops for photos—no rushing here. You’ll see herds of llamas and alpacas, locals in traditional costumes, and sweeping views of snowy mountains. The highlight is the Red Valley viewpoint, where you’ll spend about two hours traveling round-trip, soaking in the vibrant vistas. The colors here are mesmerizing, shifting as the sun moves across the sky.

While you're exploring Cusco, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Hike to Vinicunca: Colors and Heights

From the ATV base, you’ll walk about 30 minutes to the famous Rainbow Mountain viewpoint. The trail is manageable—around 1 km—but the altitude (over 5,000 meters) is no joke. As one traveler noted, “the view from the top is well worth the effort,” especially with the mountain’s seven distinct colors clearly visible. We appreciated the free time to take photos, videos, and simply stand in awe of the natural palette.

Returning and Recharging

After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to the starting point for lunch—a buffet with hearty options to refuel. The included meals are a highlight, offering satisfying local flavors and a chance to rest after a physically active morning. Then it’s back on the vehicle for the return trip to Cusco, arriving between 4:30 and 5 pm.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour covers round-trip transportation, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch, ATV rental, helmet, oxygen, and first aid kit. These inclusions are valuable, especially the meals and safety gear, ensuring you’re well cared for during the day. However, entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain are not included, so plan to purchase those separately.

The tour runs in Spanish and English, accommodating most travelers comfortably. With a small group size, you’ll have a more personalized experience, and the guides tend to be very helpful.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Travelers have commented positively on the authentic encounters—seeing locals in their traditional dress, interacting with animals, and experiencing the landscape away from tourist crowds. One reviewer mentioned, “You might find yourself as one of the only groups on this route,” which adds a sense of exclusivity.

A potential downside, as noted, is the early start, which can be tiring. Also, ATV riding requires a bit of confidence on uneven terrain, so if you’re nervous about off-road driving, communicate this with your guide.

Value and Suitability

At $80, the tour offers solid value considering the inclusions—meals, transport, guide, and activities. It’s especially appealing for those seeking adventure beyond a typical bus tour. The combination of active riding, cultural sites, and natural beauty makes it a comprehensive day out.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, love photography, and want a more immersive way to see Rainbow Mountain. It’s less suitable for young children or those with mobility issues due to the physical nature and altitude.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain strikes a great balance between adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. If you’re after a more active, less crowded experience of the iconic mountain, this trip delivers with stunning views and authentic encounters. The inclusion of meals and safety gear adds convenience and peace of mind, making it a smart choice for those who want to maximize their day without sacrificing comfort.

It’s perfect for adventurous travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Rainbow Mountain from a fresh perspective. The early start and physical effort required can be a hurdle for some, but for most, the memorable vistas and lively local flavor make it well worth the effort.

FAQs

Do I need to be experienced with ATV riding?
Not necessarily. The guide provides a brief tutorial, and the terrain is navigable with basic confidence. If you’re nervous, mention it to your guide—they’re there to help.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves ATV riding and a significant altitude, children comfortable with off-road vehicles and outdoor activity might enjoy it. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

How long is the whole trip?
Expect a full day, with pickup between 4:00 and 4:30 am, and return to Cusco around 4:30 to 5 pm.

What about the altitude?
Rainbow Mountain is over 5,000 meters above sea level, so acclimatization is important. Drink plenty of water and consider how altitude affects you.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet breakfast at Cusipata and a satisfying lunch are included, providing good fuel for the day.

What do I need to bring?
Bring layers for changing weather, sun protection, water, and cash for entrance tickets or souvenirs. Don’t forget your camera!

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour includes round-trip transport, which is generally comfortable, but the roads can be bumpy. Expect a scenic ride rather than luxury comfort.

Will I have time for photos?
Absolutely. There are plenty of stops for photos and videos, especially at the viewpoints and cultural sites.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Flexible booking allows you to reserve without immediate payment.

This ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain offers a lively, engaging way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, blending adventure with authentic cultural encounters. It’s a day packed with sights, sounds, and flavors that’ll leave you with memories as vivid as the mountain’s colors.