Imagine waking before dawn, the air crisp and the streets still quiet, as you hop into a comfortable bus headed south of Cusco. For just $44 per person, you’ll spend a day marveling at some of Peru’s most striking geological wonders — Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Red Valley. This tour, lasting around 12 hours, offers a vibrant mix of breathtaking scenery, local culture, and good food, making it a wonderful way to connect with the diverse landscapes just outside the city.

What we love most are the vivid, multicolored slopes of Vinicunca, which seem almost surreal, and the opportunity to witness flora and fauna like llamas, alpacas, and condors that add life and authenticity to the experience. Plus, the included buffet lunch offers a satisfying break in the midst of an active day.

One thing to consider is the altitude and the early start, which might be challenging for some travelers. The hike is around 2 hours to reach the summit, and the high altitude at over 5,000 meters can make it tough. But if you’re reasonably fit and prepared, this will be a highlight of your trip.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers with a sense of curiosity about nature and landscapes, those willing to endure a bit of physical effort, and anyone eager for memorable photos — especially of that iconic rainbow-colored mountain and the striking red hues of the valley. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided insights and good organization, as noted in reviews.

Key Points

Vibrant scenery: Experience the awe-inspiring colors of Vinicunca and the Red Valley.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the landscape, flora, and fauna.
Comfortable transportation: Private round-trip transport makes the long day manageable.
Sum of the experience: Includes breakfast, buffet lunch, and some time for photos.
Physical challenge: The high altitude and 2-hour walk require some stamina.
Authentic encounters: Opportunities to see llamas, alpacas, condors, and local villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour

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

Starting Early for a Big Day

The adventure begins at 4:00 a.m., when a guide picks you up from your Cusco hotel. That might seem brutal, but it ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy the landscape at a quieter time. After a scenic two-hour bus ride south, you’ll stop for a buffet breakfast in Quiquijana, giving you energy for the day ahead. The early start is a common theme for these excursions, and while it cuts into your morning sleep, it pays off with better views and fewer travelers.

The Journey to the Colorful Peaks

From Quiquijana, the route heads toward the checkpoint via a detour into the community of Chillihuani. Here, you’ll have the option to rent horses or mules to make the ascent easier. If you’re feeling energetic, you might prefer to walk — the two-hour trek to Vinicunca is a gentle climb through stunning landscapes dotted with llamas, alpacas, and Vizcachas (similar to chinchillas).

The guide’s recommendations and the chance to rent animals introduce a nice flexibility, especially at high altitude. As one traveler put it, “The hike is quite challenging due to the altitude, but it is definitely worth it! The views are breathtaking and the guides make sure you reach the top.” Be prepared for a gradual ascent to over 5,000 meters, which can make breathing a little labored, especially if you’re not acclimatized.

Marveling at Vinicunca—The Rainbow Mountain

Once at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the colorful slopes, a natural palette of reds, greens, yellows, and browns. The striking hues are caused by mineral deposits, and they seem almost artificially painted, but they’re purely natural. You’ll have time to take photos, soak in the views, and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Looking west, you’ll spot the imposing Ausangate mountain, Peru’s fifth highest peak, which adds to the awe-inspiring backdrop. Many reviews mention how “the landscape is magnificent,” and the high vantage point makes it clear why this site is so treasured.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Red Valley Experience

After descending from Vinicunca, you’ll walk back to the parking lot and board the bus for lunch at a local restaurant in Quiquijana. The buffet meal is appreciated in reviews, with travelers commenting it’s a “delicious” break after the morning’s exertions. This is a chance to refuel before exploring the Red Valley, a striking crimson-hued landscape that offers a different but equally impressive view.

The Red Valley features crimson-hued cliffs and formations that contrast beautifully with the blue sky and surrounding mountains. Some visitors find it less crowded than Vinicunca, offering a more relaxed photo opportunity.

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

Returning to Cusco

The journey back takes around two hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day. The guide usually allows enough time for photos and some brief explanations about the landscape and local culture, making the experience both scenic and educational.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers hotel pickup, private transport, breakfast, buffet lunch, a bilingual guide, and a basic first aid kit with oxygen — a thoughtful touch at high altitude.

However, entrance tickets to Vinicunca and the Red Valley are extra, costing around S/.30 (about $8). Horses and mules are not included but are available for rent if needed, which can make the ascent much more doable.

The tour’s price point at $44 offers good value, considering the transportation, guide, meals, and the chance to visit these iconic natural sites. Reviews highlight that “the whole thing is well organized,” making it a reliable choice for travelers who want an efficient, guided experience without surprises.

What to Bring and Tips for the Day

Given the altitude and outdoor nature of the tour, packing smart is essential. Travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, rain gear, long-sleeved shirts, insect repellent, long pants, and sportswear. The weather can change quickly, so layers are your friend.

You should also set your expectations: the high altitude can cause fatigue and breathing issues, so pace yourself. Hydration is key — bring water and take it slow if you need to.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews underscore the professionalism and attentiveness of guides, with one traveler noting, “Our guide was excellent — very attentive and knowledgeable.” This personal touch can really enhance your experience, especially when navigating the challenges of high-altitude hiking.

The scenery, combined with opportunities to see local animals and villages, makes this more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a chance to connect with the land and its people. The included meals are also appreciated, with many commenting on the quality and flavor, adding comfort to a physically demanding day.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour is ideal for adventurers who enjoy outdoor pursuits, especially hiking and photography. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind early mornings and high elevations, and who want to witness Peru’s stunning natural colors firsthand.

Travelers seeking a well-organized, guided day with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic landscapes will find this trip rewarding. It’s a perfect addition to a Cusco itinerary if you’re craving a full-day, scenic, and culturally enriching experience.

The Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor all in one day. The vibrant hues of Vinicunca are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere, and the Red Valley adds a different dimension of striking color. The guided approach, good value, and included meals make it accessible and enjoyable, even for those with limited travel experience.

While the elevation and early start might be a hurdle for some, the rewards — dramatic landscapes, memorable photos, and a real sense of achievement — are well worth the effort. This tour is best suited for active travelers eager to see one of Peru’s most photographed wonders and to enjoy authentic, natural beauty away from the crowds. If you’re ready for a physically engaging day with breathtaking vistas, this trip will leave you with stories and images that linger long after you return home.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins around 4:00 a.m., so be prepared for an early morning pickup from your hotel.

What is included in the tour?
The package covers hotel pickup, private transportation, breakfast, buffet lunch, a bilingual guide, and a basic first aid kit with oxygen.

Are entrance tickets to Vinicunca included?
No, the entrance fee of S/.30 (~$8) is paid separately at the checkpoint.

Can I rent a horse or mule to reach the mountain?
Yes, horses are available for rent, giving you an easier ascent, especially if you’re concerned about the high altitude.

How physically demanding is this tour?
The walk to Vinicunca takes about 2 hours at a high elevation (over 5,000 meters), which can be challenging. Good fitness and acclimatization will help.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, rain gear, long-sleeved shirts, insect repellent, long pants, and sportswear.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The high altitude and physical effort required may not be suitable for very young children or those with health issues.

How long does the entire day last?
The tour lasts roughly 12 hours, from early pickup to return in Cusco.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of Peru’s most colorful and awe-inspiring landscapes, with the added benefit of good organization and authentic encounters. It’s a trip that suits active travelers eager to capture unforgettable sights and push themselves a little in the process.