A Complete Guide to the From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain 1 Day + Breakfast and Lunch Tour

If you’re heading to Cusco and want to see one of Peru’s most spectacular sights, this Rainbow Mountain tour offers a well-rounded day of adventure, scenery, and local flavors. For just $34 per person, you’ll get a taste of the highland landscapes, vibrant mountain vistas, and authentic Peruvian cuisine—all packed into a manageable day trip.

What we love about this experience is how it combines accessible hiking with delicious local meals. The morning begins early, with a 4:00 AM pick-up, so you can beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet drive up into the Andes. The guided trek offers insights into the stunning terrain, with enough time to appreciate the vivid stripes of color that make Rainbow Mountain so famous. The included breakfast and lunch buffets provide nourishing fuel, making the day easier and more enjoyable.

One potential consideration is the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain itself, which isn’t included in the price. Also, the tour does not offer horse service, so be prepared for the hike’s physical demands. This tour is ideal for active travelers, those with a sense of adventure, and anyone keen on seeing one of the most colorful geological features in Peru without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Who will enjoy this tour? It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, want a straightforward way to visit Rainbow Mountain, and are comfortable with a moderate hike focused on scenic photography and culture.

Key Points

Early start: The tour begins with a 4:00 AM hotel pickup, ensuring a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Guided hike: A 2.5-hour trek to Rainbow Mountain offers spectacular views and local insights.
Culinary experience: Breakfast and lunch buffets featuring local Cusco products add flavor and energy.
Cost-effective: With a price of $34, it provides good value for the full-day experience.
Not included: Entrance fees and horse services are additional costs to consider.
Language options: Tours are led in Spanish or English, making them accessible for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Rainbow Mountain Experience in Detail

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Starting the Day: Early Rise and Scenic Drive

The adventure kicks off bright and early, with a 4:00 AM pickup from your Cusco hotel. While that might seem brutal, it’s actually one of the best parts of the trip. By leaving early, you avoid the majority of crowds and enjoy a peaceful drive through the highlands. The roughly three-hour journey takes you through lush valleys and rugged mountain scenery, giving you plenty of time to wake up and prepare for the day ahead.

This drive is a highlight in itself—Peru’s highland landscapes are striking, with rolling hills, traditional villages, and occasional glimpses of local life. You’ll likely find yourself mesmerized by the tranquility of the early morning light reflecting off the mountains.

Breakfast in Tintinco: Fuel for the Hike

Arriving in the small town of Tintinco, you’ll be greeted with a hearty breakfast buffet. This is a much-appreciated touch in a day that involves significant physical activity. Expect local products and simple, nourishing fare, giving you energy for the trek ahead.

Many travelers mention how this breakfast sets a friendly, communal tone for the day—an opportunity to mingle with fellow adventurers before setting off on the hike. It’s also a chance to stretch your legs and get a quick orientation from your guide.

The Trek: 2.5 Hours to Rainbow Mountain

The main event is the hike to Rainbow Mountain—a 2.5-hour trek that takes you through rugged terrain, with some steep sections that demand a steady pace. The route is well-trodden, but it’s not for the faint-hearted; altitude, uneven paths, and the high elevation (over 15,000 feet/4,600 meters) mean you should be prepared physically and acclimatized.

What makes this hike memorable is the unmatched scenery—as you approach, the vibrant colors of the mountain come into view. The distinctive stripes of red, yellow, green, and purple accentuate the geological wonder, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike. Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are, describing them as “absolutely breathtaking” and “a visual feast.”

Your guide, likely bilingual, will share insights into the formation of the mountain and local culture along the way. The hike itself is a chance to connect with the landscape and enjoy the fresh mountain air, with some travelers mentioning that the ascent is challenging but well worth the effort.

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Visiting Rainbow Mountain: A Photo Opportunity

Once you reach the viewpoint, you’ll have time to soak in the spectacular vistas. The mountain’s vivid stripes are even more impressive up close, and the panoramic views of the surrounding highlands make for memorable photos. Remember, the viewpoint can get crowded during peak hours, so arriving early or late can enhance your experience.

Some travelers mention the cold wind and high altitude, so layering clothes and wearing sturdy shoes are wise preparations. The altitude can cause some fatigue, but many find that the awe-inspiring scenery compensates for the physical effort.

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Returning for Lunch and the Journey Home

After descending, you’ll return to Tintinco for a local lunch buffet. This meal typically features Peruvian staples, giving you a taste of regional cuisine and a chance to relax after the trek. Many travelers appreciate the lunch’s quality and how it provides the necessary energy to finish the day.

The return trip to Cusco begins afterward, with an estimated arrival time around 5:00 PM. As you relax on the bus, you might find yourself reminiscing about the day’s highlights—those vibrant mountain colors, the breathtaking vistas, and the shared camaraderie of fellow travelers.

Additional Details and Considerations

While the tour provides many conveniences—like hotel pickup, transportation, and bilingual guides—there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, since horse service is not included, you’ll be doing the full hike on foot, which is manageable for most but demanding at high altitude.

The price of $34 is quite reasonable considering the day-long experience, especially with breakfast and lunch included. However, travelers should consider the extra costs for entrance tickets and any personal expenses.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with hiking in high-altitude environments. If you’re looking for a guided, no-hassle way to see Rainbow Mountain, it delivers solid value and a chance to enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics. It’s also ideal for those who want a full-day experience with local meals and meaningful guided commentary.

If your goal is to photograph the vivid mountain scenery, connect with local culture through regional cuisine, and avoid the stress of planning transportation, this tour checks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

For travelers craving a guided journey that balances adventure with comfort, this tour offers an excellent introduction to Rainbow Mountain’s remarkable landscape. The early start might be tough, but many find it’s worth it for the quiet mornings and stunning views. The inclusion of breakfast and lunch makes it practical and filling, especially for a full day of physical activity.

The value is evident in the price, with most travelers feeling the experience justifies the cost. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to see a highlight of Peru without the hassle of arranging multiple transport links or guides.

However, be prepared for a moderate hike at high altitude, and remember that entrance fees are extra. If you’re sensitive to high elevations or prefer a more leisurely pace, consider whether this tour fits your comfort level.

All in all, it’s a cost-effective, well-organized way to witness one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders—Rainbow Mountain—while enjoying authentic cuisine and engaging guide service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes tourist transport from your hotel in Cusco to the starting point and back, making logistics straightforward.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with a 4:00 AM pickup from your hotel, but check with the provider for specific starting times available on the day of your booking.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides offer Spanish or English commentary, so language shouldn’t be a barrier for most travelers.

Do I need to pay for the entrance to Rainbow Mountain?
No, the entrance fee is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately either beforehand or on-site.

Can I ride a horse to reduce the hike?
Horse service is not included in the tour price, so hikers should be comfortable walking the entire route on foot.

How strenuous is the hike?
The hike lasts about 2.5 hours and involves high-altitude walking, which can be challenging but manageable for most active travelers. Be sure to acclimate to altitude and wear sturdy shoes.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring layers for warmth, sun protection, water, and comfortable walking shoes. The weather can change quickly at high elevation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most physically fit children who are comfortable walking at altitude should be fine, but always consider their stamina and consult with the tour provider if unsure.

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 Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco offers a fantastic way to see one of Peru’s most colorful natural sights without the hassle of complicated planning. With early mornings, guided hikes, and local meals, it’s designed to give you a memorable, authentic experience—perfect for those who love adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of regional culture.