Rainbow Mountain

If you’re visiting Cusco and craving an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of challenge, the Rainbow Mountain tour is worth considering. For just under $40 per person, you’ll spend around 12 to 13 hours exploring the famous Vinicunca, a mountain famous for its striking bands of colors created by mineral deposits. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’re taken on a well-paced journey that balances physical effort with spectacular views.

What we love most about this experience is the organized transportation that gets you comfortably close to the trailhead, and the delicious buffet breakfast and lunch that keeps energy levels high after the hike. The guides’ attention to detail and support during the hike are also major highlights. However, a key consideration is the altitude, reaching over 5,200 meters; travelers should be prepared for possible altitude effects.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a manageable but memorable day outside the city, especially those who enjoy scenic hikes, vibrant landscapes, and local cuisine. It suits moderate fitness levels, and those keen on capturing stunning photos will find plenty of opportunities. If you’re ready for a long day that promises awe-inspiring views and a chance to challenge yourself, this trip will deliver.

Key Points

• Spectacular landscapes: The multicolored stripes of Vinicunca are unlike anything else in South America.
• Well-organized logistics: Transport, breakfast, and lunch are included, making the day smooth and enjoyable.
• Expert guides and support: Guides are recognized for their knowledge, motivation, and support during the hike.
• Altitude considerations: The elevation over 5,200 meters means travelers should be prepared for possible altitude sickness.
• Authentic experience: The tour includes visits to agricultural sites and snow-capped mountain views, adding local flavor to your adventure.
• Balance of effort and reward: The moderate hike offers plenty of stunning scenery without overly strenuous climbing.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect on Your Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Meeting Up and Early Departure

The tour begins bright and early, with pickups from your Cusco hotel around 4:30 a.m. We found this timing to be perfect for avoiding crowds and making the most of the daylight. The ride south towards the mountain takes approximately two hours to Cusipata, a small town where a buffet breakfast awaits. Expect local favorites, fresh juices, and a good chance to fuel up before the climb.

The Scenic Drive to Phulawasipata

After breakfast, the journey continues for about an hour to Phulawasipata, at 4,600 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll leave the van and prepare for the hike. The scenery along the way is captivating—canyons, terraced farms, and snow-capped peaks like Apu Ausangate set the stage for what’s to come.

The Hike to Vinicunca

The walk from Phulawasipata to the top of Rainbow Mountain is moderate yet challenging due to altitude and terrain. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the summit, covering roughly a couple of kilometers. During this ascent, you’ll witness agricultural sites, llamas and alpacas, and ecosystems that are uniquely South American. The guides are attentive, offering walking poles and blankets to keep warm, especially important considering the chilly mountain air.

What Makes the Climb Worth It?

Reaching Vinicunca is an achievement—standing at 5,200 meters, the views are truly mesmerizing. The colors of the mountain, streaked across different layers, are caused by mineral deposits like iron oxides and sediments. As one reviewer put it, the experience is “a lesson in life, beyond 5,000 meters,” highlighting how conquering this hike can feel like a personal victory.

The Return Journey and Lunch

After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to Cusipata for a buffet lunch—a well-earned reward. The return trip offers another chance to enjoy the landscape, and many find the day flying by. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Cusco around 6 p.m., leaving you with memories of an incredible day.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Many travelers praise the enthusiasm and professionalism of the guides. One reviewer mentioned how their guide served as both a motivator and a companion, helping them reach over 5,200 meters—a feat they described as a “huge life lesson.” The supportive attitude of guides is consistently highlighted, making the physical challenge more manageable.

Food quality also receives high marks: “exquisite breakfast and food, very nice attention,” and “delicious buffet lunch,” which turn what could be a long, tiring day into a genuinely enjoyable experience.

The tour does have a few caveats—most notably the need for moderate physical fitness and readiness for high-altitude hiking. The altitude can pose a challenge, especially for those unaccustomed to such elevations, so proper acclimatization and pacing are advised.

Accessibility and Group Size

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalized attention. The inclusion of radio communication equipment suggests that guides stay connected for safety and coordination, especially important in the remote mountain environment.

The Value of this Tour

At $39.99 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. It packages transportation, guided support, meals, and equipment—all essential for a full-day adventure—making it convenient and stress-free. While the entrance fee to the mountain isn’t included, the overall cost remains reasonable, especially considering the quality of guides and food.

For travelers who prioritize authentic, well-organized excursions with knowledgeable guides, this tour strikes a great balance. It’s suitable for moderate fitness levels and those who enjoy scenic hikes and cultural insights.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re looking to tick off a bucket-list item in Cusco without the hassle of planning, this trip is an excellent choice. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with physical activity in high-altitude environments. Those interested in vibrant landscapes, local agriculture, and mountain ecosystems will find plenty to love.

It’s also a good fit if you want a full-day experience that includes meals, transport, and guide support, ensuring you can focus on soaking in the views and enjoying the journey. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personal interaction and closer observation of the scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes tourist transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back, making the journey comfortable and convenient.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 5:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel, ensuring an early start to maximize your day.

How long is the hike?
The hike from Phulawasipata to Rainbow Mountain takes about 1.5 hours, moderate in difficulty but influenced by the altitude.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet breakfast is provided at Cusipata before the hike, and a buffet lunch is served on the return trip.

Do I need to buy an entrance ticket?
Yes, the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is not included, so plan to purchase it separately.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, layers, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes. Walking poles and blankets are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Travelers should have moderate physical fitness; high altitude can be challenging, so consult with your doctor if you have health concerns.

How large are the tour groups?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund, so you can book confidently.

Final Thoughts

The Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances physical challenge with stunning visual rewards. The inclusion of meals, transportation, and expert guides makes it accessible for those with moderate fitness levels, eager to witness one of Peru’s most vibrant landscapes. The support from guides and the quality of food and logistics elevate this trip from a simple excursion to a memorable adventure.

While the high altitude requires some preparation and caution, the extraordinary views and sense of accomplishment make it all worthwhile. If you’re the type of traveler who loves scenic hikes, culture, and capturing photos of colorful mountains, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s not just about the destination—it’s about the stories, the stunning landscapes, and the personal triumph of reaching a summit that will stay with you long after you leave Cusco.

Experience the magic of Rainbow Mountain for a day that combines adventure, cultural insight, and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s a journey worth taking, especially with guides who care about your safety and enjoyment.