Cusco: Excursion to Rainbow Mountain by ATV + Lunch

If you’re headed to Cusco and craving an adventure that combines adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Peruvian cuisine, this Rainbow Mountain ATV tour might just be your ticket. Priced at around $98 per person, the day-long experience takes you from your hotel early in the morning, winding through rugged landscapes in an off-road vehicle, culminating in the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain at 5,200 meters above sea level.

What we particularly love about this tour is the combination of exhilarating ATV riding — which adds a dose of fun and adventure — and the opportunity to explore the unique colors and geological formations of one of Peru’s most iconic sights. Plus, a traditional lunch in Cusipata gives you a taste of local flavors, balancing the outdoor adrenaline with hearty, comforting food.

One thing to consider is the early start time, with pickups between 4:00 and 5:00 am, which might be challenging if you’re not an early riser. Also, the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain isn’t included in the initial price, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. This tour suits travelers who enjoy active experiences and aren’t afraid of a bit of altitude — though it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions.

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day that melds scenic views, adrenaline, and culture, this tour offers an ideal introduction to Rainbow Mountain with the added thrill of ATV riding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Adventure and scenery combined: Experience ATV riding while enjoying spectacular views of Rainbow Mountain.
Guided experience: You get a bilingual guide and support throughout the day, making navigation and information accessible.
Cultural and scenic highlights: Includes a stop for breakfast, a scenic hike, and a traditional lunch.
Price and value: For approximately $98, you get transportation, equipment, meals, and the thrill of visiting Rainbow Mountain.
Early morning start: Be prepared for pickup between 4:00 – 5:00 am — it’s worth the effort for the views.
Additional costs: Entrance to Rainbow Mountain (~$20-$30) isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

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A Detailed Look at the Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour

The Itinerary: From Cusco to Colorful Heights

The day begins for most travelers with an early hotel pickup, typically between 4:00 and 5:00 am. While this is quite early, it’s necessary to beat the crowds and make the most of daylight hours. The journey takes you through rural landscapes, passing small villages and the rugged Andean terrain — a scenic preview of what’s to come.

Once you reach Cusipata, the trip pauses for a hearty breakfast. This is a good moment to fuel up, especially considering the physical activity ahead. After breakfast, you’ll continue to a practice base where you’ll be outfitted with your ATV gear — helmets, gloves, and safety instructions — and receive a brief training session. This setup is straightforward enough for first-timers, but keep in mind that the actual riding can be challenging due to uneven terrain and high altitude.

ATV Riding: Thrills on Wheels

The core of this experience is the ATV ride towards Rainbow Mountain. The route isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s about the adventure of winding through rugged paths, climbing hills, and feeling the adrenaline rush. The trail takes you past striking landscapes, with chances to snap photos of llamas, alpacas, and native flora along the way.

One reviewer, Anibal, mentioned that while reaching the mountain was rewarding, their guide didn’t provide much commentary about the passing villages or the mountain’s geology. So if you’re eager to learn about local culture or geology, you might find this tour more about the ride than the storytelling. Still, the visual spectacle of Rainbow Mountain’s stripes is enough to make the effort worthwhile.

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Hike to Rainbow Mountain and Time to Explore

After the ATV journey, you’ll dismount and embark on a short hike to the summit of Rainbow Mountain. The pace is mild, giving you a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air and absorb the incredible colors of the landscape. A guide will be with you briefly, offering some insights about the geological formations, but don’t expect a deep history lesson — this is more about the awe-inspiring views.

You’ll have ample time to explore and take photos, with the mountain’s vibrant bands of red, yellow, green, and purple creating a surreal backdrop. Given the altitude, it’s wise to go slow and listen to your body — some travelers might find the altitude challenging, so carrying oxygen balloons (included in the tour) is a smart safety measure.

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Return, Rest, and a Hearty Meal

After soaking in the views, you’ll hop back onto the ATV for the return trip to the base. Once there, you’ll board the bus for the journey back to Cusipata, where a traditional lunch awaits. This meal, included in the tour, is a comforting way to refuel after the morning’s exertions and offers a taste of local cuisine.

The return trip takes us back through scenic Andean landscapes, and you’ll arrive in Cusco around 6:00 pm, tired but full of memories and incredible photos.

About the Cost and What’s Included

The $98 price covers:

Hotel pickup and tourist transport
Bilingual guide (Spanish & English)
Breakfast and lunch
ATV equipment (quads, helmets, gloves)
Oxygen balloons, first aid kit, and continuous assistance

However, note that entry to Rainbow Mountain (~$20-$30 for foreigners and less for locals) is not included, so you’ll need to pay that separately at the site. This is a typical practice, but it’s worth budgeting for.

What Travelers Should Know Before Booking

Early start: Be ready for pickup at dawn; you’ll need to rest well the night before.
Altitude considerations: The mountain’s 5,200 meters above sea level can cause altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and take it slow.
Weather conditions: Expect variable weather — warm during the day but cold in the mornings and at the summit. Dress in layers.
Physical fitness: While the ATV ride is fun, the hike and altitude make this a physically demanding tour.
Medical restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, or travelers with heart or respiratory issues.
Packing tips: Bring your passport, warm clothes, hiking shoes, camera, snacks, water, and cash for extras.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Confirm your contact number, including country code, and have WhatsApp ready for communication.
Check availability and last-minute booking options by email if your plans are flexible.
Respect environmental rules — no littering, smoking, or alcohol.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most travelers find this tour thrilling, some feedback highlights the importance of managing expectations. One reviewer, Anibal, mentioned that their guide simply took them to the site without sharing much about the surroundings or cultural context. If you’re hoping for a storytelling tour, this may not be the best fit. But if you’re after a fun, scenic ATV adventure with a stunning view, this tour delivers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who want more than just a scenic drive — the ATV ride adds excitement and a sense of freedom. It’s ideal for those who enjoy active exploring and can handle early mornings and high altitudes. If you’re traveling with friends or family who crave a mix of thrill and natural beauty, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, if your priority is in-depth cultural or geological explanations, you might want to supplement this with a guided walk with a focus on history or local stories. Also, this isn’t suited for pregnant women or anyone with significant health issues.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

The Cusco Rainbow Mountain ATV tour offers a lively and energetic way to experience one of Peru’s most famous sights. The combination of off-road riding, short hikes, and a satisfying meal makes it a full-day adventure that balances thrill with cultural flavor. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want an active, engaging day that breaks the typical sightseeing mold.

While early mornings and altitude can be challenging, the stunning vistas and the fun of riding through rugged terrains make it worthwhile. Budgeting for the entrance fee separately ensures transparency, and the included safety gear and oxygen balloons add peace of mind.

Ultimately, this tour suits those who love outdoor activities, are physically capable of handling the altitude, and appreciate an adventure with a view. It’s best for travelers eager to add some adrenaline to their Cusco trip without sacrificing the awe of seeing Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant stripes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Cusco, usually between 4:00 and 5:00 am.

What should I bring? You’ll need your passport, warm clothing, camera, snacks, hiking shoes, water, and cash for extra expenses.

How long is the tour? It’s a full-day experience, returning to Cusco around 6:00 pm.

Do I need experience with ATVs? No, a brief training session is provided, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Is the entrance to Rainbow Mountain included? No, the entrance (~$20-$30 for foreigners) is a separate cost paid on-site.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s best for older children and adults; younger kids might find the early start and altitude challenging.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for pregnant women? No, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

What about medical conditions? People with heart, respiratory issues, or pre-existing conditions should consult their doctor and are advised against this tour.

How strenuous is the hike? The hike is short but at high altitude, so it can be physically demanding for some travelers.

This ATV and Rainbow Mountain trip offers an energetic and scenic way to experience one of Peru’s most vibrant landscapes. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and perhaps a few new stories to tell.