If you’re dreaming of seeing Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) with a dash of adrenaline, this tour might just be your perfect day out in Cusco. For around $82, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring some of the region’s most stunning scenery, fueled by hearty breakfast and buffet lunch. The highlight? A 50-minute ATV ride that gets your blood pumping while bringing you closer to those incredible multicolored peaks that draw travelers from around the world.

We love how this tour combines adventure with spectacular views — perfect for travelers seeking a bit of everything: culture, scenery, and a little adrenaline. The professional guides make sure safety and fun go hand-in-hand, and the included breakfast and lunch offer authentic local flavors that keep you energized.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour starts early, and the altitude can hit hard up on Rainbow Mountain. If you’re sensitive to cold, bring a coat or poncho, as it can be quite chilly, especially at the viewpoint. This experience is best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and eager to explore off the beaten path in a small group setting.

Who should consider this tour? Adventurers who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor riding, and memorable photos will love it. It’s especially ideal if you want a full-day, active experience that combines cultural elements with adrenaline-fueled fun.

Key Points

Adventure and scenery blend with a 50-minute ATV ride to Rainbow Mountain.
Hearty breakfast at Cusipata and buffet lunch included for great value.
Stunning panoramic views from the viewpoint, perfect for photos.
Professional guides ensure safety and local insights.
Accessible for most travelers (excluding pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with respiratory issues).
Early start may be challenging for night owls, but it pays off with fewer crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour

This tour is designed to give you a full day of exploration, blending outdoor adventure with enough comfort and structure to make it accessible for most travelers. Starting from Cusco, the journey heads toward a more rural and scenic part of the Andes, where the landscape shifts dramatically from urban to raw, colorful mountain vistas.

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The Journey Begins: From Cusco to Cusipata

The day kicks off with hotel pickup, included within the designated area, making logistics straightforward. If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, you’ll need to meet at the central Plazoleta Regocijo in Cusco. The bus ride to Cusipata takes roughly 1.5 hours, and it’s worth settling in early to enjoy the changing scenery — from city streets into the lush countryside.

Once in Cusipata, you’ll enjoy a local breakfast. The reviews praise the quality of the meals, noting that meals are generally hearty and authentic. It’s a good opportunity to gather energy for the physical parts ahead—think eggs, bread, and local specialties, all served warm and welcoming.

Preparing for the ATV Adventure

After breakfast, another roughly 70-minute drive takes you to the ATV base. Here, you’ll get a brief safety orientation and some practice time. The guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trail.

The ATV ride itself lasts about 50 minutes and covers a route that’s both exciting and scenic. The trail winds through rugged terrain, offering a sense of adventure while providing spectacular views of the mountains and valleys below. As one reviewer noted, the ride was “really fun,” and the experience of driving on such a unique landscape is unforgettable.

Reaching Rainbow Mountain

Once you arrive at Rainbow Mountain, you’ll leave the ATVs behind and take a short, easy 10-minute hike up to the viewpoint. Here, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the multi-hued peaks, capturing the essence of this natural wonder. Many travelers comment on how photo opportunities abound, and the scenery is truly awe-inspiring, especially when the sunlight hits the mountain’s vibrant stripes.

From the viewpoint, you’ll have time to soak in the scenery, take photos, and connect with the remarkable landscape. This part of the tour is often highlighted as the highlight — a chance to stand in awe of the natural beauty that makes Rainbow Mountain famous.

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Return and Refresh

After enjoying the views, the group retraces the route back to the base. This gives everyone a chance to reflect on the experience and enjoy the rugged scenery from the other side. The day then continues with a delicious buffet lunch in Cusipata, praised in reviews for its quality and local flavors. It’s a well-earned break and a chance to recharge before heading back to Cusco.

The return trip takes about 2.5 hours, giving you a relaxed period to unwind and perhaps share your favorite moments with fellow travelers. The tour concludes at Plazoleta Regocijo, in the heart of Cusco, making it easy to explore more of the city afterward.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides many essentials: professional guides, transportation, breakfast, lunch, a first aid kit, and oxygen supply — great touches considering the high altitudes involved. The ATV rental is included, adding that extra thrill to the experience.

However, travelers need to remember to pay the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (about 25 soles) themselves. Also, travel insurance isn’t included, so it’s wise to have that sorted beforehand. Note that the 8:30 am option doesn’t include breakfast or hotel pickup**; it’s a meeting at Plaza de Armas, which is useful if you’re staying outside the pickup zone.

Practical Tips

Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and water — the sun can be strong, and altitude makes dehydration easier.
Dress warmly, especially at the viewpoint where temperatures can drop.
Carry cash for the entrance fee and any extra snacks or souvenirs.
Respect the guidelines on smoking and safety to ensure a smooth trip.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Many reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the landscape and local culture. Guests also highlight the stunning scenery and the quality of meals. The ATV ride is frequently described as “really fun,” and some see it as a highlight that adds adrenaline to the day.

One reviewer, Mervyn, said, “Another top excursion. Well organised, pick-up on time, and good driver. Riding the quad was really fun — they were everywhere, like an alpaca safari!” That playful comparison hints at how much fun you can have, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.

Authentic Experiences

This tour provides a rare chance to see Rainbow Mountain from a viewpoint accessible after a short hike, but with the added thrill of driving an ATV through rugged terrain. The meals, the scenic drive, and the friendly guides combine to make it a well-rounded day for those eager to see the natural beauty of Peru.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love adventure and beautiful landscapes, this tour is for you. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but don’t want to spend an entire day hiking. The ATV ride makes it accessible for those who might find a long hike challenging but still want to experience the stunning views.

It’s ideal for groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery. However, due to altitude and weather conditions, it might not be suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people with respiratory issues.

Final Thoughts

This Rainbow Mountain ATV tour offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty that’s hard to beat in Cusco. For about $82, you’re not just visiting a famous mountain—you’re actively engaging with the landscape, making memories that last a lifetime. The well-organized itinerary, delicious meals, and professional guides make it a solid choice for travelers looking for an active, scenic day.

While it does involve a long day of travel and activity, the payoff is visiting one of Peru’s most colorful and photogenic spots with the added excitement of ATV riding. It’s a fantastic way to experience the region’s stunning geography with a bit of adrenaline thrown in.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, want to avoid long hikes, and love capturing breathtaking views with their camera. If you’re after a fun, active day with local flavor and plenty of picture-perfect moments, this could be your perfect adventure in the Cusco region.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is included within designated areas. If your hotel or accommodation is outside these zones, you’ll need to meet at Plaza de Armas at 8:30 am.

How long is the drive from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain?
The journey from Cusco to the base of Rainbow Mountain involves about 1.5 hours by vehicle to Cusipata, plus additional travel time. The total travel time is roughly 2.5 hours each way.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, water, and cash for the entrance fee. Dress warmly, especially at the viewpoint, as it can get cold.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s suitable for most active travelers but not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with respiratory issues due to altitude and outdoor activity requirements.

Do I need to pay for Rainbow Mountain entrance separately?
Yes, the entrance fee (about 25 soles) is not included and needs to be paid on site.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
The scenic ATV ride and the view from the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint are the biggest draws, offering a mix of adventure and stunning scenery in one day.

Whether you’re seeking a thrilling outdoor experience or just want a memorable way to see one of Peru’s most famous natural wonders, this tour delivers. Grab your gear, brace for an adventure, and get ready for some unforgettable views.