Ready for a different kind of adventure around Cusco? For those craving excitement beyond traditional sightseeing, this full-day ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain offers a fantastic mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and authentic local flavor. Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and whisked away to the scenic outskirts of Cusco, where your journey into the Andean wilderness begins.

At just $115 per person, this experience combines off-road thrills with cultural exploration, all wrapped into a well-organized day. What we love most? The chance to ride on individual quad bikes through diverse terrain and the short hike that allows a more intimate encounter with Rainbow Mountain’s incredible colors. Plus, the included breakfast and lunch mean you’re well-fed for the day’s adventures. A possible challenge? The early start—pickups happen between 4:00 and 5:00 am—so you’ll want to be prepared for a long day.

This tour suits those who enjoy adventure travel, stunning landscapes, and small-group tours. It’s perfect for active travelers who prefer a mix of fun, scenery, and some light walking, rather than a full day of strenuous trekking. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, this might not be ideal, but for those who want a combination of excitement and beautiful vistas, it hits the mark.

Key Points

Exciting ATV experience that allows you to explore Rainbow Mountain off the beaten path
Includes guided hike with plenty of time for photos and exploration
All-day logistics with early pickup, breakfast, lunch, and return by evening
Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
Practical essentials like helmets, gloves, and oxygen balloon provided
Cost-effective considering transportation, meals, and equipment included

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Day

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Early morning pickup and transfer

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickups between 4:00 and 5:00 am. Yes, it’s a very early start, but this is necessary to beat the crowds and enjoy the mountain in the soft morning light. After a roughly 2-3 hour drive, you’ll stop in Cusipata for a hearty breakfast—an essential fuel-up for the day ahead.

Practical ATV instruction and safety

Once you arrive at the practice base, you’ll receive a quick but thorough safety briefing and instructions on how to operate your personal quad bike. This is ideal for beginners—no prior riding experience needed. Helmets and gloves are provided, and safety gear is mandatory, which adds to your peace of mind.

The ATV journey to Rainbow Mountain

With your guide, you’ll set out on your ATV trip along scenic mountain roads, dirt trails, and rugged terrain. The route itself is a highlight, offering glimpses of Andean flora and fauna and jaw-dropping vistas that change as you ascend.

Traveling by ATV here isn’t just about the thrill; it’s a smart way to cover more ground in less time, allowing you to maximize your sightseeing without tiring yourself out. The comments from reviewers reflect this: “La subida en cuatri estuvo muy buena,” meaning the ATV ride itself was a major highlight.

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Short hike and exploration at Rainbow Mountain

After parking your ATV, you’ll hike a short distance—roughly 5 minutes—to reach the viewpoint. During this hike, your guide will share insights about the geology and colors of the mountain. Here, you’ll have ample time to take photos and soak in the stunning, multi-hued landscapes that give Rainbow Mountain its fame.

One reviewer emphasized, “No tienes que caminar más de 5 minutos,” which makes this accessible even if you’re not up for strenuous trekking, unlike other more demanding visits to Rainbow Mountain.

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Return journey and lunch

After exploring, you’ll hop back on your ATV for the return trip. In Cusipata, a comforting lunch awaits, providing local flavors and energy after a day of riding and sightseeing. Expect to arrive back in Cusco around 6:00 pm, tired but satisfied.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation, professional bilingual guide, breakfast, and lunch. Each participant has their own quad bike, with helmets and gloves for safety. You’ll also be provided with an oxygen balloon—a thoughtful addition at high altitudes—and a first aid kit for emergencies.

However, entry to Rainbow Mountain isn’t included in the $115 fee. You’ll need to pay $30 for foreigners or $20 for locals at the entrance. Budget this in advance, along with any extra expenses like souvenirs or additional snacks.

Considerations for your planning

This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with respiratory issues or pre-existing medical conditions. The early start and altitude are demanding factors to keep in mind.

Real Experiences: What Travelers Are Saying

Two recent reviews illuminate what makes this tour stand out:

“La excursión fue excelente! Los paisajes maravillosos! La subida en cuatri estuvo muy buena! Y no tienes que caminar más de 5 minutos! Me encantó!! Una maravilla de lugar!” — Caroline

This traveler loved the stunning scenery and the easy hike from ATV parking to the viewpoint. The short trek makes the experience accessible for many, not just seasoned hikers.

Another reviewer pointed out:

“Muy buena ruta, ideal el uso de cuatrimotos y Edwin muy bien guía.”

Here, the quality of the route and the guidance of Edwin were praised, emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The drive to Cusipata

Starting so early is necessary to avoid crowds and capture the mountain in its best light. The drive itself is scenic, with the Andes unfolding outside the window, giving you a taste of the rugged terrain ahead.

Breakfast and preparation

Stopping for breakfast in Cusipata provides nourishing local dishes, often including traditional Peruvian fare. After breakfast, you’ll switch to safety gear and get familiar with the quad bikes—an easy process with professional guidance.

The ATV ride

The route takes you through a variety of landscapes: mountain trails, dirt roads, and possibly some rocky patches. The adventure lies not only in the ride but in the chance to see the countryside from a different perspective. The views of the snow-capped peaks and vibrant valleys are breathtaking, especially as the morning light hits the colorful slopes.

The hike and photos

A short hike delivers you to the main viewing area. Here, the vivid stripes of Rainbow Mountain are visible in all their glory—yellow, red, green, and brown. You’ll have plenty of time to capture photos, admire the natural wonder, and stand in awe of the landscape.

Return and lunch

Descending back to the starting point, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal that restores your energy after a busy day. The drive back to Cusco allows for some reflection on the day’s highlights and sharing your favorite moments.

The Value for Your Money

While $115 might seem like a significant investment, consider what’s included: transportation, safety gear, meals, guide, and the ATV experience. Compared to a typical Rainbow Mountain trek that can take most of the day and involve strenuous walking, this tour offers a more accessible, fun, and efficient alternative.

The small group size (limited to 15) enhances the personal touch, and the professional guidance helps ensure safety and enjoyment. Plus, the early start means you’ll avoid some of the crowds, making your photographs and experience more authentic.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who want to see Rainbow Mountain without a long hike. It’s perfect if you prefer active exploration and a guided, well-organized day. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun, scenic, and manageable day out will find this highly appealing.

However, if you’re pregnant, have breathing issues, or require wheelchair access, this might not be suitable. The early start and altitude could pose challenges for some travelers, so preparation and health considerations are advised.

The Sum Up

This ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. You’ll appreciate the thrill of riding through varied terrain, the short but rewarding hike, and the chance to capture stunning photos without the fatigue of a full trek. It’s a great option for energetic travelers seeking a fun, efficient way to experience one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.

While it requires an early start and some basic safety precautions, the overall value, guided support, and breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile choice. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want a different perspective on Rainbow Mountain, this tour delivers a memorable day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide provides safety instructions and training on how to operate the quad bikes, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
You should bring your passport or ID, warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and cash for entrance fees and extras.

How early do I need to wake up?
Pickup is between 4:00 and 5:00 am, so prepare for a very early start to maximize your day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local meal is provided after the ATV ride at Cusipata, giving you energy for the rest of the day.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Cusco to Cusipata takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Do I need to pay for entrance to Rainbow Mountain separately?
Yes, entrance fees are $30 for foreigners and $20 for locals and are paid on arrival.

Is the hike to Rainbow Mountain difficult?
No, the hike is short—about 5 minutes—and suitable for most people, especially since the main viewpoint is accessible with minimal walking.

Can I do this tour if I have respiratory issues?
It’s not recommended, as high altitude and physical exertion can cause difficulties for those with respiratory problems.

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

Is this tour appropriate for families with children?
It’s suitable for older children and teenagers who are comfortable with light adventure activities and early mornings.

This full-day ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain combines fun, scenery, and convenience in one package. Perfect for those who want to see this famed landscape without the long hike, it promises a memorable experience that balances adventure with comfort.