From Cusco: Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour with Meals

Experience the colors of Peru with a twist—an ATV adventure to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. For $75 per person, this 12-hour day trip combines scenic riding, cultural insights, and delicious meals, making it an exciting alternative to traditional hikes. It’s specifically designed for travelers who want to avoid the strenuous climb and high-altitude discomfort, while still soaking in the mountain’s incredible hues and breathtaking vistas.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it offers a quick, adrenaline-filled ride just minutes from Rainbow Mountain—a real plus for those worried about altitude sickness or limited time. The inclusion of meals in Cusipata and professional guides in both English and Spanish makes the experience comfortable and informative. However, the early 8:30 a.m. option lacks hotel pickup and breakfast, which is worth considering if you’re a morning person or prefer a more relaxed start. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for a mix of thrill, scenery, and cultural flavor, especially those who want to skip the long hike but still see the mountain’s splendor.

Key Points

• Unique ATV approach allows close proximity to Rainbow Mountain without the strenuous walk
• Includes meals and professional guides for a well-rounded experience
• Small group size (maximum 12 travelers) fosters a more personalized feel
• Affordable price point offers great value for a full day of adventure
• Weather and altitude considerations are important; stay prepared for high elevations
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and tasty meals

An In-Depth Look at the Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour

Starting from Cusco, the journey begins early. The tour lasts about 12 hours, with pickup offered from your hotel if you choose the later departure. The biggest draw is the ATV ride itself—an exhilarating way to reach Rainbow Mountain that takes you just five minutes from the summit, unlike many walking-only options. This means you get to enjoy the spectacular scenery with minimal physical effort, which is especially beneficial if altitude sickness concerns you, or if you simply prefer a less taxing journey.

The itinerary kicks off with a pickup in Cusco and a drive to Cusipata, where a hearty breakfast awaits. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who is fluent in both English and Spanish, and get a briefing on riding your ATV. You’ll have the chance to choose between single or double bikes, depending on your preference or physical comfort. The thrill of riding through rugged paths and open landscapes is often described as “quick and easy,” with many reviewers mentioning how seamless the ATV experience was—even for beginners.

Once at Rainbow Mountain, you’ll hop off your ATV for a brief five-minute walk to the summit. While some reviews note the short riding time (around 5 minutes each way), it’s enough to give you a sense of adventure and proximity to the mountain’s incredible colors. It’s a more relaxed way to experience Rainbow Mountain than the usual long hike, and many travelers have appreciated the chance to avoid altitude sickness. One reviewer shared, “We rode in line for a few minutes, but the ATV took us close enough to enjoy the views without feeling overwhelmed.”

The scenery at Rainbow Mountain is as surreal as it looks in photos. The vibrant, layered stripes of red, yellow, green, and purple form a kaleidoscope that National Geographic once listed among the world’s 100 most visited places. You’ll have some free time here—about an hour—before descending, which is ample for photos, soaking in the views, and maybe even taking a few selfies with local llamas and alpacas. As one enthusiast put it, “The scenery was out of this world,” and others appreciated the opportunity to take stunning pictures.

The included meals in Cusipata are another highlight. After the ride, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch, often praised for its quality and authenticity. The meals are designed to refuel you after the physical activity and high-altitude exposure, making the tour a well-rounded day. The breakfast, served before heading out, sets a good tone for the adventure, although it’s not included if you opt for the earliest departure at 8:30 a.m.

Back in Cusco, the tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back, and the group size is capped at 12, ensuring personal attention from your guide. Many reviews mention the professionalism of guides like Franklin and Rick, who are described as attentive, knowledgeable, and helpful—especially if you’re feeling the altitude or have questions.

What to Expect on the Day

The itinerary balances adventure with comfort. You’ll start with hotel pickup (or meet at the designated point if you choose the early shift), then travel to Cusipata for breakfast, followed by ATV riding. The ride itself is about 1 hour; the focus is on the journey rather than the speed. After reaching Rainbow Mountain, you get to enjoy the view, take photos, and explore briefly before heading down.

Important details include the entrance fee of PEN 25.00 (~$6.50 USD) per person, which isn’t included but is paid locally. Keep in mind that the 8:30 a.m. option doesn’t include hotel pickup or breakfast, so planning accordingly helps ensure a smooth day. The tour is best suited for active travelers, but the small group size and guided experience make it accessible for most.

The Pros and Cons

Some travelers, notably those with high expectations for a long ATV ride, express disappointment about the brief riding time—around 5 minutes each way. One reviewer mentioned, “The ATVs top out at 7 km/h, and you ride in a line for a few minutes,” which might seem limited if you’re craving a longer off-road adventure. However, others appreciate how this setup allows them to reach Rainbow Mountain without the exhaustion or altitude issues associated with hiking.

Weather can be unpredictable at high elevations, so packing layers and rain gear is advised. The entire experience is weather-dependent, but the guides and company are generally praised for being punctual and accommodating.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ATV tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Rainbow Mountain but prefer to avoid the strenuous climb. It suits those with limited time in Cusco, or for anyone nervous about altitude sickness, as the ATV approach minimizes physical strain. Nature lovers who want stunning, colorful landscapes without the long trek will find this route appealing. It’s also perfect for families or groups seeking a more adventurous, yet manageable, outing.

If you enjoy guided excursions, tasty local food, and a chance to take memorable photos, this tour offers excellent value. Just remember, if your main goal is a long, scenic ride, this may not fulfill that desire—but for a quick, comfortable, and visually spectacular experience, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered for the later departure. However, if you choose the 8:30 a.m. shift, it does not include hotel pickup or breakfast, so you’ll need to meet at the designated point.

How long is the ATV ride?
The ATV ride to Rainbow Mountain lasts approximately 5 minutes each way, making it a quick but exciting journey rather than a long off-road adventure.

What is included in the price?
The tour price of $75 covers transportation, a professional guide in English and Spanish, breakfast in Cusipata, lunch, a first aid kit, and ATV rental (single or double). The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is paid separately.

Is this suitable for people with altitude sickness?
This tour minimizes altitude concerns by reducing the need for hiking. Still, travelers should be aware that Rainbow Mountain is at over 5,000 meters, so some may experience altitude discomfort. Staying hydrated and acclimating in Cusco beforehand is recommended.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Franklin and Rick as attentive and helpful, providing useful information and support throughout the day.

Can I do this tour if I’m not experienced with ATV riding?
Most travelers find the ATV ride straightforward, especially since it’s a short, guided trip. The company offers single and double bikes, catering to different comfort levels.

To sum it up, this ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain offers a memorable way to enjoy Peru’s most colorful landscape without the demanding hike. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery. The included meals, professional guides, and small group size add to its appeal, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to see Rainbow Mountain efficiently and comfortably. Whether you’re short on time or prefer an easygoing approach, this tour delivers a vibrant experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural settings.