Imagine waking up in Cusco, eager to see one of the most breathtaking sights in Peru: the Rainbow Mountain. For just $70 per person, this full-day adventure takes you through charming villages, lush landscapes, and up to an incredible geological wonder—all with the added thrill of riding a horse to reach the high-altitude vista.

What we love about this tour is how it combines authentic scenery with the convenience of transportation and a guided experience. The included buffet breakfast and lunch ensure you’re well-fed, while the small group size keeps things intimate and manageable. But it’s not all perfect—altitude can hit hard, and some horses might not look very happy, which is worth considering if animal welfare is important to you.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with scenic views and don’t mind a bit of physical challenge. It suits those eager to see the Seven Colors Mountain without the hassle of organizing transport and guides on their own. However, if you’re sensitive to high altitudes or have pre-existing health concerns, prepare accordingly.

Key Points

Stunning scenery at Vinicunca, known for its colorful geological formations.
Includes horse ascent, making the climb more accessible and adding a traditional touch.
Small group tours ensure more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
A balanced mix of cultural, scenic, and culinary experiences.
Early start with hotel pickup, so you’re ready for a full day.
Potential animal welfare concerns as some horses appeared tired or whipped, based on reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full Day of the Mountain of Colors on Horseback

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The Itinerary: From Cusco to the Rainbow’s Edge

The day begins early—between 4:30 and 5:00 am—when your guide will come to pick you up at your Cusco hotel. The early start is essential, given the drive to Cusipata, where the day’s adventure truly begins. Expect a comfortable ride through the Peruvian countryside, with scenic views gradually shifting as you leave the city behind.

Once in Cusipata, a hearty buffet breakfast awaits to fuel you for the trek ahead. The meal isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a chance to prepare yourself for the altitude and the day’s adventure. After breakfast, you’ll hop into a vehicle that takes you to the trailhead, where the real journey begins.

The trail to Vinicunca takes about two hours of gentle walking, with a guide providing directions and insights into the local ecosystem. This part of the trip is particularly interesting because of the diverse flora and fauna along the way. Expect to see various species of South American camels—llamas and alpacas—grazing against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Ausangate mountain. As one traveler noted, “We loved the way the landscape changed constantly, and the animals added that extra touch of authenticity.”

Reaching Vinicunca: The Colors of the Mountain

At around 10:30 am, you arrive at the main event—Vinicunca, also called the Seven Colors Mountain. Sitting at 5200 meters above sea level, the mountain’s vibrant hues are caused by mineral deposits such as quartz, feldspar, and clay, which create a natural palette of reds, greens, yellows, and browns.

You’ll have ample time—about an hour—to soak in the views, take pictures, and marvel at this geological masterpiece. The vistas are truly spectacular, and the photos you take will be a reminder of how nature can produce such a spectacular display. One reviewer described it as “a breathtaking landscape that you can’t stop staring at,” and we couldn’t agree more.

The Horseback Ascent and the Return

Part of the appeal of this tour is the horse ride. Horses are provided to help with the ascent, making it easier to handle the high altitude and steep terrain. While many enjoy the experience, some reviews mention that the horses might not be in the best condition—“out of 6 horses, 50% looked very tired, and 2 were whipped to move forward,” according to one traveler. It’s something to be aware of if animal welfare concerns matter to you.

After taking in the mountain’s beauty and snapping plenty of photos, you’ll descend back to the starting point, where your vehicle awaits for the return journey. Before heading back to Cusipata for a well-deserved buffet lunch, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

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The Return to Cusco

Post-lunch, the trip back to Cusco begins, with an estimated arrival around 6:30 pm. The drive offers a chance to relax after a full day of activity and to share stories with fellow travelers. It’s a long day, but the scenery and experiences make it worthwhile.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s $70 price includes a lot: hotel pickup, breakfast, a bilingual guide, transportation, a buffet lunch, and a horse ride one way—upward. This setup provides excellent value considering the comprehensive nature of the experience.

However, the entrance fee to Vinicunca isn’t included, so budget extra for that. Also, meals not mentioned (like snacks or additional drinks), and any personal expenses are not covered.

Practical Tips

Bring your passport—it’s required for entry.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking and climbing.
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—the sun at high altitude can be intense.
Carry water and cash for tips or extra snacks.
Prepare for altitude sickness by taking it slow and staying hydrated.

Addressing Concerns: Animal Welfare and Altitude

One point that has come up in reviews is the condition of the horses. While many enjoy the ride, some horses appeared tired or were whipped to move forward. If animal welfare is a concern, you might want to consider this point seriously.

Altitude sickness is another factor. The mountain sits at 5200 meters, which is high enough to cause discomfort if you’re not acclimated. We recommend taking it slow, breathing deeply, and drinking plenty of water. The guide will probably suggest pacing yourself, but it’s ultimately up to you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see one of Peru’s most colorful natural wonders without the hassle of organizing their own transport. If you appreciate guided small-group tours that offer a mix of scenery, cultural insight, and local cuisine, this is a good pick.

However, it’s less ideal for individuals sensitive to high altitude, those with respiratory issues, or anyone concerned about animal welfare. The early start and physical exertion may also be a challenge for some, but the stunning views and unique experience tend to outweigh these considerations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a full day of adventure with breathtaking scenery, cultural flavor, and the chance to ride a horse up to one of the most photographed mountains in the world, then this tour delivers in spades. The inclusion of breakfast and lunch makes it a convenient package, while the small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd.

The spectacular views of Vinicunca, with its vivid mineral deposits, are truly a photographer’s dream. The experience of riding a horse adds a fun and authentic touch, though it’s worth noting that some horses might not be in the best shape.

This tour offers good value for an unforgettable day out in the Peruvian Andes. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, don’t mind a bit of physical exertion, and appreciate guided tours that take care of the logistics.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How early do we start? Expect pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 am, which allows enough time to reach the mountain and enjoy the day fully.

Do I need my passport? Yes, you’ll need your passport for entry to Vinicunca and to verify your identity.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, sturdy shoes, water, a camera, and cash for extras. Also, bring some snacks if you want extra energy.

Is the tour suitable for kids? The tour is generally suitable for older children, but be mindful of the altitude and physical demands.

Are there any health restrictions? The tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users, or people with respiratory issues, recent surgeries, or other pre-existing medical conditions.

What’s the experience with the horses? Horses help with the ascent, but some reviews mention that some horses looked tired or were whipped. If animal welfare concerns you, consider this carefully.

How long is the hike? The walk from the trailhead to Vinicunca is about two hours, but riding a horse helps ease the climb.

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

This full-day tour offers a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and culture. It’s a chance to see one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes without the stress of organizing everything yourself—just be prepared for the altitude and keep an eye on the animal welfare aspect if that’s important to you.