Exploring the Private Full Day Rainbow Mountain Horseback Riding Service

Imagine waking up just before dawn in Cusco, preparing for a day filled with spectacular vistas, vibrant colors, and a touch of adventure. This private tour, offered for $179 per person, takes you through the breathtaking landscape of Vinicunca—Rainbow Mountain—with the added thrill of horseback riding and a thoughtful itinerary that balances walking and comfort. Led by a knowledgeable guide (Alejandro, if you’re lucky), this experience promises not only stunning scenery but a taste of local culture and cuisine.

What we love about this tour is how it combines active exploration with leisurely comfort—starting with a delicious buffet breakfast en route, then hiking through ecosystems dotted with South American camelids, before reaching the iconic mountain. Plus, the fact that it’s private means more flexibility, personalized attention, and a more intimate connection with the landscape. The only thing to keep in mind is that the altitude (5,200 meters / 16,466 feet) can be challenging for some, so a good level of fitness and acclimatization is helpful. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Rainbow Mountain with a mix of adventure and comfort, and who appreciate culture along the way.

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Key Points

Comfortable Private Experience: Small group size or private service offers a personalized touch.
Stunning Scenery: Expect vibrant geological formations, snow-capped peaks, and local wildlife.
Active & Relaxed: A mix of a 2-hour hike, horseback riding, and scenic stops.
Cultural & Culinary Highlights: Buffet breakfast and lunch showcase local flavors.
Early Start: Pickup between 4:30-5:00 am helps avoid crowds and enjoy cooler morning air.
Altitude Consideration: Be prepared for high elevation and the physical demands of hiking and riding.

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The Journey Begins: Preparing for the Day

Starting early from Cusco, the tour ensures you beat most of the crowds and the heat of midday. The pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 am might seem brutal, but it’s a small price to pay for the quiet serenity of the highlands and the chance to see the sunrise over the mountains. The ride from Cusco to Cusipata is about two hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenic drive, which itself is an adventure.

Arriving in Cusipata, you’ll be greeted with a hearty buffet breakfast. This is a good opportunity to fuel up before the physical parts of the day—trust us, the high altitude at Rainbow Mountain (5200 meters above sea level) demands good preparation. The meal, included in the price, features typical Peruvian fare and offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers and get tips from your guide.

The Itinerary: Walking, Riding, and Spectacular Views

After breakfast, you’ll head to the trailhead, where your guide will provide detailed instructions—crucial, considering the rugged terrain and altitude. The 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain is manageable for most, but it involves steady elevation gain and uneven paths. You’ll travel through ecosystems rich with local fauna, including South American camelids like llamas and alpacas. Expect picturesque views of snow-capped Ausangate and vibrant mineral deposits that give Rainbow Mountain its characteristic 7 colors.

The highlight, of course, is reaching Vinicunca at 5200 meters. Once there, you’ll have ample time to soak in the views, take photos, and marvel at the natural palette of reds, greens, and ochres. The viewpoint offers a panoramic vista that’s truly unlike anything else—imagine standing amidst a natural watercolor painting with glaciers and mountains framing your shot.

What makes this experience special is the inclusion of horseback riding—a rare treat that gives your legs a break and adds a sense of adventure. You’ll only ride one way (ascent), which means you hike back down, but the ride up helps you cover ground faster and enjoy the landscape from a different perspective. Many reviews praise the horseback component as “a fun and relaxing way to experience the terrain,” while some note the horses are well-behaved and suitable for beginners.

Returning to Cusipata: Savoring Local Flavors

After spending quality time at Rainbow Mountain, you’ll retrace your steps back to the starting point. Your transport will be waiting, and you’ll head to Cusipata for a buffet lunch—a highlight for many. The meal offers a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine, with options that satisfy both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Comments from travelers often mention the “delicious food and friendly service,” making this lunch a relaxing end to an active morning.

Post-lunch, the journey back to Cusco begins, and you’ll arrive around 6:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax after an adventure-packed day. The return trip allows for reflection, picture-sharing, and maybe a few snore-inducing naps if the road gets bumpy.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour strikes a good balance between value and experience. Included in the $179 price are hotel pickup, breakfast, private guide, private transportation, and lunch. The horseback ride is one-way, which is a thoughtful touch, enabling more flexibility on the way down. The tour does not include entrance fees or meals outside those mentioned, so keep some cash handy for any extras or souvenirs.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves mixing physical activity with breathtaking scenery, this tour is perfect. The early start might seem demanding, but it pays off with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Travelers who appreciate local food and authentic experiences will enjoy the buffet lunch and the chance to see local ecosystems and wildlife up close. It’s suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness, especially considering the high altitude.

This experience is also well-suited for small groups or private bookings, offering a more personalized and flexible approach. If you prefer large tours with many people, this might feel a bit intimate, which many see as a plus.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers eager for a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic scenery, this Rainbow Mountain horseback riding tour offers tremendous value. You get to experience one of Peru’s most iconic natural sights with the added thrill of horseback riding and local cuisine, all within a well-organized, small-group setting.

The early start and high altitude are considerations, but if you’re prepared, you’ll find the journey rewarding. The scenery is unmatched, with Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant colors creating a landscape that’s truly unforgettable. The included buffet meals and private guide ensure a comfortable and enriching experience, making this tour ideal for those looking to blend physical activity with cultural discovery.

In short, if you’re after a well-rounded, memorable day that combines adventure, stunning vistas, and a taste of Peruvian hospitality, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, breakfast, a private guide, private transportation, and lunch. Horses are provided for the ascent portion of the hike.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately from 4:30-5:00 am pickup to arriving back in Cusco around 6:30 pm, making it a full day of activity.

Is horseback riding suitable for beginners?
While the tour doesn’t specify skill level, most horses are well-behaved, and the ride is one-way, offering a relaxed experience suitable for beginners.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring layers suitable for high altitude, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and some cash for extras. The high elevation means the weather can change quickly.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast at Cusipata and a buffet lunch are included, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Do I need to pay entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you should be prepared for this additional expense.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s physical demands and altitude might be challenging for very young children, so it’s best suited for older children and adults with good mobility.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

This Rainbow Mountain horseback riding tour balances adventure, comfort, and cultural flavor, making it a strong choice for travelers eager to tackle one of Peru’s most captivating landscapes with a bit of added fun.