Rainbow Mountain Horseback Riding Tour + Buffet Lunch: An Authentic Cusco Adventure

If you’re exploring the Cusco region and want a taste of Peru’s most colorful natural wonder, this Rainbow Mountain horseback riding tour offers a practical way to see the sights. For $70 per person, you’ll get a 6-hour adventure that combines scenic views, local culture, and a bit of physical activity—all under the guidance of knowledgeable guides. The tour packs in a visit to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at 5,200 meters above sea level, a stunning geological tapestry of vibrant mineral shades, with the added thrill of a horseback ride for the ascent.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it makes reaching this high-altitude marvel. The included buffet breakfast and lunch, along with the chance to observe camelid species like llamas and alpacas, truly enhance the visit’s authenticity. Plus, the guided commentary helps you appreciate the geological and cultural significance of the area.

One thing to consider is the physical demands and altitude—this tour is not suitable for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues or recent surgeries. Also, the horse reservation is only available on arrival, which might be a surprise for some travelers used to booking in advance. But overall, this tour is a good fit for travelers looking for a balanced day of nature, culture, and adventure.

If you enjoy guided tours with a local flavor and don’t mind the early start, this could be an ideal way to experience Rainbow Mountain without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive experience that includes transportation, meals, and expert narration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

All-Inclusive Experience: Combines transportation, guides, meals, and horseback riding for a convenient day trip.
High Altitude Adventure: Reaches 5,200 meters, with scenic views and geological marvels.
Cultural Insights: Chance to see camelids and learn from knowledgeable guides.
Flexible Horse Reservation: Horses are only available upon arrival, not pre-booked.
Meal Quality: Buffet breakfast and lunch serve hearty Peruvian fare.
Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for travelers with certain health conditions or mobility restrictions.

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An In-Depth Look at the Rainbow Mountain Horseback Tour

Starting the Day Early—Maximizing Your Adventure

The tour begins with hotel pickups between 4:00 am and 5:00 am. Yes, a very early start, but in return, you’re rewarded with cooler air and fewer crowds. The early departure is designed to beat the midday heat and altitude sickness risk, as well as to secure a good viewing spot. Once picked up, the transfer takes you to Cusipata, where a buffet breakfast awaits—a chance to fuel up before the more active parts of the day.

The Scenic Drive and Breakfast

The ride from Cusco to Cusipata takes roughly two hours. During this trip, you’ll pass through Peruvian countryside, with views of terraced farms and small villages. The breakfast buffet is a practical perk—simple, filling, and local—giving you a taste of traditional Peruvian flavors before tackling the high-altitude terrain.

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Visiting Camelids—A Highlight

One of the subtle charms of this tour is the opportunity to see camelids—llamas, alpacas, and sometimes even vicuñas—up close. Guides often point out these species grazing near the trail, adding a genuine sense of local life. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide, Alex, was informative and very helpful,” emphasizing how the guides enrich the experience with insights into local fauna and culture.

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Reaching Rainbow Mountain—A Photo Opportunity

The core of the tour is a roughly 2-hour visit at Rainbow Mountain itself. Here, you’ll have some time to walk around, soak in the panoramic views, and snap photos of the striking mineral layers. The colours—reds, greens, yellows—are a testament to Peru’s volcanic history and mineral deposits. Because the altitude is so high, some travelers might find breathing more labored, and a few reviews mention the importance of acclimatization.

The Horseback Ride—A Practical and Fun Option

The horseback riding component is a popular feature. Horses are only provided for the ascent, and availability depends on arriving at the base without pre-booking. This means you’ll need to be flexible, which some travelers might find inconvenient. That said, the horses help lessen the physical strain, especially important given the steep inclines and high elevation. Riders praise the “helpful” guides who manage the horses, making the ascent more manageable.

Returning for Lunch and the Journey Back

After enjoying the views and taking pictures, you’ll head back to Cusipata for a buffet lunch, offering hearty local dishes—another highlight for many. The return trip, which takes about two hours, culminates with a drop-off near Cusipata plaza around 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm.

What the Reviews Say

Our tour guide, Alex, was a consistent highlight, with one traveler noting, “He was informative and very helpful.” The guide’s local knowledge and attentiveness seem to make a big difference in how much travelers get out of the experience. On the other hand, some reviews mention communication issues from the tour company, suggesting that clarity about horse reservation procedures could be improved.

Travelers also appreciate the value—for $70, you get an organized day that covers transportation, meals, guide services, and even oxygen in case of altitude sickness. However, some comment that horses and oxygen might not always be available, so flexibility is key.

The scenery at Rainbow Mountain often exceeds expectations, with many remarking on the vivid colors and panoramic vistas. The chance to see camelids adds an extra authentic touch, connecting visitors with the highland culture.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing: The tour lasts about 6 hours, with a very early start to maximize daylight and avoid crowds.
What to Bring: Passport, cash for souvenirs or tips, weather-appropriate clothing, and sunglasses or sunscreen for protection from the sun and wind.
What Not to Bring: High heels, baby strollers, drones, alcohol, drugs, or litter—these are either unsafe or disrespectful to the environment.
Health Considerations: Not suitable for those with respiratory issues, recent surgeries, or high blood pressure. The high altitude could be challenging.
Reservation: Horses are only available for the ascent and are provided on a first-come, first-served basis at the base.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Rainbow Mountain horseback riding tour offers a practical, guided way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning natural sites. It’s best suited for those who want an organized day with included transportation, meals, and expert commentary, especially if you prefer to avoid the logistics of planning your own trip. The addition of horseback riding makes the ascent more manageable, appealing to travelers looking for a gentle way to reach high elevations.

However, it’s important to be comfortable with early mornings and high altitudes. If you’re seeking a more flexible or independent adventure, you might consider other options or renting a car. Still, for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that combines natural beauty with some cultural insights, this tour delivers genuine value.

In short, it’s a solid choice if you’re after a balanced mix of scenery, local culture, and convenience. Just remember to bring your passport, dress warmly, and go with an open mind for a day packed with memorable views and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup, and guides will meet you in the lobby about 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Are horses included for the whole trip?
Horses are only provided for the ascent of Rainbow Mountain, and their availability depends on arriving at the base without pre-booking.

What meals are included?
A buffet breakfast in Cusipata and a buffet lunch after visiting Rainbow Mountain are included, offering hearty Peruvian dishes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option for last-minute planners.

Is oxygen provided during the tour?
Oxygen is included, but availability is not guaranteed, so travelers with respiratory concerns should plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 70 years old, and those with certain health conditions should consider their suitability.

Do I need to book the horses in advance?
No, horses are only available upon arrival, so you’ll need to reserve on the spot.

This thoughtfully organized tour provides a practical way to explore Rainbow Mountain while enjoying local culture and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply eager to see one of Peru’s most colorful vistas, this experience offers a balanced, memorable day out.