Rainbow Mountain Horseback Riding Tour + Buffet Lunch

Imagine waking up before dawn, bundling up against the crisp mountain air, and heading out to witness one of Peru’s most striking sights — Rainbow Mountain. For around 6 hours, this tour offers an adventure that combines spectacular natural beauty, horseback riding, and a delicious buffet lunch. It’s a good pick for those who want to see the famous rainbow-colored peaks without the strenuous hike, and enjoy some authentic Andean scenery along the way.

What we especially love about this experience is the combination of horseback riding and breathtaking views — giving you a unique perspective of the landscape that’s both leisurely and immersive. Plus, the inclusion of meals and a knowledgeable guide means you’re well taken care of, making this a good value for those who want comfort with adventure.

One thing to consider is that horses are only included for the ascent and are provided by the local community, which means reservations aren’t possible beforehand — everything’s arranged on-site. If you’re not comfortable with riding or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, are comfortable with early mornings, and want a manageable way to see Rainbow Mountain without the long, tiring trek. It’s also ideal if you’re keen on a guided tour that includes a hearty meal afterward.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Admire the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder at 5,200 meters above sea level.
• Horseback Ride: Enjoy a 2-hour horseback ride for a relaxed, less strenuous way to reach the main attraction.
• Authentic Experience: The horses are provided by the local community, supporting sustainable tourism.
• Inclusive Meals: A buffet breakfast in Cusipata and a hearty buffet lunch are included — essential after a day of altitude.
• Early Start: Pickup between 4:00 am and 5:00 am ensures you beat the crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
• Limited Horse Reservations: Horses are only available at the start, arranged on-site — no pre-booking possible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Rainbow Mountain Horseback Riding Tour

The Itinerary: From Dawn to Dusk

This tour begins early, with hotel pickups typically between 4:00 am and 5:00 am. That might seem brutal, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and get the clearest views of Rainbow Mountain in the morning light. The journey to Cusipata, where you’ll have breakfast, takes about an hour and a half. The buffet breakfast here is a practical start, fueling you up before the main event.

Once fed and ready, you’ll head to the starting point of the horseback ride. This is usually a small community where local guides and horse providers wait. Since horse reservations are made on-site, you’ll simply choose your mount when you arrive. The horses are included only for the ascent, meaning you’ll enjoy a roughly 2-hour ride up the mountain.

The ride itself is a highlight. As you climb, you’ll observe Andean flora and fauna — including llamas, alpacas, and possibly some vicuñas — and get a taste of local life. Expect some gentle inclines and a steady pace, making it accessible even for those with limited horseback experience.

Reaching Rainbow Mountain

Upon arriving at the viewpoint, you’ll have some time to take photos, soak in the surreal colors of the mountain, and appreciate the vast, sweeping scenery. The mineral-rich hues — reds, yellows, greens, and purples — are a visual feast and truly unlike any other mountain landscape.

After your visit, you’ll descend back to Cusipata for a well-earned buffet lunch. The meal offers typical Peruvian fare, giving you energy to reflect on the morning’s adventure before heading back to Cusco.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with the return arriving back in Cusco around 5:00 to 5:30 pm. The early start means you’ll want to be prepared with warm clothing, layers, and comfortable shoes — especially since you’ll be at high altitude.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, and guided in both Spanish and English, ensuring you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn about the landscape and local culture. The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, guide, oxygen (for altitude sickness), and meals — making it a comprehensive package.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The included items — hotel pickup, meals, transportation, horses, oxygen, and a guide — add up to good value for the price of $70 per person. It’s particularly convenient that meals are covered, saving you the hassle of finding food at high altitude or in remote villages.

However, tickets to Rainbow Mountain are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to buy those separately at the entrance. Souvenirs and additional snacks are also extras.

Authenticity and Community Support

A notable feature of this tour is that horses are provided by the local community — supporting small-scale, sustainable tourism. Since reservations for horses are made on-site, it’s a genuinely community-driven experience, giving you a chance to support local livelihoods directly.

The Realities of Altitude and Accessibility

Travelers should be aware that this tour takes place at over 5,200 meters. Altitude sickness can affect some, so having oxygen on hand is a thoughtful inclusion. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or certain health conditions, so preparation is key.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re looking for a less physically demanding way to see Rainbow Mountain, this horseback riding tour is a solid pick. You’ll get to experience the mountain’s stunning colors without the long, steep hike, which can be challenging at high altitude. The early start ensures fewer crowds and better lighting for photos, plus the guided component enhances your understanding of the landscape and local culture.

It’s especially fitting for travelers who prefer a guided, all-in-one experience, with meals included and a comfortable pace. If you’re interested in supporting local communities and want an authentic flavor of the Andes, this is a strong option.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventure lovers who want a manageable and scenic way to visit Rainbow Mountain, without excessive physical exertion. It’s ideal for those who value local community involvement and appreciate guided experiences in a small-group setting. If you enjoy horseback riding, even casually, you’ll likely find this tour a delightful way to see one of Peru’s most colorful landscapes.

However, if you have mobility issues, are pregnant, or not comfortable around animals or at high altitude, you might want to consider other options. The early wake-up call can be a downside for some, but it’s part of what makes this tour special — avoiding the crowds and catching the mountain in beautiful morning light.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are horses included for the entire tour?
No, horses are only provided for the ascent to Rainbow Mountain and are arranged on-site by the community providers. Reservations are not possible beforehand.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 5:00 to 5:30 pm.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not quite. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health conditions due to high altitude and physical activity involved.

Do I need to buy tickets separately?
Yes, tickets to Rainbow Mountain are not included in the tour price. You will need to purchase them at the entrance.

What meals are included?
A buffet breakfast at Cusipata and a buffet lunch after the visit are included, providing essential energy for the day.

Can I expect to see wildlife?
Yes, you might see species like camelids (llamas and alpacas) along the way and at the starting point.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, layers, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and perhaps some snacks. Altitude sickness remedies could also be helpful.

How flexible are the pick-up times?
Pick-up is scheduled between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your experience.

This horseback riding tour to Rainbow Mountain offers a thoughtful blend of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. It’s a great way to tick this iconic Peru destination off your list with less strain, support local communities, and enjoy authentic Andean hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby