Included on the Rainbow Mountain (with late departure) trip

• Transportation: Comfortable round-trip transportation to and from Cusco.
• Breakfast: A delightful morning meal featuring fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, and a choice of bread or pancakes with butter and jam. Not included for time slot 08:30h.
• Buffet lunch: A diverse and tasty buffet lunch to refuel after your hike.
• Group size: Enjoy the hike in small groups, usually between 14-16 people, with a maximum of 18 to ensure a quality experience.
• Guides: Professional, English-speaking guides to lead and inform you throughout the journey. Only for time slot 4AM the guide will join you by foot.
• Safety equipment: First-Aid kit and an oxygen bottle available for emergencies

Excluded on the Rainbow Mountain (with late departure) trip

• Personal gear: Please bring your own hiking and personal gear.
• Tips: Gratuities for guides and staff are not included and are at your discretion.
• Entrance fee: Entrance to Rainbow Mountain of 25 soles.
• Pick up for time slot 08:30h: We will meet at a central point very close to Plaza de Armas at 08:25h.

What to bring on Rainbow Mountain (with late departure)

Embarking on the Rainbow Mountain tour in Peru’s stunning Andes mountains means preparing for a mix of hiking and outdoor exploration. To make the most of your adventure, dressing right is key. Here’s how to gear up for your Rainbow Mountain hike:

• Layer up: The Andes can surprise you with changing temperatures. Wear layers you can easily put on or take off as the day progresses.
• Pants: Choose pants that are not only comfortable but also tough enough for the trail. Lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants or leggings are your best bet, offering freedom of movement.
• Footwear: The terrain here demands sturdy, supportive footwear. Go for hiking boots or shoes with good grip and ankle support. Sandals or flip-flops are a no-go.
• Accessories: Protect yourself from the strong sun with a hat or beanie, sunglasses, and a generous application of sunscreen. Don’t forget gloves and a scarf or buff for extra warmth.
• Backpack essentials: A well-fitted backpack is vital to carry water, snacks, and additional clothing. Ensure it’s comfortable and balances weight well to avoid back strain.
• Sun protection: The high altitude means intense sun exposure. Pack ample sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from UV rays.
• Rain gear: Be ready for unexpected showers with rain gear or a poncho.
• Snacks and water: With no vendors on the Rainbow Mountain trail, it’s crucial to bring enough snacks and water to stay hydrated and energized throughout your hike.

By dressing in adaptable layers and selecting comfortable, durable gear, you’ll be all set to fully enjoy the breathtaking experience of the Rainbow Mountain tour.

Description of Rainbow Mountain (with late departure)

Experience the magic of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) without the 4 AM wake-up call. Unlike most tour agencies, we offer late departure times at 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM, so you can enjoy a more relaxed start to your day.

Your journey begins with hotel pick-up from anywhere in Cusco—be it a hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or apartment. Sit back and enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through the Andes. When we arrive near the trailhead, our expert chef will serve you a freshly prepared breakfast with coca tea or coffee, all while you take in the stunning mountain views.

After breakfast, we’ll begin our 2-hour hike to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, located at 5,000 meters above sea level. The trail starts gently and gradually becomes steeper near the top. Along the way, you’ll see alpacas, llamas, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Ausangate range.

At the top, your guide will explain the science and history behind the colorful stripes of the mountain, and why Rainbow Mountain holds spiritual importance for local communities. Make sure to bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves—the air is crisp at high altitude!

The hike back down takes about an hour, followed by a delicious picnic lunch in the fresh mountain air. We’ll then return to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 PM, feeling fulfilled and inspired.

Departure and return options for our Rainbow mountain tour

Departure time and approx. return to Cusco:
4:00 AM ~4:00 PM Common time with most agencies
6:30 AM ~6:00–6:30 PM Our standard late departure – less crowded
8:30 AM ~7:00–7:30 PM Our latest departure – quiet trails, better light for photos

Tip: The later you depart, the fewer tourists you’ll encounter at the top of Rainbow Mountain, giving you a more peaceful and personal experience. You will have about 2 hours for the hike in total.

Flexible departure times – Hike with our ATV group at 6:30 AM or 8:30 AM

For those who prefer a later start, we offer two convenient departure times at 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM, both joining our ATV group. The 6:30 AM option includes hotel pick-up, breakfast, and lunch. Once we reach the Rainbow Mountain trailhead, hikers begin walking while the ATV riders continue with their guide. You will have about 2 hours for the hike in total. If you’re booking solo, you might be the only hiker in this group. The 8:30 AM option includes lunch but does not include pick-up from your stay—you’ll meet us near Plaza de Armas at 8:25 AM. Like the earlier slot, you’ll be part of our ATV group but hike the trail on foot.

Optional: Visit the Red Valley (Valle Rojo)

The stunning Red Valley lies next to Rainbow Mountain and offers red-toned landscapes that feel like another planet. However, due to the high altitude, most travelers walk slower than expected and don’t have time to visit both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley on standard tours. Therefore, for our standard (departure 04:00AM, 06:30AM and 08:30 AM) tours, you can not visit Red Valley

If you would like to add extra time to visit the Red Valley on your own, we offer two special options:

Depart from 04:00 AM — Red Valley add-on

• When booking, select option: “Depart from 04:00 AM, 2 hours extra time”
• Includes: Breakfast and lunch
• This tour gives you two extra hours to explore the Red Valley after reaching Rainbow Mountain.
• You’ll join our ATV group, but hike independently. Upon arrival, ATV riders continue with the guide; hikers begin the walk from the trailhead.
• Warning: This tour requires excellent acclimatization due to extended time at high altitude.
• By booking this option, you confirm that you understand and accept personal responsibility for your well-being.
• Note: Visiting Red Valley is on your own (no guide).
• Return: You return with the group that left at 06:30 AM.

Depart from 06:30 AM — Red Valley add-on

• When booking, select option: “Depart from 06:30 AM, 2 hours extra time”
• Includes: Breakfast
• Includes two extra hours for exploring Red Valley after your Rainbow Mountain hike.
• You’ll also join the ATV group, hiking independently from the trailhead.
• Warning: This option also requires you to be well-acclimatized due to prolonged exposure to high altitude.
• Booking means you accept full responsibility for your physical condition.
• Note: No guide accompanies you to the Red Valley.
• Return: You return with the group that left at 08:30 AM.

Why choose this Rainbow Mountain tour?

Whether you’re an early bird or prefer to start the day at a relaxed pace, our flexible departure times make it easier than ever to explore the beauty of Rainbow Mountain your way. Hike after the crowds, enjoy some good meals, and take in one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders. Join us for an unforgettable adventure through the Andes and amazing views of the Rainbow Mountain.

FAQ for Rainbow Mountain (with late departure)