Rainbow Mountain Hike
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Andes Mountain Range

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16,522ft

START POINT

Cusco

DURATION

Full Day

PRICE

$50

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate

SERVICE

Shared

START POINT

Cusco

SERVICE

Shared

DURATION

Full Day

PRICE

50
Home » Tours » Rainbow Mountain Hike

Experience Overview

Embark on an unforgettable rainbow-mountain-hike and explore one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders. Located just a few hours from Cusco, this stunning destination is famous for its vibrant, multi-colored stripes. These unique shades, created by mineral deposits over centuries, make it a must-see for nature lovers. Moreover, the journey offers breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and a rewarding high-altitude trek.

Why Visit Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is among the top hiking spots in Peru. In addition to its stunning scenery, it provides a chance to meet local Quechua communities. As you hike, you may also spot alpacas and vicuñas grazing freely. Furthermore, the striking red, yellow, and turquoise hues shift with the sunlight, making each visit unique. For this reason, Rainbow Mountain has become one of the most photographed places in the Andes.

Tour Itinerary:

Pick-up (4:00 – 4:30 AM): We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and, after a short briefing, begin our scenic drive into the Andes. After about 1.5 hours, we will stop at a cozy countryside restaurant for a delicious breakfast. This is also a great time to buy last-minute essentials like snacks, water, and sunscreen. In addition, this stop allows you to acclimate before continuing the journey.

Drive to the Trailhead (6:30 – 7:30 AM): The journey continues through stunning Andean landscapes and traditional villages. Along the way, you’ll pass picturesque farmlands and see herds of alpacas grazing in the fields. Moreover, the road offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, adding to the adventure.

Rainbow Mountain Hike (8:00 – 9:30 AM): After a short briefing from our professional guide, we’ll start the rainbow-mountain-hike to the summit (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Since the altitude can be challenging, we recommend taking breaks along the way. The trek takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at a moderate pace. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360° views. Take incredible photos, admire the nearby Ausangate Glacier, and soak in the beauty of this natural wonder. If you need assistance, horseback rentals are available (subject to availability).

Descent and Return (10:30 – 12:30 PM): After enjoying the panoramic views, we will begin our descent back to the starting point. Since the return is mostly downhill, it will be easier than the ascent. Once we arrive, our private transport will be waiting for you.

Lunch & Return to Cusco (1:30 – 4:30 PM): After that, we will stop for a well-deserved buffet lunch featuring delicious Peruvian cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal. Finally, we will head back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 4:30 PM.


ITINERARY

  •  Pick-up: 4:00 – 4:30 AM: We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and start our journey towards the Andes. After about 1.5 hours, we will stop at a countryside restaurant to enjoy a delicious breakfast. This is also a great opportunity to purchase last-minute essentials like snacks, water, and sunscreen.
  • Drive to the Trailhead: 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes as we head to the base of Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, you’ll see local communities, grazing alpacas, and stunning mountain scenery.
  • Hike to Rainbow Mountain: 8:00 – 9:30 AM: After a briefing from our professional guide, we begin our hike towards the summit (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). The ascent takes approximately 1.5 – 2 hours at a moderate pace. Once at the top, you’ll have around 45 minutes to take in the incredible views, capture amazing photos, and admire the surrounding peaks, including the mighty Ausangate Glacier. If needed, horseback rentals are available (subject to availability).
  • Return to Base: 10:30 – 12:30 PM: We begin our descent back to the starting point, where our private transport will be waiting.
  • Lunch & Return to Cusco: 1:30 – 4:30 PM: After the hike, we will stop for a well-deserved buffet lunch featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine (vegetarian and vegan options available). Following lunch, we head back to Cusco, arriving at around 4:30 PM, where we will drop you off in the city center.

INCLUSION

INCLUDES

  • Breakfast.
  • Hotel pick-up.
  • Round-trip transportation.
  • Buffet lunch.
  • Entrance fee to the Rainbow Mountain.
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish & English).
  • First aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies.

NOT INCLUDED

  • Trekking poles available for rent to assist your hike.
  • Horse rental option for an easier ascent.
  • Rain poncho available for purchase along the way.
  • Dinner not included.
  • Tips not included.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Extra cash (local currency) for small expenses like restroom fees.
  • Warm clothing, including thermal wear, a jacket, and gloves.
  • Comfortable hiking shoes for a safe and enjoyable trek.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure.
  • A small backpack to carry essentials and extra layers.
  • Water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
  • Rain poncho or waterproof gear, especially from November to April.
  • Valid passport or ID for identification.

ADDITIONAL INFO

Health and Age Considerations

  • Not recommended for individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.
  • Not suitable for pregnant travelers or people over 60 years old.
  • A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
  • Not wheelchair accessible.
  • Minimum age to participate is 8 years old.

Weather and Preparation

  • The hike is challenging due to high altitude and constantly changing weather conditions.
  • Rainbow Mountain is over 5,000 meters above sea level, meaning freezing temperatures are common.
  • Dress appropriately in layers, as the weather can shift suddenly.
  • It is advised to acclimate in Cusco for at least two days before the excursion.
  • Drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness and bring coca leaves to ease symptoms.
  • If you experience severe altitude sickness, descend as soon as possible.

Best Time to Visit

  • The ideal time to visit is early in the morning or late in the evening, around sunrise or sunset.
  • Avoid visiting during the rainy season in the afternoon, as the high mineral concentration in the area increases the risk of lightning strikes.

Hiking Tips

  • Take your time and maintain a steady pace to reduce the effects of altitude.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the trek.
  • Take breaks when needed and listen to your body—if you feel dizzy or exhausted, rest before continuing.
  • Try to reach the highest viewpoint for a stunning 360° view of Rainbow Mountain, nearby glaciers, and breathtaking valleys.

Local Culture and Photography

  • Many locals wear traditional clothing, not for tourism but as part of their heritage. You may also see them herding llamas and alpacas along the trail.
  • If you want to take a photo with locals and their llamas, a tip of around 5 soles ($2) is expected.
  • Don’t forget to get your passport stamped at Rainbow Mountain for a small fee of 2 soles.

Group Tours

  • If you are in a group tour, be mindful that some members will hike faster or slower than others. Most of the group will stay together on the flatter sections, but the final ascent may cause groups to split. Those who arrive first at the summit should wait for the rest before receiving explanations from the guide.

Environmental Responsibility

  • Help preserve Rainbow Mountain by staying on marked trails, not littering, and respecting the local wildlife. Responsible tourism ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy this natural wonder.

Strikes and Demonstrations

  • In case of road blockages due to strikes, we will monitor the situation closely. If travel is impossible, your tour will be canceled, and you will receive a full refund. Your safety is our priority.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

  • Full refund: If you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour starts.
  • Partial refund: If you cancel between 24 hours and 7 PM the day before the tour, your deposit will not be refunded.
  • No refund: If you cancel after 7 PM the day before the tour, you will lose the full payment.

FAQ

How can I book the Rainbow Mountain tour with Waka Explorers?

For now, bookings are made directly through our contact form on the website. Just follow these steps:

  1. Fill out the contact form with your details and the date you’d like to take the tour.
  2. You can also click on “Plan Your Trip” and send us a message via WhatsApp or email.
  3. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible to coordinate the details and answer any questions.
  4. To secure your spot, a prepayment is required at least 2 days before the tour.

What are the payment methods?

You can securely pay through PayPal, Stripe, or Visa.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to help you plan an unforgettable experience at Rainbow Mountain!

Is it mandatory to bring a passport?

It’s not required, but if you’d like to get a commemorative stamp as a souvenir of your visit to Rainbow Mountain, we recommend bringing it with you.

Why is your tour more expensive than others?

There are more affordable options in Cusco, but they usually operate with large groups (up to 20 people) and less experienced guides, sometimes even training students who do not carry oxygen. At Waka Explorers, we keep our groups small (maximum of 6 people) and work with expert guides who are fluent in English and highly experienced in trekking. Additionally, we provide fresh meals prepared by a professional chef and work with highly trained drivers to ensure safety and comfort.

Do you offer student discounts?

Unfortunately, we do not offer student discounts for this tour.

Why choose Waka Explorers?

  • Trips Managed by Local Experts
  • Personalized Small Group Tours
  • Customized Packages
  • Expert Guides
  • Environmental Commitment
  • Great Value for Money

Rainbow Mountain Tour Gallery