Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour Overview: The Ultimate 1-Day Hike in Peru.

Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley are two of Peru’s top destinations located in the Peruvian Andes, near Cusco. Together, they offer an unforgettable 1-day hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, showcasing the extraordinary beauty of the region’s natural landscapes. Here’s a comprehensive overview of this best Cusco day tour that combines adventure, stunning views, and a unique cultural experience.

Highlights of the Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour:

• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Known for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes, Rainbow Mountain’s mineral-rich soils create stunning bands of red, pink, purple, yellow, and green. At an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), it offers panoramic views of the Andean peaks and valleys. This natural wonder is one of Peru’s best day tours.

• Red Valley: The Red Valley offers a serene and quiet alternative to the busy crowds at Rainbow Mountain. Its striking red-hued landscapes, formed by iron-rich soil, provide an otherworldly experience. With less foot traffic, it’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape in nature.

Tour Duration:

• Total Duration: 8–9 hours, including the travel time from Cusco, the hike to both Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, and ample time for breaks and exploration.

Altitude:

• Rainbow Mountain: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)

• Red Valley: 4,800 meters (15,750 feet)

Due to the high altitude, proper acclimatization in Cusco is essential to avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy this incredible trek.

Trek Difficulty:

• Rainbow Mountain: More challenging with steeper and more rugged terrain.
• Red Valley: Easier, with gentler trails but still requiring stamina due to the high altitude.

Itinerary Overview:

• Early Morning Departure: Our Tours typically depart from Cusco around 4:00–4:30 AM for a scenic 2.5–3 hour drive to the trailhead.

• Arrival at Trailhead: After arriving at the trek’s starting point, you’ll begin the hike to Rainbow Mountain (2–3 hours depending on your pace).

• Explore Rainbow Mountain: Spend 45 minutes to 1 hour at the summit, enjoying the breathtaking views and taking photos of the iconic landscape.

• Hike to Red Valley: After descending from Rainbow Mountain, continue to the Red Valley, where the peaceful, dramatic red terrain offers a quieter experience.

• Return Journey: After completing both treks, descend back to the starting point and drive back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

What to Bring:

• Layered clothing: Weather can be unpredictable, with sunshine, cold, and wind all in one day.

• Comfortable hiking boots with good grip.

• Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect from the intense sun.

• Walking stick (available for rent from your guide).

• Water and snacks for the hike.

• Camera or phone to capture the stunning landscapes.

Best Time to Visit:

• Dry Season (April to October): Ideal for clear skies and stable weather conditions.

• Rainy Season (November to March): Can make hiking conditions more difficult and reduce visibility.

Why You Should Do the Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour:

• Spectacular Scenery: Experience the unique rainbow-colored peaks of Rainbow Mountain and the dramatic, red landscapes of the Red Valley, two of Peru’s most beautiful natural wonders.

• Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Red Valley offers a peaceful and quieter experience compared to the more crowded Rainbow Mountain.

• Cultural Insight: Along the way, observe traditional Andean customs and see local communities, such as herders of llamas and alpacas.

• Physical Challenge: This is the perfect opportunity for those looking for a physical challenge at high altitude, combined with awe-inspiring views.

Why Choose This Tour?

• Best Tour Package in Cusco for a 1-Day Hike: A comprehensive package that includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, meals, and all entry fees—making it the perfect choice for those looking for an all-inclusive adventure.

• Top Cusco Day Tour: This tour is a must-do for those visiting Cusco, as it allows you to experience two of Peru’s most famous destinations in one unforgettable day.

Visiting both Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, perfect for travelers seeking to explore one of the most unique and stunning landscapes in the world. Just remember to take it slow and enjoy the incredible beauty of this high-altitude region!

Hike the Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley tour.

Get ready for an unforgettable day! Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at 4 am, and together, we’ll embark on a roughly 3-hour drive to the trailhead. Along the way, we’ll make a stop for a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the journey ahead.

Once we reach the trailhead, situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters, it’s time to prepare and start our hike. The region is known for its cold and dry climate due to the high altitude, so make sure to dress warmly and be ready for the adventure. The trek is approximately 4 kilometers long, lasting nearly 2.5 hours, as we ascend to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, also known as Winikunqa, which stands at an impressive 5,150 meters above sea level.

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll have ample time to savor the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder and capture memorable photographs. The vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain are truly a sight to behold.

But the adventure doesn’t end there. We’ll continue our hike to explore the Red Valley, located on the backside of Rainbow Mountain. From the higher vantage point, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of this unique all-red valley. After relishing the wonders of both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, we’ll retrace our steps along the same path, returning to where our driver awaits. We’ll then enjoy a scenic 50-minute drive to a restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a delicious and well-deserved lunch.

Following our satisfying meal, we’ll head back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Expect to return to Cusco by approximately 5:30 pm. This day promises to be an extraordinary adventure filled with stunning natural landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

• Entry fees: Include

• Meals: Breakfast and lunch

• Hotel: No include

Inclusions for Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 1-Day Hike: What’s Included in the Best Cusco Day Tour.

✅  Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trailhead (private van or bus).

✅  Professional Guide: English-speaking guide with in-depth knowledge of the region, culture, and history. Guides are usually very familiar with the area’s flora, fauna, and the historical significance of the landscapes.

✅  Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and Red Valley are included in the tour price. This covers access to both sites and any regulated areas.

✅  Meals:

• Breakfast: breakfast at the departure point or during the journey.

• Lunch: A nutritious and hearty lunch on the trail, typically including sandwiches, fruits, snacks, and water. In some cases, meals may be provided at a local restaurant after the trek.

• Snacks and water for the trek, ensuring you’re hydrated and energized during the hike.

✅  First Aid & Safety:

• First aid kit: Carried by the guide to manage any minor injuries or issues during the trek.

• Oxygen tanks: Our guide takes portable oxygen for emergency use at high altitudes, especially helpful for altitude sickness.

✅  Group Size: Small groups or private tours for a more personalized experience. Qorikancha Expeditions is known for offering a more intimate and less crowded experience, ensuring you have time to enjoy the landscapes.

✅  Return Transport: After the trek, you’ll be transported back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or another designated location.

What’s Not Included:

❌  Gratuities: Tips for the guide, driver, and other staff are typically not included in the price.

❌  Personal expenses: Any personal items such as souvenirs, extra snacks, or additional drinks outside the included meals and water.

❌  Travel Insurance: It’s recommended that travelers get travel insurance, as the tour does not typically include coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations.

❌  Horse Rental (optional): Renting a horse for the Rainbow Mountain trek is optional, but it is especially helpful if you feel the effects of the high altitude.

Adults, Group service
$ 135.00 USD
per person (Min. 2 people)

Can I book this as a private tour?

Yes, this tour can be organized as a private experience, with prices varying based on group size:

• $220 per person: For 2-3 people

• $180 per person: For 4-5 people

• $150 per person: For 6-7 people

• $130 per person: For 8 or more people

For a more personalized adventure, choose a private tour that suits your group size!