Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 1-Day Hike: Best Cusco Day Tour to Peru's Top Destinations
Experience the ultimate one-day adventure with Qoricancha Expeditions. Our Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 1-Day Hike offers you two of Peru’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders in a single day. Perfect for travelers looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience near Cusco, this tour combines vibrant landscapes, stunning Andean views, and deep cultural insights.
Start your journey with a scenic trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), famous for its surreal multi-colored slopes reaching an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Along the way, our expert guides will share fascinating insights into the geology and history behind these breathtaking colors.
After soaking in panoramic views, continue to the Red Valley, a hidden gem known for its dramatic red landscapes formed by iron-rich soils. This peaceful and less-traveled valley offers a quieter, equally stunning experience.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast and a nutritious lunch prepared to energize your hike. Our team ensures your comfort, safety, and an unforgettable trekking experience.
Book your Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley hike with Qoricancha Expeditions today and immerse yourself in the unmatched beauty of Peru's Andes.
OVERVIEW
Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Tour Overview: The Ultimate 1-Day Hike in Peru
Explore two of Peru's most iconic destinations on a spectacular day hike.
Highlights:
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Marvel at the vibrant bands of red, yellow, green, and purple at 5,200 meters above sea level.
- Red Valley: Discover tranquil red landscapes with fewer crowds and breathtaking natural beauty.
Duration:
- Total Time: 8–9 hours including travel, hiking, and exploration.
Altitude:
- Rainbow Mountain: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)
- Red Valley: 4,800 meters (15,750 feet)
Trek Difficulty:
- Rainbow Mountain: Challenging with steep and rugged trails.
- Red Valley: Easier, but still requires stamina at high altitude.
Itinerary Overview:
- Departure: Early morning (4:00–4:30 AM)
- Hike to Rainbow Mountain: 2–3 hours
- Summit Exploration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Hike to Red Valley: Peaceful continuation after Rainbow Mountain
- Return: Afternoon descent and drive back to Cusco
What to Bring:
- Layered clothing, hiking boots, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, walking stick, water, snacks, camera
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Season (April–October) for ideal weather and clear skies.
Why This Tour?
- Unmatched natural beauty
- Peaceful exploration of the Red Valley
- Insight into local Andean culture and traditions
- Physical challenge with rewarding landscapes
ITINERARY
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
What's Included in Your Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Day Tour
- ✅ Private Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Cusco.
- ✅ Professional English-speaking Guide: Expert in local culture, flora, and fauna.
- ✅ Entrance Fees: Access to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
- ✅ Meals:
- Breakfast before the hike
- Lunch on the trail or post-trek at a local restaurant
- Snacks and water
- ✅ Safety Equipment:
- First aid kit
- Portable oxygen tank
- ✅ Small Group Experience: Intimate groups for personalized attention.
- ✅ Hotel Drop-off: Return to your hotel or central location in Cusco.
Not Included
- ❌ Gratuities for guide and driver
- ❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra snacks)
- ❌ Travel insurance
- ❌ Optional horse rental
PRICE
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!
FAQS
What is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (from April to October), when the weather is more stable, and the skies are clearer. The rainy season (November to March) can make hiking more difficult and may reduce visibility due to rain or clouds.
How difficult is the trek to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley?
The trek is moderately difficult due to the high altitude and steep terrain. Rainbow Mountain is at an altitude of 5,100 meters (16,660 feet), and the Red Valley is around 4,800 meters (15,750 feet). Proper acclimatization in Cusco or other high-altitude areas is essential before attempting the hike to avoid altitude sickness.
Do I need to be physically fit to do this trek?
While the trek does require some level of fitness due to the altitude and steep trails, it is accessible for most people who are in reasonable physical condition. However, it can be demanding, so it’s important to pace yourself and take breaks. If you are unsure, you can opt to rent a horse for assistance during the trek (especially for the ascent).
Should I rent a horse?
Renting a horse is optional, but it can be very helpful if you’re not accustomed to high-altitude trekking or if you find the steep terrain challenging. Horses are available for rent to help with the ascent, making it easier to conserve energy. Many people choose to ride a horse for part of the trek and walk down after reaching the summit.
How long is the tour?
The full tour lasts around 8–9 hours, including travel time from Cusco, the hike to Rainbow Mountain, and visiting Red Valley. The trek itself typically takes 4-6 hours depending on your pace, and the driving time is about 2.5–3 hours each way.
What should I bring for the trek?
We recommend packing the following items for the trek:
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
Layered clothing for varying weather conditions (it can be cold in the morning and hot during the day)
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the sun
Water and snacks (though some snacks are provided, it’s good to have extra)
A walking stick (if you prefer additional support on steep or rocky terrain)
A camera to capture the stunning views
Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes, acclimatization is essential for hiking at high altitudes. It is recommended to spend 1-2 days in Cusco or another high-altitude location before attempting the trek to allow your body to adjust to the thinner air and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is suitable for most adults and children, provided they are in good health and can handle the physical demands of hiking at high altitudes. However, if you or a child are not comfortable with the physical challenge, renting a horse can be a great option to ease the hike. For seniors, it’s important to assess their fitness and health conditions, particularly regarding high-altitude activities.
How do I book the tour?
You can book the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour directly through the Qorikancha Expeditions website or by contacting their customer service team. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.
