Rainbow Mountain Day trip From Cusco

All-Inclusive Full Day Hike

1 Day

From

39 USD

per person

Duration

FULL DAY

Tour Type

DAILY TOUR

Group Size

2 - 18 PEOPLE

Difficulty level

EASY TO MODERATE

Language

ENGLISH SPANISH

DESCRIPTION

Rainbow Mountain Day Trip

Conquer the summit of the iconic Vinicunca ridge on our Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco, the most sought-after full-day trekking adventure in the Peruvian Andes. Specially crafted to deliver a seamless, safe, and memorable journey, this day trip eliminates the stress of organizing remote high-altitude transportation. Your journey begins early in the morning with a direct pickup at your Cusco hotel, boarding our comfortable tourist transport to head south through the Sacred Valley toward the town of Cusipata.

Upon arrival at our partner restaurant, you will fuel up with an energizing buffet breakfast designed for high-altitude trekking. We then continue by vehicle to Phulawasipata (4,600 m / 15,091 ft), where the trail begins. During the 1.5 to 2-hour gradual hike, you will walk past Andean valleys, roaming alpacas, and mountain hamlets until reaching the main Vinicunca overlook (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Enjoy ample time to rest, snap the iconic postcard photo of Rainbow Mountain, and admire the majestic Ausangate glacier before descending.

Safety-First Operations & Direct Local Service:

At Cultural Perú, passenger safety is our highest priority. Our package includes certified bilingual mountain guides, first-aid kits with emergency oxygen tanks, experienced high-altitude drivers, and a return trip to Cusipata for a flavorful buffet lunch before returning to Cusco.

We also have the Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour and the Humantay Lake day trip all inclusive from Cusco, consult with our operators for more information.

WHY CHOOSE

Why Book Your Rainbow Mountain Day Trip with Us

Early Departures & Efficient Logistics

We coordinate early departures (between 04:00 AM and 04:30 AM) to reach the trailhead ahead of the largest crowds, ensuring quieter trails and optimal photo lighting.

Full Buffet Breakfast & Lunch Included

Stay energized with fresh local cuisine: hot drinks, fruits, and a varied buffet lunch prepared in clean, hygienic dining facilities in Cusipata.

Optional Horse Rental & Altitude Assistance

If you prefer not to hike the full trail, local community members at Phulawasipata offer horse rentals (paid directly to locals). Our guide stays with the group at all times carrying emergency oxygen.

Transparent Pricing & Direct WhatsApp Support

By booking with Cultural Perú, you avoid third-party agency markups, locking in transparent rates and direct communication with our local team in Cusco.

LET YOURSELF BE INSPIRED!

Rainbow Mountain Vinincunca

OUR

Full Day Rainbow Mountain Itinerary

Trip Summary:

Duration: Full Day (Approx. 12 Hours)

Difficulty Level: Moderate / Challenging (due to elevation of 5,200 m / 17,060 ft)

04:00 AM – 04:30 AM – Hotel Pickup in Cusco: Picked up from your hotel in central Cusco in a comfortable vehicle.
06:30 AM – Buffet Breakfast in Cusipata: Stop at our partner restaurant for hot drinks, bread, eggs, and fruit.
08:00 AM – Arrival at Trailhead (Phulawasipata): Reach the trailhead (4,600 m / 15,091 ft) for safety instructions before starting the hike.
10:00 AM – Vinicunca Summit (5,200 m / 17,060 ft): Reach the main view point, enjoy free time for photos and guide explanations overlooking Ausangate.
11:30 AM – Return Descent Hike: Walk back along the same trail to the Phulawasipata parking area.
01:30 PM – Buffet Lunch in Cusipata: Enjoy a delicious local buffet lunch at our restaurant to recharge.
04:30 PM – Return Transfer to Cusco: Final arrival back in central Cusco (Plaza de Armas or hotel drop-off).

OPTIONS

Trekking Options: Choices for Every Traveler

Hiking Option

Traditional Hike (Included)

Physical Difficulty

Moderate

Service Description

Standard guided walk along the official designated trail.

Hiking Option

Horse Rental (Optional)

Physical Difficulty

Low

Service Description

Option to rent horses directly from local community members at the trailhead.

Hiking Option

ATV / Quad Bike Route (Special)

Physical Difficulty

Minimal

Service Description

Alternative ATV route along a secondary trail to minimize walking distance.

TOUR

What’s Included and Excluded

Inclusions:

Pre-tour information.
Round-trip tourist transport (Cusco – Phulawasipata – Cusco).
Certified English/Spanish Mountain Guide.
Full Buffet Breakfast in Cusipata.
Full Buffet Lunch in Cusipata (vegetarian options available).
Community entrance permit to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
First-aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle.
Trekking poles (upon advance request).

Exclusions:

Horse rental (optional, ~80 to 100 PEN paid directly to community horse handlers).
Personal expenses and tips.
Red Valley entrance ticket (optional on site, ~20 PEN).

Essential Altitude & Packing Tips

Acclimatize First: We strongly advise spending at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco before taking this tour to adjust to high altitude.
Dress in Layers: High mountain weather changes fast. Bring a windbreaker jacket, fleece layer, gloves, beanie, and sturdy hiking shoes.
Sun Protection & Hydration: Use FPS 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and drink coca tea or water to stay hydrated.
Wear warm clothing.
Sunscreen (Preferably factor 90+).
Canes
In the rainy season a water poncho.
Hiking shoes (hike / trekking).
Water.

Before travelling

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking time, as well as stairs.
Some of the places you will visit are about 3800 meters above sea level, higher than the city of Cusco.
There will be stops at local artisan souvenir shops so you can browse and shop, if you like.

CONSULT

Prices

The price is per person. Request our seasonal offers and promotions for last minute bookings. If you have questions regarding prices, destinations or the tour, we will be happy to assist you. Write to us at info@culturalperu.com, you can also contact us at:

Cell phone – WhatsApp: +51 974 306885.
Cell phone – WhatsApp: +51 974 995090.

IMPORTANT

For reservations 3 months in advance request a special discount.
For groups larger than 4 people, contact us to send you a special price.

OFFERS

Transparent Pricing: Rainbow Mountain Day Trip

GROUP SERVICE - Minimun 02 people

(Per person rates including tourist transport, buffet meals, official guide, oxygen gear, and entrance fees)

Rainbow Mountain Day Trip Price

Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain.
Guided tour for a GROUP.

39.00 USD

Consult

Per Person

👑 Looking for a Private Tour or ATV Adventure?

If you prefer a private vehicle with flexible departure times or want to add an exciting ATV Quad Bike adventure to Rainbow Mountain, we can build a customized itinerary.

Check Live Availability & Book on WhatsApp Here

CONTACT

Reservation Form

From

39 USD

Contáct us

You have a question?

Do not hesitate on calling us. We are a team of experts and we are happy to speak with you.

QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions: Rainbow Mountain Day Trip

How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike?

The hike is moderately challenging primarily due to the altitude (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). The path is a gradual incline that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Can I rent a horse at the trailhead?

Yes, local community members offer horse rentals at Phulawasipata for most of the trail. Cost is approximately 80 to 100 PEN paid directly in cash.

Where does pickup take place?

Hotel pickup is included directly from accommodations in central Cusco between 04:00 AM and 04:30 AM.

Are vegetarian or vegan meals available?

Yes, the buffet lunch in Cusipata includes fresh salads, sautéed vegetables, rice, beans, and hot dishes suitable for vegetarians.

What if I experience altitude sickness (soroche)?

Our guides carry emergency medical oxygen tanks and first-aid supplies to assist you immediately if you feel dizzy or short of breath.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, provided they are properly acclimatized in Cusco for a couple of days beforehand.

What makes this day trip different from other hikes?

This page focuses on the classic, hassle-free Full Day itinerary directly from Cusco with guaranteed timing and full buffet meals included.

Why book directly with Cultural Perú?

We offer guaranteed departures, verified high-altitude drivers, small group management, and direct WhatsApp support from Cusco.

REVIEWS

Traveler Reviews & Feedback

★★★★★: "El Tour a la Montaña de 7 Colores superó nuestras expectativas. Teníamos miedo por la altura, pero el guía llevó oxígeno en todo momento y el almuerzo buffet fue excelente."

★★★★★: "Transparencia total desde el primer contacto. Nos explicaron la opción de los caballos y los tiempos exactos. Muy recomendados para hacer este tour desde Cusco."

★★★★★: "An incredible day trip! The Tour to Rainbow Mountain (7 Colors) was perfectly organized by Cultural Perú. Having safety equipment and oxygen on hand gave us complete peace of mind!"

"Challenging hike with rewarding views" "Taking this Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco was a highlight of my Peru trip. Altitude is real, but the guide carried oxygen and helped us all the way."

"Punctual pickup and great food" "Picked up right at 4:15 AM at our hotel. The transport was very comfortable and the buffet lunch in Cusipata was delicious."

"Best way to visit Vinicunca" "Booked via WhatsApp with Cultural Perú. Everything went super smoothly. The views at 5,200 m are absolutely breathtaking."

"Unforgettable mountain scenery" "Reaching 17,000 feet was a bucket-list achievement. Huge thanks to our guide for pacing us and providing trekking poles."