Rainbow Mountain is said to be the second most visited place in Peru today, after Machu Picchu. Journey from Cusco through the spectacular Andes and trek up to Rainbow Mountain. Never before or after will you experience anything like the colorful sandstone of Rainbow Mountain. Discover the reasons behind the rainbow colors with an informative guided tour. The recently discovered area is surrounded by breathtaking snowcapped peaks, herds of alpaca, glaciers and many different species of birds. This trip of a life time awaits, take a day tour to Rainbow Mountain.

Highlights

• The hike up takes about 1.5 hours along a trail that goes up a desert valley, with full view of glaciers.
• Enjoy the colorful Rainbow Mountain
• Hike for 45 minutes to the Red Valley.
• The hike back to the trail-head enjoying the amazing views of glaciers and valleys.
• Highest elevation: 5100mt/16732ft

Note, A horse can be hired for the majority of the trek. However, the last 600m are too steep for horses and you will have to walk this last part. The cost of the horse is about 100 soles roundtrip which your guide can negotiate.

Itinerary for the Rainbow Mountain Trek

Day 1. Cusco – Rainbow Mt – Red Valley – Cusco

Today begins at 4am with pick up from your hotel. Rainbow Mountain awaits as we set out on a drive for 3 hours through the South Valley, before arriving at the trailhead of Llacto. On the drive see farming Inca terraces, traditional villages, verdant valleys and high Andean peaks.

After you have had your fill and are satisfied with breakfast, we take a short drive to the start of the trek. Firstly, we will follow a lovely stream, with amazing views of Ausangate Mountain and stunning glaciers.

Have the opportunity to interact with the local people and see their traditional culture. Your guide will explain the different clothes and the hats worn by the men. Ask the guide to teach you a few words in Quechua.

Hike for about 1.5 hours and reach our destination: Rainbow Mountain! (5,020m /16,466ft). After admiring the unique beauty of this colorful landscape, you will have time to explore the area. You can take pictures or just soak up the view. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the top. Later, you are able to hike across to the Red Valley for 45 minutes, enjoy the red valley and mountains and finally we walk back to the trail head.

We will embark on the 3-hour drive back to Cusco and drop you off at your Cusco hotel, arriving around 5:00pm.

Note, there is an option to rent a horse from local people right at the starting point of the trek.

What is included on the Rainbow Mountain 1 Day Trek?

• Pick-up at your hotel the morning of your trek.
• Private transport from Cusco to Llacto trailhead and back to Cusco
• English speaking, experienced and professional guide
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
• First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle.

Not Included

• Horses, which can be rented at the trailhead (100 soles roundtrip)
• Trekking Poles – $15
• Tips for the driver, guide and cooks