Get back to nature on a 2-hour and approximately 6-kilometer hike in the Rainbow Mountains and look for local wildlife on a full-day tour from Cusco. Encounter endless extraordinary landscapes with a knowledgeable guide.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Reserve now & pay later to book your spot without any charges today. Learn more
Duration 12 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: Spanish, English
Pickup included: Please provide your hotel’s name and address in Cusco center. Please indicate if you are staying at a private accommodation (with address), you will then be provided with a meeting point close by.
Small group: Limited to 10 participants

Highlights

Hike in the spectacular Rainbow Mountains
Look for exotic wildlife in their natural habitat
Trek with like-minded travelers to a magnificent viewpoint

Full description

Depart Cusco and get back to nature on a vigorous approximately 6-kilometer hike in the Andes. Experience the majestic beauty of the Rainbow Mountains as you trek in the foothills of Mount Ausangate. Keep a look out for native wildlife, such as the mighty condor - the largest bird in the world - pumas and different types of camelids. Learn more about the extraordinary geology and the flora and fauna of Peru from your knowledgeable guide. Soak up the stunning views before you return to Cusco for a refreshing cold chicha drink (a fermented or non-fermented beverage usually derived from maize).

Includes

Hotel pickup (within the historic center of Cusco only)
Transportation
Breakfast
Buffet lunch
Guide
First aid
Entrance ticket

Water
Gratuities (optional)

Not suitable for

Pregnant women
People with back problems
People with mobility impairments
People with heart problems
Wheelchair users

Covid-19 precautions

You must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask
You must fill out a travel information form
You will receive a mandatory temperature check

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes
Warm clothing
Water
Jacket
Comfortable clothes
Rain gear

Know before you go

This activity includes a considerable amount of walking at high altitude. Horses are available to be rented for part of the trip to help you up the mountain. Please note that the local partner does not offer this service, it must be arranged privately. Horses will take you to 200 meters from the top, then you will finish the climb. Price: 70 to 90 Soles, round-trip, cash only.
The total walk up and down the mountain takes about 3 hours.
The trek is mostly flat, except for the ascent to the top, where it is very steep.
Please note that due to the remoteness of the places, meals may be very simple. Both are offered as a courtesy as there are very limited options. Please do not expect luxury.

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 136 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.8/5
Transportation
4.5/5
Value for money
4.5/5
Safety
4.4/5

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We were very privileged to experience Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Freddy was our amazing guide on this journey. The hike itself was doable and offered amazing views, but the altitude of 5000+ meters really knocked us. I highly recommend this hike and Freddy but warn that it should be done after you have acclimated in Cusco for 3-4 days in addition to taking altitude medication.

May 20, 2022

We had an incredible time visiting the mountains - guides were great, food at restaurant was excellent and the views were phenomenal. We would highly recommend taking altitude sickness tablets a few days before going up and on the day of, otherwise you get really bad headaches and it ruins the experience!

April 9, 2022

A must-do day! I was the only English speaker in my group and the guide did an absolutely wonderful job of making me feel informed and included. The vibe was relaxed, friendly, and the guides really go out of their way to make you feel taken care of. I had expressed concerns over walking alone as a solo female traveler in the dark (for pickup) and the driver came and got me to make sure I felt safe, even going out of his way to walk me back after drop off (even though it was out of the way and sunny out!) Couldn't recommend this enough. A unforgettable experience and fantastic group.

February 7, 2022

From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek with Meals

From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek with Meals

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