Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco | Vinicunca Hike | Optional 8AM
Recommended by 92% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Cusco, Peru
- 12 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Why travelers loved this
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Overview
See Peru's Rainbow Mountain, known for its stripes of colorful mineral deposits, in just one day on this tour from Cusco. Hike with a guide to the summit for a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness adventure, or rent a horse (own expense) for easier access to the same incredible views. Entrance to the mountain is not included.
- Perfect for anyone who wants to see Rainbow Mountain conveniently
- Hike the mountain with a guide or rent a horse to take you up
- Stay fueled with included breakfast and lunch
- Hotel pickup included, and drop-off in central Cusco adds convenience
What's Included
- Transportation with hotel pick up
- Professional multi-lingual guide (English and Spanish)
- Breakfast and lunch for 4 am departure
- Snacks & Lunch for 8am departure
- First Aid Kit
- Entrance fee - Rainbow MountainPEN30.00 per person
- Horses (available to rent directly in the first town)
- Drinks
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
bookings are 100% confirmed, Exact pick up time will be provided 24 hours before travel date. (they may change to 20 minutes later or 20 minutes earlier).
Itinerary
Begin your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel. Drive through Peru’s rugged mountain landscape until reaching the town of Quessiuno, to eat breakfast before starting your hike.
Trek uphill, taking in the colorful views of the Rainbow Mountains. Learn about the local flora and fauna from your guide as you go.
Once reaching the peak of the mountain, take time to enjoy the view of the mountain and the snow-capped Ausangate beyond. Then, make your way downhill and eat a leisurely lunch back in town.
Return to Cusco where you get dropped off at the Regocijo Square, one block from Cusco’s central plaza.
Please note: This tour is recommended for those in strong physical shape who have acclimated to the altitude. It is also possible to rent a horse (own expense) if you don’t wish to hike.
Trek uphill, taking in the colorful views of the Rainbow Mountains. Learn about the local flora and fauna from your guide as you go.
Once reaching the peak of the mountain, take time to enjoy the view of the mountain and the snow-capped Ausangate beyond. Then, make your way downhill and eat a leisurely lunch back in town.
Return to Cusco where you get dropped off at the Regocijo Square, one block from Cusco’s central plaza.
Please note: This tour is recommended for those in strong physical shape who have acclimated to the altitude. It is also possible to rent a horse (own expense) if you don’t wish to hike.
1
Cusipata
2 hours • Admission Ticket Free
2
Vinicunca Mountain
1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included
3
Rainbow Mountain Cusco Tour Company
1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included
4
Vinicunca Mountain
1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included
Plaza Regocijo (Kusipata) (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Not recommended for people over 65 years of age
- A strenuous amount of walking is involved
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
- Recommendable to arrive to Cusco around 48 hours before the trip
- This hike is from 15419 ft (4700 Meters) to the 16522ft (5036 Meters) of elevation.
- Total tour time from departure to return is estimated about 12hrs
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
Supplied by
Frequently Asked Questions (2)
Q:What is the pick up location?
A:We offer pick ups from most hotels. Let us know where you are staying in the 'Special Requirements' box in the Traveler Details section during checkout. Or you can let us know after booking by visiting 'Manage my Booking' and emailing us there.
Jul 2019
The answers provided are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Tiffany_Z
We had such a great experience, everything exceeded our expectations. Our tour guide was very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. He made sure everyone in our group could keep up comfortably. The breakfast and lunch tasted great and was at a really clean and new hotel. Would highly recommend this.
Reviews
4.7
based on 756 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Gabriel_W, Jun 2026
traffic both ways so a 3 hr plus drive, last hour is on a dirt road.
great to see rainbow mountains with a handful of other tourists.
an additional 25 sol cost pp
Lezlie_W, May 2026
This is a spectacular experience and a must to truly feel the Andes Mountains. The guide, Juan, was great and the entire trip is streamlined and efficient.
Ginny_W, May 2026
A worthwhile trip - we had snow, so wrap up warm. The snow slowly melted throughout the hike and we were rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Rainbow Mountain slowly revealed the amazing colours by lunchtime and our photos are stunning. A delicious breakfast and lunch were provided in beautiful surroundings. The hike wasn’t too arduous and can also be made on horseback with locals.
Tiffany_Z, Apr 2026
We had such a great experience, everything exceeded our expectations. Our tour guide was very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. He made sure everyone in our group could keep up comfortably. The breakfast and lunch tasted great and was at a really clean and new hotel. Would highly recommend this.
Sage_B, Apr 2026
José is an amazing tour guide. He is very talkative and friendly. He picked the best time for the rainbow mountain, it starts to rain shortly after we start to descend. We didn’t bring any cash and he paid the entrance fee for us and we paid him when we are back in Cusco. He also took care of my friend when she had severe AMS, giving her meds and called a horse to carry her. We are very grateful for him and happy about the experience
Yudan_L, Apr 2026
It was very good experience. We have 2 family groups, 7 people in total. We got a 12 people van, felt like a private tour. The breakfast and lunch are at a newly built hotel, very clean and beautiful. Food was freshly cooked and very yummy. Tour guide was very experienced and flexible. I highly recommend this one.
Jenny_P, Feb 2026
The rainbow mountain was very challenging, but our guide was so patient with us.
We opted to hike at first and ended up taking horse (s) when it became too difficult. Our guide was extremely supportive during the entire hike.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience on the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: Vinicunca Hiking Tour! We’re happy our guide could support you throughout this challenging adventure. At Andina Expeditions, we always adapt the pace and offer options like horses to help guests reach the stunning Rainbow Mountain safely. We hope to see you again in Cusco!
Julie_D, Feb 2026
From beginning to end the tour was well organised and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your recommendation! We’re happy you enjoyed the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: Vinicunca Hiking Tour. At Andina Expeditions, we work hard to provide well-organized tours and unforgettable experiences exploring Rainbow Mountain from Cusco. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again on another adventure in Peru!
hong_w, Dec 2025
Both the guide and the driver were very friendly. The guide ran back and forth to help everyone in need. Indeed, it's not an easy trip for the guests due to the high elevation. But the guide made sure everyone was well. Really helpful!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We’re glad you enjoyed the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: Vinicunca Hiking Tour. At Andina Expeditions, our guides and drivers always work together to support guests at high altitude and ensure a safe experience exploring Rainbow Mountain. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to see you again in Cusco!
Kristen_J, Dec 2025
Anibal was a FANTASTIC tour guide! Allowed us all the keep the pace at which we were comfortable and helped us all get the experience we wanted! He was extremely knowledgeable about the mountains and community which made the journey that much better!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your great review! We’re happy you enjoyed the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: Vinicunca Hiking Tour. Anibal will be delighted to hear your kind words. At Andina Expeditions, our guides always adapt the pace and share knowledge about the Andes and local communities to make the Rainbow Mountain experience unforgettable.
EVELYN_M, Dec 2025
Once you get to the top you'll be proud of yourself! Ok I'll be honest the journey to the mountain was long, the restaurant had meh food and it was the same location for breakfast and lunch. I choose to go up the mountain via motorcycle and even once I reached the top I struggled breathing so really take your time. I got some great pics! Glad I pushed myself.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience on the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: Vinicunca Hiking Tour. Reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain is truly an achievement, especially at high altitude. At Andina Expeditions, we offer different options such as hiking, horses, or motorcycles so everyone can enjoy Vinicunca safely. We’re glad you captured great photos and enjoyed the adventure!
Rubie_G, Dec 2025
It was unbelievable and a memorable experience going up to see the rainbow mountain especially if you are not that physically fit . The rented horse did the 80% of the hike and the remaining 20% you will do it yourself. The tour guide (Ruben) was very helpful and supportive. He explained what is going to happen on the hike and he will motivate you not to give up. Most of all, you will never forget your experience as Ruben took beautiful pictures and video’s of you. 😁Overall, I Highly Recommend this tour. For your preparation, I suggest to do a cardio exercise for your breathing and it will help your climb to high altitude.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re happy you enjoyed the Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: Vinicunca Hiking Tour. Ruben will be glad to hear your kind words. At Andina Expeditions, we support travelers with options like horses and expert guidance so everyone can enjoy the beauty of Rainbow Mountain and capture unforgettable photos of this incredible adventure.
MaRhodora_P, Oct 2025
I’m not sure if I can do it but our tour guide Ruben is very supportive and know what to do. He give me oxygen and help me go up the mountain. I was able to see the mountains. Thank you.
Brittany_M, Aug 2025
Our tour guide, Annibal, made our Rainbow Mountain day trip extremely uncomfortable. From the beginning, he made repeated inappropriate sexual comments and asked intrusive personal questions that no guide should ever ask. His behavior came across as creepy and unprofessional, and instead of making the experience enjoyable, his constant banter was a nuisance.
On top of that, he did not return the correct change for our Rainbow Mountain ticket, even after we asked him for it multiple times. This felt dishonest and disrespectful.
The worst moment came at the end of the tour, when he kissed me on the cheek with noticeable pressure. While we understand cheek kisses can be customary in Peru, this was unwanted and far too forward, crossing a clear line.
It’s important to mention that the driver and the other guide were very professional and respectful. Annibal’s actions are not a reflection of them, but his conduct was unacceptable and left us feeling uncomfortable and taken advantage of.
Rainbow Mountain itself is breathtaking and absolutely worth visiting, but I would strongly advise avoiding any tour led by Annibal. His behavior was unprofessional, inappropriate, and put a damper on what should have been a memorable experience.
Martta_K, Aug 2025
Everything went so smoothly for us and our guides were so helpful and knowledgeful regarding everything! Also during the car ride we got to know new things about different things we passed and villages we driced by. Excellent experience!
Ralph_K, Aug 2025
Outstanding experience, friendly and sensitive guide, we took horses for the way up and therefore didn’t have any problems (exercise is not a good idea at this altitude)
Be prepared for wind and the cold. Don’t miss this experience - higher than the highest mountain in Europe!
Abbey_F, Jul 2025
A chance to view rainbow mountain and red valley in a day with buffet breakfast and lunch included. The day was an early start but so worth it!
kmathyakom, Jul 2025
The view and the hike just take your breath away, highly recommend. Alfredo our guide is highly knowledgeable and he’s encouraged me to complete the hike successfully. Great value for money.
Matt_G, Jun 2025
Later morning departure and earlier return were good features here especially if you are tight on time in Cusco
Andrew_R, Jun 2025
Great crew and experience, the breakfast and lunch was a buffet and food tasted great. The guides were excellent lead by Rubin. All eager to help take photos and vids of us and guide us up the mountains.
Jason_D, May 2025
Our guides were excellent. They provided us with lots of information along the drive and during the hike. They were also very supportive of everyone in the group, as the hike is tough due to the altitude! The provided meals were very good.
Jennifer_A, May 2025
O did not receive back my money change! I asked the guided, but he used my money change like a tip! But I asked, I didn’t like the way he made! The food is terrible also!
Ariel_S, May 2025
This experience is intense. The altitude is no joke. Our guides were super friendly and encouraging, had it not been for them I wouldn’t have made it to the top. Pack water, gloves, a poncho , coca candy, and soles. You got this👍🏾
Priya_P, Apr 2025
Challenging but such a rewarding trek and experience, especially with such a warm and trusting guide like Rubin. If you’re able to make the hike, I highly recommend spending the day venturing to the mountains and seeing this natural beauty and a glimpse of how locals live. The hike is steep at times but take your time and enjoy the majestic views.
Pankaj_K, Apr 2025
Alfredo is an amazing guide. Wonderful service. Give 5 star and highly recommend this tour and rainbow mountain is worth the visit
Maryeli_M, Apr 2025
Excellent guide and information. Good transportation, The guide boys were very respectful, informative and took care of us! The breakfast and lunch weren't that good.
Heather_F, Mar 2025
This is an amazing experience I would recommend to anyone! The excursions starts with a drive along winding roads in the Andes Mountains. Stop for Breakfast along the way with traditional Peruvian cuisine like Quinoa soup. Upon arrival to the Rainbow Mountain area, you can hike to the summit or take a horseback ride halfway there. We took the ride and were glad we did. The altitude is very hard to get used to so we were very tired. After visiting rainbow mountain, go back to the restaurant for lunch and then transfer to the hotel. One of my favorite experiences we have done in Peru. Highly recommend!
Shane_P, Mar 2025
Amazing experiences and guide! Highly recommend. Beautiful views - bucket list experience that I’m so grateful to have!
Amanda_B, Mar 2025
Absolutely amazing! The drive alone was gorgeous, the guide and driver were wonderful, and what a fantastic experience. Pro tip- listen to your guide at the top and be patient. ;) The clouds will eventually clear, and then BAM! Views of a lifetime.
Bella_F, Feb 2025
This tour was fab! We were picked up from our hostel on time and told we were the only ones on the tour that day so it was practically a private tour! Our tour guide (can’t remember his name) was really friendly and knowledgeable. Breakfast and lunch at the same place was delicious! big buffet options perfect for the hike. The hike itself wasn’t as difficult as we anticipated, perhaps because we dosed up on altitude sickness medication the night before and in the morning. The trick is to take tiny steps - barely one foot in front of the other - rather than gassing it up as you will struggle to breath. The hike only took 1 1/2 to get to the top and was mostly flat apart from a few short inclines. Rainbow mountain is amazing to witness, we definitely recommend!
From $85.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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