Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Premium Day Trip with Meals

Recommended by 97% of travelers

Badge of Excellence

Cusco, Peru

High interest

Booked 4 times today.

12 hours (approx.)
Pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

4.9

· Joshua_J ·

Apr 2026

Great experience! Yuri and Justin were excellent guides! Everything was very organized, easy communication for early hotel pick up. It is great to be first on the mountain and get in all the views. Hike was challenging, but doable. Highly recommend also viewing Red Valley too.

· Fe_B ·

Nov 2025

The tour guides are very active, attentive, and truly accommodating. They consistently stayed engaged throughout the entire visit, offering explanations, answering questions, and making sure everyone felt supported. Their energy and willingness to help made a strong positive impression, and it was clear that they were doing their best to create a good experience.

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Overview

Get picked up at your hotel in Cusco at 3:00am in order to get to see the most gorgeous views of the colors painted on the Rainbow Mountain of the Peruvian Andes. See the streams of color formed by sediment and the atmosphere of the area, and check out the local animals who live here, especially the South American camelid.

Spend some time admiring the natural beauty of the Rainbow Mountain
Enjoy provided breakfast and buffet lunch
Your guide will have a first aid kit should it be needed
Private transportation to/ from your hotel in Cusco is included

What's Included

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
Drop-off at Avenida El Sol, in front of Qorikancha temple
Private and comfortable transportation
Professional English and Spanish-speaking guide
Meals

Hearty Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
Entrance to the Vinicunca & Cusipata (other providers will charge you)
Blanket, first aid kit and oxygen mask

Optional Red Valley entrance fee (30 soles, cash)

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Pickup details

Pickup is available from hotels in Cusco's historic center (excluding private residences, Airbnbs, bus terminals, etc.). For hotels located in downtown areas with inaccessible narrow streets or private apartments, we'll arrange the nearest meeting point. Please send us an email if your hotel is not on the list and we're happy to assist!

Operating hours
.3:30 am

Itinerary

Cusco (Pass By)

Cusipata

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Vinicunca Mountain

2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Red Valley Viewpoint

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Cusco

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers

No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Supplied by

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Featured review

Joshua_J

Reviews

4.9

based on 2,307 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We perform checks on reviews

Wonderful hike with stunning views

Marta_B, Apr 2026

Fantastic day, the early wake up is absolutely worth it. You’re one of the first groups on the mountain. We were so lucky and got to see everything, the colourful mountain, glacier, and red valley. Yuri and Vicki were excellent guides, providing lots of fun information and making sure everyone got up the mountain safely.

It was amazing to see the...

Lan_N, Apr 2026

It was amazing to see the beautiful natural wonder despite hard work hiking up the viewpoint due to high altitude. Our guides were very helpful, attentive and friendly

Breathtaking views

Craig_P, Apr 2026

Well organized. Tour captains Alex and Flora were great. Staff we well equipped to handle people that had altitude sickness. Food provided was delicious and the hike was very manageable. We opted to add the extra Red Valley section and was totally worth the extra money

Great Hike!

Joshua_J, Apr 2026

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Hi, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It truly means a lot to us to hear that you had such a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish. We´re especially happy that Yuri and Justin made a great impression, we’ll be sure to share your kind words with them. You’re absolutely right, being among the first on the mountain makes the views even more special, and we’re so glad you also enjoyed Red Valley. Thank you again for your recommendation, we really appreciate it and hope to welcome you again on another adventure!

Fantastic experience

Kristina_S, Apr 2026

The views will leave you breathless. The nature is stunning. There was snow today, so everything was just white when we arrived. But our guide David let us stay a bit longer, so the snow would start melting and we could see the true beauty of Vinicunca / Rainbow Mountain. If you have the energy, go to the very top, the views are unforgettable. And do not be shy to take a horse up. It was 80 soles, but worth it for the experience and especially as there was so much snow today. David explained everything about the mountain and why the colours are the way they are. And about alpacas and llamas. Truly a fantastic experience and guide.

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Hi, Thank you for your feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the snowy views of Rainbow Mountain and that David made your experience so memorable with his guidance and explanations. It’s wonderful that you took the time to enjoy the full beauty of Vinicunca. We hope to welcome you back for another incredible Rainbow Mountain adventure soon!

Darwin was one of the...

Rajesh_M, Mar 2026

Darwin was one of the best guides we’ve ever had. Great ambassador to this amazing place and cared for the group members very well.

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Hi, Thank you for your feedback! We’re thrilled to hear Darwin made your experience so special and took great care of the group. We hope you get the chance to explore more incredible places in Peru with us in the future!

Once in a lifetime experience! Beware of altitude (5,000m) Good food. Fantastic value.

Yi_K, Mar 2026

Excellent experience. Everything described in the tour details on Viator was delivered. We were happy the Rainbow Mountain Travels company supports the local Indigenous community. Be prepared for altitude sickness as the mountain ( Vinicunca) is over 5,000m with 50 percent of oxygen level compared to sea level. Our guide Yaki accompanied us up and down the mountain. Food was very good and plentiful. Travel time to the mountain from Cusco was 2.5 hours each way. On the day we went, the cloudy weather meant the colours were muted. We had a great day. Fantastic value.

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Hi, Thank you for your feedback! We’re glad you had an excellent experience and appreciated Yaki’s guidance, the food, and the support for the local community. It’s great that despite the weather, you enjoyed the day and found it fantastic value. We hope to see you again on another adventure!

Early Start, Big Views, and Top-Tier Safety Protocol

Emilie_O, Mar 2026

A amazing tour, a very professional team, loads of fun, and solid value for money. We were so glad we started the mountain trek early to beat the crowds, it made the scenery even more spectacular. While the horseback portion was a blast, the final climb and elevation really took a toll on me. I struggled to breathe, feeling light-headed and only able to manage about 30 steps between stops. My guide, Alejandro, was incredibly observant; he noticed my face turning pale and my hands going cold before I even realized how much I was struggling. When I began hyperventilating, Alejandro didn't lose a second. He quickly administered the oxygen he had ready, and he did not leave my side until he was certain I was fine. This company clearly prioritizes tourist safety, as they have emergency medicine and oxygen on hand at all times. If you want a tour that is both exciting and incredibly safe, I cannot recommend this team and especially Alejandro enough. They turned a scary physical moment into a safe, well-managed experience. Thank you, Alejandro!"

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Hi Emilie! Thank you so much for your thoughtful review. We’re really happy to hear you had such a great experience and enjoyed starting early to take in the scenery. It means a lot to know that Alejandro was able to support you so quickly and make you feel safe during a challenging moment. We truly appreciate your kind words and recommendation.

Exceptional service and tour

Nerissa_B, Mar 2026

Highly recommend this tour and this company. The early morning pick up was absolutely worth it. The first at the mountain. More than enough time to take in the views and go to the red valley as well. The guides take very good care of you. Walking sticks provided but don’t be embarrassed to take the horse up. I did and was very happy. The breakfast and lunch were buffet style as well.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Hi there! Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re happy to hear that the early start allowed you to enjoy the mountain peacefully and make the most of Red Valley. It’s wonderful that the guides could take such good care of you and that you felt comfortable using the horse for the climb. We’re also glad you enjoyed the meals along the way, having a good breakfast and lunch makes the adventure even more enjoyable. We hope to welcome you back soon for another unforgettable journey in Peru!

Don't Miss this Hike and View

Meridith_G, Feb 2026

Pick up is very early around 3:30 a.m. and it seems kind of crazy at the time but it is completely worth it to get to Mountaiin before the crowds. You will have more of the hike up yourself. The tour is well organized and our tour guide Carlos was amazing. It is a great hike with incredible views. If you take your time and are in at least moderate shape you will be able to do it without a problem. Horses are available to ride for 100 soles round trip if you need them. I highly recommend seeing this beautiful site. Pack warm clothes. I was there in Feb, technically summer in Peru, and it was cold at the top. Bring a jacket, hat, gloves and good hiking boots. You will need 30 sloes to do the Red Valley hike portion which is worth it. Also bathrooms on the route cost 2 soles.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Hi there! We really appreciate you sharing your adventure with us! It’s fantastic to hear that despite the early wake up, you were able to enjoy the hike peacefully and take in the incredible landscapes. Carlos is delighted to know his guidance made your experience special. Thank you for highlighting the tips about Red Valley, the horses, and the necessary gear, your insights will be helpful for future travelers. We hope to see you again for another unforgettable journey!

Amazing!!!! Totally worth it

Sebastian_B, Feb 2026

This was AMAZING!!! Totally worth it. The included breakfast was yummy, and lunch was decent. The bus was comfortable enough for me! I will be honest to everyone - this excursion is NOT for the weak. It was intense, so do NOT feel embarrassed to take a horse up there. Listen to everyone about Cusco and about these high altitude excursions. I enjoyed it, despite the difficulty, and fortunately I didn't get sick but it can happen to many. Be prepared, and make sure you pack everything you need! Definitely do this tour!!!! Unforgettable experience.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Hi! Thank you so much for your amazing review. We’re really happy to hear you found the experience unforgettable and worth the effort, and that you enjoyed the breakfast and the bus comfort. You’re absolutely right that this hike can be challenging, and we appreciate you sharing helpful advice for future travelers about altitude and the horse option. Preparation truly makes a big difference. We’re grateful for your recommendation and for traveling with us. We hope to welcome you again on another adventure soon.

So great!

Christine_C, Dec 2025

This was an absolutely amazing experience! Rainbow mountain travel made it so great from beginning to end. Our guides Edgar and Vicky were enthusiastic and attentive, always making sure everyone was safe and ok. This was truly a dream come true for me and my husband and rainbow mountain travels made it more than anything we could have ever hoped for.

Response from Host, Dec 2025

Hi there, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you and your husband had such a memorable experience. We’re so grateful to have been part of your dream experience at Rainbow Mountain. We hope to welcome you back for more adventures in the future!

Excellent

tewei_t, Nov 2025

The guide was excellent and very responsible. Reaching 5,000 meters of altitude was truly a unique experience, and he even hiked all the way up with us. He not only clarified the route for everyone but also helped take photos and took great care of the group throughout the hike. It was an unforgettable experience — thank you!

Response from Host, Nov 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that you had an unforgettable experience reaching 5,000 meters and that our guide made the hike even more special. Your recognition of his care, support, and attention to the group means a lot to us. We hope to welcome you back to Peru soon for another adventure!

Tour guides are great!

Fe_B, Nov 2025

Response from Host, Nov 2025

Hello Fe, Thanks a lot for your kind feedback! We're so happy our guides’ attentiveness and enthusiasm made your experience memorable. They really enjoy supporting every guest along the way! Safe travels!

First time speechless

Jose_S, Oct 2025

An amazing experience. The views are astonishing. This is the first time I felt speechless before those astounding views. the meals were delicious. Make sure to follow all the recommendations for the altitude and weather if you’re not used to those conditions. Carlos our guide was very friendly, energetic and helpful. he went above and beyond. At the Park Justin stepped in and took care of us the entire time with a medical emergency. Definitely recommend this however make sure to acclimate to the altitude.

Response from Host, Nov 2025

Hi Jose! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that the breathtaking views left you speechless and that you enjoyed the delicious meals. It's great to know that Carlos and Justin provided such exceptional care and support during your tour, especially in handling the medical emergency with such attentiveness. Your advice about acclimating to the altitude and following recommendations is very valuable for future travelers. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure soon!

Fantastic views that were definitely worth the tough walk

Joanne_A, Oct 2025

This was a fabulous tour and was worth getting up extra early, as the weather was turning as we left the summit and the mist was descending. Alex was a great tour guide and was very conscious about making sure everyone went at their own pace and ability. It is a tough walk and the altitude may effect you. I found the last two hundred metres very hard, but with Alex encouragement I made it and was so pleased that I did. The views were stunning and we were luck enough to have snow and coloured mountains all in one.

Response from Host, Nov 2025

Hi Joanne! Thank you so much for sharing your fabulous experience! We're delighted to hear that Alex was such a great guide, attentive to everyone's pace and encouraging you to reach the summit despite the tough walk and altitude challenges. It’s wonderful that you were rewarded with stunning views, snow, and the colorful mountains all in one trip. Your story truly captures the spirit of the adventure. Your satisfaction means a lot to us, and we wish you luck on the rest of your travels.

Tough hike but worth it!

Guillermo_T, Oct 2025

It is tough hike but worth it. Need to practice high altitude hike. There are horse for rent to help you and it is a wonderful experience too.

Response from Host, Oct 2025

Hi there, Thank you for sharing your experience! It's great to know that the option of renting horses added to your adventure. We hope to see you again for more unforgettable experiences!

Enjoyed the experience and great communication

SongYi_B, Oct 2025

Probably one of the best communicated group tours I've experienced so far. The agency reached out via whatsapp days prior to make sure we solidify my pickup point and time. They were very proactive about communication the whole time. On the day of the tour, our guide was very nice and attentive. My husband and I went to the Red Valley as an extra tour. The elevation got higher than the rainbow mountain. I almost passed out from not being able to breathe at the high altitude, but the guide caught me bent over grasping for the air. He offered a remedy which saved me. I felt so much better after. We took the horse up and walked down. We were very appreciative of our guide's attentiveness. The tour dropped us off in Cusco Center at a good time so we could enjoy the rest of the day going around the city. I highly recommend this tour!

Response from Host, Oct 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words, Song Yi! 😊 We're thrilled to hear our team’s communication and your guide’s care made your tour special, especially with the extra Red Valley adventure. Taking the horse up and walking down sounds like a great choice for you. We’re glad you felt better quickly and enjoyed your time in Cusco afterward. Your recommendation means a lot to us! 🙌

Excellent day!

GueyMei_H, Oct 2025

This is a really good company that arranges the best timing for visiting the place! You really want to be early bc the weather can be changeable and unpredictable. We were early so we get to see the sunny side of the beautiful colours (late comers saw snow and wind and grey mountains :P). Our guides, Carlos and Dionel, had plenty of experience and were supportive, making the hike less challenging (it's important to have 2 guides as the altitude can be dangerous). The drive by Cesar was good, too. Rec!

Response from Host, Oct 2025

Thanks so much for your awesome review! 😊 We're thrilled you enjoyed the timing and got to see the sunny colors—Carlos, Dionel, and Cesar will be happy to hear your kind words. Having two guides really makes a difference with the altitude, right? Hope to see you on another adventure soon! 🙌

Great hike to 17k get!!!

Vincent_L, Sep 2025

Traveling with my brother... we had an amazing experience!! The hike was tough but take you time and drink the coca Leah tea.... it helps!!! Angel was our guide and SEXY PUMAS was our group! Angel made me feel safe with the altitude!!!! Remember to bring your passport if you collect stamps... they stamp at the top of the hill!

Response from Host, Oct 2025

Hey Vincent! So happy to hear you and your brother had an amazing time with Angel and the SEXY PUMAS crew! 😊 The hike is definitely a challenge, but those coca leaf teas are lifesavers, right? Thanks for the tip about the passport stamps too! Hope to see you both on another adventure soon! 🙌

Rewarding Hike!

Monica_W, Aug 2025

The views along the way were unbeatable! Challenging hike, but very rewarding. We ended up using horses for half the ride uphill. It could be fast paced at times especially for inexperienced hikers.

I really appreciated the...

Ranger_B, Jul 2025

I really appreciated the communication from the tour company when it came to arranging pickup in the morning. I was then impressed by how accurate the provided itinerary was. Without feeling rushed we stayed on-schedule all day long! Our guide for the day, Angel, was fantastic and made everyone feel informed and well taken care of. None of this mentions the hike itself yet. It was incredible! We had amazing weather and while the hike has a difficult climb at the end the entire experience was worth it and I would recommend this tour to anyone!

Thanks Vicky, you were truly amazing.

B_C, Jul 2025

The 2:00am alarm was absolutely worth it to beat the crowds. Vicky was fantastic—friendly, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable. Despite the early hour (and a few of us still half-asleep in the van), she explained everything we needed to know for the trip with clarity and patience. By the end of the day, we all felt like friends, brought together by the shared experience of such an incredible adventure. For 80 soles (I told the guide to keep the change), I opted to take a horse up to the final stretch—and it was money well spent. The air is very thin at that altitude, and I could feel it the moment I stepped out of the van. If you're considering this hike, do factor in the altitude—it’s a long walk, and the final leg is steep and unforgiving. That said, with regular breaks, we all made it. Once we reached the summit, the mist lifted, and wow—just wow. The views were breathtaking. Although we weren’t alone, the crowds were light, so we had plenty of time to take photos with the llamas, alpacas, and the stunning scenery. We continued on to Red Valley, which was equally mesmerising. Just do it—seriously. None of us are getting out of here alive, so we might as well make the most of it! Giovanna was also amazing—she kindly took some wonderful photos of me and was such a sweet presence throughout the day. Breakfast and lunch were perfectly decent and kept us fuelled for the journey. What a day—I’d go back and do it all over again in a heartbeat. Just remember to wrap up warm—it gets chilly up there. Make sure to bring good layers, gloves, and a scarf.

Our guide Carlos was...

Kayla_H, Jul 2025

Our guide Carlos was wonderful! The breakfast and lunch had a variety of foods to choose from. The hike although mostly easy, it difficult in some areas due to the elevation, otherwise the trail was easy to do. Mountains are nice but not as spectacular as they look in photos.

Had a fantastic...

Cyprien_B, May 2025

Had a fantastic experience with our guide David who took us both to the Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley (highly recommend doing both). He was caring for all the group and took the best pictures to give us memories of the trip.

Missing Red Valley

Mindy_C, Apr 2025

We missed the red valley trip. Is is hard for us to arrange the second visit. I hope you can emphasize to your guides to explain the meeting time and point more clearly and systematically.