Excursion to Rainbow Mountain Full Day Optional Red Valley
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Cusco, Peru
- 12 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Rainbow Mountain may not be close to Cusco, but it's still possible to visit in just one day on this guided tour. This budget-friendly day trip option takes you to the spectacular summit of Rainbow Mountain on a full-day tour—a challenging trek enhanced by commentary from your guide.
- Rainbow Mountain tour and trek from Cusco
- Great budget option doesn't skimp on sightseeing
- Breakfast and lunch included to fuel a full day
- Avoid large crowds—tour limited to 17 people or fewer
What's Included
- Pick up from the Hotel city center
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional tour guide (ENG/ESP)
- walk sticks
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- oxygen assistance
- Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)PEN30.00 per person
- Entrance to Red ValleyPEN30.00 per person
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
Pick up from the hotel in the city center. The tour ends one block from the city center.
Itinerary
Cusco (Pass By)
1
Vinicunca Mountain
4 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included
Cusco (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 18 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.9
based on 3,335 reviews
Jessica_H, Apr 2026
We got a text the morning prior to our excursion of pick up location, and time of 4:30-4:40. Gave some other tips of what to bring and how to prepare which was great. So when you’re starting an excursion at 4:30AM, you’re pretty much sleeping until the last moment. So we woke up at 3:55, 15 minutes to drink our tea and get ready, and then the 15 minute walk to the pick up location. However, when I checked my phone, i received a text at 11pm (so obviously we were asleep) that pick up for us was now 4:15. Which meant we had 5 minutes to get out the door. We responded we couldn’t do that and began to rush as fast as possible. He just said things like “it’s a group tour, we won’t wait for you”. We got out the door by 4:05, and ran all the way down from San Blas towards main square. We got there at 4:16AM, and no bus. I’m messaging the guide and he just keeps telling me to wait. We wait and wait and bus doesn’t show up until 4:22, and then waits around until 4:30 to leave…so I’d like to know why I was put into such a frantic mood at that time of the morning for no good reason. It truly set the tone of our morning to a frazzled bad one. Drive to breakfast was good, food was good for both breakfast and lunch. We did the entire hike and did the optional red valley (which is way better than rainbow mountain, make sure you do it). The tour itself was great. You don’t get the guide with you the whole time giving you info and facts or anything. He just says “see that point. Hike there” then met us at rainbow mountain, then pointed where to go for red valley, and then told us when it was time to head down. I wish it came with a bit more info and facts etc. but that is what it is. Traffic can be bad on the way back, so don’t book anything directly after the tour to be safe.
Kirtine_Y, Apr 2026
Full day excursion to Rainbow mtn. Pickup from hotel very good. Drive approximately 3 hours with stop for breakfast on the way, lunch on the way back. Hike itself VERY strenuous due to altitude, though actual elevation not bad. Please be aware. Horses for rent (bring cash) optional. Our group is quite fit but really struggled with altitude/headaches despite acclimatization. Weather made ultimate view less than expected through no fault of tour provider. This provider served many Spanish-speaking clients, but guide bilingual. Guide was GOOD and very professional (Tito). Recommend but be prepared!
Lilibeth_K, Apr 2026
Alex our tour guide is nice, he is quick to explain anything needed to know before the strenous hike. He have the necessary things prepared and take care of the people that have altitude sickness. The breakfast and lunch included is basic, taste okay, like traditional peruvian/cuscan home food, so don't expect very high gourmet quality, and i think it is fair for the price of the tour. The restaurant for breakfast and lunch is the same, i recommend to use their restroom before and after the hike to vinicunca/rainbow mountains, once up in the mountain there won't be any restrooms.
Bring extra cash to rent a horse to go up, it is 50 soles per ride to go up or down (negotiable), it is an amazing experience. You can save some energy and help out the community there that just recently have road to access to their humble home.
Isabel_C, Apr 2026
Great experience, all well organised and all was very smooth. Great value for money too. Take warm clothing, it’s gets very cold. Gloves are a must!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review.
We’re very happy to hear that you had a smooth and well-organized experience, and that you found great value in the tour. That’s exactly what we aim to provide for all our travelers.
We also appreciate your helpful recommendation about bringing warm clothing and gloves. Conditions can indeed get quite cold, so your advice will be very useful for future visitors.
Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you again on another adventure soon.
Aileen_H, Apr 2026
The trip itself is good but the Guide (Viento / Wind) WASN'T good.
Didn't really tell you much about it, glad I didn't need any assistance as I never saw him while climbing to the top. So if I had had any issues he wasn't about. Nothing mentioned about oxygen or first aid procedure if needed.
Gave you some instructions at the bottom about not getting lost or going the wrong route but he could have repeated this at the area when going to the Red Valley, as he was off sitting on top of the hill with Spanish speaking customers and more than half the group didn't know what/where we should be going.
Food basic, but there was a bus in before us so there wasn't much left and it didn't get replenished especially for lunch so there wasn't much left to choose from or eat. So hope you're first there.
Not sure if he has done it too long and has lost interest, and peoples ability.
He had no control over the group, so it was dangerous.
Be aware how the altitude can affect you while doing this trip, have a good caring guide will help.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback.
We truly appreciate your honesty, and we’re sorry to hear that your experience did not meet your expectations.
What you described regarding the guide’s communication, presence during the hike, and safety guidance is very important to us. This is not the standard we aim to provide, and we will be reviewing this situation internally to improve our service and ensure better support and attention for all our travelers.
We also apologize for the inconvenience with the meals. We understand how important it is to have a proper and well-organized service, and your comments will help us address this with our team.
Your point about altitude awareness and the importance of a supportive guide is absolutely valid, and we take it very seriously.
Thank you again for your feedback—it helps us grow and improve. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you with a much better experience in the future.
Sherwin_O, Apr 2026
This tour is an excellent and well-organized way to visit Rainbow Mountain in a single day. The guide is knowledgeable, patient, and very supportive—especially during the challenging high-altitude trek.
The experience itself is described as breathtaking and unforgettable, with Rainbow Mountain being a true highlight of any Peru trip. The small group size also helps make the tour feel more personal and manageable.
That said, it’s important to note that the hike can be physically demanding due to the altitude, so a reasonable level of fitness and proper acclimatization are recommended. The meals provided are convenient, but there is room for improvement in terms of quality and variety.
Overall, this is a highly rated and well-run tour that offers great value and an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience at Rainbow Mountain.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful review.
We’re truly happy to hear that you had such a positive experience and that you found the tour to be well organized and a great way to visit Rainbow Mountain in a single day. It’s wonderful to know that the guide’s knowledge, patience, and support made a difference especially during the challenging high altitude trek.
We’re also glad that you enjoyed the breathtaking scenery and that the small group size helped create a more personal and comfortable experience.
We sincerely appreciate your constructive feedback regarding the meals. Your comments are very valuable, and we will take them into account as we continue improving our service.
Thank you for your recommendation and for trusting us. We hope to welcome you again for another unforgettable adventure in Peru.
Jerris_S, Apr 2026
The tour was well planned and covered both rainbow mountain and the red valley. The guide was helpful and knowledgeable. Good views of the rainbow mountain and the red valley.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We’re glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour and the stunning views of both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley. It’s great to know that you found the itinerary well planned and that our guide was helpful and knowledgeable throughout the experience.
SATYA_V, Mar 2026
What an unforgettable experience at Rainbow Mountain!
From start to finish, everything about this tour was exceptional. The day began early, but we were welcomed with a delicious and energizing breakfast after 2 hours drive that set the tone perfectly for the adventure ahead. After the hike, we were treated to a hearty and flavorful lunch
The entire experience was made even more special by our guide, who was incredibly professional, and genuinely caring.
And of course, Rainbow Mountain itself was absolutely breathtaking — the colors are even more vibrant in person and worth every step of the hike!
If you’re visiting Peru, this tour is a must-do. Highly recommend this team for their organization, hospitality, and top-notch service. A perfect 10/10 experience!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We’re truly delighted to hear that your experience at Rainbow Mountain was so unforgettable from start to finish. It’s great to know you enjoyed the breakfast and lunch fueling our travelers well is an important part of the adventure!
We also sincerely appreciate your kind words about our guide. We’re proud to have a team that is not only professional but also genuinely caring, and we’ll be sure to share your feedback with them.
And yes, Rainbow Mountain never fails to impress! We’re so happy you found the colors even more breathtaking in person it really makes every step worthwhile.
Semika_B, Mar 2026
This was a challenging hike, but William/Herbert forever was amazing. He stayed at the back with me helping me with my breathing problems constantly checking with everyone. We were good. I felt safe, but this was also a once in a lifetime opportunity and if you’re thinking about it, just do it.
Aljoe_W, Mar 2026
I booked for 5am and I’ve been trying to contact them since the day before and no response. On the day of the trip I was still contacting them and no answer I had to reach out to costumer service when they finally respond after 30 minutes of waiting I was told they left. Why have a reservation for 5am. It’s false advertising and I still didn’t get my refund on of the worst experience in a foreign country
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and especially for the waiting time you experienced. We completely understand how frustrating this situation must have been.
We would also like to clarify that, once we were contacted, we proceeded with the refund of your payment a few hours later, following our standard process.
Once again, we truly regret what happened and appreciate your feedback, as it helps us improve our service and communication.
Mark_C, Mar 2026
Amazing place to visit. 5000m altitude is a little challenging, but if you are not up for the walk, you can take a horse most of the way. You still walk the final 100m. Amazing valley setting with colour, snow. Very peaceful. Our guide Eva was knowledgeable and attentive to everyone and altitude effects
Shavon_T, Mar 2026
I dont know who manages the breakfast, but there was something in the food that gave me upset stomach and diarrhea all day. I dont think everything was prepared properly.
I will say, though, that Jonathan was a great tour guide.
uyleny, Mar 2026
Jour guide Johathan is a very nice and caring guy. He took good care of everybody and make sure we are able to make to the mountain. He picks up us on time and explain everything clearly.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review!
We’re delighted to hear that Jonathan took such good care of everyone and made sure you all were able to complete the mountain trek safely. It’s great to know that the pickup was on time and that his explanations were clear — those little details make a big difference!
We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again on another amazing adventure in Peru!
rohit_k, Mar 2026
Had a amazing trip for the rainbow mountains with our guide Jonathan and our driver Edu. The journey to the rainbow mountain was very smooth, thanks to Edu.
Jonathan our guide was incredibly patient and was with us throughout the trek with us as we were little slow than other groups to climb. I highly recommend to book the trip with Jonathan and Edu if you are planning for the Rainbow mountains.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your amazing review!
We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great experience at Rainbow Mountain. It’s wonderful to know that Edu made the journey smooth and comfortable, and that Jonathan’s patience and support helped you enjoy the trek at your own pace.
Our goal is always to provide a safe, enjoyable, and personalized experience, so your kind words truly mean a lot to us.
Thank you for your recommendation!
WOJCIECH_K, Mar 2026
Jonathan was very knowledgeable Friendly and informative.everything was on time.I recommend this trip.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review!
We’re very happy to hear that Jonathan was knowledgeable, friendly, and informative, and that everything went smoothly and on time. That’s exactly the experience we aim to provide.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you again on another amazing adventure!
Ben_F, Mar 2026
An early start, a long day; off to a good start with a well coordinated pickup. Good knowledgeable guide.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re glad to hear that everything started smoothly with a well-coordinated pickup and that you enjoyed the day with our knowledgeable guide.
Edwin_v, Mar 2026
This trip is amazing, went up to the Rainbow mountain saw in the beginning some sun and at the top it was snowing. Went to the optional Red valley and the weather cleared up and the view was epic. Our guide Wayra was very knowledgeable, very nice and very helpful
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for sharing your amazing experience! We’re very happy to hear that you enjoyed the adventure to Vinicunca. The changing weather—from sunshine to snow—really makes the journey even more unique and memorable.
It’s also great to know that you had the chance to visit the beautiful Red Valley and enjoy those epic views. We’re especially glad that Wayra made your trip even better with his knowledge, kindness, and helpful attitude.
LAUREN_C, Feb 2026
An amazing tour! The less crowded route, our guide made sure to check in with us at all times on how we were adjusting to the altitude. Really friendly would recommend!
Jsovic, Feb 2026
Jonathan was very informative and took good care of the group. A few people got altitude sickness and he tried his best to eliminate/minimize the discomfort. It was a fun trip to see the rainbow mountain and the red valley.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
We’re very happy to hear that Jonathan was informative and took great care of the group throughout the tour. High altitude can be challenging, so it means a lot to know that he did his best to help those experiencing altitude sickness and worked to minimize their discomfort.
We’re also glad you had a fun experience այցելing Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley — they truly are breathtaking places.
Thank you for traveling with us, and we hope to welcome you back for another amazing adventure in Peru
CHENGZHI_L, Feb 2026
The guide texted us at 3:40am on the same day to inform us of the meeting time, while the scheduled pickup time was 4:30am. This extremely last-minute notice felt unprofessional and stressful, especially for an early-morning tour.
According to the activity description, the entrance ticket to Red Valley was listed as 20 PEN. However, upon arrival, we were charged 30 PEN per person, with no prior notice or explanation for the price difference.
More seriously, there were no instructions or guidance provided on how to return to the parking lot from Red Valley. As a result, we got lost in snowy and foggy conditions, with very poor visibility. At one point, we genuinely feared for our safety.
Finally, the itinerary stated that we would be dropped off at the original pickup location. However, this was not followed. Instead, we were dropped off at a main public square, without any explanation.
Overall, this was a very poor experience due to the lack of communication, unexpected extra charges, deviation from the itinerary, and serious safety concerns.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We are truly sorry to hear that your experience did not meet your expectations, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and concern you describe.
Regarding the early morning message, our intention is always to reconfirm the exact pickup time within a short window (4:00–4:30 am) once the final route and traffic conditions are coordinated. However, we understand that receiving confirmation at 3:40 am may have felt too last-minute, and we will review this process internally to improve our communication timing.
Concerning the Red Valley entrance fee, the price is set and controlled by the local community authorities, not by our agency. Occasionally, they adjust the fee without prior notice to operators. We do not add any surcharge to this ticket; however, we understand that the difference without prior explanation caused confusion, and we will ensure our guides communicate any updates more clearly on the day of the tour.
We are especially concerned to read about your difficulty returning from Red Valley. Safety is always our top priority. Our guides normally provide clear instructions about the meeting point and estimated return time. We will investigate this situation directly with the guide to understand what happened and reinforce our safety protocols, particularly in challenging weather conditions such as snow and fog. We truly regret that you felt unsafe at any point — that is never the experience we aim to provide.
We genuinely appreciate your feedback, as it helps us improve our service and coordination. Please know that we take your concerns seriously and will use this experience to strengthen our communication and operational standards.
Marcus_H, Feb 2026
This tour was amazing! First of all I would like to say if you are ever wanting to do something you will never forget this is the tour for you! The places I went I would have never been able to imagine them! It was amazing! And the reason it was also this great was because of the organization and thoughtfulness of my guide, Johnathan! He made sure from start to finish all details were taken in the best possible way! The pick up was smooth, the ride was amazing, the food was outstanding, and his intelligence on the location made it even better! I would recommend this trip to anyone it is one not to forget!
Shaun_G, Feb 2026
Our experience was great. Our tour guide Jonathon was an expert, he gave us all the advices we needed to complete our rainbow mountain tour. We got tasty breakfast and lunch. He took good care of us. The driver Edu was a safe driver also. I would recommend this tour 1000%
Penelope_A, Feb 2026
Everyone that come to
Peru should do this trip. I enjoyed it way more than Machu Picchu ... way more beautiful. Johnathan our guide was amazing amd made sure we made it. He recommended i take the horse for the 3rd quarter(you cant do by horse the last quarter) and i wanted to continue to Red Valley after. Horse was only 10 sol for that bit (£2.50) so that was novel and glad i did it for the variety. DO the extra bit to Red Valley if you have the energy, it is even more stunning than Rainbow Mountain honestly its stunning. Thankyou Johnathan, best part of my trip so far
Satsuki_O, Feb 2026
Our guide Jonathan was very kind and looked after us when we were feeling bad because of high altitude. Thanks to him, we were able to reach the summit safely and fully enjoy the views.
The restaurant we visited for breakfast and lunch was so local. You could buy waters and snacks too.
Indie_T, Feb 2026
It was a lot fun Johnathan was great and everything went smoothly.
He was very helpful with everything
GAYAN_W, Jan 2026
It was a great experience from beginning to end. Everything was well organized, and our guide (whose name I cannot remember) was excellent. He gave us full explanations and plenty of time to plan our own activities. We also enjoyed a traditional Peruvian lunch buffet, which was amazing. The experience felt very safe, and I would strongly recommend it.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for sharing your experience!
We’re delighted to hear that everything was well organized from start to finish and that your guide provided clear explanations while giving you enough time to enjoy the activities at your own pace.
FarhanOctryan_S, Jan 2026
The arrangement of the tour was perfect timewise and very informative. Our guide Jonathan was very helpful and attentive paying attention to each and every one of the team members. The driver was also on time in picking up. Too bad when we got there it was snowing so we couldnt get a clear view. Would recommend this tour again! Especially during May/June during the dry season.
Jewel_F, Jan 2026
Jonathan our guide was incredible - encouraging us through all the different elements (including some unexpected snow!) and very organized and helpful. Hotel pick up very convenient as were the meals. Red valley was a definite highlight - less crowds and amazing views. Highly recommend this tour!
Gerard_E, Jan 2026
Great experience in the rainbow mountain and red valley with your guide Jonathan. The hike was manageable and rain gear was require as weather changed quickly. Highly recommended.
Anica_C, Jan 2026
Jonathan was a fantastic guide! He kept us informed and insured we had the nest experience!! I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to experience Rainbow mountain and Red Valley
From
-5%
$23.75
per personWas $25.00
up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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