Private Tour: Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain from Cusco: Unforgettable Palcoyo Experience
Full Day, from $ USD 169
Rainbow Mountain Private Tour from Cusco – Perú | Personalized Excursion
"Discover the stunning Rainbow Mountain on a private day tour from Cusco. Experience the natural wonders and vibrant colors of this hidden gem with expert local guides."
Likely to Sell Out
DURATION:
Full Day Tour
MAX ALTITUDE:
5,200 mts (17,060 ft).
STARTING POINT:
Cusco
LEVEL:
Strenuous
Experience the stunning beauty of the Andes like never before with our exclusive Rainbow Mountain Private Tour departing from Cusco, Peru. Embark on an adventure that promises to immerse you in the natural wonders of this iconic destination.
Cusco Rainbow Mountain Private Tour gives you the opportunity to tailor the experience to your preferences. Take a break at your leisure, enjoy the breathtaking views and truly connect with the natural splendor of Rainbow Mountain. Your guide will look after your comfort and provide you with information and stories that will add depth to your journey.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders in the company of experienced professionals who are dedicated to making your experience truly memorable. Book your Rainbow Mountain Private Tour from Cusco today and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in the Andes of Peru.
Customizable Itinerary
If you'd like to customize this trip, our travel specialists will create the perfect tour for you.
Overview
Overview
Peru’s Rainbow Mountain Private Tour – Overview
Rainbow Mountain private tour from Cusco – Embark on a unique journey to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, Peru on a Full-Day Trip.
Discover this incredible natural wonder of multicolored mineral deposits that shape the landscape and explore its striking displays of vibrant reds, purples and golds. Our 1 day tour to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco – Perú offers all entrance fees included, breakfast, lunch buffet, English speaking tour guide and a super comfortable and private transportation just for you and your group. Along the way, expect to see alpacas, llamas and enjoy gorgeous views and a guided tour as you explore this magnificent natural wonder.
Our journey to Rainbow Mountain begins with hotel pick-up in Cusco at around 4am. Heading south of Cusco, the scenic drive offers panoramic views of local communities, potato fields and corn farms. After 2 hour drive, a hearty buffet breakfast awaits us at a local restaurant, which will provide us with the energy needed for the ascent to the top of Rainbow Mountain.
After our delicious meal, we embark on a journey of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes on a dirt road until we reach the trailhead. On the way, the impressive Peruvian Andean mountain range unfolds before us, adorned with colorful peaks, while friendly alpacas adorn our path, extending warm greetings.
Don’t take it from us – here’s what our clients have to say about this tour. Check out our reviews on Tripadvisor.
Why Travelers Love This Trip
- We beat the crowds, group tours to Rainbow Mountain leave Cusco at 5am. To avoid the crowds we leave earlier than the rest, that way we ensure our clients have the Rainbow Mountain all to themselves.
- For the 1 day Rainbow Mountain tour our guide carries an oxygen tank as well as a first aid kit. (As you get over 5040 meters/16,500 feet above sea level! Not all travel agencies offer this). You travel safely with us.
- We forget the time, there is no need to rush or return early to Cusco unless you request it, we try to make sure you enjoy your Rainbow Mountain tour as much as possible.
Rainbow Mountain Hike
Difficulty:
The popular hike to Peru Rainbow Mountain offers visitors an exciting and challenging trekking experience surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Peruvian Andes. The hike is rated moderate to difficult, the route presents several factors that contribute to its level of difficulty. One of the main challenges of hiking Rainbow Mountain is the terrain itself. Hikers traverse rocky slopes, uneven trails and steep climbs that demand good balance and endurance.
Altitude is a major factor on this trek. Cusco, the starting point of the hike, is already at high altitude, and as hikers make their way up to Rainbow Mountain, the air is even thinner. Proper acclimatization is essential to mitigate the effects of altitude sickness and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
Rainbow Mountain Elevation:
Rainbow Mountain, also known locally as Vinicunca, is an impressive geological formation in the Peruvian Andes. Located at an altitude of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level, reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain is a rewarding feat that offers adventurers breathtaking panoramic views and vibrant multicolored landscapes.
The high altitude of Rainbow Mountain provides unique challenges and unique experiences for hikers. As hikers ascend toward the summit, they must deal with the effects of altitude, such as decreased oxygen levels and possible symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea and fatigue. Proper acclimatization is essential to minimize the risk of altitude-related problems. Despite the difficulties of the altitude, the experience of being at the top of Rainbow Mountain is incomparable. From the summit, hikers enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks, painted in shades of red, gold, turquoise and lavender. The dramatic contrast between Rainbow Mountain’s colorful mineral deposits and the rugged terrain of the Andes creates a surreal and unforgettable spectacle.
Fitness Level Requirements:
Due to the uneven terrain and the high altitude, a good level of fitness is recommended for this trek. Previous experience on similar hikes and regular cardiovascular exercise can help prepare you for the demands of the Rainbow Mountain hike.
For those with limitations, renting a horse for the hike up to Rainbow Mountain is a practical solution. Locals offer this service along the trail to assist tourists. Opting for a horseback ride facilitates accessibility and saves energy, ensuring that everyone can participate in the adventure.
Rainbow Mountain Private Tour Highlights:
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain’s vivid colors.
Customize your the itinerary focused on the aspects that interest you most.
Travel in comfort and style with private transportation from your hotel in Cusco
Engage with local Quechua communities and learn about their traditions.
Capture breathtaking photos of the Andean landscapes and colorful peaks.
Discover the unique geological formations and mineral deposits of Rainbow Mountain.
Enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast and lunch before and after the hike.
Cusco Rainbow Mountain Private Tour Map
About this activity
Languages
This experience is available in both English and Spanish languages.
Free Cancellation
If your plans change you may cancel this tour 3 days in advance for a full refund.
Service
Nuestra excursión a la Montaña Arco Iris se ofrece exclusivamente como servicio privado.
Pickup Included
The private tour to Rainbow Mountain includes pick up and drop off at the hotel.
Duration
Our Rainbow Mountain Tour lasts 12 hours, starting at 4:00 am and ending at 3:00 pm.
Food
This experience includes all meals, breakfast and buffet lunch.
Physical Level
The trek is classified as difficult and requires prior acclimatization.
Max Altitude
The maximum altitude reached on this hike is 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.
Good to Know
Rainbow Mountain Hike Details:
Are you still not sure whether this tour is for you? Learn more about the Rainbow Mountain 1 day tour, we want you to be well informed before booking this tour with us.
- Departures: Every day in the dry season from mid-April to November, If you take this tour during the winter season, you could expect some rains and snow.
- Best time to visit: The best time of year to hike Rainbow Mountain from Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. These months are actually winter in the Andes, which is why it can seem quite cold, but there is a low chance of rain, for this reason this time of the year is considered summer. The clear, sunny days and dry trails are perfect for hiking. December to March is the rainy season in the Andes and hiking Rainbow Mountain is not as recommended.
- The max. elevation you will reach: To reach the top a short, 40-minute hike waits for you. The elevation reached is: 17,060 feet (5,200 meters) above sea level.
- How long is the ascent: 40 min. from the flat part
- Visitors per day: 1,700 approximately
Trip Summary
This is the plan
Explore the captivating essence of our Rainbow Mountain tour by viewing our summary itinerary. Here you will find a carefully crafted vision of the extraordinary adventure that awaits you:
(Cusco hotel) Pick-up Time
We start our day trip to Rainbow Mountain with a convennient hotel pick up in Cusco. At 4 o'clock in the morning, our dedicated guide and expert driver will be parked at the entrance of your hotel in Cusco, ready to welcome you and guide you on a day full of excitement and exploration.
Breakfast (Buffet)
After a scenic drive of 1 hour and 45 minutes through Peru's picturesque landscapes, we will arrive at our designated breakfast spot. Here, amidst the tranquility of nature and fresh mountain air, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared to invigorate your senses and fuel your spirit for the adventures ahead.
Start of the Hike
After another 1 hour and 45 minutes ride, we will finally embark on the exciting phase of our journey: the start of our hike to the majestic Arociris Mountain. Lace up your shoes, tighten your backpack straps and get ready to hike the trails that lead to breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
Back to the village
Once we have reached the summit and savored the magical moment of contemplating the breathtaking views of the Peruvian Andes, we will begin our descent back to the parking lot. Saying goodbye to the heights and the serenity of the summit, our journey continues with a scenic drive of an hour and a half to the designated lunch spot. Here, a sumptuous buffet lunch awaits us with a delicious variety of authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Back to Cusco
As our unique adventure in the Peruvian Andes comes to an end, we will begin our journey back to Cusco, filled with unforgettable memories of our adventure at Rainbow Mountain. We will conclude with a drop-off directly at your hotel, ensuring a smooth transition back to your accommodations. (We anticipate our arrival back in Cusco around 3 or 4 PM, marking the conclusion of our unforgettable trip).
Itinerary
Itinerary
Full itinerary of our Rainbow Mountain Private Tour in Cusco
Curious to discover all the details of our fantastic journey to Peru’s enchanting Rainbow Mountain from Cusco? Delve into the heart of this unforgettable adventure with our complete itinerary below.
Cusco | Rainbow Mountain | Cusco
Highlight of the day: Enjoy the impressive scenery and views that unfolds before you as you hike to the top of Rainbow Mountain in Peru.
We will pick you up at your hotel at 4:00 am. We will then embark on a 2 hour drive to the breakfast spot (included). Here we will serve you a buffet breakfast.
Then we will continue by car for 45 more minutes until we reach the beginning of the trek.
From here, it will be a 2 hour, uphill hike to reach the famous Rainbow Mountain. When you reach the top of the mountain, you will be able to observe some of the Andean wildlife.
You will have enough time to immerse yourself in the majesty of the red mountains that surround this area. However, after enjoying the beautiful views we will descend to the Red Valley lookout point from where we will have a different view of the red mountains.
Finally after an amazing adventure we will make our way back with a two hour downhill hike, to the base of the hike.
Here we will take our private car and go to the lunch place, we will have lunch in a local restaurant highly recommended by travelers, where we will enjoy a delicious meal. Later on we will return to Cusco. We will drop you off at your hotel around 5 – 6 pm.
Difficulty
Easy / Beginner
Inclusions
Included
Pre-departure briefing
We’ll meet you at your hotel in Cusco for the orientation or call you by WhatsApp, the night before your trip to the Rainbow Mountain, you can take this chance to ask final questions about the trip.
English speaking guide
Your adventure begins with a knowledgeable and experienced local guide who will take you to Rainbow Mountain. Learn about the unique geological formation and its fascinating history as your guide shares their expertise along the way. Let your guide share the wonders of the area, so you can appreciate all of its beauty without any worries!
Private transportation
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to travel by our private transport for 3 hour drive to the Southern Valley passing Quechua villages until arriving to the trailhead. Once we are done with the trip, we’ll take you back to the door of your hotel.
Meals
Our full day Rainbow Mountain offers, a buffet breakfast, and one selection of Peruvian dishes for lunch, in the small village of Cusipata. We respect all diets (vegetarian or vegan are available), so let us know when booking.
Entrance tickets
We provide you with all the entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain, which will be purchased on the day of the activity and at the checkpoint.
Medical kit, oxygen bottle
Our tour guides are forbidden to give any madication to tourits. These rules come from the government that does not allow the tour guide to use pills due to different names and components of drugs by country.
For this reason, we always advise taking a basic first aid kit, pills for most common problems like headaches, painkillers, altitude medicine, and antibiotics. The oxygen will always be taken for our trips.
Assistant tour guide (only for 9 people or more)
No Included
Horse to ride
Horses are availble to take people along and up (part) of the trail for a fee.
The quotes for the horse ride from the bus drop-off is 70 Soles one-way and 90 Soles both-ways.
Tips
Guides get tip independentely depending on how well they performed during the trip. Please NOTE the amount you tip or if you tip is a personal desition.
What To Bring
What to Bring
What to Pack for a Rainbow Mountain Day Trip in Peru
A visit to Peru’s Rainbow Mountain is an experience you won’t forget. To make the most of your journey, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare properly. From snacks to sunscreen, here’s everything you need to know to pack for your rainbow mountain day trip.
Note: Weather conditions can change rapidly at Rainbow Mountain, so it’s important to wear sturdy and comfortable shoes that don’t cause blisters. Choose lightweight walking boots with good grip and a waterproof layer for protection from mud. Invest in some quality cotton or merino wool socks for an extra layer of cushioning and warmth. Don’t forget to also pack an extra pair just in case your feet get wet.
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Appropriate clothing for the weather
- Sunscreen
- Walking sticks (Optional)
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Snacks/energy bars
- Backpack
- Camera/phone for photos
- Personal medication (if needed)
- Cash for shopping or tips
- Portable charger
Pricing
Pricing
Cusco Rainbow Mountain Private Tour Price
The cost of our private Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco is calculated per person and is based on the number of participants. As the number of participants increases, the individual cost decreases.
To guarantee your reservation for this tour, you will only need to pay a partial amount, starting as low as $30 USD. The remaining balance can be paid on the day of the tour, directly in cash. If you need more information or have questions about payment methods, please do not hesitate to contact one of our travel specialists. We are here to assist you at all times.
2 Persons
Price
US $ 145.00
per person
3 Persons
Price
US $ 130.00
per person
4 Persons
Price
US $ 115.00
per person
5 Persons
Price
US $ 100.00
per person
6 Persons
Price
US $ 99.00
per person
7 Persons
Price
US $ 89.00
per person
8 Persons
Price
US $ 79.00
per person
Terms and Conditions
Terms and Conditions
When booking a tour with Come See Peru, you agree to all our terms and conditions.
Come See Peru is a Local Operator based in Cusco city, located in Av. San Sebastian, Calle Independencia – B-4 Peru. Please email us at info@comeseeperutours.com or call our team at +9696760991
Legal name: COMESEEPERUTOURS E.I.R.L
RUC: 20608161156
Free Cancellation For All Our Day Tours
When booking a tour with Come See Peru Tours, my team and I will work hard to make sure you have the best experience of your life. Our team will make sure that you are safe, and that you are having a good time. However there are some facts outside of our control that may affect your trip. Therefore we suggest that you take a look at our cancellation terms. The terms of your cancellation are based on how far in advance of your trip you notify us. We understand that there are many unexpected issues that will make you cancel your tour.
Refunds will be only provided for DAY TOURS Not for Machu Picchu tours since the deposit of the total cost is used to buy the Machu Picchu tickets, the train tickets and bus tickets which by the way are not refundable.
Please note that when we make the deposit for the refund paid for the tour you are cancelling. Paypal may charge a commission, commission that will be paid by you.
- 100% refund of the deposit if we receive notice of the cancellation at least 3 days before the date of the day tour.
- 70% refund of the deposit if we receive notice of the cancellation 2 days before the date of the day tour.
- 50% refund of the deposit if we receive notice of the cancellation 1 day before the date of the day tour.
- No refund of the deposit will be provided we receive notice of the cancellation on the day of the day tour.
Notification of cancellation must be made in writing to info@comeseeperutours.com
To protect your travel investment, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Obtaining travel insurance before leaving home is highly recommended and very easy.
Faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco. The location doesn’t matter. If you are staying at a private residence or Airbnb, we will do our best to pick you up at that location or nearby. We will inform you one day in advance where exactly.
Not necessarily. But it is highly recommended that you wear strong and comfortable shoes suitable for all weather conditions as you walk through these steep and colorful mountains.
Some people experience altitude sickness. To reduce the chances that altitude will affect you on this one-day hike, you need to spend some time acclimatizing to drink plenty of fluids. Finally, you can chew coca leaves like the natives of South America.
You should be more or less physically fit. The trail is excellent and not very steep, but at 5000 masl the gradual ascent can be difficult. For people who are not in good shape and prefer to ride, there are horses available for rent.
We are direct operators for the Rainbow Mountain tour and are committed to sustainable tourism on all of our excursions. Therefore, we guarantee you the best service, the best tour guide and the safest transportation while traveling to these sacred places in Ausangate Mountain. Book this Rainbow Mountain tour!
Vinicunca is located in Cusco, province of Canchis and district of Pitumarca. The road that leads to this place is the one that goes south of Cusco.
The obligatory things to take is:
Warm clothing at least one for the descent, when descending from Vinicunca make a cold!, sunscreen, cap or hat, short wind, good trekking shoes (walkers) not new because the new can hurt your feet and hinder the walk, extra money for some unexpected expenses. Rain poncho, you don’t know when it might rain. Cold gloves. Some extra snacks as well as for extra expenses such as saddle horse rental. In case you have a special diet. Walking sticks for support.
Totally recommended and not only for this trip but for any trip you want to make.
From April to September is considered the months where there is no rain and if there is minimal. From September to March is considered rainy months, being from January to March with more intensity. However, even if it is rainy season, there are days in which not even a drop of rain falls. Also in any season can fall hail, or snow so be prepared for any situation and put a good face.
Depending on your physical condition, the climb can be from 2.5 hours to 4 hours and the return the same, we strongly recommend having a little preparation in walks to enjoy more of this excursion and avoid disappointments.
When you go to the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, you meet every agency that offers this same tour at “cheap” costs but remember you get what you pay for. In many cases some agencies can charge much less but send you on a tour where the groups are 20, 30 to more tourists and a single guide. We offer our excursion in exclusive service where the minimum number of tourists is 2 and the maximum 15 per group. In this way the excursion becomes more pleasant and the guide will have more comfort in giving their explanations as well as the tourists in listening. Now you can also choose the option in private service, there the mobility and the guide will be at your disposal. This is recommended for couples, families or people who do not want to share the tour with others.
This tour is not recommended for children because they may have problems walking, however in case it is a child who likes hiking at high altitude, if you can do so.
If you have medical problems, we recommend that you consult your doctor and indicate that you want or have planned to make a walk in the Peruvian Andes and that the altitude is 5000 m.a.s.l. if you have medication must have with you that medication to continue with your treatment.
If you have problems walking or there are children on the excursion, we recommend hiring a horse (the locals rent it) so you can lighten your trip, remember that the horse can not take you all the time because there are very steep climbs for which you must get off the horse and then continue on horseback or on foot.
Travel Guide
Useful Information about Peru Rainbow Mountain
Located in Peru’s Andean mountains, Rainbow Mountain is a geological marvel and an unforgettable travel destination. This guide provides all the information you need to make the most of your visit, from what time to go and what to bring, to the best activities for visitors. At Rainbow Mountain, there are a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to take part in. One popular activity is hiking. The surrounding terrain is rugged but rewarding, and those willing to brave the elements will be rewarded with incredible views of the lush, rainbow-colored hills below. In addition to hiking, take picturesque horseback rides through the breathtaking landscape, or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
At Come See Peru Tours we offer you a personalized tour with our experienced local guides who will take you to one of the most popular mountains in the world. The Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca Mountain was discovered more than a decade ago by local people who witnessed for the first time its beautiful colors obtained from the different minerals that the mountain has, it is not known if the Inca people already knew of it although most mountains were considered deities by the Incas.
Vinicunca, also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors or Rainbow Mountain, is a natural wonder on the way to Ausangate. During this full day excursion you will be able to visit this beautiful mountain, and see from the top the colors that characterize it as well as a breathtaking view of the apu Ausangate.
The varied and enigmatic colours of the Vinicunca mountain await you. What are you waiting for? You, too, can get a little closer to heaven. Book our mountain tour seven colors and live an unforgettable adventure.
The Beautiful Colors of Rainbow Mountain
Vinicunca’s rainbow appearance is due to “a complex geological history of marine, lake and fluvial sediments,” according to a report by the Cultural Landscape Office of Cusco’s Deconcentrated Directorate of Culture.
These sediments, carried by the water that previously covered the area, date from between the Tertiary and Quaternary periods, i.e. from about 65 to two million years ago.
Over time, sediments formed layers (with different grain sizes) that today are seen as the stripes that attract tourists so much.
The movement of the tectonic plates in the area elevated these sediments until they became mountains.
Then they acquired their bright colors because of the oxidation of their minerals, exerted by the humidity of the area, and the erosion of them, explains to BBC Mundo César Muñoz, member of the Geological Society of Peru (SGP).
Muñoz and the study of the Cultural Landscape Office detail the composition of each strip according to its color.
- Pink or fuchsia: a mixture of red clay, mud and sand.
- Blanquecino: sandstone (quartz sand) and limestone.
- Purple or lavender: marl (mixture of clay and calcium carbonate) and silicates.
- Red: argilites and clays.
- Green: clays rich in ferromagnesium (a mixture of iron and magnesium) and copper oxide.
- Yellowish brown, mustard or gold: limonites, calcareous sandstones rich in sulphurous minerals (combined with sulphur).
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