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Rainbow Mountain Red Valley Full Day Peru
Cusco & Peru Adventure

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Full Day

Explore Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley on a full-day trek with stunning Andean landscapes.

Full Day Moderate 5,036 m / 16,522 ft Small groups
Overview

About this experience

The Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Full Day is one of the most impressive hiking experiences in Cusco. This tour takes you to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, famous for its colorful mineral layers, and continues to the Red Valley, a hidden landscape with intense red tones formed by iron-rich sediments. Unlike the crowded Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, the Red Valley offers a quieter and more immersive experience with panoramic views of the Andes. This tour combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery in one unforgettable day.

Highlights

Why you will love this tour

Visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at over 5,000 meters

Explore the Red Valley, a less crowded and unique landscape

Enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range

See llamas, alpacas, and local Andean communities

Hike through high-altitude landscapes with snow-capped peaks

One of the best full-day tours from Cusco

Perfect combination of nature and adventure

Itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Day 1 Full Day: Cusco – Cusipata – Phullawasipata – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

Your Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. You will travel for approximately 2 hours to Cusipata, where you will enjoy a delicious breakfast. Afterward, continue driving to Phullawasipata (4,626 m), the starting point of the hike. Begin your ascent, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through breathtaking Andean landscapes with snow-capped mountains, herds of llamas and alpacas, and local villagers in traditional clothing. Upon reaching Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m), you will have free time to take photos and enjoy the views. Afterward, begin your descent toward the Red Valley, following a well-marked dirt trail. The Red Valley hike is not dangerous but requires effort due to altitude and steep sections. This part of the hike takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and offers stunning views of red-colored mountains and unique landscapes. After completing the trek, return to Phullawasipata where your transportation will be waiting. Then head back to Cusipata for a buffet lunch before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.

Includes

What is included and not included

Included

  • Pre-tour briefing before departure
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
  • Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
  • Private minivan transportation
  • Breakfast in Cusipata
  • Buffet lunch
  • Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain
  • Entrance ticket to Red Valley
  • Trekking poles
  • First aid kit and oxygen supply
  • Emergency communication radio

Not included

  • Drinks during the tour
  • Horse rental (optional)
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and staff
  • Personal expenses
Before you go

Important information

  • Bring your original passport
  • Acclimatize at least 1–2 days in Cusco before the tour
  • Wear warm clothing and layers for changing weather
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Carry water and snacks
  • Prepare for high altitude above 5,000 meters
  • Bring cash for optional expenses (horse or entrance fees)
Pricing

Price and booking information

Starting from $45 USD

The Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Full Day includes transportation, guide service, meals, entrance tickets, and full logistics. It is one of the most popular and scenic day tours from Cusco.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike?

It is moderate due to the high altitude, but manageable with proper acclimatization.

What is the altitude of Rainbow Mountain?

The summit is around 5,000 meters above sea level.

Is Red Valley worth visiting?

Yes, it is less crowded and offers unique red landscapes and panoramic views.

How long is the hike?

The total hiking time is approximately 3 to 5 hours depending on pace.