Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour 2 Days / 1 Night

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 2 Days / 1 Night Includes:

• Pre-departure informational meeting.
• Transportation from your accommodation in Cusco’s historic center.
• Return to your accommodation (Historic center of the city).
• Professional local guide in English, Spanish, and other languages.
• Camping equipment: dining tents, kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment.
• First aid kit and oxygen supply.
• 1 night of camping in comfortable North Face or Hard Wear tents.
• Sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels.
• Experienced chef to prepare meals: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
• All meals on the trail except dinner on the last day.
• Wake-up tea each morning.
• Afternoon tea.
• Daily water and snacks.
• Pack horses to transport all camping equipment.
• 1 emergency horse.
• Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 2 Days / 1 Night Does Not Include:

• Dinner on the last day in Cusco.
• Sleeping bag and trekking poles.
• Travel insurance (recommended).
• Tips.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control.

When planning your Rainbow Mountain to Red Valley trek, it’s crucial to carefully select what to bring due to the high altitude, cold climate, and rugged terrain. Here are some essential items you should include in your packing:

Essential Items:

• Thermal Clothing: Pack multiple layers of thermal clothing, such as base layers and wool or down jackets, along with accessories like a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf or neck gaiter.

• Rain Gear: Don’t forget to include a waterproof jacket and pants to protect yourself from rain and snow.

• Sleeping Bag: Bring a sleeping bag that will keep you warm during the cold nights, preferably one designed for low temperatures.

• Proper Footwear: Ensure you have durable hiking boots that provide good ankle support and are comfortable for long distances.

• Backpack: A sturdy and spacious backpack will be necessary to carry your gear, food, and water during the hike.

• Lighting: Bring a flashlight or headlamp to light your way during the nights and early mornings.

• Hydration: Stay hydrated at all times by carrying a water bottle or hydration system with you.

• Sun Protection: Don’t forget to protect yourself from the Andean sun with sunscreen and sunglasses.

• Trekking Poles: Trekking poles can be helpful for maintaining balance and stability on difficult terrain.

Clothing:

• Hiking boots or shoes
• Mountain socks
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Waterproof and windproof pants
• Hiking pants
• Warm hat or beanie
• Gloves or mittens
• Warm thermal underwear
• Insulating layers (wool or down jacket)

Gear:

• Backpack (30-40 liters)
• Sleeping bag (rated for low temperatures)
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Water bottle or hydration system
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal first aid kit
• Insect repellent
• Camera or phone
• Portable charger or extra batteries
• Basic personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)

It’s important to pack light and only bring what is necessary, as you will have pack horses to carry your gear throughout the hike. We will provide you with a duffel bag to organize your belongings. You can carry up to 8 kilos of your personal items in it, including sleeping bags or inflatable mats.

How many days do i need to acclimate before the hike?

It is crucial to be well-acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a strenuous hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your hike to help you acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness during the trek. If you have already been in another high-altitude area in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your trip, and enjoy the sights.

Traveling to Cusco

Cusco’s airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers must land in Lima and go through customs. Due to Cusco's high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, weather changes can halt air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option, although the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to reach Cusco.

Client Pickup

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, provided it is located in Cusco’s Historic Center. During the informational meeting, your guide will coordinate the pickup time, but please be aware that wait times may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobblestone streets, which can make access to some hotels and Airbnbs difficult. Some locations may be in areas with no vehicular access or on steep inclines, complicating luggage transport. It is advisable to book accommodation with easy access to facilitate transportation.

Luggage Storage

You can securely store any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure during your hike. We will store your luggage in the morning before your hike begins and return it to you once you are back in Cusco. It is important to ensure that your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness occurs when there is less oxygen available in the air at high altitudes, such as Ausangate. It can affect travelers regardless of age, gender, or physical condition. Common symptoms include headaches, loss of appetite, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. While some may experience symptoms briefly, others may face persistent issues if not properly managed. We recommend following these suggestions to minimize the likelihood and severity of altitude sickness:

• Consult Your Doctor: Before traveling, it’s advisable to discuss with your doctor. They may recommend taking acetazolamide (Diamox), a medication that can help reduce symptoms if taken one or two days before starting your trek.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your stay. Some people find saline nasal solutions (drops or sprays) beneficial.

• Take It Easy: Upon arrival, take it easy and allow your body to adjust by resting for 10 to 15 minutes. Try to rest as much as possible during your trip, as overexertion can worsen symptoms.

• Eat Light: Before heading to high-altitude areas, follow a light diet. Prefer easily digestible foods like fish, chicken, and hot soups. Avoid fatty foods, beef, lamb, and caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

• Coca, Mint, and Muña Teas: These can help alleviate symptoms.

• Use Oxygen Properly: It will aid in your recovery.

Climate

The climate in the Ausangate region is extremely variable. It can start out favorable but change quickly. Nights are typically cold, with average temperatures around -10°C, while daytime temperatures range between 18°C and 25°C. Cold winds are constant, and rain or snow can occur at any time. Despite these unpredictable conditions, trekking in the Andes of Cusco will be an unforgettable experience. It is essential to be prepared with suitable clothing and gear for various weather conditions and maintain a positive attitude and adaptability to changes. The beauty of the landscape and the sense of achievement at the end of the trek will make every challenge worthwhile.

First Aid

Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid. They will carry a first aid kit and oxygen for basic medical situations during the hike. They will ensure you are well taken care of. If something unexpected happens and you feel you can’t complete the hike, they will determine the safest and quickest way to get you off the trail and to a clinic.

Food

All meals and snacks will be provided throughout the hike, up until the last lunch on the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley trek. We understand you may be concerned about the quality of our food. While each meal is prepared by a chef in a small tent on a portable stove, our clients are consistently satisfied with the excellence of our dishes. Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. At the end of each hiking day, you will enjoy a delicious dinner cooked in the heart of the Andes, which will exceed your expectations of trek food.

We use fresh ingredients purchased from the Cusco market and transported by pack horses. These ingredients are then prepared by our chefs to ensure each dish is fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Dietary Requirements

Have special dietary needs? Don’t worry, we are prepared to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies.

Water

Ausangate Adventure will ensure water is available at every meal. The water will be boiled, purified, and cooled before being served to our clients. There will be enough water available during each hike, but you only need to carry what is necessary to reach the first lunch stop. You can refill your water bottles during breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Environmental Impact

At Ausangate Adventure, we use biodegradable soap and ensure we carry all our trash back to Cusco. Our muleteers are trained to keep the trails clean and collect waste. We are committed to preserving and conserving our environment by managing waste responsibly. We adopt practices that minimize our environmental impact.

Protests and Strikes

Protests and strikes are common in Peru and can affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked, and trains may be stopped. However, we will do our best to maintain your original itinerary, even if it means departing a night earlier. In some cases, trips may be canceled. If there are changes, our operations team will contact you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.

Lost Items

Please take special care of your belongings and make sure to collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, camps, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal belongings during the trek.

Shared Service Tour.

Price: $300 USD per person.

This shared or group service means that you will be taking the tour with other people. This standard service is conducted with a group of 10 to 16 people. We have confirmed departures for every day, so if you are just one or two people, don't worry, you can join one of our groups.

Private Service Tour.

This private and exclusive service is a way to take this trip where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary according to the number of travelers: one, two, three, four, or more travelers. Please, if you want private service, request information at info@ausangateadventure.com or through our WhatsApp at +51 914201334.

Is the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 2-Day, 1-night hike challenging?

The 2-day, 1-night hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is moderately challenging. Although the distances are not very long, the altitude, which exceeds 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), can make the trek difficult. However, with a proper pace and good acclimatization, it is a feasible and rewarding experience for most hikers.

Is the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley hike recommended?

Yes, the hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is highly recommended for those seeking a unique experience in the Peruvian Andes. The stunning views of colorful landscapes and geological formations, combined with the beauty of Red Valley, make it an unforgettable journey. However, due to the high altitude, proper acclimatization before the trek is recommended.

When is the best time to do the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley hike?

The best time to do the hike to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, weather conditions are more stable, with clear skies and a lower chance of rain, allowing for better enjoyment of the scenery. It is advisable to avoid the rainy season, from November to March, as the trails can become slippery.

When is it coldest at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley?

The coldest months at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley are June and July. During this time, the weather is extremely dry, and nights can be very cold. Although daytime temperatures are usually pleasant, it is important to note that there can be strong winds at the summit of Vinicunca.

What is the temperature at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley?

Throughout the year, the climate at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is cool, with temperatures ranging between 7°C (45°F) and 12°C (52°F). At night, temperatures can drop below freezing.

When does snowfall occur at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley?

Snowfall at Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley typically occurs during the rainy season, from November to March, although it can happen at any time due to the high altitude. During this period, weather conditions are more unstable, with heavy rains and the possibility of snow, which can make hiking more challenging and affect visibility of the colors. The best time to avoid snow is during the dry season, from May to September, when the chances of snow are much lower.