Rainbow Mountain Tour & Red Valley Trek

Rainbow Mountain Tour & Red Valley itinerary:

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

The tour begins between 4:00 and 4:30 AM, with a pickup from your accommodation to start the journey to Cusipata, a village south of Cusco. There, you’ll enjoy breakfast in the Tintinco community, where you'll also have the opportunity to purchase last-minute items such as drinks, snacks, sunscreen, and any other necessities you might need.

From Tintinco, we will embark on a one-hour ascent to the Phulawasipata camp, located at 4,600 meters above sea level (15,091 feet). Upon arrival at the base, our professional guide will provide instructions for the continuation of the ascent, which will take approximately one and a half hours. As you progress, you will witness majestic mountains and rocky hills inhabited by llamas and alpacas. At a moderate pace, you will reach the Rainbow Mountain, situated at 5,200 meters above sea level (17,060 feet). Depending on the pace of the hike, you will have time to take photos and admire the stunning landscapes surrounding the area. You will also enjoy views of the valleys and snow-capped mountains, crowned by the majestic Ausangate snow-capped peak.

Next, we will explore the Red Valley, an impressive array of mountains and ravines with reddish hues. The vibrant coloration of this majestic place is due to the concentration of minerals and geological activity in the Andes. After our visit, we will begin a descent of approximately one hour to take transportation back to Cusipata, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch. Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco, arriving around 5:00 to 6:00 PM.

What is the included

Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour Includes:

• Pickup from accommodation in central Cusco.
• Transportation.
• Return to the Historic Center of Cusco.
• Professional guide in English and Spanish.
• Breakfast and lunch.
• Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
• Oxygen supply.
• Trekking poles.

Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour Does Not Include:

• Transfers not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Travel insurance.
• Riding horse (optional).
• Drinks.

What to bring for the Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley

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

• A small backpack will be useful for carrying your extra layers, snacks, and water during the hike.

• It is essential to wear hiking boots or footwear with good traction to ensure your stability on varied terrain.

• Consider bringing extra layers, as the weather can change rapidly at high altitudes.

• Pack snacks like energy bars or mixed nuts to keep your energy up during the excursion.

• Bring at least 2 liters of water per person to stay hydrated throughout the trip.

• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun at high altitudes.

• Use sunglasses to shield your eyes from the intense sunlight at high elevations.

• A hat will be useful for sun protection and to keep you warm in case of cold temperatures.

• Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the stunning landscapes you will encounter during the hike.

• It’s important to carry a personal first-aid kit for any discomforts.

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Travel Information

How many days should I acclimate before the hike?

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

Customer Pickup

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it is located in the Historic Center of Cusco. Pickup time is between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM, but please note that waiting times may vary. Cusco has narrow, cobbled streets, which can make access to your hotel difficult. In such cases, the guide will provide a meeting point.

Considerations

What does a shared tour mean?

A shared tour means you will experience the adventure with other travelers of different ages and nationalities, from both Ausangate Adventure and other operators, in a group of up to 16 people. It’s a great opportunity to connect with people from around the world while enjoying the adventure. This type of tour may be organized by Ausangate Adventure or by partner collaborators who meet our high-quality standards. If you prefer a more personalized and exclusive experience, you can opt for a private tour.

For shared tours, you will be informed of the pickup and return times the day before the tour. It is essential to be punctual to avoid delays affecting the rest of the group. Times may vary depending on participants' pace or local traffic, so we provide an approximate schedule. We appreciate your understanding of these factors that are beyond our control.

Due to environmental, climatic, or other unforeseen factors beyond our control, the travel itinerary may be subject to changes. If this occurs, you will be duly informed.

Location

Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley are located in a branch of the Andes, specifically in the Vilcanota Range. This mountain belongs to the Pitumarca district, in the Canchis Province, Cusco Department.

Altitude

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is situated at an altitude of approximately 5,200 meters above sea level (17,060 feet).

The Red Valley is at an approximate altitude of 5,000 meters above sea level (16,404 feet).

Climate

The climate at Rainbow Mountain is known for its great diversity and exciting changes. This region experiences a wide range of weather conditions. During the day, the average temperature at Rainbow Mountain is around 15°C, but at night it drops below 0°C.

First Aid

Each guide from Ausangate Adventure has first aid knowledge, and we also provide oxygen for the hike. If you need oxygen, you can request it directly from the guide.

Lost Items

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

Private Tour

Price: USD 145 per person (based on 2 travelers).

This private and exclusive service offers a more personalized travel experience. Prices vary depending on the number of travelers (1, 2, 3, 4, or more).

If you would like to book a private tour or receive a customized quotation, please contact us at info@ausangateadventure.com or via WhatsApp at +51 914 201 334.

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley FAQs

Is the Rainbow Mountain hike demanding?

Yes, most of the trail is accessible as it follows a mostly flat path. However, near the end of the route, there is a steep ascent at high altitude. Overall, the difficulty level is moderate since most of the trail does not present a significant challenge.

Is the Rainbow Mountain hike recommended?

Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in the world due to its unique color composition. Despite being a day trip, it does not require a significant amount of time.

What is the menu during the hike?

During the hike to Rainbow Mountain, we will provide both breakfast and lunch at a restaurant. We understand the importance of being well-fed for hiking, especially at high altitudes. Therefore, we ensure a variety of options to choose from, guaranteeing a balanced meal. The service will be buffet-style, offering a wide selection of local dishes so you can enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine.

If you have allergies or specific dietary requirements, don't worry. If you inform us in advance, we will make sure to provide suitable options, allowing you to enjoy your meal safely and comfortably.

What is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain?

The recommended months to explore Rainbow Mountain are from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant with less chance of rain. Between November and December, which marks the beginning of the rainy season, the weather can be variable, with sunny days interspersed with rain. Between March and April, at the end of the rainy season, the weather can also be variable, with sunny days and possible rain.

What are the coldest months at Rainbow Mountain?

The coldest months at Rainbow Mountain are May, 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 wind can be experienced at the summit of Vinicunca.

What is the temperature at Rainbow Mountain?

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

When does snowfall occur at Rainbow Mountain?

The snowfall season runs from December to March. During this period, temperatures drop significantly, and there is an increased presence of cold winds and rain.