Rainbow Mountain Hike
Description
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and set off toward one of Peru's most renowned peaks – Rainbow Mountain!
After about two hours on the road, we'll reach Kusipata village. Here, we'll fuel up with a hearty breakfast to energize ourselves for the upcoming Rainbow Mountain hike.
Once we have eaten our fill, we will board the bus and continue the trip for about two hours through the community of Pitumarca, located at 3570 meters above sea level and arrive at a mountainside community where the real trek begins at a lofty 4600 meters (15,000 feet) above sea level. As we follow our guide's lead, we'll ascend through these mystical peaks while encountering Andean creatures like alpacas, sheep, and vicuñas.
After an hour and 45 minutes of hiking, we'll stand in awe before the magnificent Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of the Seven Colors. As soon as you set your eyes on this natural wonder, you'll understand why it's earned a spot on National Geographic's list of "100 Places to Visit Before You Die."
We'll take plenty of time to take pictures of Rainbow Mountain before we start our descent back to the bus, retracing our steps downhill – fortunately, it's easier going down!
Then, we'll return to Kusipata for a well-deserved buffet lunch, the perfect reward for all the effort!
After lunch, we'll journey back to central Cusco, dropping you off near the Plaza de Armas, marking the end of this 14 to 15-hour excursion.
Pickup
This tour includes pickup from hotels in the historic center of Cusco, as well as in the following neighborhoods: San Blas, Recoleta, Limacpampa, Nueva Alta, Santa Ana, and Arcopata. If you're staying in other areas, we'll get in touch with you to give you an alternative meeting point.
Hotel pickup takes place between 4 am - 4:40 am, depending on the location of your accommodation.
Important
- This route is relatively difficult. We recommend this activity for people that are in good shape and are healthy. People with heart conditions should not take part in this activity.
- The tour is carried out at high altitudes, reaching approximately 16,400 ft (5,200 meters) above sea level. While the hike is relatively flat with small hills, it lasts around an hour and 40 minutes and the lack of oxygen is notable. We recommend spending a few days before the activity in Cusco to acclimate yourself.
Price
More Information
Duration
14 hours - 15 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English and Spanish.
Included
Hotel pickup
Transport by bus or minibus
English–speaking guide
Breakfast & lunch
Hiking poles
First aid kit
Not included
Drinks during lunch
Admission to Rainbow Mountain: S/ 30 (US$ 7.90) per person approximately
When to book?
You can book up until 12 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
- Promotes local employment.
- Has a gender equality policy.
Provider
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Tayra Tours Adventures
Corporate name: Tayra Tours Adventures SAC
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - What should we keep in mind before booking the tour?
A - For an optimal experience, it's advised that you spend at least two days in Cusco prior to the hike, allowing your body to acclimate gradually to the altitude. The destination of our hike is situated at 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) above sea level, and the rapid change in altitude can impact your health.
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - Your safety is our priority. Civitatis works with certified providers for reliable and safe adventures. More information
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.