We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 to 4:30 a.m. If you are nearby, you can meet us at the office at 4:30 to begin the tour. After picking up everyone, we will drive you towards Cusipata town for approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive, we will provide you with breakfast, restroom facilities, and an opportunity to stretch your legs. We will then continue for one more hour to the trailhead at Chilliwani, where you will begin your Rainbow Mountain Hike. The hike up to Montaña de Colores will start around 8:00 to 8:30 a.m. and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours on the gradual uphill trail.
Once you reach the top, you will have time to listen to the guide’s explanation, take pictures with the Rainbow Mountain, llamas, and locals, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. You have two options for return: you can either return by the same trail you took to climb Rainbow Mountain or take a more interesting route, the RED VALLEY. If you choose to return by the Red Valley, our guide will accompany you on the approximately 2-hour walk back to the car. This route offers an opportunity to enjoy wonderful landscapes, especially if the weather is favorable. Once everyone meets at the car stop, we will return to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch. Then, we will drive for 2 hours back to Cusco and usually return around 5:30 p.m.
If you’re an adventure-seeking traveler or hiker, you must visit Rainbow Mountain. This stunning destination boasts a vibrant range of colors, including reds, yellows, greens, blues, and purples, making it a popular spot to explore. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the trek to reach the mountain is difficult and requires proper acclimation to the high altitude and steep terrain. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, it’s recommended that you join the guided trekking tour company Peru Hikers that depart from Cusco
Near Rainbow Mountain lies another natural wonder called the Red Valley or Valle Rojo. The valley’s reddish landscape is a result of iron oxide and other minerals found in the rocks and soil, creating a mesmerizing view. The Red Valley is often included in trekking tours leading to Rainbow Mountain, providing visitors with an extra opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking Andean scenery.
Rainbow Mountain Hike and Red Valley are included in the Ausangate trekking circuit, providing an opportunity for travelers to discover breathtaking scenery in the Cusco area. However, it’s important to note that tourist sites can transform and develop with time, so it’s advisable to consult current sources or reach out to local tour operator Peru Hikers for the most recent information on visiting these attractions.
