Rainbow Mountains

The Famous Rainbow Mountains of the Andes

Perhaps the most Instagram-famous of Cusco’s attractions is Rainbow Mountain. For years visitors have hiked up to Mount Vinicunca’s 5,000 meter peak to take photos of the stunning colors and the nearby Red Valley. 

In recent years routes have opened up to other Rainbow Mountains giving visitors the chance to see the vibrant colors without the crowds or queues.

Tours typically leave early in the morning and include both breakfast and lunch.

Palccoyo, and alternative Rainbow Mountain near Cusco
Palccoyo, an alternative to the classic Rainbow Mountain

When Should I Book?

Rainbow Mountain tours leave from Cusco every morning, and there is no limit on the number of visitors. Proyecto Peru accepts bookings for weekend trips up until 5pm Thursday, and for weekday trips we can often accept a booking the day before.

Rainbow Mountain Tours

Classic Rainbow Mountain

The traditional Rainbow Mountain experience. Head by minibus to the trailhead, stopping off for a buffet breakfast. Head up to the viewpoint by foot or hire a ride . The challenging but rewarding hike ends with the opportunity to take photos in front of the iconic spectrum of rock hues. Head back to Cusco and stop for lunch before arriving mid-afternoon.

$35 USD

Itinerary
Book Here
Palccoyo and the stone forest

Palccoyo

Discover a stunning alternative Rainbow Mountain that many believe is more spectacular than the original. Enjoyer the gentler and flatter hike to the viewpoint before heading up to the stone forest formation on the peak above. Buffet breakfast and lunch are included a long with transportation and an expert guide.

$35 USD

Itinerary
Book Here

Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley by ATV

Take an exciting ATV ride through the incredible Red Valley before hiking th last section to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint from the opposite direction to the crowds. Ride back through the valley before returning to Cusco. This action-packed day also includes buffet breakfast and lunch. It is a longer day than the other tours, but well worth the time!

$70 USD

Contact info@proyectoperucentre.org to book

Rainbow Mountain
VIP

Take an earlier trip to the Rainbow Mountain to beat the crowds and queues, allowing for an easier hike and better photo opportunities. Then head to the Red Valley (optional, with additional fee to enter). Breakfast, lunch, transport and guide for both the mountain and the valley are included. Return to Cusco in time to enjoy your evening in the city.

$49 USD

Contact info@proyectoperucentre.org to book

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Rainbow Mountain is right for me?

All of the Rainbow Mountains are worth visiting and boast incredible views. If you want the classic instagram photo then the standard Vinicunca tour is the best choice. If you would prefer an easier hike and less crowds, then we would recommend Palccoyo.

How difficult is Rainbow Mountain

The classic Rainbow Mountain hike is modertate to hard, but you are able to take your time, and our guides are on hand to provide oxygen if required. there is also the option to rent a donkey/horse for the majority of the ascent. We would however suggest a few days to adjust to the altitude in Cusco before taking the tour.

How high is Rainbow Mountain

The view point at Mount Vinicunca is 5026 meters (16,522 feet). Mount Palccoyo peaks at 5040 meters (16,534 feet)

What is the best time of year to visit Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain is available all year round.

Do your guides carry oxygen

Yes our guides carry oxygen in case you require it.

Can I visit the Red Valley

The Red Valley is accessible from Mount Vinicunca. Whether you would have time on the classic or VIP tours depends on how quickly you make the assent. There is an additional cost to enter the valley and only the VIP tour includes a guide for this section, Our ATV tour travels through the Red Valley on the way to the viewpoint.
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