Private Cusco Tour: Rainbow Mountain – Colors of The Andes Experience

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Duration: 11 hours

Overview

Listed in National Geographic’s “Top 100 Places to Visit Before You Die," Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain is an incredible sight to behold. Join a local guide for an unforgettable private trek to see this natural wonder up close and immerse yourself in its unique, colourful beauty. Along the way, keep an eye out for llamas and alpacas roaming freely. Your adventure starts with a hearty breakfast and ends with a delicious local lunch.

Highlights

  • Since this is a private tour, you can stop and take all the time that you want to enjoy the amazing Rainbow Mountain
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the Ausangate Mountain Range near Cusco
  • A 05:00 a.m. start will give you the chance to reach a less crowded mountaintop
  • Explore the area as you walk through the Andes and feel the power of the mountains
  • Mingle with locals for an amazing breakfast and lunch in a local restaurant

Included

Included
Local English-speaking trek guide
Included
Private transportation
Included
Entrance to the main Rainbow Mountain Area
Included
Local breakfast
Included
Peruvian buffet lunch
Included
(meat, vegetables, different kinds of potatoes, soups)
Included
Oxygen tanks for any emergencies as we travel through high altitude

Excluded

Excluded
Additional food and drinks
Excluded
Tips/gratuities for your guide
Excluded
Rent horses

Important information

Where do we meet?

Pick up at centrally located hotels in Cusco city

Where does the tour end?

Drop off at centrally located hotels in Cusco city

What is the duration of the tour?

11 hours

What is the minimum group size for the private tour?

The private tour is priced for a minimum group size of two travellers. A solo traveller may still book this private experience but will be charged the base rate for two travellers.

What should I bring?

Your tour starts early in the morning when the temperatures in the Andes are very low, so we advise bringing warm and light clothes, hat, gloves, comfortable trousers and hiking shoes. It’s always best to dress in layers. It is a good idea to carry a rain jacket or a rain poncho with you during the trek. Sun block is very important. The intensity of the solar radiation is much higher at this altitude.

What if I have particular dietary requirements?

For this tour, we can cater for the following dietary requirements: vegetarians. Please provide this information at least 24-hours prior to your travel date. You can do so by emailing us at info@cuscourbanadventures.com. Unfortunately, we are not able to cater for any other dietary requirements that are not listed above.

What if I can't find my guide?

If you have any issues on the day of your tour, please call +51 994688552

Can I cancel my tour?

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity.

Highlights

More information

Local Impact: How you will help the local community by joining this tour:
  • Your tour visits the area at different hours than most groups to avoid overcrowding and minimize the impact on the natural environment.
  • The restaurant where you have breakfast and lunch is owned by a former Inca trail porter who started his business after many years of trekking.
  • Rainbow Mountain, once entirely blanketed in snow, has emerged as one of the most captivating natural wonders near Cusco. Renowned for its vibrant spectrum of colors, created by the unique sediment of minerals layered over centuries, this extraordinary mountain offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. During this private tour, you will be immersed in breathtaking scenery, from the kaleidoscopic hues of Rainbow Mountain itself to the majestic Apu Ausangate, the highest peak in southern Peru, revered as the spirit of the Andes. Along the journey, you will encounter llamas, alpacas, and other Andean wildlife freely roaming their natural habitat, adding a touch of charm to the stunning landscape.

    Your adventure begins early, with a pick-up from your hotel at 5:00 AM. After a scenic two-hour drive, you will arrive in the picturesque town of Paucarpata, where a hearty local breakfast awaits, offering an authentic taste of the region. Reenergized, the journey continues through the Ausangate Mountain Range, passing the quaint town of Pitumarca, before reaching the starting point of a thrilling two-hour hike to the viewpoint at an elevation of 5,020 meters. As you ascend, the anticipation builds, culminating in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of Rainbow Mountain and its surroundings. Ample time will be provided to take in the natural splendor, capture photographs, and connect with the serene environment.

    After soaking in the views, you will descend and stop for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Here, a buffet featuring a variety of regional specialties, including Peru's renowned soups, will be served, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. The return journey to Cusco will allow you to reflect on the unforgettable moments of the day. .

    Your safety and comfort are our utmost priority, which is why this excursion is carefully designed following official guidelines. We are equipped with a first-aid kit and oxygen bottles, and horses are available for emergencies, ensuring peace of mind as you explore this remarkable destination.

    IMPORTANT NOTES:

    • It is recommended you arrive in Cusco two days prior to your trek so you can adapt to the altitude. We strongly advise against taking this trip upon arrival. The walk will start at a point that is higher than the city of Cusco and will take you to 5020 metres at the highest point of the trek.
    • Please note, this tour involves 2 hours of walking and can be strenuous for those not accustomed to hiking or high altitudes. We recommend it for guests with at least a moderate level of fitness.