Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek With Meals

Exploring the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain is a must-do experience for adventure-seekers visiting Cusco. This full-day trek takes travelers on a scenic journey through the Andes, culminating in a challenging hike to the Vinicunca Pass. Though the altitude can be demanding, the rewards are well worth the effort – sweeping vistas of multicolored peaks, towering glaciers, and the majestic Ausangate mountain. With a knowledgeable guide, hearty meals, and the option to rent a horse, this tour caters to a range of fitness levels. But the true essence of the experience lies in the personal challenge and the opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes of this remarkable region.

Key Points

The Rainbow Mountain tour is a full-day excursion from Cusco, lasting approximately 14 hours.
The tour includes a 3.5-hour hike to the Vinicunca Pass at an elevation of 5,200 meters, offering breathtaking views of the Apu Sarinini and Ausangate mountains.
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and bottled water) and transportation in a minivan are included in the tour package.
Travelers can opt to rent a horse to reduce the physical demands of the hike, but this incurs an additional cost.
Acclimatization in Cusco for 3 days is highly recommended to minimize the risk of altitude sickness and ensure a more enjoyable experience.

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Tour Overview

The full-day tour from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain promises an immersive experience, taking adventurers on a journey spanning 14 hours and encompassing a diverse range of natural wonders.

Participants will be picked up directly from their accommodations in Cusco before embarking on a scenic drive to destinations like Qollasuyo, Checacupe, and Pitumarca.

The highlight of the day is the 3.5-hour hike to the breathtaking Vinicunca Pass, at an elevation of 5,200 meters, where stunning mountains like Apu Sarinini and Ausangate come into view.

Along the way, visitors will have the chance to explore the Chillca community, known for its llama and alpaca shepherds, before returning to Cusco around 6:00 PM.

Itinerary

After being picked up from their accommodations in Cusco, adventurers embark on a scenic drive to destinations like Qollasuyo, Checacupe, and Pitumarca, setting the stage for the day’s exploration.

The journey culminates with a challenging 3.5-hour hike to the Vinicunca Pass, situated at an impressive 5,200 meters above sea level.

Along the way, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of mountains like Apu Sarinini and the towering Ausangate, standing at 6,372 meters. The trek also offers a chance to visit the Chillca community, known for its skilled llama and alpaca shepherds.

The day concludes with a return to Cusco, typically around 6:00 PM, leaving participants with a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring memories.

Inclusions

This full-day tour from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain includes hotel pickup and downtown drop-off, transportation in a minivan, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide to lead the way.

The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and a bottle of water ensures you’re fueled for the hike. Plus, the entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain are covered, so you won’t have to worry about paying on-site.

However, personal expenses and tips aren’t included, and you’ll need to rent a horse if you don’t want to hike the full 16 km.

The tour provides:

Meals and transportation
Knowledgeable guide
Entrance fees

Exclusions

While the tour covers a variety of inclusions, there are some exclusions travelers should be aware of. Personal expenses and tips aren’t part of the package, so visitors will need to budget for those separately.

Plus, if hikers don’t want to tackle the full 16 km trek to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, they’ll need to rent a horse, which costs 70-90 Soles. This can be a good option for those seeking to reduce the physical demands of the hike, especially given the challenging high-altitude terrain.

Knowing these exclusions ahead of time allows visitors to plan accordingly and ensure they’ve the necessary funds to make the most of their Rainbow Mountain experience.

Acclimatization Recommendation

The tour company recommends spending 3 days in Cusco prior to the Rainbow Mountain hike to allow for proper acclimatization to the high altitude, as the trek reaches an elevation of 5,200 meters. This acclimatization period is crucial for minimizing the risks associated with altitude sickness, which can include headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

By giving your body time to adjust, you’ll be better prepared to handle the physical demands of the hike and enjoy the stunning vistas.

Increased oxygen levels in the blood, helping combat altitude-related symptoms.

Stronger respiratory and cardiovascular systems, improving overall endurance.

Reduced risk of altitude sickness, ensuring a safe and comfortable trek.

Hike Difficulty and Details

The Rainbow Mountain hike is considered a challenging trek, covering a distance of 16 km with an elevation gain of 715 meters, making it unsuitable for those with limited hiking experience or poor physical fitness. The high altitude, with the trek reaching a maximum elevation of 5,200 meters, can cause altitude sickness and breathing difficulties for some. However, the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Ausangate at 6,372 meters, make the effort worthwhile. To assist hikers, a hiking stick is provided, and the option to rent a horse for part of the journey is available, albeit at an additional cost.

Hike Difficulty Details
Distance	16 km
Elevation Gain	715 m
Maximum Elevation	5,200 m
Recommended Preparation	3 days acclimatization in Cusco

Hiking Stick Provision

To assist hikers during the demanding Rainbow Mountain trek, a hiking stick is provided. This essential piece of equipment helps:

Maintain balance and stability on the uneven terrain, especially during the steep ascent to the 5,200-meter Vinicunca Pass.
Reduce the strain on your knees and legs, making the hike more manageable at high altitudes.
Provide an extra point of contact with the ground, improving your overall traction and confidence on the trail.

The hiking stick is included in the tour package, ensuring you’re well-equipped to tackle the challenges of this breathtaking adventure. With this invaluable tool, you can focus on absorbing the stunning vistas that unfold along the way.

Horse Rental Option

For those seeking a more comfortable or leisurely experience, private horse rental is an option available during the Rainbow Mountain trek. Renting a horse typically costs between 70-90 Soles, providing an alternative for those who may struggle with the demanding ascent to the 5,200-meter Vinicunca Pass.

Horses can be rented for a portion of the hike, allowing hikers to conserve energy and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. This service is particularly beneficial for travelers who aren’t accustomed to high-altitude trekking or those with physical limitations.

The horse rental allows them to participate in the tour and witness the stunning, multicolored landscape of Rainbow Mountain without the full exertion of the hike. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a more enjoyable and accessible way to explore this natural wonder.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season from May to September. This ensures clear skies, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the stunning multicolored landscape.

How Can I Rent a Horse for the Entire Hike, Not Just Part of It?

To rent a horse for the entire Rainbow Mountain hike, visitors should contact the tour operator or local providers in Cusco ahead of time. This allows arranging a private horse for the full trek versus just part of the route.

Are There Any Options for a Private Tour or Smaller Group Size?

The tour operator offers private tours with smaller group sizes, allowing for a more personalized experience. Hikers can also opt for a private horse rental for the full trek to Rainbow Mountain, providing more flexibility.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the hike. Most tour operators allow and even encourage hikers to bring their own provisions to keep energy levels up during the challenging trek to Rainbow Mountain.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?

There are basic restroom facilities available at the start and end points of the hike, but there are no dedicated restrooms along the trail. Hikers should plan accordingly and bring any necessary supplies for their comfort during the trek.

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