Setting out on a small group adventure to Rainbow Mountain is an enticing prospect for those seeking an intimate and personalized experience. With a maximum of just 6 hikers, this tour promises a comfortable and tailored journey through the stunning Andes. Leaving the crowds behind, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as you trek at elevations over 5,000 meters. This full-day itinerary includes essential gear, hearty meals, and hotel pickup – ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the day. But what makes this tour truly unique is the opportunity to explore this natural wonder in a way that caters to your individual needs and preferences.
Good To Know
- Small group tour with a maximum of 6 hikers for a personalized and comfortable experience.
- Utilizes the less crowded Cusipata trail instead of the busy Pitumarka trail.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, lunch, snacks, hiking poles, and oxygen for added convenience and support.
- Hike begins at the foot of Ausangate mountain with guide assistance.
- Not recommended for travelers with specific medical conditions or accessibility needs due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.
Tour Overview
The small group tour to Rainbow Mountain, located in Cusco, Peru, provides a unique opportunity for up to 6 hikers.
The full-day tour includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, hiking poles, oxygen, and a first aid kit. Instead of the busy Pitumarka trail, the tour uses the shorter, less demanding Cusipata trail. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are also included.
The tour aims to offer a personalized and comfortable experience for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the stunning Rainbow Mountain.
With its vibrant colors and high elevation, this natural wonder is a must-see destination for those visiting the Cusco region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary Details
Early on the day of the tour, hikers are picked up from their hotels between 3:30 am and 4:00 am.
After a 1.5-hour drive, they’ll arrive at Cusipata, where they’ll enjoy breakfast.
The group then continues for an hour to Fulawasipata, at an elevation of 4660 meters, to discuss the hiking details.
From there, the hike begins at the foot of the majestic Ausangate mountain.
The tour utilizes the Cusipata trail, which is shorter and less demanding than the busy Pitumarka trail, providing a more enjoyable experience for the small group of up to 6 hikers.
Rainbow Mountain Facts
Situated approximately 4 hours by car and 2 hours hiking from Cusco, the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain rises over 5000 meters above sea level.
The stunning colors of the mountain result from geological processes over millions of years, which have been revealed by global warming. The dramatic hues are the product of mineral deposits, including iron oxides, which have been exposed as the mountain’s glaciers recede.
Trekking to the summit of this natural wonder is a breathtaking experience, both literally and figuratively, as hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the multicolored slopes of the Rainbow Mountain.
Inclusions and Costs
The tour includes a hearty breakfast, a delectable lunch, and convenient private transportation to and from the Rainbow Mountain. Priced starting from $119.00 per person, this small group tour offers excellent value for money, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
- Optional horse rentals available for 100 soles, allowing hikers to take a break during the trek.
- Entrance fees to the Rainbow Mountain are included in the tour price.
- Hiking poles, oxygen, and a first aid kit are provided, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.
- The tour caters to a maximum of 6 hikers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the entire experience hassle-free.
Health and Accessibility
This Rainbow Mountain tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. The trek is also not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Altitude sickness is a serious concern, as the maximum elevation exceeds 5,000 meters above sea level.
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Back Problems | Not Recommended |
| Pregnancy | Not Recommended |
| Serious Medical Conditions | Not Recommended |
Confirmation of booking is received upon purchase, but admission tickets are not included in the tour price. It’s essential to carefully consider your physical abilities before embarking on this challenging hike to the Rainbow Mountain.
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Pickup and Transportation
Early morning pickup between 3:30 am and 4:00 am starts the day’s adventure.
The tour provides convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The journey to the Rainbow Mountain takes approximately 1.5 hours from Cusco, with a stop in Cusipata (3310 m.a.s.l.) for breakfast.
The group then continues for an hour to Fulawasipata (4660 m.a.s.l.) to discuss the hiking details before beginning the trek at the foot of the Ausangate mountain.
The transportation is private, and the tour includes:
- Comfortable vehicle for the drive
- Experienced driver familiar with the local roads
- Oxygen and first aid kit available during the trip
- Pickup and drop-off at your Cusco hotel
- Smooth transition from transportation to hiking
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
After the comfortable journey from Cusco, the group starts their hike at the foot of Ausangate mountain.
Instead of the busy Pitumarka trail, the tour takes the shorter and less demanding Cusipata trail. This trail offers a more enjoyable experience, as it’s less crowded and allows participants to appreciate the stunning scenery at a relaxed pace.
The hike begins at an elevation of 4660 meters above sea level, where the guide provides important details about the trek.
The small group size ensures a personalized experience and allows the guide to offer support and assistance as needed.
With hiking poles and oxygen available, the hike is made more accessible, even for those with less experience.
Tour Highlights and Exclusions
The tour highlights include a hearty breakfast and lunch, as well as snacks and hot drinks to fuel the hike.
Hikers are also provided with the following:
- Hiking poles to assist with the steep terrain
- Oxygen tanks to help with altitude sickness
- A first aid kit for any emergencies
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
- A smaller, less crowded trail for a more enjoyable experience
The tour price starts at $119 per person, with an optional horse ride available for 100 soles.
Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.
However, the hike isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and food on the tour. However, the package already includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks, so extra provisions may not be necessary. The tour guide can provide advice on appropriate snacks for the hike.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour?
Yes, there is an option to extend the tour. Hikers can add an additional stop at Ausangate Lagoon for an extra fee. This extended tour provides more time to explore the stunning landscapes around Rainbow Mountain.
Is There Any Age Limit for Participating?
There’s no age limit for the Rainbow Mountain tour, but it’s not recommended for young children due to the high altitude and strenuous hiking. The tour is suitable for most healthy adults with a moderate fitness level.
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book this Rainbow Mountain tour for a private group. The tour provider offers private tours for groups of any size, allowing you to enjoy the experience with your own party.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear?
The tour provides hiking poles, oxygen, and a first-aid kit, so you don’t need any special equipment. However, it’s recommended to wear hiking boots, layered clothing, and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the high-altitude sun.
Small Group to the Rainbow Mountain (Max. 6 Hikers)
The Sum Up
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain on a small group tour designed for a maximum of 6 hikers. This full-day itinerary includes hotel pickup, hearty meals, and essential hiking gear. Trek along the Cusipata trail, enjoying panoramic views of the Andes at over 5,000 meters. An unforgettable adventure that prioritizes your safety and comfort.
