Rainbow Mountain Day Trip
From US$25 per person
Cusipata | Checacupe | Pitumarca | Predio Vinincunca | Rainbow Mountain
Trip Summary
Total time
12 hours
Meals included
1 Breackfast - 1 Lunch
Group size
Up to 18 people
Transportation
Bus
Why Pick This Tour
Conquer the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) via the Pitumarca route, the shortest and most comfortable access to the summit. Avoid unnecessary exhaustion with our exclusive path that reaches the peak (5,036 m / 16,522 ft) in just a 40-minute hike. Unlike more strenuous trails, our tour guarantees a safe and rewarding experience. It is the perfect choice for adventurers seeking epic landscapes, expert high-altitude safety, and the comfort of included buffet breakfast and lunch on an expedition into the heart of the Andes.
The best part of the tour: Guided tour of Rainbow Mountain Day Trip
Over View – Rainbow Mountain (Short Route Pitumarca)
Get ready for an intense trekking day to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). This shared tour begins very early (approx. 4:00 a.m.) with a hotel pickup.
We will head to the restaurant in Cusipata for an energizing Buffet Breakfast (included) before continuing along the Pitumarca route (the most comfortable route) to the trailhead.
The ascent to the summit begins here. Upon reaching the Second Viewpoint — the highest point at 5,036 m.a.s.l. (16,522 ft) — you will enjoy unmatched panoramic views, including the majestic Ausangate Snow-Capped Peak. After the visit, we return to the restaurant for a comforting Buffet Lunch (included) before heading back to Cusco.
Day 1 : Cusco - Cusipata - Checacupe - Pitumarca - Predio Vinincunca - Rainbow Mountain - Return to Cusco
We begin the day very early (around 4:00 a.m.) with a hotel pickup. Our guide will accompany you throughout the entire tour. We will start the journey south of Cusco, with a first stop in Cusipata for an energizing Buffet Breakfast (included), where you can choose from a variety of fruits, cereals, and hot beverages to start the day strong.
After refueling, we will continue along the Pitumarca route to the trailhead. Once at the bus station, the guide will give you essential tips on how to climb the mountain and maintain an efficient pace.
The hike to the Rainbow Mountain begins — a moderately difficult ascent taking approximately 40 minutes to the first viewpoint. We will continue to the Second Viewpoint, the highest point of the tour (5,036 m.a.s.l. / 16,522 ft), where we will enjoy a spectacular view of the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the imposing Ausangate Snow-Capped Peak. Here you will have time to take photos and receive the guide’s explanations about the geology of this natural phenomenon.
After enjoying this unique landscape, we will begin the return hike to the bus station. Finally, we will return to the same restaurant in Cusipata for a comforting Buffet Lunch (included), with a variety of dishes to recharge your energy.
After lunch, we will begin the return journey to the city of Cusco, ending the tour in the mid-afternoon (around 3:30 p.m.) at a central point near the Plaza de Armas.
What’s Included
- Tourist Transportation: Safe round trip Cusco – Pitumarca – Cusco.
- Professional Bilingual Guide: (English – Spanish) throughout the entire tour.l
- Buffet Breakfast.
- Buffet Lunch.
- Permanent Assistance: Support and help from the organizing team.
What’s Not Included
- Rainbow Mountain Entrance Ticket:
- Foreigner: S/ 25.00 Soles
- National: S/ 20.00 Soles
This fee is paid in cash to the community.
- Travel Insurance: Not included, but recommended.
- Extra Expenses: Horse rental, snacks, or meals not specified above.
Essential Recommendations
I. Altitude Preparation
- Crucial Acclimatization: You must have spent at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before this tour due to the extreme altitude.
- Difficulty: The hike is demanding and takes place above 5,000 m.a.s.l. (16,404 ft).
II. Logistics & Gear
- Cash Required: You must bring cash (Soles) for the entrance ticket.
- Layered Clothing: Warm clothing for the early morning and light clothing or a windbreaker for the hike.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are essential.
- Footwear: Trekking shoes or non-slip soles.
2026 Rates – Rainbow Mountain (Short Route Pitumarca)
I. Fair Prices for Our Travelers
This 2026, we invite you to discover the majestic Rainbow Mountain, one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Cusco. Enjoy incredible landscapes and short hikes along the Pitumarca short route, as well as the nearby Red Valley, maximizing your mountain experience.
At Viajes Perú, we offer fair prices for our travelers, combining quality, safety, and an unforgettable tourism experience in Cusco.
II. 2026 Prices
- Adult: $25 USD per person
- Student: $25 USD per person
Our prices are designed to provide a balance between affordability, safety, and an authentic high-mountain experience, ensuring every traveler has the best possible journey.
2026 Cancellation Policy – Rainbow Mountain Tour (Short Route Pitumarca)
The Rainbow Mountain tour takes place in a high-mountain area (above 4,500 m.a.s.l.) and is subject to the following conditions:
- Reservations & Payments
- To confirm your Rainbow Mountain tour reservation, a 50% deposit of the total is required.
- The remaining balance must be paid 1 day before the trip.
- Payment can be made via bank transfer or in person at our offices in Cusco.
- Cancellations
- Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance: no refund applies.
- No Show (failure to appear on the day of the Full Day Rainbow Mountain tour): 100% of the contracted service will be charged.
- In the event of voluntary withdrawal during the hike, there will be no partial or full refund.
- Date Changes
- Date changes are permitted with at least 48 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
- An administrative fee may apply depending on the season.
- Weather Conditions & Force Majeure
- The tour depends on high-mountain weather conditions in Cusco.
- In the event of cancellation due to extreme weather or force majeure, the service may be rescheduled.
- Safety & Responsibility
- The passenger must be in good physical condition and follow the guide’s instructions.
- The company is not responsible for incidents resulting from failure to comply with safety guidelines or from pre-existing medical conditions.
Where is the Rainbow Mountain located?
It is located in the Cusco region, in the community of Pitumarca, and is known for its spectacular natural color bands.
What is the altitude of the Rainbow Mountain tour?
The route reaches approximately 4,500 m.a.s.l. (14,764 ft), so it is important to be acclimatized before the mountain excursion.
How long does the full tour last?
It is a half-day to full-day tour, depending on the departure time and group pace.
How long is the hike and what is the difficulty level?
The hike lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes (round trip). The level is moderate, mainly due to the altitude.
Is acclimatization necessary before the Rainbow Mountain tour?
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
What should I bring for the excursion?
- Warm clothing (thermal jacket, hat, and gloves)
- Trekking shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water
- Cash for additional expenses
Is it recommended for children or senior travelers?
It depends on their physical condition and adaptation to altitude.
How are the Rainbow Mountain tour groups organized?
Groups are organized in tourist vehicles with a professional guide, ensuring safety and good organization.
How far in advance should I book?
During the low season, it is recommended to book at least one week in advance.
During peak season (May to October), earlier booking is recommended due to high demand.
Is the tour safe?
Yes, as long as the guide’s instructions and recommendations for high-mountain activities in Cusco are followed.
