Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley - beat the crowds!
Description
Embark on a breathtaking journey to explore the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain and the hidden gem of the Red Valley in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Standing at over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a must-see for adventure seekers. The vibrant colors of this natural wonder, paired with the surreal landscapes of the Red Valley, create an unforgettable experience in the Ausangate region.
Your day begins with a 4:30 am pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic 3-hour drive through stunning mountain landscapes. Upon arrival at the trailhead, enjoy a freshly prepared picnic breakfast with spectacular views of the Vilcanota Mountain range. Energized and ready, we’ll begin the 2-hour hike to the top of Rainbow Mountain, where the reward for your efforts is a panoramic view of the vibrant, multi-colored mountains. Though the hike is challenging due to the altitude, the breathtaking scenery is worth every step.
Just a short walk away is the Red Valley, a lesser-known but equally magnificent sight with its striking red, iron-rich soils. After soaking in the beauty of both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, we’ll hike back to the trailhead, where our trekking chef will prepare a delicious picnic lunch using fresh, local ingredients.
With TreXperience, your comfort and safety come first. We provide door-to-door service with private transportation, an exclusive guide, gourmet picnic meals, all entry fees, and top-notch equipment, making this a seamless and memorable adventure.
Tour Highlights:
- Explore Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley in one day.
- Interact with local Andean communities and hike alongside llamas and alpacas.
- Savor gourmet picnic meals prepared by expert chefs.
- Small groups ensure an intimate experience with a dedicated tour guide.
- Flexible booking options for peace of mind.
Tour Schedule:
- 4:30 am: Hotel pick-up in Cusco City.
- 8:00 am: Arrival at the trailhead for a scenic picnic breakfast.
- 9:30 am: Begin the hike to Rainbow Mountain.
- 11:30 am: Reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain.
- 12:00 pm: Hike to the Red Valley viewpoint.
- 1:00 pm: Return to the trailhead for lunch.
- 2:00 pm: Picnic lunch, followed by the journey back to Cusco.
- 5:30 pm: Arrive back at your hotel
Included
- Transportation: Enjoy comfortable, door-to-door service with convenient pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.
- Professional Tour Guide: Experience the hike with our knowledgeable, fluent English-speaking local guides who bring the Andes to life.
- Meals: Savor a delicious picnic breakfast and lunch, along with snacks, water, and hot drinks to keep you energized throughout the day.
- Entrance Tickets: Admission to both Rainbow Mountain and the spectacular Red Valley is included.
- Safety Equipment: Your safety is our priority! We provide a fully stocked first aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phones for peace of mind.
- Trekking Gear: Benefit from the use of trekking poles, picnic equipment (tents, chairs, and tables), and enjoy private portable toilets for added comfort.
- All Fees Covered: No hidden costs – taxes, booking fees, and everything else are included for a hassle-free experience.
Excluded
- Optional horse riding
Know before you go
Clothing Essentials:
- Warm layers (jacket, hat, gloves) to stay cozy in the high-altitude cold.
- Comfortable hiking pants for mobility on the trail.
- Long-sleeve T-shirts to protect from the sun and cold.
- Waterproof hiking boots for stability and comfort on rough terrain.
- Gloves and a beanie for added warmth.
- A sun hat or cap to shield from the strong Andean sun.
- Wool socks (bring extra pairs for comfort and warmth).
Hiking Gear:
- A comfortable, sturdy backpack to carry all your essentials.
- 2-liter water container to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against UV rays at high altitudes.
- A small first aid kit for any minor scrapes or blisters.
- Camera or smartphone (fully charged) with a portable charger to capture those unforgettable views.
- Headlamp or flashlight for early mornings or unexpected delays.
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, jerky, dried fruit) to keep your energy levels high.
- Trekking poles (provided by TreXperience) for extra support on steep sections.
- Rain poncho to stay dry in case of unpredictable mountain weather.
- Toilet paper or wet wipes for personal use.
- Hand sanitizer to stay fresh on the go.
Important Documents & Extras:
- Your passport (keep it safe in a waterproof pouch).
- Cash for souvenirs, snacks, or tipping your guide and chef.