FROM

U$D 35.00 Per Person

Itinerary

1. Early Morning Pick-Up

The day begins between 3:50 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. when you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll board a comfortable tourist van for the scenic drive to the first stop, Cusipata.

2. Drive to Cusipata and Breakfast

After a 1.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the small Andean village of Cusipata. Here, you’ll enjoy a nutritious breakfast, typically consisting of bread, eggs, coffee, tea, and juice. This is also your chance to purchase any last-minute supplies, such as snacks, water, or sunscreen.

3. Journey to the Trailhead

Following breakfast, you’ll continue driving for about 1 hour to the starting point of the hike, located at an altitude of around 4,600 meters (15,091 feet). Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning landscapes, with opportunities to spot alpacas, llamas, and local wildlife.

4. Hike to Rainbow Mountain

The trek begins at 8:00 a.m. and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The trail is about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) long and is moderately challenging due to the altitude. You’ll ascend to a height of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Throughout the hike, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the majestic Ausangate Glacier.

5. Arrival at Rainbow Mountain

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Rainbow Mountain and its vibrant, colorful stripes. You’ll have about 45 minutes to an hour to explore, take photos, and soak in the incredible scenery.

6. Return to the Trailhead and Lunch

After enjoying the views, you’ll hike back down to the trailhead, which takes about 1 hour. From there, you’ll drive back to Cusipata for a well-deserved buffet lunch. The meal typically includes a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, such as soups, salads, stews, and vegetarian options.

7. Return to Cusco

After lunch, you’ll head back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., marking the end of an unforgettable day.

What’s Included

• Round-trip transportation in a comfortable tourist van.

• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Cusco.

• Breakfast and buffet lunch (vegetarian options available).

• Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish).

• Trekking poles.

• First aid kit and oxygen for emergencies.

What’s Not Included

• Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (25 soles per person).

• Horse rental (optional, 50 to 100 soles depending on distance).

• Personal expenses, snacks, or drinks not included in the meals.

• Tips for the guide and driver (optional).

Recommendations for the Tour

• Acclimatize Properly: Spend at least two days in Cusco before the tour to acclimatize to the high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

• Dress in Layers: The weather can vary greatly throughout the day. Wear warm layers, including a windproof jacket, thermal clothing, gloves, and a hat.

• Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip to handle the uneven and sometimes slippery trail.

• Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong Andean sun.

• Stay Hydrated: Carry at least 1.5 liters of water. Hydration is crucial, especially at high altitudes.

• Bring Light Snacks: Pack energy bars, dried fruit, or nuts to keep your energy up during the hike.

• Cash: Bring small bills in soles for entrance fees, horse rentals, or snacks.

• Altitude Preparedness: Carry coca leaves, altitude sickness medication, or oxygen canisters if needed.

Highlights of the Tour

• Witness the vibrant, natural colors of Rainbow Mountain.

• Experience stunning panoramic views of the Andes, including the Ausangate Glacier.

• Encounter local wildlife, such as llamas, alpacas, and Andean birds.

• Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of high-altitude Andean landscapes.

This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of Peru’s most iconic natural landmarks, combining adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural immersion.

PACKING TIPS

.Clothing:

• Choose versatile clothing for different weather conditions.

• Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring.

Essentials:

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for protection.

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Technology:

• Portable charger and travel adapters.

• Download offline maps and language translation apps.

DURING YOUR TRIP

Stay Safe:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid unsafe areas.

• Follow local guidelines and respect cultural norms.

Be Flexible:

• Embrace unexpected changes; they can lead to memorable experiences.

• Stay Connected:

• Share your itinerary with someone you trust.

• Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.

Enjoy the Journey:

• interact with locals, try new foods, and immerse yourself in the experience.

AFTER YOUR TRIP

• Reflect on Your Experience:

• Share stories and photos with family and friends.

• Leave reviews for accommodations or tours to help other travelers

• Plan for Recovery:

• Allow time to rest after returning home.

• Take note of what worked well for your next adventure!