Trip Itinerary

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY 1:

CUSCO – CUSIPATA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN + RED VALLEY HIKE – CUSCO

DETAILED ITINERARY – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN & RED VALLEY TOUR

🚐 Early Morning Pick-Up
We will pick you up from your hotel between 4:15 and 4:45 AM. If you prefer, you may also meet us directly at our office at 4:45 AM.

🚗 Departure from Cusco
Once all participants are gathered, we’ll depart Cusco around 5:00 AM for a scenic two-hour drive to the village of Cusipata.

🍽️ Breakfast in Cusipata
Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant and take a moment to relax and acclimate before continuing the journey.

🚌 Drive to the Trailhead
After breakfast, we’ll drive for another hour to the entry point of Rainbow Mountain. Please note, there is a local entrance fee of 30 soles in cash required to access the mountain

🥾 Hike to Rainbow Mountain
The hike begins at 4,700 meters and ascends gradually to the summit at 5,100 meters. The trek takes approximately 1 hour and rewards you with panoramic views of the stunning Rainbow Mountain. At the top, you’ll have time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, learn from your guide, and connect with the local culture. You’ll spend around 1 hour at the summit.

🌄 Optional Visit to Red Valley
After visiting Rainbow Mountain, you may choose to hike to the Red Valley, a breathtaking extension of the tour. The entrance fee is 20 soles, and the hike takes 1 hour down. Alternatively, you can return via the original path which takes same time.

🍴 Buffet Lunch in Cusipata
After the hike, we’ll reunite at the vehicle and return to Cusipata for a buffet lunch around 1:30 PM.

🚌 Return to Cusco

After lunch, we will begin the two-hour drive back to Cusco. On the way, we will pass by the airport and the main bus terminal around 4:00 p.m., so if you wish, we can drop you off at either of these locations before reaching the city center. The final drop-off point is Plaza Regocijo, located in the historic center of Cusco, where we expect to arrive between 4:30 and 5:00 p.m.

Tour Inclusions

Inclusions

Included

🔴 TOUR INCLUDES

Hotel Pick-Up Service: We’ll collect you from your hotel between 4:15 and 4:45 AM. Alternatively, you may meet us directly at our office at 4:45 AM.

🚐 Round-Trip Transportation: Comfortable and safe transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back. Our modern vehicles ensure a smooth journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way.

🍽️ Hearty Andean Breakfast: Begin your day with a complete Andean breakfast featuring fresh fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, and your choice of bread or pancakes served with butter and jam—ideal energy for the hike ahead.

🥗 Authentic Buffet Lunch: After your trek, enjoy a well-earned buffet lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients. Options include soups, traditional Peruvian specialties, salads, and vegetarian choices to accommodate all dietary preferences.

👥 Intimate Group Experience: We prioritize personalized service with groups ranging from 12 to 14 people, with a maximum of 18. This ensures a more intimate and well-organized experience, with enhanced guide interaction and group dynamics.

🗣️ Expert Bilingual Guides: Our experienced guides speak both English and Spanish, trained to share not only logistical information but also cultural, historical, and environmental insights about the region. They’re also friendly and supportive throughout your journey.

⛑️ Safety & Emergency Support: For your safety, we carry a comprehensive first-aid kit and oxygen tank to assist with altitude-related issues or minor injuries during the trek.

Not Included

🎟️ RAINBOW MOUNTAIN ENTRANCE FEE

The Rainbow Mountain entrance fee is not included in the tour price. It must be paid directly at the checkpoint, so please ensure you bring cash in soles to cover this cost.

International visitors: 30 soles (approximately $8 USD)
🇵🇪 Peruvian citizens: 20 soles

🎟️ RED VALLEY ENTRANCE FEES

Entrance tickets are not included in the tour price and must be purchased on-site at the Red Valley entrance gate.

International visitors: 30 soles (approximately $8 USD)
🇵🇪 Peruvian citizens: 10 soles

Please ensure you bring cash in soles, as card payments are not accepted at the entrance. We recommend having the exact amount ready to ensure smooth entry. These fees contribute to the maintenance and conservation of this natural area.

What to Pack

👕 HOW TO DRESS FOR THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN AND RED VALLEY TOUR

The Rainbow Mountain tour takes place in the Andes Mountains, where weather conditions can change quickly and the hike can be physically demanding. Dressing properly will help you stay comfortable, safe, and enjoy the experience to the fullest. Here are some essential tips:

🧥 Dress in Layers:
Temperatures can vary throughout the day—from cold mornings to warm afternoons—so wear layers you can easily put on or take off.
👖 Comfortable Pants:
Choose lightweight, flexible, and quick-drying pants. Hiking pants or leggings are great options. Avoid jeans.
🥾 Proper Footwear:
Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip and ankle support. Avoid sandals or flip-flops—they’re not suitable for the terrain.
🧢 Accessories:
Bring a hat or beanie, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from sun exposure. Gloves and a neck buff or scarf are recommended for warmth, especially in the morning.
🎒 Backpack:
Carry a comfortable daypack to hold your water, snacks, and extra clothing. A good backpack with even weight distribution will reduce strain.
🧴 Sunscreen & Sunglasses:
The sun is strong at high altitudes. Protect your skin and eyes with sunscreen and UV-protective sunglasses.
🥤 Snacks & Water:
There are no vendors along the trail, so bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks to stay hydrated and energized.

✅ In short, wear layers, choose durable and comfortable clothing, and be prepared for changing weather. The right gear makes all the difference on your adventure to Rainbow Mountain.

Prices

Pricing

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN & RED VALLEY (GROUP SERVICE) – 2026 SEASON

Full-Day Group Tour to Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley – We offer two pricing tiers: standard pricing for travelers booking this tour independently, and promotional pricing for those who have previously booked another experience with Machu Picchu Team, such as the Salkantay Trek or any other tour with us. If this applies to you, you qualify for our special promotional rate of $23 USD or 85 soles per person.

STANDARD PRICE: $27 USD per person
PROMOTIONAL PRICE: $23 USD per person

👣 Group Size: Our Rainbow Mountain tour typically operates with groups of 14 to 16 participants, with a maximum of 18 travelers. Each group is accompanied by a professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish), ensuring a safe, informative, and personalized experience throughout your adventure.

Addons & Upgrades

How to Book

How to Book with Machu Picchu Team

? HOW TO BOOK THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN + RED VALLEY FULL-DAY TOUR

? Online Booking

Step 1: Click the “BOOK ONLINE” button
Step 2: Choose Your Date. Select your preferred travel date — we have daily departures available.
Step 3: Enter Your Information, Fill in your basic personal details, including name, nationality, hotel in Cusco, and WhatsApp number.
Step 4: Secure Payment, Pay safely using any debit or credit card. A 2.9% processing fee applies for online payments.
Step 5: Confirmation & Details, Once your payment is processed, you’ll receive an automatic confirmation email with your payment receipt and tour confirmation. A follow-up email will include detailed instructions and personalized information to prepare you for your trip.
Booking Deadline: You can book online until 9:00 PM the day before the tour.

? Booking at Our Office in Cusco

Location:
Visit us at our central office:
? Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco
Our friendly staff will walk you through the details and show you a map of the tour.
Payment Options:
Cash: We accept USD, EUR, and soles.
Cards: All major cards accepted. A 3.9% card fee applies and is paid by the customer.

? Required Information for Booking

Full Name
Nationality
Hotel Name in Cusco
WhatsApp number (with country code) or Peruvian cellphone — essential for coordinating your hotel pick-up

? Tour Terms & Conditions

Agency Cancellations: In case Machu Picchu Team must cancel the tour due to weather, political issues, or other unforeseen circumstances (either before or during the trip), we will provide a 100% refund of the tour cost.

Modifications & Rescheduling: You may reschedule your tour or switch to a similar option (Palcoyo, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley, or 7 Lagoons) at no extra cost until 7:00 PM the day before your original tour date. To make changes, email us at info@machupicchuteam.com.

Cancellations & Refund Policy

Full Refund: Cancel at least 24 hours before the tour to receive 100% of your payment back.
Partial Refund (50%): Cancel within 24 hours but before 7:00 PM the day before the tour.
No Refund: Cancellations made after 7:00 PM the day before the tour are non-refundable.
To cancel, email us at info@machupicchuteam.com.

Faqs and Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions Rainbow Mountain Full Day Tour from Cusco — Vinicunca & Red Valley

1. How does the hotel or Airbnb pickup service work?

We offer pickup directly from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco between 4:15 AM and 4:45 AM. You may also choose to meet us at our office, located at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, near the Plaza de Armas, at 4:45 AM, which is the final pickup point before departure. When booking, simply send us your accommodation details, or let us know if you prefer to meet at the office.

2. Where does the tour end?

The tour usually ends between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM at Plaza Regocijo, near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco. If needed, we can also arrange drop-off at the Cusco airport or bus terminal before reaching the city center. Please inform your guide in advance if you need this service.

3. Are horses available during the Rainbow Mountain tour?

Yes. Horses are usually available for rent near the checkpoint before the hike. If you decide to rent one, your guide will help you coordinate directly with the local horse handlers for a safe and smooth experience.

4. How much does it cost to rent a horse?

Horse rental prices usually range from 90 to 100 soles for the ascent to Rainbow Mountain. This normally includes the assistance of a local handler. If you want to rent a horse for the descent as well, the additional cost is usually around 40 to 60 soles. Please note that prices may vary depending on demand.

5. Why can horse rental prices change?

Horse rental prices are managed by local residents and may vary depending on the season, weather, and number of visitors. On busy days, prices are often slightly higher. Payment is usually made in cash and in Peruvian soles, as card payments are not accepted.

6. Are the horses treated well?

We always encourage respectful treatment of the animals. At Machu Picchu Team, we work only with responsible local partners and recommend that travelers avoid overloading or mistreating the horses in any way.

7. Can I take photos with locals, llamas, or alpacas?

Yes. At Rainbow Mountain, you will often find local people dressed in traditional Andean clothing with llamas or alpacas, offering excellent photo opportunities. While there is no fixed fee, it is customary to leave a small tip of around 5 soles as a gesture of appreciation and support for the local communities.

8. What is included in terms of group size, meals, and luggage storage?

Tour groups usually have 14 to 16 travelers, with a maximum of 18 people, accompanied by a professional bilingual guide. The tour also includes breakfast and buffet lunch, with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options available at no extra cost if requested in advance. We also offer free luggage storage at our office in Cusco.

9. Can I change my booking or cancel the tour?

Yes. You may reschedule or switch to a similar tour free of charge until 7:00 PM the day before departure, depending on availability.
Cancellation policy:

100% refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours before the tour
50% refund for cancellations made within 24 hours but before 7:00 PM the day before
No refund for cancellations made after 7:00 PM the day before the tour
To cancel or make changes, please email info@machupicchuteam.com.

10. How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike and what should I bring?

The Rainbow Mountain hike is considered challenging mainly because of the altitude, which reaches around 5,100 to 5,200 meters above sea level. The walk is about 4 km each way and usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours. We recommend spending at least 2 nights in Cusco before the tour to acclimatize.
You should bring:

Warm layers and lighter clothing
Comfortable hiking or sports shoes
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Water and snacks
Cash in soles
Personal medication if needed

11. What is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, from April to November, when the skies are clearer and the colors of the mountain are usually more visible. The rainy season, from December to March, can bring clouds and muddy trails, but tours still operate throughout the year.