All you need to know about the full-day tour to Rainbow Mountain in Cusco

Welcome to the wonderful world of Rainbow Mountain in Cusco! Home to Peru’s highest-altitude trekking pass, the trail features some of the most extraordinary, dramatic and breathtaking scenes you will ever experience. One particularly popular activity is the full-day tour to Rainbow Mountain. In this article, we will provide all the information and advice you need to enjoy this incredible journey.

What is Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca, as it is sometimes known, is one of the most impressive natural sights in Peru. Found within the Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range, it can be found at an elevation of 5,200 meters above sea level and is famous for its streak of colors, created by the nature’s unique combination of sedimentary rock deposits.

What are the benefits of a full-day tour?

Booking a full-day tour to Rainbow Mountain combines two of the most popular activities for visitors to Cusco: hiking and sightseeing. Taking advantage of a tour guide’s expertise allows you to navigate and explore some of the most beautiful regions of Cusco in a shorter space of time.

Heading out with an experienced guide means your safety is taken care of, giving you extra peace of mind on the trek. With their help, you can also go further, exploring out of the way locations and discovering forgotten secret gems that bear witness to Peru’s rich history. You’ll also have chance to observe the unique wildlife in its natural habitat.

What should I expect?

The tour normally begins at around 4am when you’ll be picked up from your accommodation and taken to lay the groundwork for your trek. Depending on the operator, this can involve anywhere from twenty minutes to two hours of travel before arriving at the starting point.

You will then begin your hike, which usually takes around three hours depending on your fitness level. As part of the training at this high altitude, you should focus on walking slowly and take any opportunity to rest or refill your water bottle. On some tours, your vehicle will be able to follow you along the track, and mules can be organized if needed.

When you reach the high pass (5,000m above sea level) you’ll have the unforgettable first view of Rainbow Mountain stretching out before you. After taking some pictures, a small snack will provide the energy needed to tackle the last leg of the journey before descending down after a few hours, with an optional side trip along the way.

As you make your way down lower altitudes will start to welcome you back with a warm breeze and mostly cloudy weather. After a final snack and photo sessions you board the bus once more for a smooth ride back to Cusco for a late lunch or dinner depending on your departure time at the beginning of this incredible experience.

How do I choose a tour operator?

Considering the popularity of Rainbow Mountain, there are now plenty of tour options available to choose from in Cusco. However, it is worth bearing in mind that not all tours are equal. To ensure you have access to a safe, dependable full-day tour it is recommended that you book with an accredited tour provider like Get Your Guide.

Get Your Guide offer highly rated full-day tours featuring detailed itineraries that let you get the most out of your visit. Experienced tour guides handle all safety precautions while making sure you enjoy a comfortable journey while observing fragile local wildlife along the way. Best of all, their tours are very properly priced when compared to other tour companies in Cusco.

Conclusion

Visiting Rainbow Mountain is a one-of-a-kind experience that everyone should experience when traveling in Peru. If you want to enjoy an unforgettable full-day tour without worrying about a thing, then we recommend that you book with Get Your Guide for ultimate peace of mind when discovering Cusco’s remarkable landscape. For more information click here.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco

Cusco, a city located in southeastern Peru, is known for its ancient Incan ruins, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. Its streets are lined with lively markets selling colorful handmade goods, traditional textiles, and delicious food. Here’s an insider’s guide to Cusco to help you discover the hidden gems and local treasures of this beautiful city.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Cusco

While the iconic Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain are famous attractions in Cusco, there are plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations worth exploring. The San Blas neighborhood is home to winding cobblestone streets, colorful murals, and quaint art galleries. Here, you can also visit the San Blas Church, a stunning 16th-century baroque church with gold and silver altars. Another must-visit spot is the Cusco Planetarium, where you can learn about the Inca’s relation to astronomy and gaze up at the Andean skies through a high-powered telescope.

Dining Spots: Savoring Cusco’s Culinary Traditions

Cusco’s culinary scene is an incredible journey that fuses traditional dishes with modern techniques and ingredients. Visit Mercado San Pedro, where the locals shop for fresh produce and taste street food like chicharrón (crispy pork), empanadas, ceviche, and anticuchos. For a more refined dining experience, try Chicha, the restaurant of renowned Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio. Here you can indulge in dishes such as lomo saltado, alpaca steak, and quinoa tiradito. Don’t forget to try the local drink of choice, pisco sour, made from Peru’s national spirit, Pisco.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Cusco’s Vibrant Culture

Cusco has a rich and vibrant cultural heritage exhibiting a fusion of Incan and Spanish traditions. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city’s culture is by attending one of the many festivals, such as the Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, celebrated annually with great pomp and pleasure. For art lovers, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo is a must-visit, showcasing diverse contemporary art by Peruvian artists.

Local History: The Fascinating Stories of Cusco

Cusco has a fascinating history that dates back to pre-Incan times. In the city center, make sure to stop by the Cathedral of Cusco, where you can witness a 500-year-old painting of the Last Supper that depicts Jesus and his disciples eating guinea pig, a delicacy still enjoyed by Peruvians today. Another historical site to visit is Koricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun, which was once covered in gold and held the most significant religious significance in the Incan empire.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions: exploring the hidden treasures of Cusco

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, venture out to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, just a short drive from Cusco. Here, you can hike the Huchuy Qosqo trail, one of the less traveled routes but offers breathtaking views of the valley and pristine Andean landscapes. Also, head to the Maras Salt Ponds, small pools formed over thousands of years by evaporating saltwater. The bright white color provides an incredible contrast with the surrounding mountains, a unique sight that leaves lifetime memories.

In conclusion, Cusco is a gem that invites visitors from around the world to explore its rich cultural heritage, its delicious cuisine, and its stunning landscapes. We hope this insider’s guide will help you make the most of your visit, connect with the local culture and discover the hidden treasures of the city.