How to Experience the Thrill of Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day From Cusco

Are you looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience while visiting Cusco? Then Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day is definitely worth considering. This exciting tour takes you on a journey through the Andes Mountains to see the spectacular Rainbow Mountain, also called Vinicunca. With its vibrant colors and breathtaking views, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Peru. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your day trip to Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day from Cusco.

Overview of Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day

Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day is an 8-10 hour guided tour that takes you on a scenic drive through the Andes Mountains. You’ll be picked up from Cusco Main Square, Del Medio 123, and taken on an air-conditioned vehicle to visit Rainbow Mountain, located at 5,200 meters above sea level. During the tour, you’ll witness stunning views of the Andean landscape and experience the thrill of the high altitude. The tour also includes breakfast and lunch, so you won’t have to worry about packing your meals.

What’s Included

When you book Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day, you can expect the following inclusions:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Complimentary hotel transfers to guests staying within the historic center of Cusco
• Breakfast and lunch
• All fees and taxes

Meeting and Pickup

If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, you can still head directly to the meeting point, Cusco Main Square, Del Medio 123, and join the tour. Alternatively, you can request pickup at your hotel within the historic center of Cusco. The tour starts at 4:30 AM, so it’s important to be on time to avoid any delays.

What to Expect

Before embarking on the Rainbow Mountain Tour, there are a few important things you should be aware of:

Altitude Sickness

Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day takes you to a high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness. To avoid this, it’s best to spend several days in Cusco before the tour and gradually acclimatize to the high altitude.

Physical Fitness Level

The tour includes a 4-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain, covering 6 kilometers each way. Therefore, it’s essential to have a moderate physical fitness level to fully enjoy the tour.

What to Wear

Due to the high altitude, the temperature can drop dramatically during the tour. Therefore, it’s best to dress in layers and bring warm clothes, a hat, gloves, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Additional Information

Here are some additional details you should know before booking the tour:

• The tour is not wheelchair accessible
• It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or heart conditions
• You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts

Book the Tour Here

Experience the thrill of Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day with Viator, and make unforgettable memories in Cusco. Book your tour today through the following link: Book the tour here.

The Final Verdict

Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an adventure in Cusco. With breathtaking views, a thrilling hike, and convenient inclusions, it’s a great way to make unforgettable memories. We hope this guide helps you plan your Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day experience. Have a great trip!

FAQ about Cusco

Cusco is a beautiful city in southeastern Peru that has a rich history and cultural heritage. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a popular tourist destination. Here are some frequently asked questions about Cusco that will help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Cusco?

The best time of year to visit Cusco is from June to August when the weather is dry and sunny. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The months of September to November are also a good time to visit because the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.

2. How do I get to Cusco?

The easiest way to get to Cusco is by flying into the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which is located just a few miles from the city center. Many international airlines offer flights to Cusco from major cities in South America, North America, and Europe.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Cusco?

If you are traveling to Cusco as a tourist, you do not need a visa if you are staying for less than 183 days. However, you will need a valid passport and possibly a yellow fever vaccination certificate depending on where you are traveling from.

4. What is the altitude of Cusco, and how do I prepare for it?

Cusco is located at an altitude of 11,152 feet (3,399 meters), which can cause altitude sickness for some visitors. To prepare for the altitude, it is recommended that you spend a few days in a lower altitude city before traveling to Cusco. Once in Cusco, take it easy for the first few days and stay hydrated. You can also try drinking coca tea or taking altitude sickness medication prescribed by your doctor.

5. What are the must-see attractions in Cusco?

Cusco has many attractions that are worth visiting, including:

• Machu Picchu: One of the most iconic sites in South America and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Plaza de Armas: Cusco’s main square that is surrounded by beautiful colonial era buildings and has several food and souvenirs vendors.
• Qorikancha: An ancient temple of the Inca empire turned into a church after the Spanish conquest.
• Sacsayhuaman: Ancient, massive stone complex located a few miles from Cusco, was integrated into a defensive network, constituting the most masterpiece of ancient Peruvian architecture and engineering with gigantic blocks of stones placed with extreme precision.
• San Pedro Market: The city’s largest market where you can buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.

6. what is the culture of Cusco like?

Cusco has a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by both the Inca civilization and Spanish colonialism. The city’s streets are lined with magnificent churches and cathedrals, and the local cuisine is a blend of Andean ingredients and Spanish flavors. The people of Cusco are known for their warmth and hospitality, and many still practice traditional festivals and ceremonies.

7. What are some traditional dishes I should try in Cusco?

Cusco has a unique cuisine that is a blend of Inca and Spanish flavors. Some traditional dishes to try in Cusco include:

• Ceviche: Raw fish marinated in lime juice, served with sweet potato and corn
• Lomo Saltado: A stir-fried beef dish served with rice and french fries.
• Anticuchos: Grilled skewered beef heart served with grilled potatoes.
• Cuy: Roasted guinea pig, considered a delicacy in the Andes.
• Chicha: A fermented corn drink that has been enjoyed in the Andes for centuries.

8. Is it safe to travel to Cusco?

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and scams. Common safety measures recommended include travelling during the daylight, not carrying large sums of money, staying in reputable hotels and knowing the safety guidelines related to COVID-19.

9. Are there any precautions I should take when hiking to Machu Picchu?

Hiking to Machu Picchu requires a certain level of physical fitness and stamina, and it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid injury or accidents. It is recommended that you wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry sufficient water, snacks, and sunscreen. Also, you should acclimatize in Cusco for a few days before going on a hike.

10. What are the COVID-19 precautions in place in Cusco?

Cusco is currently following COVID-19 safety protocols to keep everyone safe. Some of these precautions include mandatory wearing masks in public places, adherence to social distancing guidelines, frequent hand washing or sanitizing and undergoing a temperature test at entry points of major public places.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cusco

Cusco, Peru, is a popular destination for tourists due to its rich history, cultural significance, and proximity to Machu Picchu. There are plenty of things to do and see in Cusco, from exploring ancient ruins to sampling delicious Peruvian cuisine. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most out of your visit to Cusco.

Getting to Cusco

Before we dive into the things to do in Cusco, it’s important to know how to get there. Cusco has its own airport, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which receives flights from major airlines such as LATAM and Avianca. Most flights to Cusco will require a layover in Lima, the capital of Peru. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco, which takes around 20 hours. If you’re coming from Lima, consider taking the Peru Hop bus, which offers stops at popular destinations along the way, such as Paracas and Huacachina.

When to Visit Cusco

Cusco is a great destination to visit all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is from May to September. During this time, you’ll have less chance of encountering rain and will be able to see clearer skies. Keep in mind that because it’s a popular tourist destination, Cusco can get crowded during peak season. If you’re planning your visit around a specific event, consider attending Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun, in June. This festival celebrates the winter solstice and was originally a religious ceremony in the Inca Empire.

What to Do in Cusco

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore the top things to do in Cusco.

1. Explore the Historic Center

The historic center of Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to plenty of historic buildings and landmarks. Start your exploration in the Plaza de Armas, which is the main square in the city. From there, check out the Cusco Cathedral, which was built in the 16th century and is home to several religious relics. Next, head to the Coricancha, which was a temple built by the Inca Empire and later repurposed by the Spanish conquistadors. Today, you can see the remnants of both Inca and Spanish architecture at this site.

2. Visit Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is an Incan fortress that overlooks the city of Cusco. This fortress was built in the 15th century and is made up of massive stone walls, some of which weigh up to 200 tons. Not much is known about why the fortress was built, but it’s speculated that it served as a military base, religious site, or both.

3. Take a Day Trip to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a must-visit destination when in Cusco. This ancient city was built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century and was later abandoned. Today, it’s one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. To get to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, which is the nearest town to the site. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or hike to the entrance. Keep in mind that entrance tickets to Machu Picchu must be purchased in advance and sell out quickly during peak season.

4. Try Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is some of the best in South America, and Cusco is no exception. Make sure to try ceviche, a dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, as well as causa, a dish made with mashed potatoes and stuffed with various fillings such as chicken or shrimp. If you’re feeling adventurous, try cuy, or guinea pig, which is considered a delicacy in Peru. You can also sample chicha, a fermented corn drink that was popular among the Inca Empire.

Where to Stay in Cusco

There are plenty of accommodation options in Cusco, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re looking for a hostel, check out Kokopelli Hostel, which offers a social atmosphere and nightly events. For a more luxurious experience, check out the Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, which is a five-star hotel located in the historic center of Cusco.

Final Thoughts

Cusco is a vibrant and historic city that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With plenty of things to do and see, delicious Peruvian cuisine to try, and a rich cultural history to explore, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Cusco every year. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most out of your visit to this beautiful city.