Overview
Experience an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking natural landscapes with a unique cultural encounter. This tour offers an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive to the trailhead where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our in-house chef. As you ascend to the famous Rainbow Mountain, you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating insights about the local geography, Incan history, and the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Designed for adventurers of all levels, this day-long journey provides a perfect blend of physical challenge and relaxation. After exploring the vibrant hues and stunning vistas of Rainbow Mountain and the captivating Red Valley, you will enjoy a well-deserved meal and a comfortable return trip to Cusco. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience in one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Cusco – Trailhead – Rainbow Mountain Hike – Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Trailhead – Rainbow Mountain Hike – Red Valley – Cusco
We will pick you up between 4:00 and 4:30 am from any hotel, Airbnb, or hostel in Cusco and begin the 2½-hour drive to the trailhead at Phulawasipata, arriving around 7:00 am. At 4,200 m/14,300 ft (compared to Cusco’s 3,300 m/11,300 ft), the air is thin and crisp.
Upon arrival, your personal chef will prepare a nourishing breakfast: hot coffee, hot chocolate, a variety of teas, freshly baked bread, seasonal fruit salad, eggs cooked to order, and other warm beverages. As temperatures at this altitude can be quite cold—especially before sunrise—remember to layer up with a warm jacket, scarf, hat, and gloves.
After fueling up, we’ll tackle the uphill trek to the famed Rainbow Mountain range. The trail covers about 5 km and usually takes 2–2½ hours. If you’re well-acclimatized, you might complete it in as little as 1½ hours; if you prefer a gentler pace, count on roughly 2¾ hours. Along the way, we’ll pause for short breaks where your guide will share insights into the region’s geology, explaining how mineral-rich strata create those stunning colors. Keep an eye out for friendly llamas and alpacas grazing nearby.
The path is wide and gently graded, making it accessible even for those with vertigo. While the dry season (April–October) offers the best conditions, our waterproof hiking shoes and trekking poles will see you through dusty trails or wet, slippery patches during shoulder months. This is truly an Instagrammers’ delight, as CNBC once noted!
By 9:00–10:00 am, we’ll reach the summit viewpoint. You’ll have about an hour to soak in the breathtaking panorama—rolling valleys, multi-hued mountains, and the towering glacial peak of Ausangate at 6,384 m/20,944 ft, one of Peru’s highest summits.
Once everyone has captured their perfect shot, your guide will explain the mystery behind the mountain’s rainbow hues and recount fascinating Inkan legends associated with these sacred lands. Then we’ll descend along a different route, leading to a lookout over the Red Valley. Many hikers say this rust-colored expanse is “the icing on the cake” and even more spectacular than Rainbow Mountain itself.
The descent from Rainbow Mountain to the trail’s end takes about 2½ hours—mostly downhill—and brings us back near our original starting point. Here, your chef will serve a delicious lunch featuring cold drinks, appetizers, a comforting soup, and a hearty main course crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
After lunch, we’ll hop back into our vehicle for the return journey to Cusco, arriving at your accommodation around 5:30–6:00 pm. You’ll be dropped off with memories (and photos) of an unforgettable Andean adventure.
Inclusions
Included
- Private transportation to the trailhead
- Pick up from any hotel in Cusco
- Breakfast at the trailhead
- Entrance fee into the park and the Red Valley
- English – speaking guide for the entire trip
- Snacks
- Drinking water
- Freshly prepared, hot lunch
- First-aid kit
- Trekking poles
- Porters & cook
- Dining tent, chairs & tables
- Private toilet
- Taxes
Not Included
- Tips for your crew
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Cusco airport is exclusively equipped for domestic flights. Therefore, all international travelers must land in Lima and go through Customs. Although your flight to Cusco may be operated by the same airline and on the same day, you will need to collect your luggage in Lima and recheck it for the flight to Cusco.
Flying is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Cusco, with several airlines operating this route. While LAN is usually the most expensive, it offers many alternatives and schedules to fit your planning.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Altitude
When booking a trip to Cusco, it is natural to have concerns about altitude sickness. Cusco’s altitude means that the air contains less oxygen, which forces your body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
It is recommended that you spend at least two days in Cusco before starting any treks in the Andes to allow your body to acclimate. Cusco is a fascinating city, full of activities, so you won’t be bored during your acclimatization period.
Altitude sickness can initially present with symptoms similar to those of a cold or hangover. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If symptoms worsen, it is important to contact our office so that we can assist you and arrange for a medical consultation.
Generally, the symptoms are mild, so it is recommended to take things slowly to allow your body to adjust. Stay well hydrated by drinking water or coca tea, which has been used for centuries to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help oxygen circulate in the blood. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and coffee, as they dehydrate the body. It is also important to avoid smoking and taking sleeping pills, as these hinder oxygen absorption.
Remember that the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even the fittest individuals can experience altitude sickness if they rush too much. Go slowly and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, which you should begin taking two days before reaching high altitude.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Durable, ankle-supporting boots with deep treads to keep you steady on dusty or slippery sections of the trail.
- Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.
- Warm Hat & Gloves: Insulated accessories to protect against cold winds during early-morning pickup and high-altitude stretches.
- Polarized Sunglasses: UV-blocking lenses that shield your eyes from intense sunlight and glare off rocky surfaces.
- High-SPF Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum protection for your face and exposed skin to prevent sunburn at altitude.
- Reusable Water Bottle: At least 1 L capacity to stay hydrated; fill up before departure to avoid dehydration.
- Energy Snacks: Compact, non-perishable items like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit for quick boosts on steep sections.
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable poles that reduce strain on knees during ascents and descents.
- Daypack: A comfortable, weather-resistant backpack to carry layers, snacks, water, and personal items.
- Rain Poncho or Compact Umbrella: Lightweight cover to protect you from unexpected showers or snow flurries.
- Camera or Smartphone: Fully charged device for capturing vibrant landscapes; consider bringing a power bank for extra battery life.
- Basic First Aid Kit: Bandages, blister pads, pain relievers, and any personal medications to address minor injuries or altitude discomfort.
- SPF Lip Balm: Protects lips from drying and sun exposure in the thin mountain air.
- Hand Sanitizer: For maintaining hygiene before meals and after rest breaks.
- Headlamp or Flashlight: Handy for pre-dawn pickup or in case of any delays returning to Cusco.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 1-day adventure along Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley for USD 160 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tour requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
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