The midday tour to the famous Rainbow Mountain is an excellent alternative for those who want to experience this unique destination without dedicating the entire day to it.
Unlike traditional tours, which tend to be long and physically demanding, this shorter and lighter option allows you to enjoy the experience in a more comfortable and accessible way. Furthermore, the best part is that, once you’re done, you’ll still have the afternoon free to rest, take a walk, or even calmly make it to your scheduled flight.
As an added bonus, you’ll be able to enjoy the Mountain of Colors in its purest and most peaceful state, as this tour takes place at a less crowded time, far from the usual crowds that form earlier in the day.
Why choose the Rainbow Mountain Half-Day Tour?
Small groups: Forget about crowded tours—we handle small groups of a maximum of 6 people, with completely personalized attention.
Avoid the crowds: With the half-day tour, you’ll avoid all the crowds that go at the same time (classic tour), and best of all, you won’t have to worry about lines or noise.
Less hours, more experience: Although the tour starts very early and is optimized for you to return by noon, that doesn’t mean it will be a rushed tour, as you’ll enjoy the same benefits as any other tour.
Photos without interruptions: By arriving earlier than most, you’ll have the opportunity to find the mountain without crowds and take photos from different angles and perspectives, without people walking through your shots.
It is not massive: This tour is a calmer, authentic, and exclusive experience where you’re not just another number, but a traveler we want to take care of.
Perfect if you have limited time: We know that not all travelers have free days or time to spare. Therefore, this tour is designed for those who want to make the most of the morning without missing out on the rest of the day.
You avoid the midday heat: Climbing to more than 5,000 meters high is already quite a challenge, but doing it under the midday sun makes it much more complicated. That’s why, by leaving early, you’ll enjoy a walk with cooler and more pleasant weather.
Rainbow Mountain Tour Overview
- Location: The famous Rainbow Mountain is located south of Cusco, about 140 km away, between the districts of Pitumarca and Cusipata.
- Altitude: Vinicunca is about 5,200 meters above sea level. That’s why we recommend arriving well acclimated and not underestimating the altitude.
- Difficulty: The walk is considered difficult; it’s 4 km each way (8 km total) and can take between 3 to 4 hours.
- Tour Duration: The idea is that you experience everything in a single morning, finishing by noon.
- Transportation available: Horses are available to rent in the area (cost is paid directly to the local muleteer and is not included in the tour).
Essential Information for Travelers
- Entrance to the mountain: To enter Vinicunca, there is a fee paid directly to the local communities: Foreign tourists: S35 (approximately $10), and national tourists: S/20(approximately $7).
- Bathrooms: Located at the beginning and end of the path, with an approximate cost of S/2 ($0.50).
- Weather: This tour takes place in the early morning, and it’s generally quite cold, but as time passes, the sun comes out.
- Fauna: During the tour (and also at the top), it’s common to see llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully.
- Best season to visit: The ideal time to visit Vinicunca is between May and August. During those months, there’s almost no rain and a lower chance of snowfall.
- Nearby attractions: Just a 30-minute walk from Rainbow Mountain is the incredible Red Valley.
Is the Rainbow Mountain Half-Day Tour Available Year-Round?
The tour is available every day of the year, without exception. You just need to book at least one day in advance so we can organize everything with the quality and care you deserve.
What’s Included?
- Official tourism guide: A professional guide with experience on the route and a good command of English.
- Modern tourist transport: Comfortable vehicle with wide seats, heating, and ventilation.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off: We’ll pick you up punctually at your accommodation and take you back without delays or complications.
- Buffet breakfast
- First aid kit and oxygen: We carry a first aid kit and an oxygen tank as a preventive measure against any discomfort due to the altitude.
- Blanket for the trip: We offer a warm blanket to make your travel more comfortable—especially useful in the early morning hours when the cold is more intense.
Not included
- Since we are back in Cusco by noon Lunch is not part of the tour.
- Entrance fees to attractions: Rainbow Mountain : S/35 & Red Valley (optional): S/20.
- Horse rental: If you decide to use a horse to make the hike easier, the service is available but not included in the tour. The cost is 120 soles per person paid directly to the local mule driver.
- Snacks or drinks: You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks.
- Any service not expressly mentioned in the “What does the tour include?” section.
Packing List for Rainbow Mountain
- Light and comfortable t-shirt
- Thermal layer (optional but useful if it’s cold)
- Windproof or waterproof jacket
- Comfortable hiking pants (avoid skinny jeans)
- Hat or sun cap
- Light gloves (the wind can be sneaky)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hiking shoes or boots with good grip
- Thick, comfortable socks
- Water and snacks
- Cash (in Peruvian soles)
Rainbow Mountain Half Day Tour Itinerary
02:00 a.m. | Pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco
- An early start helps us avoid the crowds and catch the best views. Our transport picks you up punctually, and we begin our journey to the south of Cusco.
05:00 a.m. | Arrival at the starting point (4,650 m a.s.l.)
- We arrive at the starting point. Here, we take a few minutes to acclimate, stretch our legs, and enjoy a coca tea or coffee—perfect for helping with the altitude and starting the hike in good spirits.
05:15 a.m. | Start of the Trek
- The hike begins toward the Vinicunca viewpoint. The walk takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the group’s pace. The trail is peaceful but challenging due to the altitude, so we take it easy, with breaks along the way to enjoy the scenery.
07:30 a.m. | Arrival at the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint (5,200 m a.s.l.)
- The highlight of the tour! From the viewpoint, you’ll be able to admire the natural colors of this one-of-a-kind mountain. If the weather allows, you’ll also see the majestic snow-capped Ausangate and the Red Valley. You’ll have plenty of time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the view.
08:30 a.m. | Descent
- We begin the return to the starting point. The descent is quicker and more comfortable, lasting approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
10:00 a.m. | Buffet breakfast at a tourist restaurant
- Once we’re back, we’ll take you to a local restaurant where you can enjoy a full buffet breakfast. It’s the perfect meal to recharge after the hike and wrap up the experience on a high note.
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Return to Cusco
- After breakfast, we begin the journey back to the city. We’ll arrive in Cusco between 12:30 and 1:00 p.m., either at your accommodation or in the city center—whichever you prefer.
Half-Day Tour Pricing (per person in USD)
Prices vary depending on group size. The more people you come with, the lower the price per person!
Very Important
- If you decide to cancel your tour less than 5 days before it begins, unfortunately, we won’t be able to offer any refunds.
- If you cancel between 5 to 7 days before your tour starts, we’ll refund 50% of your payment.
- Now, if you cancel more than 7 days in advance, we’re happy to refund 90%, but we do need to keep a 10% fee to cover some administrative costs.
- Changing the date of your tour is possible, but it does come with a fee of $20 per traveler, and it’s subject to availability.
- Now, when it comes to unforeseen circumstances like delayed flights, train schedule changes, bad weather, or sudden strikes that impact the tour, unfortunately, we can’t issue refunds in those cases. We’re really sorry for any inconvenience they may cause.
What is the Mountain of Colors that we’ll visit?
We’ll visit Vinicunca, the most famous Rainbow Mountain in Peru. It’s located south of Cusco at over 5,200 meters (17,000 feet) above sea level and is known for its naturally colored stripes formed by mineral deposits.
Can you visit the Mountain of Colors in just half a day?
Yes! Our tour is designed so you can enjoy Vinicunca in just half a day—leaving very early and returning to Cusco between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.—without rushing and while avoiding the crowds.
Is it very cold during the tour?
Yes, it can be quite cold in the early morning, especially during the first part of the hike. That’s why we provide a warm blanket for the ride. As the sun rises, the temperature increases, and the weather becomes much more pleasant for walking.
Seriously, the tour ends at noon— is it really worth it?
Absolutely. Just because the tour is designed to return by noon doesn’t mean it’s short or lacking.
You’ll see everything there is to see—without rushing—thanks to smart planning. Best of all, you’ll have the entire afternoon free to keep exploring, relax, or catch your flight without stress.
Is this half-day tour better if I want good photos?
Much better! By arriving before the traditional tour groups, you’ll have the chance to photograph Rainbow Mountain without crowds and with the soft morning light that enhances the natural colors of the landscape.
Why is it better to get up early?
Because the weather is cooler and more stable, which makes the hike much more comfortable. Unlike midday, when the sun and heat at that altitude can be exhausting.
Are the crowds really avoided?
Yes. By leaving early, we arrive before most of the classic tour groups, which means fewer people on the trail and at the viewpoint—no lines, no noise, no rush.
Does transportation pick me up at my hotel?
Yes! Pick-up is from your accommodation in Cusco, as long as it’s within the downtown area. No meeting point needed — we come to you.
What happens if my hotel is outside Cusco’s city center?
In that case, we can arrange a nearby pick-up point or, if you prefer, we can organize transportation for a small additional cost.
Can I be dropped off at the airport after the tour?
Yes, we can arrange a drop-off at the airport if your flight is in the afternoon. Just let us know in advance so we can coordinate everything smoothly.
Is breakfast included? What is a box Breakfast?
At that early hour, restaurants are still closed, so we provide you with a well-prepared box Breakfast before the hike.
Once we return from the mountain, we’ll take you to a tourist restaurant where you can enjoy a full buffet breakfast. That way, you’ll be well fed both before and after the trek.
Is lunch included?
No. The tour ends before noon, so lunch is not included.
Can I bring snacks or drinks?
Yes, you can bring anything you like for the road, but they are not included in the tour. Just remember to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before the hike.
How long is the walk to Vinicunca?
The hike to the top of Vinicunca takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the group’s pace and level of acclimatization. The descent is usually faster—about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
How challenging is the hike to Rainbow Mountain?
The trail is considered moderate to difficult, mostly because of the high altitude (over 5,200 meters / 17,000 feet). It’s about 4 km (2.5 miles) each way, but you can go at your own pace. Trekking poles and oxygen are available if needed to help make the journey more comfortable.
Can I rent a horse during the hike if I need one?
Yes. Along the route, you’ll find horses available, offered by local residents. The cost varies and is paid directly to the mule driver, so make sure to bring cash in soles.
What happens if the altitude affects me?
At the starting point, we offer coca tea to help you acclimate. In addition, the guide carries a first aid kit and an oxygen tank in case of emergency.
Are there bathrooms during the tour?
Yes — there are basic restrooms available at both the start and end points of the hike. They’re simple but functional, and there’s usually a small fee of about S/2, so be sure to bring some coins.
Is it mandatory to visit the Red Valley?
No. The Red Valley is optional. If you still have energy after the Vinicunca hike, you can extend the walk by about 30 minutes.
Can I pay for the tour with a card?
Yes, you can book the tour with a card. However, for additional expenses like entrance fees or horse rental, it’s best to bring cash (Peruvian soles).
Is the Rainbow Mountain Half Day Tour shared or private?
The Rainbow Mountain Half Day Tour is offered as a small shared group experience, with a maximum of 6 people to ensure personalized attention. If you’re looking for a more exclusive adventure, we also offer private tour options—just send us an email and we’ll be happy to organize it for you.
When does Rainbow Mountain get crowded?
From 9:00 a.m. to noon, the trail gets busy with tourists. That’s exactly why our Rainbow Mountain Half Day Tour starts early—we want you to enjoy the views before the crowds arrive.
