Photo gallery
A glimpse of the journey
Tour overview
Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, thoughtfully organized
At about 5,000 m, the striped slopes of Vinicunca are one of the highest day hikes in Peru. We add the less-visited Red Valley viewpoint and give you time to enjoy it.
Our Cusco team checks the services, timings and availability for your dates and sends the options in a written quote.
Journey highlights
What makes this trip special
- See Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley landscape
- Guided high-altitude day trip from Cusco
- Transport and listed local fees included
Detailed itinerary
Your day, step by step
Times and services are indicative. Your final schedule is confirmed in your written quote.
Pickup around 4:30 am
breakfast on the way
1.5–2 hour hike to Vinicunca
Red Valley viewpoint
descent and lunch
back in Cusco around 5:30 pm.
What's included
Clear inclusions, no guesswork
Included
- transport
- guide
- breakfast and lunch
- Vinicunca and Red Valley community fees
- emergency oxygen and first-aid kit
Not included
- horse rental for the climb (paid locally)
- tips
Plan with confidence
Essential trip details
Good to know
Before you travel
Planning guides
Useful reading before you book
What to bring
Pack light for the day
- Warm layers: thermal base, fleece, down jacket, wool hat and gloves
- Rain jacket, sunglasses, sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
- Hiking shoes with good grip
- Refillable water bottle and snacks
- Cash in soles for the horse, toilets and tips
Carry the original passport used to book. Check your confirmed ticket and operator instructions for current baggage and site rules.
Frequently asked questions
Before you book
Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake?
Rainbow Mountain is higher and more famous. Humantay is lower, greener and shorter. If you do both, do Humantay first.
Will the colors be visible?
The stripes look best in sunny, dry weather. Clouds and snow can mute them, especially from December to March.
Can I do it the day after Machu Picchu?
Yes, if you have already spent at least 2–3 days at altitude. It should never be your first day in Cusco.
