Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Trek + Red Valley

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Alqatari – Ausangate – Ananta

We will pick you up from your hotel at 04:00 am to begin the Rainbow Mountain 2-Day Trek. We drive for approximately three hours to Alqatari, where a hot breakfast prepared by our professional chef will be served.

After breakfast, we begin our high-altitude trek, walking through local villages, lush highland pampas, and vast herds of llamas and alpacas. Our hike leads us toward Pucacocha Pass, where we are rewarded with spectacular views of the Ausangate Glacier, the highest peak in the Cusco region at 6,370 meters (20,000 feet).

After enjoying the glacier and colorful mountain lakes, we descend to our campsite in Ananta, where a delicious lunch awaits in our dining tent. In the afternoon, our staff will set up the tents while you enjoy the surrounding scenery and wildlife at over 4,700 meters (15,200 feet).

As the sun sets, our private cook prepares dinner. At night, you will have the chance to admire an unforgettable sky filled with southern constellations in one of the most remote areas of the Andes.

• Altitude Gain: 615 m / 2,017 ft
• Altitude Loss: 292 m / 958 ft
• Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
• Hiking Time: Approx. 5 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Campsite Elevation: 4,700 m / 15,419 ft
• Accommodation: Camping (tents)

Day 2: Ananta – Warmi Saya – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

Today is the most anticipated day of the trek. We will wake you up early with coca tea or coffee delivered to your tent, followed by a hot breakfast to prepare you for the day’s climb.

We begin the ascent to Warmi Saya Pass at 5,150 meters (16,896 feet), the highest point of the trek. From there, we descend toward a beautiful circular lake and continue walking alongside two scenic lakes before reaching Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain.

At Rainbow Mountain, you will have plenty of time to explore the area, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking colors of the surrounding mountains with your guide. Afterward, we begin the descent, which takes approximately two hours.

Once back down, we celebrate the successful completion of the trek with a well-earned lunch. After lunch, we return to Cusco by private transportation, arriving at your hotel around 3:00 pm.

• Altitude Gain: 470 m / 1,541 ft
• Altitude Loss: 473 m / 1,551 ft
• Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles
• Hiking Time: Approx. 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult
• Please note: The itinerary may change due to adverse weather conditions.

• Includes
• Professional English-speaking guide (first-aid certified)
• Professional cook for all meals
• Horses to carry camping equipment
• Horseman to manage horses and camp setup
• Satellite phone and radio communication
• All meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 snacks, 1 dinner)
• Dietary options available (vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free, etc.)
• Boiled drinking water after lunch
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Camping tents (2-person tent per traveler)
• First aid kit
• Oxygen tank (carried by guide and available in vehicle)
• Pre-trek briefing at our office
• Entrance fees to private lands
• Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket
• Red Valley entrance ticket
• Private transportation (hotel to trailhead and return)
• Reusable cloth snack bag (eco-friendly)
• 7 kg personal luggage allowance (including sleeping bag)
• Duffle bag for personal belongings
• Rain cover for daypack

INFO IMPORTANT:

Things To Know

• Our 2-day trek to Rainbow Mountain is not safe for people with heart problems or serious health issues.
• We run our Rainbow Mountain trek in all weather. Just make sure to wear the right clothes.
• For this hike, the minimum age is 8 years old.
• It is not recommended for people over 60 years old.
• This trek is not suitable for pregnant travelers.
• Our Rainbow Mountain trek reaches heights of over 4,600 meters, and we will hike 10 km each day, so you should be in moderate shape.
• Don’t forget to bring water! Staying hydrated helps with altitude sickness. We recommend at least 2 liters per person for the first day until lunch. We will provide boiled water at the campsite.
• We avoid the crowds! Most people visit Rainbow Mountain in a day trip, but you will see very few people during our 2-day hike.
• Our guide always carries oxygen tanks, which are important because we will be above 5,040 meters (16,500 feet). Not all tour companies provide this, so make sure to check when choosing a tour operator for Rainbow Mountain.

Our Recommendations

• Make sure you are acclimatized to Cusco’s altitude before you set off on your hike our Rainbow Mountain 2 day hike. This is by far the best insurance for a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend you spend at least 4 days in Cusco prior to the excursion.
• Go to sleep early and try to avoid drinking or partying the night before, because We will pick you up at 04:00 am and the physically challenging trek will be much more bearable without a hangover.
• If you are going to Machu Picchu the day before your trip to Rainbow Mountain, tell your travel company to book your return train ticket early.

Duffle bag

We will provide you with a duffle bag for your personal belongings a day before your departure, at our office, following your briefing session. You are required to pack 7 kilograms of your personal items. At the trailhead, you will hand over the duffle bag to our horseman. Ensure you only pack items you will need at the campsite, as these duffle bags will be transported by horse. Once you arrive at the campsite, the horseman will return the duffle bag to you.

Briefings

The day before your departure, our guide will provide a detailed briefing about the two-day Rainbow Mountain trek. This meeting will take place at 5:00 PM at our office, located at 250 Marques Street, second floor, office 03. During the briefing, the guide will cover all essential information, including the distance to be traveled, the walking duration, expected weather conditions, appropriate clothing, and more. If you have any questions, you will have the opportunity to ask the guide directly.

Strike And Demonstration

Strikes and demonstrations are quite common in our Cusco region. If a strike is scheduled for the day of your departure, we will adjust by departing one day earlier to the trailhead, allowing you to stay overnight and continue your itinerary without any disruption the following day. However, if you are unable to depart a day earlier, we will proceed with canceling your reservation and fully refunding your payment.

Group Tours

A group service includes different types of people with various physical abilities and ages. When you book a group service, you understand that some people will be faster or slower than you, so everyone will go at their own speed.

In the event that the group needs to modify the itinerary, our guide will carefully assess the situation and determine the most appropriate course of action. The guide will consult with all participants to discuss whether the proposed modification is feasible, taking into consideration any concerns or preferences expressed by the group. Ultimately, the guide will make a decision that ensures the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of all members, striving to maintain the original goals of the journey while accommodating necessary changes in a thoughtful and collaborative manner.

Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Toilets

On the first day, when we reach the trailhead, there will be toilets provided by a local family. We pay them, allowing you to use the facilities without additional charge. These toilets have seats. During the five-hour hike to the campsite, there will be no other restrooms, so you will need to rely on nature. Upon arrival at the campsite, we will have seated toilets available. On the second day, after leaving the campsite, there will again be no restrooms for the next three hours, requiring us to use nature. When we reach Rainbow Mountain, there will be a private toilet owned by locals, which will cost 2 soles to use. Afterward, there will be a 50-minute hike without facilities until we reach the parking area, where another private toilet will be available.

Prepare For The Altitude

On the first day, you will reach Apacheta Pass, which is 5,000 meters high. On the second day, you will visit Rainbow Mountain, which is at 5,036 meters. It’s important to be well-prepared. The best way to get ready for this hike is by arriving in Cusco at least 4 days before. Start by exploring Cusco city, then visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, saving Rainbow Mountain for the final day. Also, make sure to drink a lot of water. If you still feel the effects of the high altitude, you can take altitude sickness medicine like Diamox, but check if you are allergic to it first.

Rainbow Mountain Weather

The weather at Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), Peru, can vary significantly depending on the season. The dry season, from May to September, typically brings clear skies, making it ideal for trekking, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). However, nights can be quite cold, sometimes dropping below freezing. During the wet season, from November to March, rainfall is common, and the trails may become muddy and more challenging to navigate. Temperatures during this time can fluctuate between 5°C and 12°C (41°F to 54°F) during the day, with cooler temperatures at night.

Local Culture

On the first day, you will go through a local town where you can see many people wearing their traditional clothing. You will also spot some people with their dogs herding alpacas on the mountain tops. They wear their traditional clothes, not for tourists, but because it is a custom passed down for many generations.

Dress In Layers:

The weather at Rainbow Mountain is highly unpredictable and can shift rapidly. It may be sunny one moment, but within minutes, conditions could become cloudy, windy, and very cold. In the afternoon, temperatures drop quickly, and during winter nights, they can fall as low as -10°C. For this reason, it is strongly advised to wear layers to be prepared for any weather conditions. Bring warm clothing for colder conditions and lighter attire for warmer moments.

Respect The Environment Of Ausangate And The Rainbow Mountain Peru 

Rainbow Mountain is an extraordinary natural marvel, and the Ausangate region is a beautiful location. As more visitors come to enjoy it, it is crucial that we take measures to protect the environment, ensuring its beauty for future generations. The area surrounding Ausangate Mountain is home to unique plants and animals that are vulnerable to careless actions. To help preserve this environment, it is essential to stick to designated trails, avoid littering, and refrain from disturbing wildlife. By acting as responsible tourists, respecting local customs, and minimizing our environmental footprint, we can ensure that Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain remain as stunning as they are today.

Animals

On the first day, you will see many alpacas. These alpacas belong to the local people who live nearby. The alpacas will run away if you get too close because they are in their natural environment. You will also see alpacas on the second day. When you reach Rainbow Mountain, you’ll have the chance to take unique photos. Local people often bring their alpacas and llamas, which are dressed in fun and colorful ways for visitors to take pictures. Some llamas have bright ear tags, and a few even wear sunglasses.

The Cost To Take Picture The Local People With Their Alpacas

If you are looking to capture a beautiful photograph with local residents and their llamas at the summit of Rainbow Mountain, it is customary to offer a tip of 5 soles (approximately $2). This small gesture not only enhances your experience but also provides valuable support to the local community, contributing to their additional income. Engaging with the local culture in this way enriches your visit while helping sustain the livelihoods of those who call this stunning region home.

FAQ´S

How Can I Book Your Rainbow Mountain With Your Pureq Travel?

To reserve your spot for the 2-day Rainbow Mountain trek with us, please follow these steps: First, click the “Book Now” button located above. This will open our booking form, where you should select your preferred departure date. Next, fill in the personal information for each participant. The final step is payment, which can be completed using a credit or debit card.

Additionally, there are optional add-ons available such as a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and an emergency horse. The emergency horse must be reserved in advance, while the sleeping bag and trekking poles can be booked and paid for in our office one day prior to departure

Can I Store My Extra Belongings At Our Office?

Certainly, you can store your additional belongings in your office. There is no need to bring them a day before your departure. You can simply hand them over to our guide when they pick you up from your hotel at 4 a.m. Our driver will then transport the items to our secure storage facility, where they will be safely kept. Once you return from your trek, we will promptly return your belongings to you.

Why Your Price More Expensive Than Other Travel Agents?

There are several reasons. Firstly, our van remains at the trailhead, allowing for a quick evacuation in case anyone falls ill. Secondly, our guide is equipped with a satellite radio for reliable communication. Thirdly, we provide shelters at our campsites, offering additional protection from the cold, rain, and snow. Lastly, we limit the group size, ensuring personalized service for each participant.

What Happened If I Get Sick In The Middle Of The Trek?

In the event that you become ill during the trek, our team is fully prepared to handle the situation with care and efficiency. Our van remains stationed at the trailhead for the entire duration of the two-day trek, ensuring quick access if needed. In such a scenario, our experienced guide, along with the support of the entire team, will prioritize your safety and initiate an immediate evacuation to the trailhead. Once you have safely reached the trailhead, the van will transport you directly back to Cusco, ensuring that you receive the necessary medical attention without delay. The team’s focus will always be on ensuring your well-being and facilitating a smooth and prompt evacuation process.

How Many Days Do I Need To Acclimate Before Attempting The Two-Day Hike To Rainbow Mountain?

We strongly recommend that you allow yourself at least three days to acclimatize to the altitude before embarking on your two-day Rainbow Mountain trek. It is important to note that this hike begins at an elevation of 4,700 meters and ascends to a peak altitude of 5,036 meters, making it a challenging high-altitude adventure. Proper acclimatization will help mitigate the risks of altitude sickness and ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience as you take on this remarkable journey.

Do I Need A Original Passport?

on the rainbow mountain 2 day trek, you dont need original passport, you can bring only a photocopy of your passport. however, if you want to have stamp of the rainbow mountain in your passport then you need to bring the original. local people offer a stamp of the rainbow mountain for 5 soles.

How Difficult Is Your Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Trek?

The Rainbow Mountain 2-day trek is moderately challenging, requiring a good level of fitness due to its high altitude and rugged terrain. Hikers ascend to elevations over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), which can make breathing more difficult, especially for those not acclimatized to the thin air. The trail itself includes both steep inclines and uneven paths, with some sections being more strenuous than others. While the distance covered isn’t extreme, the combination of altitude, weather conditions, and varying terrain adds to the difficulty, making it more demanding than typical hikes.

What Time Would We Legitimately Be At The Rainbow Mountain Summit?

We wake up at 4 am and depart from the campsite by 4:30 am. The journey from the campsite to the Rainbow Mountain requires approximately 3 hours, placing us at the Rainbow Mountain by 8 am. A quicker pace in hiking could potentially bring us to the Rainbow Mountain by 7:30 am, while a slower pace might extend the arrival time to 8:30 am.

When Should I Pay The Outstanding Balance?

You can settle your remaining balance at our office one day prior to your departure. You have two payment options: the first is to pay in cash or by credit card. Please note that credit card payments incur a 5% transaction fee, so it is more advantageous to pay in cash as there is no fee. Alternatively, you may also pay through our booking platform, “We Travel,” where the transaction fee is 2.9%, which is lower than the credit card fee.

Is The Any Student Discount?

Unfortunately, we do not offer a student discount for our two-day Rainbow Mountain trek at this time. While we strive to make our experiences accessible to as many people as possible, the pricing for this particular trek reflects the costs associated with maintaining high-quality services, ensuring safety, and supporting the local communities involved.

Do I Need To Bring My Original Passport On The  Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Tour?

You do not need to bring the original document on the two-day trek to Rainbow Mountain; a photocopy will suffice. However, if you wish to have your passport stamped at Rainbow Mountain, you will need to bring the original. Local vendors offer a stamp for your passport at the Rainbow Mountain for a fee of 5 soles.

Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Rainbow Mountain 2 Days?

We do not recommend staying in the Sacred Valley for your two-day trek to Rainbow Mountain, as it is at a lower altitude than Cusco and will not help you acclimatize. It is advisable to stay in the Sacred Valley on the first day and then return to Cusco to prepare for the trek. Additionally, if you stay in the Sacred Valley, your pickup time will be one hour earlier than from Cusco, which is at 3 AM, and you will also incur an extra fee of $30 for the pickup from the Sacred Valley.

Can I Rent A Horse To Ride In The Trailhead Of The Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Trek?

It is not possible to rent a horse at the trailhead because they are usually far away in the mountains, grazing. That’s why we strongly recommend booking a horse in advance.

When Is The Best Time To Hike The Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Trek?

The ideal time to hike Rainbow Mountain is between April and November, which aligns with the dry season. During this period, the weather is generally clear, providing bright blue skies and stunning views of the vibrant, multicolored landscapes that make the destination so famous. In contrast, the months from December to March fall within the rainy season, which brings a higher likelihood of overcast conditions, snow, and mist. These factors can obscure the colorful mountain, and the trail itself may become muddy, wet, and difficult to navigate, reducing the overall experience.

Is It Cold During The Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Hike?

It is important to note that temperatures tend to drop significantly before sunrise and after sunset, often reaching as low as 2°C. During the night, the temperature can plummet even further, sometimes falling to -5°C. This drastic decrease in temperature can make the environment quite cold, particularly in the late evening and early morning hours. As such, we strongly recommend that you prepare accordingly by bringing warmer clothing to ensure your comfort during these colder periods. Proper preparation will help you stay warm and enjoy your experience despite the challenging conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions For The 2 Rainbow Mountain Tour?

There is no age limit for the Rainbow Mountain 2 day tour. However, Pureq Travel suggests that children should be at least 8 years old, as younger kids often have trouble with the cold and can get altitude sickness. If you want to bring a child to Rainbow Mountain, it’s important to dress them warmly and arrive in Cusco at least three days early to help them get used to the high altitude.

How Far In Advance Should I Book The Rainbow Mountain Trek?

You should book your 2-day Rainbow Mountain trek at least 2 weeks ahead of time because there is no phone signal in Alqatari village, where our horsemen live. They usually come down to the Pitumarca area on Sundays, so we can only coordinate with them then to arrange the horses. During the high season, from May to August, you need to book at least 1 month in advance because we often run out of guides. If you’re thinking about booking last minute, send us a message, and we’ll fit you into an existing group.

Do I Need Extra Money For The Hike?

Yes, you will need money for our Rainbow Mountain 2-day tour. On the first day, local people will come to us with handmade items for sale, and they only take cash. On the second day, when we reach Rainbow Mountain, you will find people selling drinks, snacks, and even beer, which you can buy with cash. At the end of the tour, we will say goodbye to our horseman, cook, and guide, and it’s a good idea to give a tip, though tipping is not mandatory.

I Don’t Like To Go In A Shared Group, Can You Arrange A Private Tour For Me?

Yes, we can arrange your 2-day Rainbow Mountain trek as a private tour. Please send us a message through the “Contact Us” page to receive a new price.

Can I Charge My Devices My Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Tour?

During our two-day Rainbow Mountain trek, there will be no available locations to charge your devices along the route. As such, we strongly recommend that you bring a fully charged portable power bank to ensure your devices remain powered throughout the journey. Please note that the only opportunity to charge your devices will be in our van, so it is important to plan accordingly. This will help you stay connected, capture memories, and access important information without interruptions.

Is It Safe To Go On A 2 Day Rainbow Mountain Tour?

The two-day trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in Peru is generally considered safe for well-prepared travelers. However, the altitude (up to 5,040 meters or 16,535 feet) can pose risks such as altitude sickness. It’s essential to acclimate in Cusco for a few days beforehand, carry proper gear, and stay hydrated. While the trails are challenging, they are manageable with moderate fitness.

How Many Days Should I Spend Getting Used To The Altitude Before Hiking Rainbow Mountain?

When planning a hike on a 2 day Rainbow Mountain hike, it is advisable to spend a minimum of four days in Cusco prior to the journey. This allows ample time for your body to acclimatize to the high altitude, which is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. Even if you are arriving from a location that shares a similar elevation to Cusco, it is still recommended to dedicate at least one day to rest and recover. This acclimatization period helps mitigate the risk of altitude sickness and enhances your overall physical readiness for the trek, ultimately contributing to a more rewarding adventure in the breathtaking Andean landscape.

If I’m Afraid Of Heights, Can I Still Join The Tour Rainbow Mountain 2 Days?

On the first day of the hike, the path is wide and safe, making it easy for everyone. However, on the second day, after going over the Warmisaya Pass, hikers will find a narrower trail that can be tricky. Even though this path might look scary, it isn’t a straight drop; it slopes down gently. Still, for people who are afraid of heights, this part can be quite frightening, so it’s important to be careful and stay calm while walking through it.

Do You Include The Red Valley On Your Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Tour?

Yes, we include the Red Valley in our Rainbow Mountain 2-day trek. After approximately three hours of hiking, we will reach the stunning Rainbow Mountain, where we will spend around 45 minutes taking in the breathtaking views and capturing memorable photographs. Following this, our guide will lead us to the Red Valley.

I Will Be Traveling With My Family, Including Two People Who Are 65 Years Old. Do You Think They Can Handle It?

We had participants between the ages of 50 and 65 who were active and healthy. However, if your relative doesn’t do a lot of hiking, we suggest they take our easy two-day option at Rainbow Mountain. It’s also wise for them to see their doctor and inform the doctor that they will be going to an altitude of 5,040 meters, so they can follow any advice given.

Can You Drop Me Off In  The Airport After The Rainbow Mountain 2 Day Trek?

Yes, we can arrange to drop you off at the airport following your two-day trek to Rainbow Mountain. You will be the first to be dropped off, as the airport is located before entering the city of Cusco. This way, you can conveniently head straight to your departure point without any unnecessary delays after your adventure.

¿Can I Rent A Horse Halfway Through The Journey?

No, you cannot rent a horse halfway through the journey because there are no horses available at that point. If you want to rent a horse, you need to plan ahead and arrange for it in advance. 

Can We Wake Up Later On The Second Day?

It is not recommended, as arriving later means reaching Rainbow Mountain when it becomes very crowded. It is better to arrive before 8:00 a.m., while there are still fewer visitors and the area is more peaceful.

Is It Possible To Rent A Horse For Just One Day?

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to rent a horse for just one day because we work with local people, and they don’t want to bring a horse from far away for only 1 day.