Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 1 Day

Moderate

Culture

Adventure

Immersion

Explore the rich history of Cusco, on the hiking trails of the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley in the Peruvian Andes

A beautiful journey that will bring you through a wild landscape of desert, outstanding beauty between hills and snow-capped mountains, meeting with the local culture and its playful Alpacas, a destination worthy of a movie set: Andean wonder of the Rainbow Mountain.
This route combines magnificent colorful landscapes and its maximum expression in the Vilcanota mountain range, known as Ausangate snow-capped. Likewise, the meeting with the communities will allow us to know closely the customs and traditions of the local culture.
To get closer to Rainbow Mountain, will allow you exploring the enigmatic multicolored mineral formations that are part of this outstanding hill. Your guide will explain to you why and how this mountain looks like something out of a movie set. The last effort will bring you to a 360-degree panoramic viewpoint, which allows visitors to admire a breathtaking landscape of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

Tour highlights!

Discover the enchanting Rainbow Mountain, steeped in history, culture, and local Peruvian gastronomy crafted from natural ingredients sourced from the community.
Delve into the Vilcanota Mountain Range, a region rich in Inca heritage and renowned for its breathtaking beauty nestled among rolling hills.
Embrace the opportunity to embark on a new adventure, creating lasting memories of your own triumphs and experiences.

Itinerary

Inclusions

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Day 1: Cusco – Rainbow mountain Montaña & Red valley

Pick up from your hotel at 5:30 a.m. and depart on a three-hour transport trip to the Qollasuyo region in the southern part of the ancient land of the Inca empire, Tawantinsuyo.
En route, we will drive through the district of Cusipata 3,310 m, where we will have the chance to taste breakfast made with natural ingredients from the community. From there, we continue for another hour of transportation to Chillihuani village / Quesiuno (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Chillihuani is the beginning of the hike and meeting with the local culture and the playful Alpacas and Llamas. A pathway will bring you gradually towards the famous Rainbow Mountain (5,200 m / 17,060 ft).

At the summit, your guide will bring you to get the perfect images of this outstanding beauty mountain and surrounding hills. Also, discover the meaning of Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley (5,000 m / 17,060 ft.) and streams – what makes them so unique? Precisely, they are composed of various minerals, they have different colors of stone striations… The feeling of tiredness and exhaustion is felt because of the altitude, therefore, we need to take hot drinks and snacks.

The next stage of trekking (1h 30), will allow you to discover beautiful landscapes and feel the attraction of walking around to Chillihuani where our transport will be waiting for you. After lunch, we return to your hotel in Cusco, arriving on time at 17h approx.

Looking for an accessible and easy route to visit the 7 Colors Mountain?
If you do not wish to undertake the physical challenge of the classic route on the Rainbow Mountain of Vinicunca, we propose another alternative attraction known as the Mountain of the 7 Colors of Palcoyo, located at the Ausangate mountain range of Vilcanota, Cusco, where a pathway will bring you to live an unforgettable experience of nature, cinematographic landscapes and local culture.

This alternative route is accessible to visitors, with a moderate level of difficulty and if you are not used to trekking above 4,900 m / 15,000 ft.

Discover the village of Checacupe (3,446 m), known as the birthplace of the artists and song lyrics of Paso del Condor. Visit the Inca bridge, colonial and contemporary, the temple of Checacupe, where you can find a fascinating work of art, frescoed canvases of the Cusco School and a Pulpit unique in its kind. Continuing on route, we go into the Saclla valley (4,900 m) from where we start the hike to the viewpoint of the Seven Colors Mountain of Palcoyo (4,900 m). Explore the surrounding mountain valley, the Rocky Mountains forest and enjoy the most impressive views of Ausangate (1h 30 approx.). Lunch en route.

Transportation time: 3h.
Walking time: 3h.
Visiting time: 2h approx.
Distance: 10 Km
Difficulty level: moderate
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
Climate: mild during the day and cold at night.
Elevation : Cusco (3,400m) – Chillihuani (4,800m) – Rainbow Mountain (5,200m).

Informative briefing in your accommodation 1 or 2 days before the hike. We’ll confirm the details after booking is made.
Private transportation from your accommodation in Cusco to Chillihuani / Quesiuno, the beginning of the hike.
Private transportation to return to Cusco. Drop off at your accommodation.
Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley park entrance fee.
Professional, bilingual tour guide (English-Spanish). For other languages contact us in advance. Bear in mind there may be extra charges.
Meals: breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant (let us know in advance of any dietary restrictions).
Hot drinks (tea and infusions).
First aid kit, including oximeter and thermometer and oxygen bottle.

Train services included

The cycling tour around the Maras Moray previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants walking pace or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.
The Andean weather is quite unpredictable. Thus, we suggest bringing warm clothes, a hat/cap, sunglasses, a scarf, gloves, jacket, high protection sun cream and 2 liters of mineral water per person.
The hike can be physically demanding, as you’ll be walking along slopes at a maximum altitude of 5,200 m / 17,060 ft. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, to have been acclimatized in Cusco for at least 3 days and to have drunk a lot of water the day before.

For the optional services, contact our staff to check availability.

What we recommend that you bring

An ergonomic day backpack for hiking with waterproof cover (30 or 40 liters).
Hiking shoes or running shoes.
Comfortable pants.
T-shirts with short or long sleeves.
Rain poncho.
Hat, sunscreen and gel disinfectant alcohol.
Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag).
Snack (cereal bars, chocolate and dried fruits).
Original passport.
Original ISIC Student Card (in case you have applied for a student discount).
Extra money in soles.

During high season (May to September), it is difficult to ensure the exact date of entry, due to the restrictions set by the Ministry of Culture to limit the number of entries to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; therefore, the date of entry to the Inca Trail could vary for one or two days; then we will adapt the program so you can make the most of it.

Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain: To hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, it is required to book well in advance, because the entrance tickets are limited to a certain number of people daily. Therefore, we’ll take care of the reservation and confirm your entrance with an additional charge of $30 USD per person.

Note: If you wish to visit any of the extra mountains, please inform us in due time before purchasing the entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel.

A solidarity trip: most of the communities in the area are very poor and live off agriculture and cattle farming. Our agency is always collaborating, and your voluntary help would be also much appreciated.

Trips : : for guide tips are always welcome.

Cancellation policy: For any cancellation; the costs already incurred by the travel agency will be at your expense. For more details on the cost of cancellations by certain participants, please refer to articles 6, 6.4 and our cancellation policies in the.

For more information, you may wish to check or consult our FAQ, Safe and Healthy Travel, and Flexible Booking with Explorandino.

In December 2021, Explorandino obtained the TourCert certification for its “Sustainable Management System for Tour Operators” guided by the criteria and guidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Our approach highlights the richness of culture and natural beauty. Each tourist experience is a chance to preserve and showcase cultural heritage while promoting practices that regenerate the natural environment

We collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders to develop a model that benefits all. From respecting local communities to conserving biodiversity, each action represents a stride toward more responsible tourism.

Why Book Early?

Spots for the best Inca Trail & Machu Picchu experiences fill up fast! Secure your visit to the essential Inca Trail campsites perfect for better enjoying nature, visiting less crowded historical monuments, and capturing stunning photos and videos.
To protect the Inca Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 21, 2014, the Peruvian government has set strict visitor limits. These restrictions ensure the preservation of this iconic destination for future generations, making early booking essential to secure your spot. Don’t miss out—book now to guarantee your adventure.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits for Better Visitor Management

The Ministry of Culture of Peru has revised the circuits in the Inca city of Machu Picchu to enhance visitor capacity management. Effective from June 1st to October 15th, and on December 30th and 31st, 2024, three new circuits comprising 10 different routes will be in place to explore Machu Picchu. These new routes aim to streamline visits and offer a better experience while preserving the integrity of this ancient site.

Visitor Capacity and Booking Details

Machu Picchu Citadel:

Daily Capacity: Ministerial Resolution N° 000528-2023-MC allows up to 4,500 visitors per day, with a potential increase to 5,600 during high season(May to September). To secure your spot, especially during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.
Low Season (October to April): Although there may be more availability, it’s always wise to book ahead to ensure your preferred date and time.

Tourist Circuits:

Machu Picchu offers several circuits to manage the visitor flow and enhance your experience:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic)
This circuit offers the iconic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint, with panoramic views of the main Inca structures. It is divided into 4 optional routes:
- Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Visit the Lower and Upper Platforms for views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban zone, then continue towards Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Explore the Lower and Upper Platforms with views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban area.
- Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate (available only in high season) – Start at the Lower and Upper Platforms for scenic views, then proceed to the Intipunku Gate.
- Route 1-D: Inca Bridge (available only in high season) – Begin with the Lower and Upper Platforms, followed by a path to the Inca Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Cusco rainforest.

Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)
Explore the classic route through the entire Machu Picchu citadel, perfect for capturing the iconic photo of the city. This circuit is divided into 2 sub-routes:
- Route 2-A: Designed Route – Includes the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route – Covers the Lower Platform, Granite Chaos, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.

Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)
Discover the lower sections of the archaeological site with this circuit, offering four optional routes to explore prominent features like the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, or Huchuy Picchu:

- Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Route – Begin with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip). On the return, visit the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route – Explore the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, Three Doorways sector, the water mirrors complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (High Season Only) – Visit the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Proceed to the Great Cavern (3 km round trip). On the return, explore the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route (High Season Only) – Start with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huchuy Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip), and on the way back, visit the water mirrors complex and the Temple of the Condor.

For Better Orientation, Explore Our Circuit Maps: To enhance your visit, we provide detailed maps of the various circuits at Machu Picchu. These maps will help you navigate the site and make the most of your experience. Discover the various Machu Picchu circuits and pick the adventure that suits you best. Explore your options here.

Alternative Treks:

If Inca Trail permits are unavailable, consider these stunning alternatives:

Lares Valley Trek: A culturally rich trek through Andean villages, providing an immersive experience of local traditions and stunning natural beauty. This route also doesn’t require permits and offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Salkantay Trek: A challenging and scenic route offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and highland landscapes. No permits are required, but early booking ensures the best spots and guides.
Choquequirao Trek, Ausangate Trek, and More: Explore the Peruvian Andes like never before with our Choquequirao and Ausangate Treks. These innovative routes uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty of the region. Journey beyond Machu Picchu and immerse yourself in the true heart of Peru. Embark on an extraordinary adventure today!

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain

Additional Hiking Options: For those seeking an extra adventure, climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
Limited Tickets: To preserve these trails, daily entrance is limited. Advance booking is essential.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: Limited to 200 people per day.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: Limited to 400 people per day.

Cost: We can handle your reservation with an additional charge of $75 USD for adults and $55 USD for students.

Booking Tips:

Machu Picchu Entrance: The most sought-after entry options for Machu Picchu (Circuits 2 & 3) are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your visit, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance: Admission options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To ensure your visit, especially during the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
High Season (May to September): Secure your place well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Low Season (October to April): While there may be more availability, booking early ensures your preferred dates and accommodations.

Why Choose Explorandino?

At Explorandino, we simplify your booking process, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether it’s securing your entry to Machu Picchu, arranging the best circuit routes, or booking additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we take care of everything.

Ready to Explore? Click here to book your adventure.

Don’t miss out! Act now to experience the breathtaking beauty of Peruvian Culture and rich history of Machu Picchu. Book with Explorandino and travel with confidence.

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1 valoración en Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 1 Day

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Dana M. Payne – 12/18/2024

Lo mejor fue la paciencia del guía para adaptarse al ritmo del grupo. Fue un recorrido sin prisas y muy bien organizado.

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