One day trip Sacred Valley
The trip is Sacred Valley, the daily trip is wonderful, the guide Grobert and the driver are nice. We enjoyed the full trip.
Rainbow Mountain Trek 1 Day
- Duration 1 Day
- Type Group or private
- Group Size Up to 8 people
- Languages English, Spanish
From $57.00 / Person
Overview
Experience the striking natural colors of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) on an unforgettable full-day hike into the high Peruvian Andes. Perfect for travelers who want breathtaking mountain scenery in just one day, this adventure takes you past gleaming glaciers, through high Andean grasslands where alpacas graze freely, and close to remote Quechua villages where age-old traditions are still part of everyday life.
From the Llacto trailhead, you walk in the shadow of Mount Ausangate up to the 5,020-meter summit ridge of Rainbow Mountain. Once you have admired its famous striped slopes, our private transport takes you comfortably back to Cusco. With small groups and experienced local guides, you can enjoy a genuine, safe, and well-supported high-altitude experience.
Vinicunca: The Painted Mountain of the Andes
Rising to 5,020 meters (16,470 ft) above sea level, Rainbow Mountain is one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders. Shaped over millions of years by tectonic uplift and the slow weathering of minerals, this colorful ridge offers an extraordinary high-altitude hiking experience in the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range.
Landscape, Wildlife & Geology
- Mount Ausangate: At 6,384 meters (20,945 ft), the highest and most sacred peak in the Cusco region towers over the horizon with its turquoise glacial lakes and enormous walls of ice.
- Colorful Mineral Layers: Erosion and a unique mix of minerals paint the ridge in bright bands of turquoise, lavender, gold, and red.
- Andean Wildlife: Herds of alpacas and llamas graze across the high pastures, while mountain caracaras and Andean condors often soar overhead.
Tour Highlights
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Reach 5,020 m (16,470 ft) and marvel at the world-famous colored stripes of the Vilcanota range.
- Views of Ausangate: Enjoy clear, sweeping views of Apu Ausangate, the highest sacred mountain in the Cusco region, and its surrounding glaciers.
- Alpacas & Andean Wildlife: Hike past herds of llamas and alpacas, and watch for mountain caracaras and Andean condors.
- Living Quechua Culture: Pass through remote highland farming communities where families preserve their traditional way of life and weaving techniques.
- Small-Group Comfort: Enjoy personal attention in groups of no more than 8 travelers, with private transport and complete safety equipment.
Trip Details
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Llacto Trailhead – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco
Early Pickup & Drive Through the South Valley
The day starts at 4:00 AM, when our private vehicle collects you from your hotel in Cusco. A scenic 3-hour drive takes you through the South Valley, past the farming towns of Checacupe and Pitumarca, with views of dramatic canyons, green valleys, and peaceful Andean villages along the way.
Breakfast at Llacto & Hike to the Summit
At the trailhead in Llacto (4,600 m / 15,092 ft), our team serves a hot breakfast to give you energy for the climb. The trail then rises gradually through a wide glacial valley, where alpacas and llamas graze beneath the snowcapped summit of Mount Ausangate.
After about 1.5 hours of steady walking, you reach the viewpoint at the top of Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m / 16,470 ft). Spend 30 to 45 minutes enjoying the sweeping views, taking photos, and learning from your guide about the minerals that give the mountain its famous colored stripes.
Buffet Lunch & Return to Cusco
A 1-hour downhill walk brings you back to the trailhead, where our vehicle is waiting. We then stop at a local restaurant for a freshly prepared buffet lunch before the relaxing 3-hour drive back to Cusco. You will be dropped off at your hotel at around 4:00 PM.
- Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles round trip
- Hiking Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours in total
- Highest Point: 5,020 m / 16,470 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging (because of the high altitude)
- Meals Included: Hot Breakfast, Buffet Lunch
Inclusions
What Is Included in the Rainbow Mountain Tour?
- Pre-Trip Briefing: Orientation meeting at our Cusco office the evening before your hike.
- Hotel Pickup & Drop-off: Door-to-door service from and back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Private Transport: Comfortable round-trip vehicle suited to mountain roads.
- Licensed Guide: English-speaking guide trained in Andean history and mountain first aid.
- Meals: A hot breakfast at the trailhead and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
- Entrance Fees: All municipal and community access fees for Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
- Safety Equipment: First-aid kit and emergency oxygen carried by your guide throughout the day.
- Small Groups: No more than 8 travelers per group, for a more personal experience.
What Is Not Included?
- Early Snack Before Pickup: We suggest arranging something light at your hotel before 4:00 AM.
- Horse Ride: Optional, hired directly from local Quechua families at the trailhead (about $25 USD / 90 soles one way).
- Tips: Optional gratuities for your guide and driver.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for any high-altitude hike in Peru.
Price
Rainbow Mountain Tour Prices
| Group Size | Price per Person (USD) |
| 1 Traveler (Private) | $170 USD |
| 2 to 3 Travelers | $77 USD |
| 4 to 5 Travelers | $67 USD |
| 6 to 8 Travelers (Small Group) | $57 USD |
Optional Extras
- Horse Ride: About $25 USD (around 90 soles), paid in cash directly to the local horse handlers on the trail.
- Trekking Pole Rental: $10 USD per pair for the day.
Why Us
Why Visit Rainbow Mountain with Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu?
Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu is a family-run local tour operator based in Cusco, with years of experience guiding travelers at high altitude. As an independent company with no corporate investors, we focus on personal, high-quality service while directly supporting our highland staff and their communities.
Locally Owned & Independent: We organize every part of your tour ourselves, with no middlemen, which means genuine Andean hospitality and full control over quality.
Small Groups, Always: Our groups never exceed 8 travelers, giving you more attention from your guide, greater safety at altitude, and less impact on the environment.
Highly Qualified Guides: Our English-speaking guides hold university degrees in Tourism and History and complete specialized high-altitude emergency training every year.
Fair Wages & Community Support: We pay our drivers, guides, and local staff fair living wages, provide them with proper equipment, and fund social projects in Andean villages.
Packing List
What to Bring on the Rainbow Mountain Hike
Documents & Money
- Original Passport: It must be the same passport you used to book.
- Cash in Peruvian Soles: For a horse ride, extra snacks and drinks, souvenirs, and tips.
Your Daypack
This is the backpack you carry with you during the hike.
- Water: 1.5 to 2 liters in reusable bottles or a hydration bladder (single-use plastic bottles are not allowed).
- Footwear: Well broken-in hiking boots or trail-running shoes with good grip.
- Warm Layers: A heavy down jacket, a fleece, a thermal top, and a windproof jacket.
- Cold-Weather Accessories: Wool hat, insulated gloves, and a neck scarf.
- Rain Protection: A waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hat, UV sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable poles (available to rent).
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate for a quick boost.
- Camera: A camera or phone plus a power bank, as the cold drains batteries quickly.
- Hygiene & Health: Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, a small trash bag, and personal medication, including altitude tablets.
Important Info
How can I book the Rainbow Mountain tour?
Booking takes just a few minutes on our online booking form. Enter the passport details of every hiker (full name, passport number, gender, date of birth, and nationality), then pay a deposit of $53 USD per person by VISA or PayPal to secure your place and entrance tickets.
How can I pay the remaining balance?
You can pay in cash or online. Paying in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office during the briefing means no extra fees. If you prefer to pay online by VISA or PayPal, a 5.5% service fee is added.
Do I need to bring my original passport?
Yes. Please bring the original physical passport you used to book. If you get a new passport before your tour, either let us know so we can update your details ($25 USD fee) or bring both your old and new passports with you.
When and where is the briefing?
At 6:00 PM the evening before your tour, at our office in Cusco (Calle Garcilaso 265, Office 201).
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Of course. During your Rainbow Mountain tour, your main luggage can be stored safely and free of charge at our Cusco office or at your hotel.
Do you offer airport pickup in Cusco?
Yes, and it is free. Just send us your flight details at least 14 days before you arrive. A member of our team will meet you outside the arrivals terminal holding a Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu sign and take you to your hotel.
What is the weather like on Rainbow Mountain?
Cold and changeable. Weather in the high Andes is hard to predict. Mornings are often crisp and clear, but at the summit temperatures frequently drop to near freezing, with strong winds and sometimes rain or snow. Dress in warm, breathable layers and always carry good rain gear in your daypack.
Will the altitude affect me, and how can I prevent it?
Most travelers notice the altitude, but good acclimatization makes a big difference. Above 2,500 meters, it is common to feel mild headaches, shortness of breath, tiredness, or nausea. We strongly recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before this hike. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals and alcohol the day before, and try a cup of traditional coca tea. Our guides carry emergency oxygen on every departure.
How hard is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
The walk is short, but the altitude makes it challenging. Although the round trip is only 5 km, the summit sits at 5,020 meters (16,470 feet). You should be reasonably fit and well acclimatized in Cusco before attempting it.
What if I cannot finish the hike?
You have options. If you get tired on the way up, you can hire a horse from local families on the trail. If you feel seriously unwell or develop altitude problems, your guide will help you back to our vehicle right away, and emergency oxygen is always on hand. Any emergency medical transport is at your own expense, so valid travel insurance is required.
Should I tip the guide and driver?
Tipping is optional, but our team truly appreciates it. If you enjoyed the day, a tip is a kind way to thank your guide and driver for their hard work.
Is Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu a responsible operator?
Yes. As a locally owned company, we are committed to protecting the environment, following Leave No Trace principles, paying fair wages to our staff, and directly supporting Quechua communities in the high Andes.
What You'll Experience on the Trail
From the terraces of Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate, every step brings you closer to the lost city of the Incas.
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Stop 01 / 03Wiñay Wayna
Its agricultural terraces cover half the mountainside, making it a trail favorite. Its name means "Eternally Young" in Quechua.
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Stop 02 / 03Inti Punku
The "Gate of the Sun" was the main entrance to Machu Picchu and gives you your first view of the citadel, a view you can only earn on the Inca Trail.
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Stop 03 / 03Machu Picchu
By far the most well known UNESCO world heritage site in Peru and the pinnacle of many people's visits to South America. This is where you wanted to be.
Lovely Words From Our Travelers
Real reviews from travelers who explored Machu Picchu and Cusco with us, straight from Tripadvisor, Google and Trustpilot.
Tripadvisor Reviews
Read all on Tripadvisor
Amazing experience with Sam travels
I had the best experience with Sam travels, we had an amazing time doing the 4d Salkantay trek, we had the best weather. Specifically want to mention Josep what an amazing cool guy he was. A real leader, great story teller, motivator and made you feel like you were taking on something special. Secondly another special mention for Andres and his catering team. The food was amazing, real nutritious and energising for the long trekking days.
Finally the horse man Donato, he managed to get all of our fresh clothing to the next camp very efficiently. Highly recommend a trip with this company.
Great experience at short Inca trail
We did the 2-day Short Inca Trail and it was a fantastic experience! Our guide, Fredy Zapata, was excellent. He told us so much about the history of the Incas and the region, and was able to answer every question we had. He did a great job and made the whole experience really enjoyable.
The highlight was definitely arriving at the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time. An unforgettable experience that we would highly recommend!
Great experience because of the team!
Amazing trip! What a great experience, so well organized. Our guide Josep was a guiding star who knows so much and shared a lot of information. Very kind and helpful in every way. The cooking team of Andres was amazing and we had wonderful and a great variety of meals every evening. Donato the horseman made sure we got our stuff safe and in time to every stop. I could not ask for a better experience to be honest. Especially Josep, thank you for being so flexible, organized and sharing your knowledge.
Unforgettable Salkantay Experience with Sam Travel
We did the Salkantay Trek with SAM Travel and couldn’t have been happier with our choice! Our guide, Josep, was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and passionate. He answered every single one of our questions about nature, history and Peruvian culture honestly, even better than ChatGPT! ;) We especially loved being in such a small group. It made the whole experience feel much more personal, relaxed and authentic.. The accommodations throughout the trek were excellent, and the food prepared by Andrés was absolutely outstanding. We were honestly surprised by the quality and variety of the meals, especially considering we were in the middle of the mountains. We spent a long time researching different companies before booking the Salkantay Trek, and choosing SAM Travel was definitely the right decision. Everything was extremely well organized, and the entire experience exceeded our expectations. We would 100% recommend SAM Travel, and especially Josep and Andrés, to anyone planning to do the Salkantay Trek!
SAM travel
Great trip. Great people. Loved my time with Joseph, Andres, Donato.and Elvis. Amazing world to explore made extra special with great people. Shout to my fellow travellers
Best trek ever!
It was amazing. We had the best Guide with Josep who is Sperling really good English and explaining so many things to us as well as introducing us perfectly to the altitude and the landscape. The Pick Up, accomodation and especially the food was so well organized and delicious. I highly recommend doing this trek, it was spectacular. 😍
Google Reviews
Read all on Google
We had an amazing experience on the 4 day/3 night Salkantay Trek with Sam Travel Peru. Everything was seamless from beginning to end.…
I joined the 2-day, 1-night tour to Cusco and Machu Picchu with SAM TRAVEL, and it was an amazing experience from start to finish.…
We had an incredible time on the 3D/2N Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour and would highly recommend it. It was fantastic to visit some of the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, the Maras Salt Mines and Moray on the first…
We did the 4-day Inca Trail with Sam's Travel, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. It's something we will cherish for the rest of our lives.…
We had a great time on our 3d/2n tour of the sacred valley and short inca trail. The sacred valley prepared us very well for Macchu Picchu and the information provided was great. Our guide Rolando was very knowledgeable about the inca…
We’ve just done the 4-Days Inca trail with SAM travel. Our main guide Josep was very professional, knowledgeable and considerate. He really made sure that we enjoy the journey and our needs are addressed. Jimmy, our assistant guide, helped…
We had a great experience with Sam Travel Peru. Always felt well taken care of and safe. Our guide, Israel, was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The office staff were always quick to reply to emails.…
Trustpilot Reviews
Read all on Trustpilot
Awesome trip with Josef as our guide…
Awesome trip with Josef as our guide Mario the chef with amazing food and porters who were our hero’s.
We booked a day tour for the Rainbow…
We booked a day tour for the Rainbow Mountain and it had been just perfect. Fernando, our guide, was really kind and attentive. All the staff is professional and friendly, totally recommended!
Incredible Salkantay Trek with Exceptional Guide Jhordy
We recently completed the Salkantay Trail trek with Sam Travel, and we couldn't be happier with our experience. Our guide, Jhordy, was exceptional. He was highly professional, providing great insights, facts, and stories that enriched our journey. Jhordy was very patient with us and demonstrated remarkable flexibility, adjusting the itinerary when we weren't feeling our best. We highly recommend Sam Travel, especially Jhordy, for making our trek an incredible time.
