Rainbow Mountain Ramble
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Arrival in Cusco
You’ll spend the night before your trek in the vibrant city of Cusco, since it’s an early start the following morning. It’s also good to have some time to acclimatise to the altitude, especially if you’ve come straight from Lima (in which case we’d usually recommend 2 nights before). You’ll stay in a cosy posada in the San Blas district, and in the afternoon your guide will meet you for a briefing on what to bring and expect during your trek. The rest of your day is free to explore the city and it’s many shops, restaurants and bars – but do try to get an early night…
Day 2-3 – Rainbow Mountain and departure
You’ll be collected from your posada before daybreak (gulp!) and driven to the little mountain village of Cusipata, around 2 hours away. You’ll usually be with a small group, and will stop off at local restaurant a hearty breakfast before you start the trek. Cusipata is at an altitude of around 4,400m, and over the next 2 hours you’ll ascend to around 5,000m through green valleys and red mountains, passing the odd alpaca or vicuña (Andean camel) along the way. It’s a tough walk, but your guide will make sure to stop if anyone needs a little break.
You’ll be greeted at the top by panoramic views of the unique phenomenon which is Rainbow Mountain – layers of brightly coloured rock which create a surreal, otherworldly effect which will take away any breath you have left. You’ll have plenty of time to take it all in, and your guide will explain how these mountains were formed. You’ll also have a chance to glance at the equally beautiful Red Valley from a different viewing point. When everyone is ready, you’ll begin the 2-hour descent back to Cusipata, where a tasty lunch will be prepared before your drive back to Cusco. You’ll arrive at your posada in the early evening, ready for a well-earned rest, before continuing your journey the next day.
About this trek
Treks to Rainbow Mountain are currently unregulated by the government, so there are many ‘cheap’ options available in Cusco. We work with a professional Peruvian operator who provide qualified guides with first-aid kits, safe transport, and quality equipment including oxygen in case of altitude sickness. They also make sure to take any litter back down the mountain with them, to protect this remote natural area.
Horses are available locally at the start of the trail, but this is not something we encourage or will book in advance, since we have reservations about whether the animal welfare here is of an acceptable standard.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Rainbow Mountain Ramble - In Style accommodation
If you’re looking for a bit more comfort during your stay in Cusco, consider our In Style option. Our In Style option is a little more special and unique, but still full of local character! You’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in the artistic neighbourhood of San Blas. The rooms have comfortable beds, are fully equipped with all the essentials, and have a charming decor. Don’t forget to head up to the hotel’s rooftop, where you can enjoy a lovely view over the city. If you’re interested in upgrading to our In Style accommodation for this bite-sized trip, you can select this option below.
Rainbow Mountain Ramble - Special Stay accommodation
If you’re looking for a unique experience during your stay in Cusco, consider our Special Stay option. You’ll stay in one of the Niños hotels in Cusco – all of them just a short walk form the Plaza de Armas. The idea for these hotels came from a Dutch lady, and the profits go towards supporting five children’s restaurants. These restaurants provide kids with two meals a day, a safe place to play, do homework, and learn social skills. From the hotel, you can also visit various initiatives. By staying here, you’re lending a hand and contributing to a brighter future for these children. If you’re interested in upgrading to our Special Stay accommodation for this bite-sized trip, you can select this option below.
