Our trip begins very early in the morning, at 4:30 a.m., with our guide picking us up from the hotel and driving us about 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Cusco to Cusipata, specifically to the community of Tintinco, where a great breakfast awaits. We will have around 30 minutes at this first stop to taste breakfast. We can also use this time to buy last-minute purchases such as gloves, caps, chocolates, and sweets, all of which are required for this tour.
After breakfast, we will be taken for about an hour to the starting site for the ascent to the Colored Mountain, Phulawasipata (4600 m / 18,190 ft). Before we begin the hike, our guide will provide some advice. During the 2-hour (4-kilometer) hike, we will be able to see spectacular views such as massive mountains, glaciers, and colorful valleys with llamas and alpacas nearby. We will also interact with the people who live of the communities and learn about their lifestyles and cultures.
Around 10:00 am we will be arriving at the majestic Rainbow Mountain also called Vinicunca (5065 m / 16,617 ft), where we will take a break of about 15 minutes while our guide gives us an explanation of the place at the same time we can enjoy the breathtaking views around, we will also have the opportunity to observe from very close the highest mountain in Cusco called Ausangate (6380 m / 20,931 ft).
After that, we will have around 30 minutes of free time to explore on our own and snap as many photos as we want of the magnificent Rainbow Mountain.
After exploring this spectacular location, we shall descend for around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once we get at the parking lot, we will return to Tintinco for about 45 minutes, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch for about an hour.
After lunch we will return to Cusco for 2 hours, arriving at the Plaza Regocijo where the tour ends around 04:30pm.
Note: It is possible to add a visit to the Red Valley as an additional walk. This is a place that feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet, yet it receives relatively few visitors. You’ll be surprised not just by its breathtaking beauty, but also by the profound peace that will surround you. It just takes 30 minutes to walk to the lookout, which offers the best views of the valley all around. The additional cost for this climb is US$ 25.00 per person, which includes the tour guide and permit.
Meals included: breakfast and buffet lunch included (Vegetarian and vegan options available)
Overnight in Cusco