The Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley

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Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Trek:

A Short but Epic High-Altitude Adventure

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Early Morning Departure & Breakfast (3:00 AM - 6:30 AM)

Your adventure begins before dawn! We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 3:00 AM and set off on a scenic drive through the Andean countryside. Along the way, we’ll stop for a hearty breakfast in a local village, giving you time to fuel up and acclimate before the hike. After breakfast, we’ll continue to the trailhead at 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), where our guides will provide a final briefing to ensure you’re ready for the trek ahead.

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Arrival at the Trailhead (6:30 AM - 7:00 AM)
As we reach the starting point of the trek, take a moment to soak in the crisp mountain air and stretch before beginning the ascent. The landscape around you is already breathtaking, with towering peaks and wide-open valleys stretching into the distance.

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Hiking to Rainbow Mountain (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
The trek begins! As you hike along the winding trail, you’ll pass through rugged high-altitude terrain, spot herds of alpacas and llamas, and see local communities going about their daily lives in the mountains. The climb is short but steep, with every step bringing you closer to the incredible colors of Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain.

At the summit, standing at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), take in the jaw-dropping panoramic views of the painted slopes and the towering Ausangate Glacier in the distance. Our guides will share the history and geological significance of this natural wonder while you snap photos of one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.

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Exploring the Red Valley (9:30 AM - 11:30 AM)
Rather than heading straight back, we’ll take the scenic route through the Red Valley, a stunning yet less-visited landscape that looks like something from another planet. The vibrant red and orange mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a peaceful and surreal contrast to the bustling Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.

This extra hike is well worth it, as it provides a quieter, more immersive experience in the Andean highlands. The descent through the valley is more gradual, making for a pleasant return journey.

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Lunch & Relaxation (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
After making your way back to the trailhead, a delicious buffet lunch awaits in a nearby village. Enjoy a variety of Peruvian dishes, rehydrate, and take in the peaceful surroundings before we begin our drive back to Cusco.

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Return to Cusco (1:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
With full hearts (and full stomachs!), we’ll begin the journey back to Cusco. Sit back, relax, and reflect on an unforgettable day in the Andes. You’ll arrive in Cusco between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to rest or explore more of the city in the evening.

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Hike Details:

• Distance: ~9 km (5.6 miles) round trip (includes Red Valley)

• Starting Elevation: 5,000 meters (16,400 feet)

• Highest Elevation: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)

• Elevation Gain: ~200 meters (660 feet)

• Difficulty: Moderate (challenging due to altitude)

• Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch