Beat the crowds on a guided two-day trek to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) and the Red Valley. Camp under the high Andes, watch sunrise on multicolored ridgelines, and take in sweeping views of Ausangate.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A thin cold light cuts across the high puna as your guide stokes the morning stove—you sip coca tea while a ring of mountains wakes to the east. On this two-day loop from Cusco you climb from high-altitude pastures into a palette of iron-rich reds and mineral-striped ridgelines, arriving before most tourists to see Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) spill its colors into the valley.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Best for fit hikers used to sustained uphill walking and high altitude; good cardiovascular baseline and previous day hikes recommended.
Wildlife
History
Ausangate is a sacred mountain in Andean cosmology; local communities still perform traditional rituals and maintain pastoral lifestyles along these routes.
Conservation
Trail erosion and visitor pressure are concerns—stick to established paths, pack out waste, and support local guiding outfits that invest in trail maintenance.
Reserve your spot on the 2 Day Hike In Rainbow Mountain And Red Valley today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend at least 48 hours in Cusco before departure to reduce altitude sickness risk; hydrate and avoid heavy exercise the day before.
Layer for extremes
Bring breathable base layers, an insulating midlayer and a windproof shell—temperatures swing quickly above 4,000 m.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce strain on knees during steep descents and help with balance on scree and gravel sections.
Carry small cash
Bring local soles for snacks, toilet stops, or buying photos from local communities along the trail.
Daypack (20–30 L)
Holds your layers, water, camera, and snacks while guides carry main luggage.
Insulated sleeping bag (-10°C rating)
Needed for cold nights at high-elevation camps.
fall
Sturdy hiking boots (broken-in)
Support and grip on uneven, gravelly mountain trails.
Sun protection (hat, high-SPF sunscreen, UV sunglasses)
High-altitude UV is intense even on cool days—protect skin and eyes.
summer