Combine an off-road ATV route through iron-red slopes with a brisk, high-altitude hike to Rainbow Mountain. This full-day Cusco departure balances adrenaline on dirt trails with panoramic alpine views—prepare for altitude and variable weather.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices across high puna as the convoy leaves Cusco, a thin ribbon of road leading toward the Andes. By the time the ATVs warm up in Laya you’re breathing cold, clean air; the Red Valley’s iron-rich slopes flare red against a sky that feels closer at 4,200 meters.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate to strong aerobic fitness with good acclimatization; able to hike 40 minutes uphill on rocky terrain.
Wildlife
History
The area sits within traditional Quechua territory below Ausangate, a mountain long regarded in Andean cosmology as an apu (sacred mountain) and source of water for local communities.
Conservation
Increased visitor numbers have stressed fragile high‑altitude soils; stick to marked routes, avoid feeding wildlife, and support guides who follow local waste and trail management practices.
Reserve your spot on the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain Tour with ATV and Hiking today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize First
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco to reduce altitude sickness risk; take it easy the morning before the tour.
Hydrate and Snack
Carry at least 1–1.5 liters of water and high-energy snacks to maintain stamina on the hike and after ATV time.
Sun Protection
High-altitude UV is intense—use SPF 30+, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat even on overcast days.
Basic ATV Familiarity
Pay attention to the safety briefing and practice simple maneuvers; the trail has loose gravel and occasional steep pitches.
Sturdy hiking boots
Good ankle support and grip for steep, rocky, and potentially muddy trails.
Layered clothing (fleece + windproof shell)
Temperatures swing rapidly at altitude; layers let you manage exertion and wind chill.
Water bottle or hydration bladder (1–1.5 L)
Hydration combats altitude effects and keeps energy steady during the hike.
Sunhat and high-SPF sunscreen
UV exposure is strong above 4,000 m—protect skin and eyes during open stretches.
summer