RED VALLEY CUSCO

• TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
• Layered Clothing for High Altitude: 3-layer system (thermal, insulating, and windproof/waterproof). Mornings are very cold.
• Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots with good grip and high ankle support. Essential for irregular terrain and possible moisture.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses with UV protection, cap or hat with visor, and buff or balaclava.
• Cash: Bring soles for entrance to Rainbow Mountain (S/25-30) and Red Valley (S/20-25), voluntary tips, and personal purchases.
• Hydration: Water bottle or camelback of 2-3 liters. Staying hydrated is crucial at altitude.
• Day Backpack: 20-30 liter backpack to carry water, snacks, camera, extra clothing, and personal items.
• Camera or Cell Phone: Essential to capture the vibrant colors of Vinicunca and Red Valley. Bring extra battery (cold drains them).
• Medications: Altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills or similar), pain relievers, and personal medications. Very important.
• Weather: Low temperatures in morning and night (0-5°C). During the day it can be sunny but windy. Bring warm clothing.
• Documents: Original ID or Passport (mandatory) and cash in soles to pay entrance fees.
• Acclimatization: Spend 2-3 days in Cusco before the tour. Drink coca tea, walk around the city, and avoid heavy meals.
• Physical Condition: Moderate physical fitness required. The hike is demanding due to altitude. Previous training is recommended.
• Rainy Season: If traveling between November and March, bring a poncho or waterproof jacket. The trail can be slippery.
• Energy Snacks: Bring chocolates, dried fruits, energy bars to maintain energy during the hike.

• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• Is previous high-altitude hiking experience necessary? No previous trekking experience is required, but it is important to have moderate physical fitness. The hike has a moderate difficulty level and is done at high altitude (up to 5,000 m.a.s.l.), so acclimatization is recommended.
• What does this tour include? It includes tourist transportation to/from your hotel in Cusco, certified professional guide (Spanish, English, Portuguese), buffet breakfast at countryside restaurant, buffet lunch or box lunch depending on schedule, trekking poles, first aid kit, and oxygen cylinder.
• What services are NOT included? Entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain (S/25-30) and Red Valley (S/20-25), voluntary tips for guide and driver, additional drinks, or personal expenses are not included. Entrance fees are paid directly at control points.
• How long does the tour last and what is the maximum altitude? The tour lasts 1 full day, approximately 12 hours. The maximum altitude is 5,000 m.a.s.l. at the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) viewpoint. Pickup is at 04:00 a.m. and return to Cusco is around 05:00 p.m.
• How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour? It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 2-3 days before the tour to acclimatize properly to the altitude. This will significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness (soroche) during the high-altitude hike.
• What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), known as the 7 Colors Mountain for its unique geological formations, and the Red Valley, a surreal landscape with intense reddish tones. During the journey you will enjoy views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, alpacas, llamas, and traditional Andean communities.

• IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BOOKING
• Total duration: 1 full day (approximately 12 hours).
• Departure: 04:00 a.m. with pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
• Maximum altitude: 5,000 m.a.s.l. (Rainbow Mountain).
• Difficulty level: Moderate (requires uphill hiking at altitude).
• Documentation: It is mandatory to carry original ID or Passport.
• Acclimatization: Recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before the tour to adapt to the altitude.
• Guide language: Spanish, English, and Portuguese according to availability.
• Service type: Private with equipped tourist transportation.
• Meals: Buffet breakfast and buffet lunch included at countryside restaurant (box lunch for late private departures).
• Entrance fees: Tickets to Rainbow Mountain (S/25-30) and Red Valley (S/20-25) are NOT included and are paid on-site.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with cardiac or serious respiratory problems, or reduced mobility.
• Weather: Cold temperatures in the morning and afternoon; bring warm and waterproof clothing.
• Clothing: Layered clothing for high altitude; trekking boots recommended.
• End: Return to Cusco at approximately 05:00 p.m.

Once you reach Rainbow Mountain, don't stop. The best route is the extra hike that immerses you in the silence and the intense red of the valley.

This map shows the main trail to Rainbow Mountain and the optional route to Red Valley. Follow the side trail from the Vinicunca viewpoint to discover a unique and less crowded landscape. The extra effort is totally worth it!