Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley: Is the Day Trip Really Worth It?

Okay, so you’re thinking about doing the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley day trip from Cusco? It’s a long day, a challenging hike at a pretty high altitude, too it’s almost certainly got some absolutely unbelievable landscapes to see. But is that difficult trek actually something you will want to do, that really can deliver an unforgettable experience? This review gets into all of that, giving you pretty real expectations, and helping you to figure out if it’s an adventure that will work out well for you.

What to Expect on the Rainbow Mountain Trip

Alright, first things first: this is not a leisurely stroll. Very, very early start – think around 3 AM. That’s so you can make it to the trailhead with plenty of time, so that the local operators are ready to go, basically. You’ll drive for a pretty good stretch, then that trip probably involves breakfast at a local place. After that, that’s where the hiking truly begins. You’re looking at a climb to over 5,000 meters (around 16,400 feet). If you’re not that used to that altitude, it can kind of, sort of make even relatively fit people feel it. A bit. You will be pretty short of breath, definitely.

That path? A bit dusty and gravelly. You may also encounter some very steep sections. But it is so important to stay motivated and moving; there are so many amazing views the whole way. Many tour operators often provide an option to rent horses for at least part of the ascent. I think that’s usually good. But it’s vital to know that even with a horse, there are several parts you need to walk.

When you are at the summit, the views of Rainbow Mountain, also locally known as Vinicunca, are quite the sight. That mountain shows a palette of vibrant colors. The hues there are produced by mineral deposits, which look very surreal. Then that trip up the Red Valley includes some even more unique scenery. That valley has intensely red slopes, so in some respects, that contrast between that valley and Rainbow Mountain adds another layer of visual interest.

Red Valley: An Out-of-This-World Landscape

Speaking of the Red Valley, if the Rainbow Mountain is really a visual treat, then this place will be like seeing an entirely different planet. The whole landscape is saturated with all shades of red. The color here comes from iron oxide. The view across these valleys gives you what is almost an out-of-body sensation.

Hiking the Red Valley actually requires even more physical work, arguably, when compared to the Rainbow Mountain route. It usually involves walking on the trails that are sandy and that wind around those hills, allowing for those breathtaking views from many different vantage points. Most people don’t visit, actually, so if you make that effort to hike further, then you will enjoy the solitude. Just for a little while, but still pretty awesome, actually.

What About the Included Meals?

Okay, so the food situation with those trips. A bit hit-or-miss. Often, you will get breakfast at some kind of small, local eatery. Don’t go expecting a gourmet spread, like your typical really luxurious brunch place. These meals mostly provide exactly what is needed to fill you up with a lot of calories, you know, and just get energy for that hike ahead.

Lunch is generally something simple. Often it can be a buffet at a local restaurant. That buffet provides some traditional dishes, so, too it’s almost a first experience for some of those that are in your tour party, if they haven’t eaten food locally just yet. Keep an open mind, try all sorts of things, and you might find a delicious surprise. The focus in fact, at the end of that hike, will definitely be to just refill those spent energy reserves, very, very quickly.

Is This Trip Right for You? Considerations

It all gets down to several things, really. Ask that vital question: How do you feel about being at high altitude? If you have any conditions with your health, it’s vital to chat with the physician before considering the trip at all, very, very quickly.

Then consider your own physical fitness. Do you like strenuous hiking? Can your body handle long periods of exertion? Basically, think about those parts. Sure, any view is so unbelievably rewarding. And getting that perfect snapshot. And maybe you also are chasing social media validation. Make sure you are capable, truly, and listen to the body, really.

Lastly, your preferences for crowds will definitely have an impact on what occurs next. Rainbow Mountain used to seem way more untouched. Today, very many people make this trip daily. Arriving a little earlier is just essential, but so, too it’s almost something that should still prepare yourself for seeing other tour groups that are there with you.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Day Trip

• Acclimatize: Actually, spend a couple of days located in Cusco before you even try to hike up that mountain to allow that body to become used to that elevation change.
• Dress in layers: Conditions in the mountains could shift instantly. Layers offer versatility and so help in dealing with that weather.
• Bring snacks and water: Keep your energy and hydration during the trek up. Some snacks will come in handy.
• Wear hiking boots: Good footwear will just give you a much better grip for all kinds of unstable surfaces.
• Use sunscreen and a hat: High-altitude sun feels so unbelievably intense.
• Consider coca leaves or tea: That tradition is very real; that can really ease altitude symptoms, you know.
• Pace yourself: Very Important thing; don’t go that hard, you know, there is certainly no need to rush. Savor each step.

So, Is It Worth It? The Final Verdict

So is this a good one? If you can handle any altitude challenges, and love tough but pretty mind-blowing hikes, you will find the answer here. While that crowd there and somewhat erratic meals that are served may seem to drop things down just a bit. That pure visual spectacle across Rainbow Mountain including that surreal, colorful Red Valley does often seem to greatly outweigh the other considerations. Just plan in advance. Accept conditions there, and, you’ll be set in place with many truly epic memories, very, very quickly.