Rainbow Mountain Horseback Ride Tour: A Real Review

So, you’re thinking about visiting Rainbow Mountain in Peru? That’s very cool! The images online look simply spectacular, yet you’re possibly wondering if the reality actually matches the hype? What’s more, the idea of doing it on horseback, maybe with a buffet breakfast included, has got your interest? Honestly, a tour like that could be just the thing for you!

What to Consider Before Booking

First, it’s wise to really ponder a few things ahead of committing to a Rainbow Mountain horseback riding tour, mostly ones that include a buffet breakfast. Typically, Rainbow Mountain sits at a really hefty elevation – above 16,000 feet! You know, altitude sickness is actually no fun, so it’s possibly important to ensure you’re properly acclimatized to the elevation in Cusco first before even considering this type of trip. Many folks recommend spending at least two or three days in Cusco prior. To be honest, your body will surely thank you. In a way, if you rush into it, you might end up feeling really awful instead of enjoying the beauty. In that case, just, plan things carefully.

Next, think about your fitness level, too, even if you are taking a horse part of the way! While a horse makes the uphill portion much more achievable, that is also true, you’ll probably still need to do a bit of walking. At that altitude, too it’s almost, even walking short distances can seem surprisingly difficult. Actually, most tours only take the horses part way up. So that, keep that in mind.

Next up: ethical considerations. Are the horses looked after well? Sometimes, these tour animals don’t get the best treatment. Try and check reviews or speak to the tour operator beforehand to find out just what the horses’ health and condition is really like. Support companies that appear to value their animals. More or less, a responsible tourist can, and arguably should, prioritize animal welfare. Is that fair? Yes.

The Allure of the Buffet Breakfast

Okay, let’s chat about that buffet breakfast that so many tours offer. Frankly, after a seriously early start (most tours pick you up somewhere between 3 and 4 AM!), some food is definitely going to be needed. A lot of these buffet breakfasts offer a pretty simple selection: usually, things like bread, jam, eggs, maybe some fruit and coca tea (helpful for altitude). You see, it probably won’t be the fanciest breakfast you’ve ever had, very. Coca tea has become a travel staple. If you didn’t know, the idea is that it may, potentially, ease altitude issues. Typically, most find that having something warm in your stomach before ascending, too it’s almost, is far better than starting on empty. But be mindful that buffets on early-morning tours sometimes prioritise speed, not gourmet quality, just like your own breakfast perhaps.

As I was saying, hygiene might be another consideration, especially if you have, say, a sensitive stomach. So, check reviews specifically addressing food handling practices if you are worried. That’s not unusual. Alternatively, you could simply bring your own breakfast snacks, anyway, and, basically, then, you know, you will control the food source and quality. Ultimately, there are pros and cons both ways.

The Horseback Riding Experience: What to Expect

Right, let’s talk horseback riding. Basically, most tours offer horses for part of the ascent, so, too it’s almost, you aren’t walking the entire way. That really sounds good, right? The horses are usually small and, I think, pretty sturdy, able to manage the terrain even if you might be nervous. You know, the locals who lead the horses know the paths really well, usually, so, really, they will definitely guide you safely. That is a big relief.

That said, the ride can possibly be a bit bumpy and uncomfortable if you aren’t, basically, much of a rider! Be prepared for that a little bit. If you are a complete newbie to horseback riding, let your guide know beforehand, so they can actually offer some extra assistance. By the way, remember that horses are living beings. So try to actually be respectful. So in that case, treat them kindly. As a matter of fact, the whole experience could, typically, feel a little better as a result.

As a matter of fact, the terrain going up Rainbow Mountain is tough! Sometimes rocky, sometimes steep. Yet, with a horse, the overall experience, I believe, is significantly more doable, and I’ve seen families appreciate that fact quite often on tours like this.

Reaching Rainbow Mountain: The Big Reveal

Finally, after the early start, the breakfast, and your horseback adventure, you get to see Rainbow Mountain itself! If the weather cooperates. Clearly, the views can actually be really breathtaking. Really! Arguably, the colors are more vibrant in person than they appear on your phone. Actually, most travelers feel awestruck just staring at the amazing landscape! But a word of warning, clearly: the summit can get really crowded, mostly mid-morning to early afternoon. You could consider trying to get there super early (hard, given the tour timings!) or late to avoid the bulk of the other tourists.

And the weather, frankly, is also unpredictable! It could be sunny one minute and snowing the next, right? I think it’s important to dress in layers, definitely bringing waterproof gear with you. The thing is that good preparation, honestly, can actually save the day, and stop you feeling miserable!

While at the summit, simply take your time! Get those photographs. In fact, simply absorb the stunning views. Seriously. It’s a long way to come and the reward is actually incredibly spectacular if you appreciate what nature provides! That is obvious. Also, basically, there’s nothing quite like being able to check this off your bucket list. Okay? After taking pictures you will feel some satisfaction as well.

The Descent and Return

Arguably, what comes up must come down, right? Depending on your tour package, as a matter of fact, you will either hike or, maybe, take the horse part of the way down. Frankly, descending can be physically challenging, really. Usually because it puts different pressure on your knees and leg muscles. Now, as I was saying, taking a horse will obviously make it somewhat easier but do, you know, engage your core muscles if hiking for some control on those steep descents, right?

The journey back to Cusco from the mountain is obviously usually long, maybe, by that stage, you’re probably tired. As a matter of fact, it’s definitely tempting to just fall asleep in the van, usually. Just prepare for a late afternoon or early evening arrival back at your hotel, like your normal routine! After a big trip like this the exhaustion is definitely setting in as your vehicle starts winding its way down those mountain roads. Basically, be ready!

Final Verdict: Is it Worth it?

So, is a Rainbow Mountain horseback riding tour with a buffet breakfast actually worth it? Potentially, the answer relies a lot on what is seriously important to you as a traveler. In some respects, the horseback riding bit really does make a tough climb somewhat more doable. The buffet breakfast, while usually not fancy, still gives you much-needed fuel. But consider animal welfare and ethical issues and hygiene a little. All things considered, you can actually get the right memories, some truly striking pictures and some satisfying personal accomplishment. The beauty surrounding that location is honestly inspiring. In a way, a person has to judge carefully before planning a vacation.