Review: Cusco 7 Colors Mountain Tour (Breakfast & Lunch!)

Visiting the 7 Colors Mountain, otherwise called Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain, it’s almost on many travelers’ must-do lists when they’re visiting Cusco, Peru. I’ve done my fair share of tours, and I’ve got to say, choosing the right one can make all the difference between a “meh” experience and one that sticks with you long after you’ve hung up your hiking boots. So, I figured I’d share my own take on the “Cusco 7 Colors Mountain Plus Breakfast and Buffet Lunch Included” tour, to help you make your own mind up.

Why Choose a Tour with Breakfast and Lunch Included?

Look, hiking at high altitude is no walk in the park, right? Starting your day well-fed, it’s very beneficial. What you might not initially realize, is that you need all the energy you can get to face Vinicunca’s heights. The promise of food – not just any food, yet a buffet lunch – after conquering the mountain? Let’s just say, it’s a pretty strong motivator! Plenty of tour companies provide tours of the 7 Colors Mountain, so consider whether they feed you!

Also, think about it this way: planning what to eat early in the morning while you’re also struggling with altitude? A tour which includes the meals just lets you focus on enjoying the incredible views and also gasping for air in peace.

The Early Start: Prepare for a Wake-Up Call

Alright, let’s get real: “early” doesn’t quite cover it, is that not right? We’re talking pick-up times often between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM. That’s a time when most people are deep into their dreams, right? I remember thinking, “Is this actually happening?” as the alarm blared. Dragging yourself out of a comfy bed very early, and too into the freezing Cusco morning isn’t easy, but hey, the payoff is truly worth it. That, the sunrise over the Andes alone, it’s spectacular. A pre-dawn start assures you get to Vinicunca just before the crowds appear too.

Breakfast: Fueling Up Before the Climb

Most tours will take you to a basic, still cozy, spot for breakfast. Don’t expect a gourmet meal, mind, but rather something hearty to warm you up, you know? Think coca tea (a must for altitude), bread, eggs, maybe some fruit. Very honestly, it’s enough to offer you that starting push.

My tip? Drink as much coca tea as you can. And do not be afraid to load up on carbs; you’re gonna have to need them for the climb coming. This bit is a pre-hike social mixer, a good chance to talk with your group and psych everyone up for what is to come.

The Hike: Challenges and Triumphs

Let’s get down to the hike, too. I’m not going to lie: it is tough. At that altitude, it’s almost every step can feel like a chore. The air is thin, and the landscape, though majestic, provides very little oxygen. Depending on the tour, the hike may last anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours. Just maybe prepare yourself both mentally and physically, and you should probably remember to take lots of small rests. Oh, and hydrate! It’s definitely essential.

Yet, it’s that climb is as rewarding as it’s hard. The scenery is unlike anything else: rolling hills, tiny villages, and locals in normal Peruvian attire. When you ultimately reach the top, well, the view really is spectacular. The 7 Colors Mountain itself appears so majestic and unreal. Photos hardly do it justice.

Buffet Lunch: A Well-Deserved Feast

Once you complete your descent, it is probable that the promise of a buffet lunch will be at the forefront of your mind. Now, after all those hours hiking, just about anything would taste good. Luckily, tour operators frequently pull out all the stops with quite a spread. Typical Peruvian dishes might include soups, quinoa, rice, chicken or other meats, and salads. It is almost the best way to refuel and replenish your lost energy.

Do consider, though, that beverage choices are often extra, so factor that into the budget. Also, make sure to rehydrate!

What to Pack for the 7 Colors Mountain Tour

Packing properly, too, it’s helpful for making sure that your experience at the 7 Colors Mountain is a great one. It is essential that you bring:

Warm Layers: Temperatures might change rapidly, you see, layering it is advisable so you can adjust as needed.
Hiking Boots: Decent footwear makes a big difference to comfort and safety.
Coca Leaves or Candies: Very useful for combating altitude illness.
Sunscreen and Hat: The sun is intense at that elevation.
Water: Keeping hydrated is important, it’s basically a given.
Snacks: While meals are included, having a small nibble at your disposal for energy it is very practical.
Cash: For souvenirs or additional drinks at lunch.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator: What to Look For

Not all tours have been created equally. I feel, here’s some features to keep your eye on when choosing a tour operator:

Acclimatization: Verify the operator recommends at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco ahead of the trek.

Quality of Meals: Check out the details of the meals supplied – look for good options.

Oxygen Availability: Confirm that the tour provides supplemental oxygen for individuals that have altitude sickness.

Size of Group: Smaller groups it tends to allow more personal attention.

Bilingual Guide: A local guide will be very knowledgeable, still a bi-lingual one really adds to the experience.

Is the “Plus Breakfast and Lunch” Worth It?

So, you wonder if paying slightly extra for a tour including breakfast and buffet lunch is justified? My take is yes, too. Eliminating the hassle of finding appropriate meals enables you to spend more attention on what you have come to enjoy. The buffet lunch, more especially, just tastes incredible after working up such an appetite at high altitude. It’s definitely an added convenience, but really improves your enjoyment and experience.

Very really, going to the 7 Colors Mountain, it’s definitely an unforgettable experience. Getting a tour that includes the essentials – breakfast and lunch – it really permits you to give it your all and only admire and appreciate the majestic landscape of Peru. Now, will you make a memory or what?

Key Takeaways:

The “Cusco 7 Colors Mountain Plus Breakfast and Buffet Lunch Included” tour offers a convenient way to experience Rainbow Mountain without worrying about meals.
An early start is required, so be prepared for a very early pick-up.
The hike is physically challenging due to the altitude, but the views are well worth the effort.
Buffet lunch after the hike is a welcome reward and helps you recover your energy.
Proper packing and acclimatization are crucial for a comfortable and safe experience.

#Cusco #7ColorsMountain #Vinicunca #Peru #TravelReview #AdventureTravel #Hiking #RainbowMountain