Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 2-Day Tour
Embark on an incredible 2-day adventure to explore the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the unique Red Valley, venturing into a remote area of the Andes that feels like a dream. This package is specifically designed for those seeking a shorter trip from Cusco, offering an escape from the crowds often found on day trips. With an early morning start on day two, you’ll reach Rainbow Mountain before most other tourist groups, allowing for a more serene and intimate experience of its vibrant geological formations.
Witness the pure natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain, with its layered hues of gold, lavender, red, and turquoise, formed by millennia of weathering and sedimentary deposits. Then, step into the otherworldly landscape of the Red Valley, which strikingly resembles the surface of Mars. Throughout your journey, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, providing insights into the region’s history, culture, flora, and fauna. You’ll also capture impressive views of the majestic Apu Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,905 ft), the highest and most powerful mountain in the entire Cusco region. Spend a night under the stunning Andean sky, observing brilliant constellations, and challenging yourself on a trek that showcases the best of the Vilcanota mountain range.
2 Days
Treking
Moderado
Cusco
4:30 pm
12 people
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01 – Cusco to Surineqocha Lagoon: Scenic Trek Through the Andes
Hiking through stunning Andean landscapes and first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain.
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll drive for about three and a half hours, passing through the town of Pitumarca, to reach Quesiuno, the starting point of your trek. After a delicious and nutritious breakfast prepared by your chef, your guide will provide a detailed briefing and important safety tips. You’ll then begin hiking through a stunning green valley, where you can admire the majestic Ausangate Glacier in the distance—the highest peak in the Cusco region. Along the way, you’ll observe rural Andean communities and witness their deep connection with nature, often accompanied by hundreds of alpacas and llamas.
The journey continues to the Puka Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), offering a truly stunning panorama of the crystal-clear waters of the Pukaqocha Lagoon and the immense Ausangate Glacier. After a short break, you’ll descend for about an hour and a half to Anantapata for lunch. Energized, you’ll ascend for another two hours to the highest point of the day, the Warmisaya Pass (4,955 m / 16,257 ft). From here, you’ll catch your first distant glimpse of the spectacular colors of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). A final 45-minute descent brings you to your camp for the night, nestled beside the tranquil Surineqocha Lagoon, where you’ll enjoy a happy hour, dinner, and a well-deserved night’s rest.
Daily Highlights:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour snacks
- Accommodation: Camping at Surineqocha Lagoon
- Trek Details: Approx. 7 hours hiking, 11 km (6.84 mi), Moderate difficulty
- Elevations: Starting 4,376 m (14,357 ft), Highest 4,985 m (16,355 ft), Campsite 4,800 m (15,748 ft)
Day 02 – Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley, and Return to Cusco
Inclusions
What's included
- All necessary permits and entrance tickets (Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley)
- Pre-departure briefing the evening before the trek (at 5:00 PM at the office or your hotel)
- Experienced, professional, and bilingual (English/Spanish) tour guide, certified in first aid and quality service
- Private camping equipment: spacious dining tents, tables, chairs, cooking equipment, portable travel toilet, sleeping pad, sleeping bag (-18°C/0°F rating) with liner, trekking poles with rubber tips, small sleeping pillow, foam mattress, backpack cover
- One duffel bag (max 5 kg / 11 lb) for personal belongings, carried by horses/mules
- Comprehensive medical kit, including oxygen, carried by guides (all guides are first aid trained)
- 24/7 customer service support via telephone
- Satellite phone carried by guides for emergencies anywhere on the mountain
- 1 night accommodation in high-quality camping tents (e.g., Eureka Timberline or Mountain Hard Wear)
- ll meals during the trek: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner (vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary needs accommodated at no extra cost)
- Boiled, filtered, and cooled water provided during the hike (bring a reusable bottle/camel bag)
- Wake-up coca tea served in your tent each morning
- Afternoon tea time/happy hour with popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and hot water
- Snacks on the first day (local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, water)
- One cloth snack bag per person to promote environmental cleanliness
- Hygiene products: small towel and soap for hand washing before meals
- All private transportation for hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, and transfers to/from the trailhead
- Personal belongings transportation by pack mules during trekking days (for allowed luggage in duffel bag)
What's not included
- Dinner on Day 2
- Hiking clothes (personal gear)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for our staff (guides, chefs, horsemen)
- Additional costs or delays due to unforeseen events beyond our control (e.g., landslides, adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety, illnesses, pandemics, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, force majeure)
Packing List
To fully enjoy the Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 2-Day Trek, it is important to bring the right equipment. This adventure takes you through high-altitude mountain terrain with changing weather conditions, so having the proper clothing and essential gear will help ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
- Passport or valid ID
- Day backpack (15–25 L)
- Water bottle or hydration pack
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Sandals or lightweight camp shoes
- Hiking pants
- Thermal base layer
- Hiking socks
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Rain poncho
- Waterproof or wool gloves
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Neck gaiter or buff
- UV-protection sunglasses
- High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 70+)
- Personal toiletries
- Personal medications
- Sleeping bag (if not included in your tour)
- Trekking poles
- Camera or smartphone
- Headlamp
- Power bank
- Snacks or energy bars
- Cash for personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of clothing and gear should I specifically pack for the variable weather conditions?
The Andean weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures varying significantly. We recommend packing layers, including thermal wear, a warm jacket, and waterproof outer layers (jacket and pants). Good quality waterproof hiking boots are essential, as are warm socks, a wool hat, and gloves. Don’t forget a sun hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunblock for sun protection at high altitudes.
2. Is there an age limit or any physical restrictions for this trek?
3. How are emergencies handled on the trek, especially regarding altitude sickness?
4. What are the toilet facilities like during the camping portion of the trek?
5. Are there opportunities to charge electronic devices during the trek?
Feel free to call us. We’re a team of experts and would be happy to speak with you.
- +51 970 409 091
- [email protected]