Rainbow Mountain 2-Day Trek via Ausangate & Red Valley

Summary

Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Alqatari – Ausangate Viewpoints – Ananta Campsite

Day 2

Day 2: Ananta – Warmi Saya Pass – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

Tour details

Included:

English-speaking professional guide with first-aid training
Professional cook for all meals during the trek
Pack horses to carry camping equipment
Horseman to manage horses and campsite logistics
Private transportation (hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco)
Entrance fees to private lands
Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket
Red Valley entrance ticket
Satellite phone and radio communication
First aid kit and oxygen tank
Camping tents (shared according to group size)
Dining tent with table and chairs
Two breakfasts, two lunches, one dinner, and snacks
Boiled water after lunch (bring 2 liters on Day 1)
Pre-trek briefing the day before departure
Duffle bag (up to 7 kg, including sleeping bag)
Rain cover for day backpack
Reusable cloth snack bag (eco-friendly)

Not included:

Sleeping bag (available for rent)
Personal trekking gear (backpack, trekking poles, etc.)
Gratuities for guide, cook, and horseman
Personal riding horse (optional, available for rent)

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Alqatari – Ausangate Viewpoints – Ananta Campsite

Early in the morning (around 4:00 am), you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven approximately three hours to the trailhead at Alqatari. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a hot breakfast prepared by a professional cook before beginning the trek.

The hike starts by passing through local villages, wide pampas, and herds of llamas and alpacas. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more dramatic, leading you to panoramic viewpoints near Pucacocha Pass, where you will enjoy spectacular views of the Ausangate Glacier (6,370 m / 20,000 ft) and colorful high-altitude lakes.

After descending, you will arrive at the Ananta campsite, where a warm lunch will be served in the dining tent. In the afternoon, you can relax, explore the surroundings, or observe local wildlife while the staff sets up camp. As night falls, dinner is served, followed by an unforgettable experience under a clear Andean sky filled with southern constellations.

Day 2: Ananta – Warmi Saya Pass – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

You will be awakened early with coca tea or coffee delivered to your tent, followed by a hot breakfast to prepare for the most important day of the trek. The hike begins with a steady ascent to Warmi Saya Pass (5,150 m / 16,896 ft), the highest point of the journey.

After reaching the pass, you descend toward a circular lake and continue walking alongside two beautiful high-altitude lakes until reaching Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain. Here, you will have ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the vibrant natural colors with your guide.

The trek continues downhill through the stunning Red Valley, offering a different and equally impressive landscape. After about two hours of descent, you will reach the endpoint of the hike, where a celebratory lunch will be served. Finally, you will be driven back to Cusco, arriving around 3:00 pm.

Recommendations

Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2 days before the trek
Be in good physical condition due to high altitude and terrain
Stay well hydrated throughout the trek
Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions
Bring proper hiking footwear with good traction
Protect yourself from strong sun exposure with sunscreen and sunglasses
Inform the operator in advance about dietary restrictions
Carry cash for personal expenses or tips

From 300 USD