Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain Peru Overview:
Is this trip right for me? AT A GLANCE:
- Rainbow Mountain by Horse; Pick-up Locations: Any Cusco Hotel.
- Door-to-door service
- Start time of the land trip to the mountain of colors from Cusco (high season): The new schedule is 5:00 a.m. (to organize the horses with saddles). All 20 Rainbow Mountain communities manage the horses. They have a rotating work system. If clients must leave at 05:30, 06:00, or 07:00 am, we will gladly leave Cusco, but we must wait for the horses to return. “We would wait for the horses between 10 and 35 minutes.”
- The travel time from Cusco to Cusipata Llactoc is 3 hours.
- The starting point of our Rainbow Mountain Horse Tour is Llactoc (4,900 m/16,076 feet).
- Tour duration: This adventure takes 3 hours.
- Distance:
- 3.5 km/2.1 miles; horseback riding (uphill).
- 3.5 km/2.1 miles; walking tour (downhill).
- We visit the Rainbow Mountains summit at 5,100 m (16,732 feet).
- Difficulty:
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On horseback uphill: 55 min. Easy: Riding a horse doesn’t require any prior experience.
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Hike to the summit after the horse: 15 min. Challenging. The distance to reach the pass.
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Walk downhill from the pass to the parking lot in 35–40 easy and moderate minutes.
- Enjoy spectacular views of the Peruvian-colored mountain pass and the Ausangate Snow Summit.
- The return to Cuzco or Cusco airport will occur between 15:30 and 16:30.
Note: It is a horse for each client plus a local muleteer.
Rainbow Mountain Horseback Full Day Highlights
Why you will love this experience.
- Rainbow Mountain Horseback Tour.
- Experience a remote and beautiful area of colored mountains in Peru quickly.
- Enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes of the Andes and the great mountains of Ausangate. Tour Rainbow Mountain by horse.
- Why you will love the Rainbow Mountain Peru horseback experience:
- On the road from Cusipata, “which means a happy place,” to Llactoq, enjoy alpaca views.
- Drive through the countryside of Peru, far from the beaten path. Visit Rainbow Mountain by horse.
- We recommend visiting Kondor Path Tours’ Instagram to see more photos in 2025 – 2026
Rainbow Mountain Horse Tour Itinerary
With our special horseback riding tour, you can ride to Rainbow Mountain in Vinicunca and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, clean air, and unforgettable views.
Pickup from the Cusco Hotel at 05:00; embark on a grand adventure as you explore the Andes on this one-day horseback tour.
- To get to Rainbow Mountain, we must drive for three hours.
- Riding a horse up to the vantage point takes approximately fifty-five minutes.
- Take pictures and spend 45 minutes at the vantage point.
- It takes about 35 minutes to walk down to the private bus.
- It will take about 3 hours to travel back to Cusco.
- About nine hours have passed overall—quite a long day.
We arrive at your hotel in Cusco at 16:00, as the magnificent landscape fades after a fantastic day. Looking back on the hiking we completed, the cold beer in our hands has been hard-won.
NOTE: Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain Peru:
For this adventure, one horse is involved per client, plus a local muleteer (man or woman).
- The horses do the most significant work from one place to another; horseback riding takes about 50 minutes of “one-way uphill horseback assistance.” Each horse has a local muleteer to pull and handle the horse.
- Since horses cannot climb Rainbow Mountain Pass due to the slope of the mountains, the client must walk for about 15 minutes to reach it.
Recommendations of the operating agency
- Adventure vehicles have regular technical inspections and tourist operation licenses to ensure a pleasant trip.
- Kondor support group: Local muleteers
- Help travelers with horseback riding
- Help visitors pull the horse
- The muleteers walk beside the horse
- Our guides have work experience as “the same tour guides on the Inca Trail.”
- How do you recognize llamas and alpacas?
- Alpacas are smaller than llamas
- The ascent is 420 meters (1377 feet) from the bottom to the top.
- Our adventure leaders are equipped with a first-aid kit and an oxygen tank, and they are trained to administer first aid in an emergency.
- While traveling south of Cusco, several picturesque locations can be seen, including Tipon, Urcos, and Cusipata.
- If we continue the expedition to the Red Valley, the height of the Andes will be more favorable. We advise experienced hikers to take the path after passing Rainbow Mountain.
- Groups and visitors should bring thermal clothing to stay warm.
- To buy souvenirs, locals only use the soles, the national currency of Peru.”
Guided by Local Expertise
Your knowledgeable tour guides will be local horse riders with extensive expertise who are familiar with the area. They’ll ensure your safety and provide insights into the area’s history and culture, adding depth to your adventure.
Kondor Path Tours offers a stunning excursion to the Rainbow Mountains in Peru. This experience allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Andean landscape while also enjoying the thrill of riding on horseback.
Learn about the local culture and history.
Your guide will share stories and insights about the indigenous communities that call this region home and the significance of Rainbow Mountain in their culture and traditions. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for its people and history.
Physical Level
3, Demanding
Walking Distance
A light walk, Mainly by horse (55 min.)
Hiking Time
45-minutes (up & down)
Starting Altitude
Llactoq: 4,900m (16,076 ft)
Minimun Altitude
Llactoq: 4,900m (16,076 ft)
Highest Altitude
Rainbow Pass: 5,100m (16,732 ft)
Rainbow Mountain horseback INCLUSION
- English-speaking guide: “The entire Vinicunca adventure.”
- Rainbow Mountains, Peru, entrance fee
- Private tour vehicle with fuel and a professional driver.
- One horse per person (Horseback ride uphill—one-way service.)
- A local muleteer per horse
- Meals: Lunch (Buffet)
- Oxygen tank.
- First aid kit.
Note: The transportation options to reach Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain are shown in the prices section’s photo.”
1 Day Rainbow Mountain by horse NO INCLUSION
- Hotel: Enjoy the freedom to choose your perfect retreat in Cusco, where various hotels, hostels, and Airbnb’s await.
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Taking two small bottles of 700 milliliters to the expedition is advisable.
- Snack.
- Items of a personal nature
- Tipping.
Additional item:
- USD 25 per person: Horse for descent or return (optional)
Rainbow Mountain by Horse and Cars
What should we bring for our Rainbow Mountain by horse?
It is impossible to appropriately dress for a day of horseback riding in Rainbow Mountain Peru. When you leave Cusco at around 5:00 (05:30), you want to wear a few layers of gloves, and you’re most likely freezing.
When the bus dropped us off at the beginning of the ride, we were still shaking. When we saw people wearing shorts and T-shirts, we thought they were crazy. However, later in the day, the sun went down, bringing skin to the boil, and these travelers in shorts wore appropriate clothing. It was about our visit, but the travelers had a snowstorm the day before, so anything was possible.
- An excellent daypack would be the Eagle Creek Afar Backpack, which is suitable for carrying your items!
- Lighter trekking boots with good ankle support!
- One pair of hiking pants—not jeans!
- Be sure to carry a rain jacket.
- One warm jacket or glove, a scarf, a cold cap, and thermal clothing for the entire body are necessary. “It’s changing weather all the time.”
- Bring some meds!
- Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness
- Sun protection cream (SPF 45 or higher is recommended)
- A reusable container for your water.
- Bandages or moleskin
- Extra money.
Read FAQs about the Rainbow Mountain Trip by Horse
Rainbow Mountain by Horse New Map
Explore the enthralling horseback riding Rainbow Mountain Peru. This geological wonder has captivated the imaginations of adventurers and nature lovers. Imagine immersing yourself in this captivating scenery while riding on horseback—an experience that elevates your journey to a new level.
The Rainbow Mountain Horse Tour is a guided excursion to Vinicunca, commonly known as Rainbow Mountain, located in the Andes near Cusco, Peru. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the mountain’s stunning, multicolored mineral deposits.
The best way to explore the Rainbow Mountain Peru Horse Tour is by taking a guided horse tour. This immersive experience allows you to traverse the breathtaking landscapes comfortably and enjoy the journey fully.
To reach Rainbow Mountain, you can circumnavigate the Ausangate on a horse. This is a popular choice for those who are uneasy about hiking or worried about altitude sickness.
Yes, a Rainbow Mountain Peru Horse Tour is available for Rainbow Mountain. To book a tour, visit our website, www.kondorpathtours.com, or contact us directly at info@kondorpathtours.com.
The Rainbow Mountain Horseback ride in Peru provides a unique perspective of the stunning scenery and a convenient way to reach higher altitudes, minimizing the impact of altitude sickness. It’s a memorable adventure suitable for all skill levels.
Yes, Kondor Path Tours offers the option to arrange private horse tours for a more personalized experience. Contact us at info@kondorpathtours.com for details and pricing to make your Rainbow Mountain adventure memorable in Peru.
Kondor Path Tours offers a Rainbow Mountain Horse Ride in Peru. This is a popular alternative for those who may find the trekking route challenging.
The duration of the horseback ride can vary depending on the starting point and the pace of the tour around Vinicunca. On average, it may take around 50 to 60 minutes one way.
Absolutely! Our horse tours are designed to cater to all levels of riders, including beginners. Our well-trained horses and experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
No, prior horseback riding experience is typically not required. The horses for these tours are accustomed to the terrain and well-trained.
From May to September, the dry season is generally the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain in Peru. During this period, the weather is more stable, and there is less chance of rain, making the journey more comfortable.
For a Rainbow Mountain horse tour, wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Layers are advisable, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket are recommended.
It is generally recommended that you book in advance to ensure availability for the Rainbow Mountain Horse Ride, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Book a horseback tour through Kondor Path Tours in Cusco or online at www.kondorpathtours.com. Read our TripAdvisor reviews and our recommended service for the horseback riding excursion to the rainbow mountains of Vinicunca in Peru.
Rainbow Mountain is located at a high altitude, around 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it is advisable to spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before attempting the journey.
The tour duration can vary, but it usually takes a full day, starting early in the morning and returning in the afternoon.
Typically, both options are available. Some people hike the entire way, while others opt for hiking and horseback riding.
The difficulty can vary, but it’s generally considered a moderate-to-challenging trek, especially if you choose to hike rather than ride horses. Altitude can also be a factor, as Rainbow Mountain is over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) above sea level.
Safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides provide thorough instructions, and our horses are well-trained. We also equip participants with safety gear, ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey to Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain, Peru.
It takes more than just a camera to capture the beauty of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain; you also need an artistic eye and a grasp of the subtleties of the surrounding environment. To help you capture your adventure forever, consider the following photography advice:
- Golden Hours: Use soft, warm tones that highlight the mountain’s colors to your advantage by taking advantage of early morning or late afternoon light.
- Leading Lines: Utilize the natural lines and curves of the landscape to lead the viewer’s eye and create depth in your photos.
- Foreground Interest: Use foreground elements, like a grazing llama or a wildflower, to give your pictures depth and context.
- Focus on Details: Although the entire mountain is magnificent, don’t forget to take pictures of the intricate textures and patterns created by the mineral deposits.
- Tell a Story: Use your photography to describe the experience by capturing the surroundings, feelings, and interactions as you go.
Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain Peru: Children over seven can participate in the family-friendly Rainbow Mountain by Horse Tour in Cusco, Peru. However, older participants’ high altitude and physical demands must be considered.
To reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness on the Rainbow Mountain Tour on horseback in Peru, pre-acclimatize in Cusco before the horse tour, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion during the hike.
The main danger of horseback riding on Rainbow Mountain in Peru is altitude sickness. If you are unfamiliar with high altitudes, you could experience headaches, nausea, and dizziness. You should stop and take a break if you experience these signs.
The following guidelines should be followed when riding a horse to Rainbow Mountain in Peru:
- Always wear a helmet.
- Obey the instructions of your guide.
- Do not feed or touch the horses.
- Do not litter.
Joining the Horseback Riding Rainbow Mountain Peru requires no prior horseback riding experience. These tours use well-mannered horses accustomed to pulling riders of all abilities.
What’s it like for Rainbow Mountain Horseback Full Day?
- Explore Peru’s stunning Rainbow Mountain from a new perspective—horseback riding!
- Our knowledgeable guides will show you all the highlights of this fantastic landscape in one day as you discover the beauty of Peru’s breathtaking Rainbow Mountain on an exclusive horse tour.
- Enjoy breathtaking scenery while getting closer to nature on a horse as you embark on an unforgettable horseback ride to Peru’s majestic Rainbow Mountain.
- Our horseback tours are the perfect way to explore this incredible landscape and take in the scenery!
Rainbow Mountain Horseback Full Day, 1 Day COST
Season 2025–2026: We run this trip only as a private service.
Kondor Path Tours operates horseback riding on Rainbow Mountain.
| Number of persons |
Price per person |
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| 1 |
$ 339.00 USD |
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| 2 |
$ 213.00 USD |
|
| 3 |
$ 177.00 USD |
|
| 4 |
$ 154.00 USD |
|
| 5 |
$ 144.00 USD |
|
| 6 |
$ 134.00 USD |
|
| 7 |
$ 128.00 USD |
|
| 8 |
$ 120.00 USD |
|
| 9 |
$ 114.00 USD |
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INQUIRE ABOUT THE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN HORSE TOUR
Join us for an exhilarating ride through breathtaking landscapes and rich history as you enjoy a unique perspective of this magical location. Trip Rainbow Mountain by Horse 1 Day: Explore the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain in Peru on horseback.
