Adventure and scenery in one day: ride an ATV along high Andean trails and reach Rainbow Mountain with a much shorter hike.

DURATION 1 Day (Full Day)
MAX ALTITUDE 5,036 m (Vinicunca)
DIFFICULTY Easy / Moderate
GROUP SIZE Shared group (max. 16)
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Experience Overview

The Rainbow Mountain ATV tour combines the thrill of riding a quad bike with the beauty of Vinicunca. Instead of hiking the whole way up, you ride community trails on an ATV through grasslands, past lagoons and herds of alpacas, and then take a short final hike to the viewpoint at 5,036 m above sea level. It is the ideal alternative for anyone who wants to see Rainbow Mountain with less physical effort and more adrenaline.

How does it work?

When you reach the community area you receive a riding and safety briefing, a helmet and gear. The ATVs are automatic and easy to ride; you can drive solo or share the vehicle with another person. The ATV ride takes about 1 hour each way, followed by a 30 to 40-minute hike to the summit.

Highlights

  • Ride an ATV along high Andean routes with views of Mount Ausangate.
  • Short final hike to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.
  • Views of the Red Valley from above.
  • Breakfast and lunch included.

Requirements and tips

  • You must be 18 or older to drive; minors ride as passengers.
  • Bring warm clothing, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and a buff for the dust.
  • Acclimatize for at least 2 days in Cusco before the tour.

Signature Highlights

Ride a quad bike across the Andes all the way to Rainbow Mountain.
Short 30 to 40-minute hike to the Vinicunca viewpoint.
Riding briefing, helmet and safety gear included.
Views of Mount Ausangate and the Red Valley.
Breakfast and lunch included along the way.
STEP BY STEP

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Each day has been carefully planned to optimize acclimatization and avoid peak tourist hours.

DAY 01

Cusco – Vinicunca Community – ATV Route – Viewpoint – Cusco

⛰ 5,036 m a.s.l. 🚶 Approx. 3 km on foot ⏱ 2 hrs by ATV + 1 hr hiking ⛺ Return to Cusco

We pick you up early in Cusco and head south, stopping for breakfast. At the community we receive our briefing and safety gear and set off on the ATVs through high Andean wetlands, alpacas and colorful mountains. From the parking point we hike about 30 to 40 minutes to the summit to enjoy the view of Rainbow Mountain and Ausangate. We ride back on the ATVs, have lunch and return to Cusco in the afternoon.

FULL TRANSPARENCY

What's Included in the Expedition

✓

Included Luxury Services

  • Pickup from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center.
  • Round-trip tourist transportation.
  • ATV (1 per 2 people, shared) with helmet and briefing.
  • Breakfast and lunch.
  • Professional guide and first-aid kit with oxygen.
✕

Not Included

  • Rainbow Mountain entrance fee (paid locally).
  • Single ATV supplement.
  • Red Valley entrance fee (optional).
  • Tips.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRIP

Optional Upgrades & Perks

Complement your journey with exclusive comfort experiences and panoramic summits.

Single ATV

Ride your own ATV for the entire route.

+ $25 USD ≈ S/ 86
WE ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions about Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour (Vinicunca) – Full Day

Do I need a license to drive the ATV?

No license is required, but you must be an adult and follow the safety briefing. Minors can ride as passengers.

How much walking is there on this tour?

Only the final stretch, a 30 to 40-minute climb, compared with 1.5 to 2 hours on the hiking tour.

Is it dangerous?

The routes are wide dirt tracks and the guide controls the speed. Wearing a helmet and following instructions, it is a safe activity.

Can I bring children?

Yes, children can ride as passengers with an adult. Keep the altitude in mind and check with your doctor.