Cusco, Cusipata, Montaña Vinincunca, Valle Rojo
- Time Full Day
- Tour Type Hiking
- Altitude 5200 m.s.n.m.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Trip Description
The Vilcanota mountain range, located southeast of Cusco and part of the Andes mountain range, has a lot of snow-capped peaks, which gives it an impressive high Andean landscape of snow-capped mountains and large glaciers that melt and create lagoons and valleys. Some peaks have lost their snow and show their unique natural pigmentation of rock and minerals, combined with the color of the earth, creating very attractive and colorful mountains.
In addition, the local Alpaca breeders make this experience unforgettable. You cannot miss the opportunity to take a deep breath in the mountain of colors, Vinincunca (the mountain of colors) at 5036 meters.
Short itinerary
- We start at 5:00 a.m. with pick up from the hotel in a private van and transfer to the trailhead.
- At 7:00 a.m., breakfast is served in a restaurant at the trailhead.
- The hike takes about an hour and a half, through a desert valley with a panoramic view of the glaciers. There is also the option of climbing on horseback, which is included in the package.
- After reaching the summit, there is an optional 45-minute hike to see the Red Valley.
- The downhill hike to the parking lot for our vehicle takes approximately one hour.
- A buffet lunch will be served at the restaurant around 12:30 p.m.
- After lunch, we will board the van to return to Cusco.
- The tour ends around 4 p.m. with the transfer back to the hotel.
Complete Itinerary
The excursion will start early, between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., when participants will be picked up at the hotel for a two-hour drive to Cusipata, where they will enjoy a tasty breakfast. Then, the route will continue to Phulluwasipata, at an altitude of 4626 masl, where they will prepare to start the hike. The climb will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, and will offer panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, local people dressed in traditional costumes, and llama and alpaca breeders, as well as the impressive high Andean landscape of the Vilcanota mountain range. Upon reaching the summit at an altitude of 5036 meters above sea level, you will be able to take pictures before starting the descent through the Red Valley, so called because of the reddish color of the soil due to its high mineral content. This trail is special, as we may be one of the few groups to walk it, and will last approximately 2 and a half to 3 hours until we arrive back to Phulluwasipata, where transportation will be waiting to take us to enjoy a well-deserved and delicious lunch. Afterwards, we will return to Cusco by transportation, arriving approximately between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The excursion will end one street away from the Plaza de Armas due to traffic.
- Duration: Full day
- Frequency: Every day, pre-reservation
- Group: Maximum 18 people
- What’s Included: Tourist transport bus, Official guide, Breakfast, Lunch, Drop-off (ends in the city center).
Including
What is included:
- Informative talk one day before the tour (In RAP TRAVEL office), it is optional, if you do not have time and have extra queries you can communicate with us via WhatsApp.
- Pick up at the Hotel.
- Private Tourist Transportation to and from the hotel (Minibuses of 15 or 20 passengers).
- 01 breakfast and 01 lunch buffet (vegetarian and vegan options at no additional cost).
- Entrance Tickets (for the Mountain and the Red Valley).
- Professional Bilingual Guide.
- First aid kit (with Oxygen Balloon).
- Wooden walking sticks.
Not included:
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Horses
Recommendations
What to bring
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Warm jacket, hat and gloves
- Comfortable pants
- Hat
- Sunscreen cream (factor 35 recommended)
- Reusable plastic or metal water container or camel bags.
- Personal medications
- Camera
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURColored Mountain Trekking + Red Valley PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people | |
Tour Summary
Que incluye el Tour
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Important note:
Differential prices for students, children, infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers
What is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, especially in June and July
The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. Rainfall can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.
Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.
What is the weather like in Cusco?
The climate in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.
- The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
- Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.
It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.
What to bring on my trip to Cusco?
If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:
- Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking, and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
- Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure you bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
- Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles for shopping in local markets, paying for cabs and tipping.
- Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
- Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.
