Enjoy one of the most thrilling experiences in Cusco with this tour that combines adventure, nature, and Andean culture. Ride through stunning landscapes on an ATV to the majestic Red Valley and behold the astonishing Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a natural treasure that will take your breath away. Every moment of the journey offers unique views of the Andes, fresh air, and the chance to live an unforgettable experience.
Summary
Live an adventure filled with unique landscapes on our ATV tour to the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
We will depart early from Cusco heading to Cusipata, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast before continuing to the base of operations. From there, we will begin the exciting ATV ride to the Red Valley, a journey of approximately 45 minutes with stunning views of the Andes. We will have time for photographs and to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Afterward, we will undertake a 40-minute hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Our guide will provide a brief explanation and free time to admire the landscape and capture incredible photos. Finally, we will return to the base on our ATVs, head to Cusipata for lunch, and then begin our return trip to Cusco.
Itinerary
Tour Start – 4:30 AM
We will begin with pickup from your hotel around 4:30 a.m. (only from central locations in Cusco). We will then head towards Cusipata on a journey of approximately two and a half hours, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast. Afterwards, we will continue for one more hour until we reach the ATV base, where we will receive a brief instruction and practice session before starting our adventure.
From this point, we will begin the ATV ride to the stunning Red Valley, a journey full of excitement and beautiful landscapes where you will have time to stop and take photographs. We will then continue with a 40-minute hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), where the guide will provide a brief explanation about this place and you can enjoy free time to appreciate the view and capture incredible photos.
After the visit, we will walk back to the point where we left the ATVs to return to the base and board our transportation back to Cusipata, where a delicious lunch will be waiting for us. Finally, we will begin our return trip to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m., and concluding the tour at the Plazoleta Regocijo in the historic center.
Includes
Includes:
- Hotel pickup (central locations).
- Round-trip tourist transportation.
- Bilingual professional guide (English and Spanish).
- Breakfast and Lunch.
- First aid kit and oxygen tank.
- ATV ride to the Red Valley.
Not Included:
- Personal expenses.
- Red Valley entrance ticket (25 soles).
- Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket (30 soles).
- Tips (gratuities).
- Travel insurance.
- Snacks and/or refreshing drinks.
Important Information
- Hotel pickups are conducted in central locations, in the surroundings of the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
- If your hotel is located far from the historic center, the meeting point will be at the fountain in the Plaza de Armas.
- The pickup time is referential as it varies depending on your hotel’s address; the exact pickup time will be communicated one day before the tour.
- Our tour ends at the Plazoleta Regocijo, located one block from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
Recommendations
Recommendations for the Red Valley ATV Tour with Rainbow Mountain from Cusco 2025
What to Bring With You
To get the most out of your Red Valley ATV Tour with Rainbow Mountain with Top Inka Travel, come prepared with the essentials:
- Layered clothing: Wear a thermal shirt, a light fleece, and a windproof or waterproof jacket. Temperatures can vary between 28°F and 64°F during the tour.
- Comfortable footwear: Sneakers or hiking boots with good traction for walking on sandy or rocky terrain near the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley viewpoints.
- Sun protection: Hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen. At over 16,400 feet, the sun’s radiation is very intense.
- Gloves and scarf: The wind can be strong in the high part of the Red Valley.
- Hydration and snacks: Bring water (minimum 1 liter) and energy bars or dried fruit to recharge during the stops.
- Personal documents: ID or passport (in case of an access control check).
- Cash: About 20–50 soles for personal expenses or souvenirs in local communities.
- Camera or phone with a spare battery: Capture the unique landscapes of the Red Valley and the multicolored hues of the Rainbow Mountain.
Extra tip: Acclimatize for at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour, as the itinerary exceeds 16,400 feet.
Additional Information
The Red Valley ATV Tour with Rainbow Mountain combines the adventure of riding an ATV with the unique natural landscapes of the Ausangate, one of the most important sacred mountains of Cusco. During the tour, you will enjoy panoramic views, contact with local communities, and a path full of color and Andean energy.
Unlike the traditional trekking on foot, this tour offers a more comfortable and fun way to reach the high zone, ideal for travelers seeking adventure without long hikes. The journey is done by tourist bus from Cusco to the starting point, and from there you begin the ATV experience up to the vicinity of the viewpoint.
It is an excellent alternative if you want an experience different from the classic Rainbow Mountain tour, with less physical effort and more adrenaline.
Why Choose this Tour with Top Inka Travel?
With Top Inka Travel, your Red Valley ATV experience is safe, fun, and authentic:
- Expert local guides: They know the route perfectly and will teach you about Andean culture and the natural environment.
- Modern tourist transportation: Comfortable and safe from Cusco to the tour’s starting point.
- New and inspected ATV equipment: Guaranteed safety to enjoy an adventure without setbacks.
- Small groups: Maximum of 10 people per guide for personalized attention.
- Support for local communities: Part of the experience includes responsible interaction with Andean families.
- Bilingual service: Guides in Spanish, English, and Portuguese for a better connection with every traveler.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Difficulty Level
Easy to moderate. Ideal for travelers with no prior ATV experience. Only a brief instruction is required before the tour.
Minimum Age
Recommended for ages 12 and over. Children and older adults can participate as companions in the transport or during the panoramic stops.
Best Time to Go
The best time for the tour is between April and October (dry season), when the skies are clear and the landscape colors are most intense. During the rainy season (November to March), the routes can be more slippery, but the landscape becomes greener.
Tour Duration
Approximately 10 hours in total. Includes transportation, ATV riding time, and visits to the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain viewpoints.
Climate and Altitude
- Maximum altitude: 17,060 feet
- Climate: Cold in the morning and mild during the day. Bring warm clothes and sunscreen year-round.
More Reasons to Book With Us
Unbeatable Adventure and Landscapes
Explore the Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley on an ATV while enjoying the pure air of the Andes.
Cultural Experience
During the tour, you will see local communities, alpacas, and llamas grazing freely, and learn about Andean traditions that are still preserved.
Guaranteed Safety
All our vehicles undergo constant maintenance and our guides are trained in high-altitude first aid.
Perfect Alternative to Classic Tours
Ideal if you are looking for a more dynamic experience than traditional trekking, but just as visually impressive.
FAQ
Do I need previous experience to drive an ATV in the Red Valley?
No experience is necessary. Before starting the tour, you will receive a brief practical instruction on driving and safety from our guides. Furthermore, the route is not technical or dangerous; it is ideal for beginners wanting to experience their first ATV adventure in Cusco.
I’m traveling alone; can I join a group?
Yes, you can join without any problem. This tour to the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain is conducted in small groups, so if you are traveling alone, we will assign you an ATV and a group compatible with your language and pace. It is an excellent way to meet other travelers in a safe and fun environment.
What is the difference between this ATV tour and the classic hiking tour to Rainbow Mountain?
The main differences are the level of physical effort and the experience. The classic tour involves 1 to 2 hours of uphill hiking, whereas the ATV tour offers a more comfortable and exciting journey, with extra time for photos and to explore the Red Valley, an area that many traditional tours do not visit.
Can I visit just the Red Valley without going to Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, we offer the option to visit only the Red Valley of Cusco. This is ideal if you have already seen Rainbow Mountain and want to explore less crowded landscapes. This tour focuses on the reddish tones of the valley, with stops at panoramic viewpoints where you can capture unique photos.
What kind of weather can I expect during the ATV tour?
The weather in the Red Valley and at Rainbow Mountain is variable due to the high altitude. In the morning, it is cold (32°F to 41°F), but by midday, it can warm up to 64°F. It is always advisable to wear layered clothing and bring a raincoat, especially between December and March.
What type of ATVs are used and how is the tour’s safety guaranteed?
We use modern, semi-automatic, and automatic ATVs that are easy to operate. Each vehicle undergoes daily maintenance and has basic insurance. Additionally, our guides carry a first-aid kit, oxygen, and a communication radio throughout the entire tour.
What is the maximum altitude reached on the tour and how can I prevent altitude sickness?
The tour reaches a maximum altitude of 17,060 feet. To prevent altitude sickness (soroche), we recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 1-2 days beforehand, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding heavy meals before the trip. You can also bring coca leaves or sorojchi pills.
Are there restrooms or places to eat during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a breakfast and buffet lunch in Cusipata, an Andean town where you can enjoy hot food, rest, and use comfortable restroom facilities before and after the excursion.
During the hike to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, there are no permanent restrooms on the Red Valley trail, so it is recommended to use the available restrooms in the Rainbow Mountain area before continuing. These restrooms usually cost approximately 2 soles and are located near the viewpoints and rest stops.
Carrying toilet paper and some small change is a good idea for greater comfort.
Does the tour run year-round or does it depend on the weather?
The ATV tour to the Red Valley operates year-round, although the best months are from April to October, when the weather is drier. During the rainy season (November to March), it can also be done, but the terrain may be wetter; the guides adjust the route to ensure safety.
Can I fly my drone at Rainbow Mountain or the Red Valley?
Yes, but you must do so responsibly. Drone use is permitted at Rainbow Mountain as long as you maintain a safe distance from people and animals. Some areas restrict flights for conservation reasons, so we recommend informing your guide before taking off.
What language do the guides speak and how many people are in each group?
Our guides are bilingual (Spanish and English), and upon request, we also offer service in Portuguese. The groups are small (maximum 10 people) to ensure a more personalized and safe experience during the tour.
Is this tour recommended for families or elderly people?
Yes, the Red Valley ATV Tour is suitable for families, provided children are over 12 years old. Elderly people can participate as companions, as the physical effort is minimal. It is an excellent way to enjoy the landscapes of the Cusco Red Valley without the need for long hikes.
What happens if the weather changes suddenly during the tour?
In case of heavy rain or fog, the guides may modify the itinerary or the driving time for safety reasons. The well-being of the travelers is always the priority, and safe observation alternatives or rescheduling will be offered if necessary.
What does the tour include and what is not covered in the price?
The tour includes tourist transportation, a professional guide, ATV use, a safety helmet, fuel, and technical assistance. It does not include meals, entrance fees, or personal expenses. The entrance tickets to the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain typically cost between 10 and 20 soles.
Additional
Additional Information: Red Valley ATV Tour with Rainbow Mountain
History of the Red Valley: A Martian Landscape in the Peruvian Andes
The Red Valley, also known as Red Valley Vinicunca, is one of the most impressive destinations in the Cusco region. Located at over 5,000 meters above sea level, this valley gets its characteristic color from iron and clay sediments that, over millions of years, mixed with the erosion of the Ausangate mountain range, the highest sacred mountain in southern Peru.
The Red Valley ATV tour was born as an exciting and less exhausting alternative to the traditional trek to Rainbow Mountain. Through this tour, travelers can enjoy the freedom of driving their own ATV while traversing unique Andean landscapes: crystal-clear rivers, plains with llamas and alpacas, and local communities that preserve their Quechua language and ancestral traditions.
The Cusco Red Valley was discovered by adventurous travelers who explored routes beyond Vinicunca. Today, it is considered a little-known geological jewel, with panoramic views resembling a Martian landscape and an atmosphere of peace that makes it an ideal destination for those seeking authentic experiences in the Peruvian Andes.
Useful Facts for the Red Valley ATV Tour
Prepare for this full-day adventure from Cusco with key information to get the most out of your experience in 2025:
| Aspect | Details | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Between Vinicunca and the Ausangate range, Canchis province (Cusipata, 4,400 masl). | The tour departs from Cusco (4:00 a.m.) and lasts approximately 10 hours. |
| Type of Transport | ATV and tourist bus. | The Cusco–Cusipata–Chillihuani leg is by tourist bus. The ATV ride starts from there to the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain. |
| Total Duration | ~10 hours (round trip). | Includes breakfast and buffet lunch in Cusipata. |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate. | Ideal for travelers seeking adventure without long hikes. No prior ATV experience required. |
| Max. Altitude | 5,050 masl | It is recommended to acclimatize for at least 2 days in Cusco before the tour. |
| Climate | Days between 46°F and 64°F; cold mornings and wind at the summit. | Dry season: May–September; Rainy season: November–March. |
| Entrance Fee | Red Valley: 10 soles; Rainbow Mountain: 15 soles. | Not included in the tour, paid directly to the community. |
| Fauna & Flora | Llamas, alpacas, vizcachas, and high-Andean birds. | Respect the environment; do not litter or feed the animals. |
Reasons to Book the Red Valley ATV Tour with Top Inka Travel
- A Different and Safe Adventure: Enjoy the adrenaline of driving your own ATV in the Andes accompanied by an expert guide who guarantees safety and guidance throughout the route.
- Cultural Connection: Interact with local communities in Cusipata and Chillihuani, where you will learn about alpaca herding and traditional Andean life.
- Exclusive Views: From the viewpoints of the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain, you can capture unique photos with the contrasts of the reddish minerals and the seven tones of Vinicunca.
- Comfort and Local Gastronomy: Includes breakfast and buffet lunch in Cusipata, with nutritious Andean dishes ideal for the altitude.
- Bilingual Tour (Spanish, English, Portuguese): Perfect for international travelers looking for a full-day Cusco tour 2025 with personalized attention.
More Reasons to Visit the Cusco Red Valley
Living Geology
The valley’s intense red color comes from the oxidation of minerals like hematite and ferruginous clay. These unique soils create a spectacular contrast with the snowy peaks of Ausangate, making the Red Valley Vinicunca a perfect setting for landscape photography.
Responsible Tourism
Top Inka Travel promotes sustainable tourism in rural communities. Part of the tour payment supports community projects in Cusipata and Chillihuani, helping to maintain local trails, viewpoints, and tourist services.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Bring warm clothing, a windbreaker, sunscreen, sunglasses, and gloves.
- Don’t forget your ID or passport, as it may be requested at tourist checkpoints.
- Avoid altitude sickness (soroche) by acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 48 hours beforehand.
- Carry small change in soles for restrooms or local snacks (2–5 soles).
- If you travel in the rainy season, bring a waterproof poncho to protect yourself from wind and rain.
