If you’re considering a trip to Cusco and want to see the famous Rainbow Mountain without the typical strenuous hike, this ATV tour might catch your eye. It promises a way to get close to the stunning, multicolored peaks with minimal effort—and with some added adventure along the way. The idea of riding a quad bike up to one of the world’s most photographed landscapes sounds pretty exciting, right?
What I love about this experience is how it offers a different perspective on Rainbow Mountain. You get a taste of the mountain’s incredible colors, with the thrill of riding an ATV, and the convenience of included meals and guides. Plus, travelers seem to really appreciate the knowledgeable guides and tasty food that come with the package. On the flip side, some might find the ATV ride too short or the altitude a challenge, especially if they’re not well-prepared.
This tour is best suited for active travelers looking for a quick, fun adventure rather than a full-day hike, and those who want to skip some of the physical strain. It’s also ideal if you’re keen to tick off Rainbow Mountain but are wary of altitude sickness or long walks. If you enjoy a mix of scenic views, guided commentary, and a dash of adrenaline, this could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Comfortable Alternative: A quick ATV ride gets you close to Rainbow Mountain without the long trek.
- Inclusive Meals: Breakfast and lunch are included, making it a more relaxed experience.
- Limited Duration on the Mountain: You’ll have about an hour at Rainbow Mountain—enough for photos and taking in the views.
- Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides speak both English and Spanish, adding value to your trip.
- Tour Size: Small groups of up to 12 travelers ensure a more personalized experience.
- Price Point: At $75, it offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and scenery.
The Itinerary Break Down
The day begins early, with pick-up from your Cusco hotel (except for the 8:30 a.m. shift that doesn’t include hotel pickup or breakfast). From there, it’s about a four-hour ride to the region near Rainbow Mountain, though some reviews note the ride is on the rougher side, especially if you’re not accustomed to high-altitude bumpy roads.
Once you arrive in Cusipata, the journey becomes more engaging. The highlight is, of course, the ATV ride. You’ll get to pilot a single or double quad bike (depending on your booking) up to the mountain area—just minutes away from the actual summit. This is a major advantage, since most tours stop much farther away, requiring additional walking. You get a real adrenaline rush and the chance to explore an area that’s usually crowded with hikers.
The views from the ATV are spectacular. We’ve seen travelers rave about how “the scenery was out of this world,” and how riding the quad bikes made the experience more memorable. As one reviewer put it, “Going up via ATV was a blast and we were able to ride to a 5-minute walk from the top unlike other operators.” This proximity saves time and effort, especially considering the high altitude (over 5,000 meters).
After your ride, you’ll spend about an hour at Rainbow Mountain itself. That’s enough time to snap some photos, breathe in the incredible views, and appreciate the vibrant stripes of the mountain’s unique geology. Some reviews mention that the guides are attentive and helpful, making sure everyone gets a good shot or offers assistance if needed.
The tour wraps up with a descent back to Cusipata for a well-earned meal—lunch in this case, with some reviews calling the food “great” and the meals “delicious.” It’s a nice way to relax after the adrenaline rush, and most participants seem satisfied with the included food.
Finally, the ride back to Cusco is usually smooth, with most travelers arriving in the late afternoon or evening. Keep in mind that depending on the group, the timing can vary, and the 8:30 a.m. option does not include hotel pickup or breakfast, so plan accordingly if you choose that schedule.
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What the Reviews Say
One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ knowledge and their attentiveness. For example, a reviewer named Minphulau_P highlighted “Angie, the guide, is very nice and helps everyone if needed,” which speaks volumes about the personal touch. Others appreciated the scenery and photos—the colorful mountain and the alpacas make for memorable pictures.
However, not everyone had a perfect experience. Some reviews mention the short ATV ride, with one critic noting it’s only about 5 minutes each way and that the bikes top out at 7 km/h. If you’re expecting a long, fun off-road adventure, this might be disappointing. But if your goal is to get close to Rainbow Mountain quickly and comfortably, it works well.
Altitude sickness was a concern for some travelers, especially those on their second day in Cusco. One review suggested, “Stay at least 4 days in Cusco before taking the tour,” which is good advice for avoiding discomfort.
Pricing at $75 per person seems reasonable considering the included meals, guide, and the unique riding experience. It’s not a cheap tour, but it offers a different way to see Rainbow Mountain compared to the typical hike, which can take several hours and be quite strenuous.
The Practical Details
Transport: Pickup is offered from your hotel, making your day hassle-free. Remember, the 8:30 a.m. option skips this, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer if that’s the schedule you prefer.
Duration: Expect a 12-hour day, including travel, the ATV ride, and meals. Be prepared for early starts and long hours, but also for stunning scenery and a memorable adventure.
Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, so it’s a more intimate experience—great for those who prefer smaller groups over large tours.
Cost: At $75, it includes transportation, guides, meals, and ATV rental. Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain (around PEN 25) is paid separately, so budget that in.
Suitability: Best suited for active, adventure-loving travelers who want to experience Rainbow Mountain with less walking and are comfortable on ATVs. It’s not ideal if you’re seeking a long trek or are sensitive to altitude and rough roads.
Final Thoughts
This ATV tour from Cusco offers a unique twist on visiting Rainbow Mountain. If you’re after a quick, fun, and scenic adventure that minimizes physical effort, you’ll probably enjoy this experience. The included meals, guided commentary, and the thrill of riding a quad bike make it a compelling option for those looking to combine comfort with adventure.
That said, if you’re expecting a long, off-road ATV journey, this might not meet all those expectations. The ride is relatively short, but the proximity to the mountain makes it a practical choice for a first visit or for travelers who want to avoid the physical toll of hiking at high altitude.
Overall, it’s a tour that delivers good value, especially for those wanting the convenience and excitement of ATV riding combined with the stunning views that make Rainbow Mountain so special.
From Cusco: Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour with Meals
“Rough 4 hour ride to the mountains. It was our 2nd day in high altitude. So altitude sickness was unbearable. I recommend staying at least 4 days i…”
FAQs
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, most departures include pickup from your Cusco hotel, except for the 8:30 a.m. schedule, which does not include pickup or breakfast.
How long does the ATV ride last?
The ATV ride itself is quite brief, about 5 minutes each way, but it’s enough to get close to Rainbow Mountain and enjoy the scenery.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, a professional guide who speaks English and Spanish, meals (breakfast and lunch), ATV rental (single or double bikes), and a first aid kit.
How much does the entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is PEN 25 per person and is paid separately on site.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour features ATV riding, it’s generally designed for active travelers comfortable on bikes. Not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, so check with the operator if you’re traveling with children.
What should I consider before booking?
Altitude sickness can be an issue—consider staying in Cusco for a few days beforehand. Also, if you’re expecting a long ATV adventure, this might not deliver, as the ride is relatively short.
In the end, this ATV Rainbow Mountain tour offers an exciting, practical way to see one of the world’s most colorful sights, with a comfortable and guided approach. Perfect if you want a quick adventure with plenty of scenic reward—just go prepared for the altitude and a short ride.
