Yes! You’ll enjoy a scenic picnic lunch each day. It’s part of the experience of riding ATVs around Maras and Moray, surrounded by majestic Andean landscapes. You can also explore the Beach, Mountains and Desert – 10 Days itinerary
Rainbow Mountain ATV – Adventure in 2 Days
From:
- Standard Price
USD $485.00
- Backpackers Price
USD $380.00
USDRainbow Mountain ATV – Adventure in 2 Days
Join us for an unforgettable Rainbow Mountain ATV experience, two thrilling days through Peru’s highlands filled with color, culture, and adventure. From the start, you’ll ride through breathtaking Andean landscapes: wide valleys, snow-capped peaks, and authentic villages full of life.
After a short training, hop on your ATV and follow scenic trails toward Piuray and Huaypo, two stunning high-altitude lagoons. There, you’ll pause for photos, fresh air, and a lakeside picnic surrounded by nature. Along the way, observe traditional fishing techniques and rural life untouched by time.
Your day continues at Moray, where ancient Inca agricultural terraces reveal the genius of Andean engineering. Then, travel by private transport to the salt pools of Maras, no ATVs allowed, but the surreal white landscape and a cold Cusqueña beer make it a memorable stop.
On day two, the real ascent begins. A two-hour hike takes you to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, where dramatic colors streak the land in shades of red, yellow, turquoise, and violet. Along the trail, watch for herds of llamas, alpacas, and wild vicuñas grazing freely in the high-altitude air.
Want more? Add a detour to the Red Valley for equally stunning views and fewer crowds. With all logistics handled, meals, gear, expert guides, you’re free to enjoy every moment.
Ready to live it? Book the Rainbow Mountain ATV 2-day trek now with Lands of the Incas and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.
Considerations: Rainbow Mountain ATV
- Physical fitness required: To fully enjoy the Rainbow Mountain ATV trek, a moderate fitness level and some prior acclimatization are highly recommended.
- Acclimatization in Cusco: If you’re coming from lower altitudes, it’s best to spend one or two days in Cusco beforehand to adjust to the elevation. High altitude may affect both the ATV ride to the colorful mountains of Peru and the hike to Vinicunca.
- Weather and clothing: Andean weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sunscreen. Wind can be strong in open areas like Moray and Rainbow Mountain, even during dry season. Good gear makes a big difference in your experience.
- Packing tips: For this ATV trek in Peru, bring a light backpack with water, snacks, sunglasses, sunhat, gloves, and a scarf. Don’t forget your ID or passport for site entries.
- Entrance tickets: Entrance to Moray requires a separate tourist ticket (partial or full), which is not included and can be purchased in Cusco. Other site entrances are covered by the operator.
- ATV use and training: No prior experience is needed. A short safety briefing and training session is provided before the ride. You’ll be guided throughout by experienced professionals along safe and scenic routes.
- Cultural and environmental respect: Stick to designated trails and avoid disturbing ecosystems. The ATV Maras Moray route follows protected paths to minimize impact on both nature and cultural heritage.
- Best time of year: From May to September, dry season brings clearer skies and brighter colors. This is the best time to take the Rainbow Mountain ATV trek and capture Vinicunca’s vivid hues at their peak.
- Combining treks: This trek pairs perfectly with others, such as the Short Inca Trail 2 Days if you’re planning to explore more of the Andes’ ancient trails.
Advantages
- You’ll feel the thrill of riding your own ATV across the highlands of Maras and Moray, passing through farmlands, alpine lagoons, and open trails with panoramic views, all surrounded by nature’s raw beauty.
- This trek brings together must-see highlights in just one journey: Moray’s circular terraces, Huaypo and Piuray Lagoons, the Salt Mines of Maras, and finally the iconic Rainbow Mountain, all carefully curated into one seamless experience.
- No experience? No problem. The trek begins with a hands-on training session, making it an ideal introduction to ATV adventure in Peru, even for first-timers.
- It’s a photographer’s dream. From the ancient engineering of Moray to the surreal hues of Vinicunca, this route offers one visual gem after another. And if you’re visiting in June, pair it with the vibrant Inti Raymi 2025 – The Great Festival of the Sun for a deeper cultural dive.
- In Chinchero, you’ll witness Quechua women weaving and dyeing by hand, an authentic cultural moment.
- This off-the-beaten-path Rainbow Mountain ATV trek offers a more intimate and crowd-free experience.
- Logistically smooth and flexible, the trek can begin from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. This makes it easy to combine with other routes like the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain – 16 Days
- The hike to Vinicunca is fully supported. Transportation to the trailhead, professional guides, and even emergency oxygen ensure you can focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.
- It offers a complete snapshot of the region in just two days: Inca archaeology, mountain wilderness, traditional lifestyles, and one of Earth’s most colorful geological wonders.
- Finally, it’s the perfect alternative for those looking for a Rainbow Mountain trek that’s far from ordinary. The ATV portion adds excitement and diversity, turning this journey into something truly special.
Itinerario Rainbow Mountain ATV – Adventure in 2 Days
Day 1: Cusco – Lagoons – Moray Agricultural Laboratory – Maras Salt Mines – Cusco
To start the tour, our official guide will teach you how to ride the ATVs. You’ll have a 10-minute training session before heading out to explore magical places, taking photos with stunning backdrops of mountains, snow-capped peaks, farmlands, and traditional villages, until reaching Piuray Lagoon.
Piuray is a beautiful high Andean lagoon surrounded by farmland and a sacred mountain steeped in mystery. We’ll stop at a special viewpoint to appreciate the scenery and take memorable photos.
Next, we continue to Huaypo Lagoon.
After an exhilarating ATV ride, we’ll stop at the nearly circular Huaypo Lagoon, representing the feminine side of nature. It’s nestled among mountains and fields, where you might see local people fishing traditionally.
At midday, you’ll enjoy a picnic-style box lunch surrounded by pure nature. After a break to recharge, we continue the tour to visit Moray and the Salt Mines.
After lunch, you’ll continue riding your ATV towards Moray for a guided visit. This site was the Incas’ most sophisticated agricultural laboratory, featuring unique circular terracing.
Then, we head to the incredible Maras Salt Mines, a breathtaking expanse of white salt pools still worked by local families. ATVs are no longer allowed inside, so we’ll use private transport for this part. A refreshing Cusqueña beer will be waiting for you while you admire the surreal scenery.
On the return to Cusco, we’ll stop at an authentic local market in Chinchero, where women will demonstrate traditional dyeing techniques using flowers, stems, stones, and other natural elements, as well as ancient weaving methods. We then return to Cusco city.
Included:
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Professional guide
-
Entrance fees to the sites
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Private or shared transportation
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ATVs
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Picnic-style lunch
Day 2: Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco
We depart early in the morning to experience this natural wonder at its best.
Our journey to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, located south of Cusco, begins with a 1.5-hour drive to the district of Cusipata (3,310 m).
From there, we continue another hour to Fulawasipata (4,660 m).
We start with a 2-hour hike aiming for the summit of Rainbow Mountain (5,000 m). Along the way, we may encounter South American camelids such as alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas.
Upon reaching the top, you’ll have time to rest, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and take plenty of photos of Vinicunca, displaying its vibrant layers of red, pink, turquoise, and yellow.
After soaking in the views, we begin the descent back down the trail.
We’ll hike for about an hour back to the valley floor and then climb again toward the Red Valley, where our transport will be waiting for us.
Finally, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cusco, arriving between approximately 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM.
Included:
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Professional guide
-
Entrance fees to the sites
-
Private or shared transportation
-
Picnic-style lunch
- Rain jackets or ponchos
- Sunscreen
- Extra cash, especially in Peruvian soles
- Personal medications, if necessary
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Small backpack to carry a camera, water, and personal items
- Warm clothing, especially for the afternoon
- Photo or video camera
Include
- Meals mentioned as included
- Trek logistics
- Private and/or shared ground transportation
- Professional Peruvian guides
- Excursions mentioned in the program
- Entrance tickets to the sites mentioned in the program
- Personal ATVs
- Safety equipment: helmets and gloves
- Fuel
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- First aid kit
- Emergency oxygen
- The tour can start either from Cusco or from a point in the Sacred Valley near the starting point
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Trekking poles (available for rent at the office)
- General or partial tourist ticket required for Moray (Sacred Valley sites)
- Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the program
- Personal items (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.)
- Drinks
- Tips
Preguntas Frecuentes sobre el Rainbow Mountain ATV – Adventure in 2 Days
1. Do I need prior experience to drive an ATV?
Not at all! The Rainbow Mountain ATV trek starts with a short training session. Our guides will teach you step by step and accompany you throughout the ride. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a safe and accessible quad biking experience in the Andes.
2. How difficult is the hike to Rainbow Mountain?
It’s a moderate hike of about 2 hours up to 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). We recommend being acclimated, but you don’t need to be an athlete. For a tougher adventure, check out the Choquequirao – The Last Inca City trek.
3. Are meals included in the trek?
4. What places do we visit during the ATV ride?
You’ll visit Piuray and Huaypo Lagoons, Moray archaeological site, and the Salt Mines of Maras. It’s a great route for those who love photography and culture. For more Inca heritage, check out the Cusco of the Incas trek
5. When is the best time of year for this trek?
Between May and September, when the weather is dry and skies are clear, ideal for viewing the intense colors of Vinicunca. If you’re visiting in June, pair it with the Inti Raymi 2025 – The Great Festival of the Sun.
6. Can I start this trek from the Sacred Valley?
Yes! The Rainbow Mountain ATV trek can start from either Cusco or nearby towns in the Sacred Valley. It’s easy to combine with other itineraries such as Imperial Peru – 8 Days.
7. How long do we ride the ATVs?
Approximately 2 to 3 hours total, with plenty of stops. The ride is panoramic and relaxed, perfect if you’re looking for a full-day ATV-style adventure without high physical demands.
8. Can we ride the ATVs to the Salt Mines?
Currently, no. Access is now restricted to protect the site. You’ll visit the mines in a private vehicle, with time to enjoy the scenery and a cold Cusqueña beer from a scenic viewpoint.
9. What is the minimum age required?
You must be at least 16 to drive an ATV, and 12 to ride as a passenger. The Rainbow Mountain ATV trek is great for families with adventurous teens. For extended family trips, check out Andean Experiences – 15 Days.
10. What should I bring?
Dress in layers, wear sunblock, bring sunglasses, water, and a hat. We also recommend cash for local markets in Chinchero and optional tips. All safety gear, helmet, gloves, and oxygen, is provided.
11. Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entry fees are included, except for Moray, which requires the Tourist Ticket (General or Partial). This can be purchased in Cusco or on the way. For more culture-focused treks, check out the Ancestral Route – 6 Days.
12. How safe is this trek?
Very safe. You’ll be provided with helmets, gloves, and access to oxygen. All guides are trained in first aid, and the entire Rainbow Mountain ATV trek follows designated routes with full logistical support.
13. Will we interact with local communities?
Yes. In Chinchero, you’ll meet Quechua women who demonstrate traditional weaving and natural dyeing techniques. For a more immersive experience, explore the Treasures of the Incas – 13 Days.
14. Will I see Andean wildlife during the trek?
Absolutely. Especially on day two, you’ll see llamas, alpacas, and possibly wild vicuñas in their natural habitat while hiking to Vinicunca.
15. Is this trek recommended for photographers?
Absolutely! From Andean lagoons to the stunning colors of Vinicunca, every stop is a photo opportunity. If you’re passionate about landscapes, also consider the Palcoyo Mountain – 1 Day trek.
16. Does the trek include Red Valley?
Yes. After reaching Rainbow Mountain, you’ll hike a scenic trail to Red Valley, a surreal and lesser-known landscape. You can also explore similar views on the Andean Wonders – 15 Days trek.
17. Can I do this trek during the rainy season?
Yes, but with caution. From November to March, rain is more frequent and trails may be muddy. Always check weather conditions before booking your Rainbow Mountain ATV trek during these months.
18. How is this trek different from standard Rainbow Mountain tours?
The Rainbow Mountain ATV trek is much more dynamic, letting you visit more locations in less time and enjoy the thrill of quad biking. For a challenging trekking alternative, consider the Salkantay Trek – 5 Days.
19. Can I book this trek as a private group?
Yes. Contact the travel agency for private group pricing. It’s a great option for families or friends looking for a personalized experience off the beaten path.
20. How do I book this trek?
You can book directly through the agency’s website or email. We recommend reserving early, especially during high season. If you’re looking to extend your journey, explore the Mysteries of Peru – 12 Days.
From 380 USD
Do you have any questions?
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RESERVATION SUPPORT
- (+51) 906 323 488
- ventas@terresdesincas.com
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