Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour Review: Is It Worth It?

Okay, so you are probably looking at hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru, right? But you are thinking about taking an ATV tour, and you’re trying to decide if it’s, you know, actually worth your money and time. The allure of seeing Vinicunca, otherwise known as Rainbow Mountain, is strong. The vibrant stripes of color painted across the Andean landscape definitely beckon to travelers from all corners. However, that standard trek up there isn’t for everyone. I mean, think about it; altitude sickness is really a bummer, and let’s face it, not all of us love the idea of hours of steep uphill hiking.

What is Rainbow Mountain Anyway?

You know, first things first, what’s so special about this mountain anyway? Well, Rainbow Mountain, also sometimes called Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores (that means Mountain of Seven Colors), is actually located in the Peruvian Andes. That’s not too far from Cusco. What gives it these stunning colors are really just the mineral deposits in the soil. Iron creates those rusty reds, while clay and other minerals make the yellows, greens, and even lavender hues. Seeing this natural piece of art, you might agree, is really worth getting up early and facing the high altitude.

Why Choose an ATV Tour?

Right, let’s get to the real question. Why would someone actually want to rumble up a mountain on an ATV when, you know, you could just walk? I mean, several good reasons exist. One, it chops off a pretty serious amount of hiking time. Two, that can really make the whole trip far easier on your joints, and lungs especially, at that crazy altitude. And three? Come on, now, is that there’s something seriously cool about cruising through the Andes on a four-wheeler. It feels a bit like being in an action movie, in a way.

Now, when you think about it, the traditional trek to Rainbow Mountain can, you know, take somewhere between three and six hours round trip, give or take. That ATV tour? That cuts down the hiking to like, you know, maybe an hour, or so total. And that little bit that is shaved off could actually make a huge difference in how much you enjoy your experience, that’s what you might think.

What’s a Typical Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour Like?

Okay, so, what should you actually anticipate? You know, from booking to, you know, being back in your hotel? Normally, it is going to be something like this:

• Early Start: Very early! Like, pick-up from your Cusco hotel might be, I don’t know, around 4 AM, or so. Pack snacks; that’s what I would do.
• The Drive: Get ready for a three-hour drive, too it’s almost like, give or take, to the base camp where the ATVs actually are. It’s quite a drive.
• Gearing Up: You know, at base camp, you’ll get a briefing, your safety gear (helmet, gloves, and maybe even goggles), and a practice run on the ATV.
• The ATV Ride: That actual ride can last about two to three hours, with really spectacular views along the way. The path can be, like your, dusty and bumpy, so be prepared.
• Short Hike: You know, the ATV will get you super close, but there’s still going to be a bit of a walk to reach the very top for that prime photo spot.
• Time at the Summit: Spend some time soaking in the view, too it’s almost like, snapping photos, and trying not to freeze (it can be really windy and cold).
• Return Trip: Ride the ATV back to base camp and then, sadly, the long drive back to Cusco.

Things to Think About Before Booking

Alright, that, that is an ATV tour sounds awesome, very awesome indeed, there are a few things you will certainly want to think about. Firstly, altitude. Rainbow Mountain sits at something around 16,000 feet (5,200 meters). That altitude can seriously mess with you if you are not used to it. Give yourself at least a couple of days in Cusco to acclimatize prior to even attempting this tour.

Another thing? The weather. That weather in the Andes can actually change in a snap. Be equipped for wind, sun, and cold, really any of it. Layers are, I don’t know, seriously your best friend. Furthermore, physical fitness. Is that the ATV tour cuts down on hiking? You’ll still need to be steady on your feet for that short hike up to the viewpoint. So you have been warned.

The Good, the Bad, and the Dusty

Every rose has, that, that is, its thorn, and, you know, that Rainbow Mountain ATV tour is not any different.

• The Good: Stunning landscapes, the thrill of riding an ATV, a serious time-saver for those short on time or with physical limitations. That’s really what it comes down too.
• The Bad: Very early start, a seriously long and bumpy ride to base camp, dust (oh, the dust!), and you still need to be in good enough shape for some hiking at high altitude.
• The Dusty: Did I mention the dust? You’re going to get unbelievably dusty. I would not wear your, like your, favorite white shirt, just to be honest. Consider bringing a bandana or, you know, some kind of face covering.

Those good parts and those bad part is what shapes your day, or something like that, is that the case?

What to Pack

Alright, let’s talk gear. You want to be as equipped as can be for this adventure. You may want to pack some sunscreen. I would really recommend a high SPF; that Andean sun is strong. Also you might think of packing layers, like a thermal top, a fleece, and a windproof jacket. As well as this, I would be making sure to add gloves, a beanie, and sunglasses to that packing list. Finally, a bottle of water, snacks (energy bars, nuts, and fruit), and your camera, you may find these things essential to pack too.

Is the ATV Tour Really Worth It? My Verdict

The real question remains, right? Is that ATV tour to Rainbow Mountain truly worth it? If, that is, you are short on time, not a fan of strenuous hiking, or want a, kind of, really exciting way to see the scenery, I would probably say, yes. Just go for it. Keep in mind that it’s really an investment of time and money. So really you should weigh the pros and cons against your personal preferences and physical abilities. With that being said, the Rainbow Mountain ATV tour, I reckon, can be a great way to see an incredible natural attraction without completely exhausting yourself. And those photos? Totally worth it, it has to be said!

• Adventure Level: High! Cruising on an ATV through the Andes is a total adrenaline rush.
• Time Saver: If, that is, you’re trying to squeeze in a lot during your Peru trip, that could be a life-saver.
• Accessibility: An easier way to experience Rainbow Mountain if you have any physical limitations or, like your, simply don’t enjoy hiking.