One of the most surreal and breathtaking landscapes you will ever see in your life is the Red Valley of Pitumarca. A magical natural destination located a short distance from the Rainbow Mountain, which makes the visit even more enriching. Most tours allow you to combine both destinations. Are you up for discovering them? Learn more about the Red Valley and add it to your Cusco travel itinerary.
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What is the Red Valley like?
The Red Valley of Pitumarca is a natural destination that features one of the most stunning landscapes in the world. It is home to a range of mountains, hills, and plains that look like they were taken from a painting dominated by the color red. However, depending on the season, the landscape can shift to yellow and green hues.
Its distinctive color is the result of a natural process of oxidation and sedimentation of certain minerals over millions of years, which makes this place even more attractive to visit.
The Red River
Very close to the Red Valley lies one of its main attractions: the Red River, which is dyed red by minerals from the valley’s peaks. This unique phenomenon occurs during the rainy season (November to March), especially in January and February when rainfall is more constant. During the dry season (April to October), the river returns to a dull color.
Where is the Red Valley?
The Red Valley is located in the district of Pitumarca, in the province of Canchis, approximately 3 hours from the city of Cusco. Thanks to its privileged location, you’ll also be near the Rainbow Mountain and the Ausangate glacier.
Throughout the journey, you’ll be surrounded by rugged, mountainous landscapes. Additionally, due to its geography and its elevation of around 5,000 meters above sea level, you can expect very cold weather year-round.
The Tour to the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain
Start – 4:00 AM
The experience begins with pick-up in a tourist transport from the door of your hotel. The first leg of the journey takes you to Cusipata, south of Cusco, in a two-hour ride where you can take the opportunity to catch up on some sleep.
Upon arriving in Cusipata, there will be a stop to enjoy a buffet breakfast and take a short rest. Afterwards, the trip continues for one more hour until reaching Phulawasipata, the starting point of the hike to the first tourist destination: Rainbow Mountain.
The hike is only 3 kilometers long, with the first part on flat terrain and the second involving a steep ascent. The entire route is usually completed in under two hours, with the option to do it more easily on horseback (optional and not included).
Throughout the trek, a guide will accompany us, providing information and the safety needed to enhance the experience. Upon reaching Rainbow Mountain, we’ll witness one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world, at an average altitude of 5,036 meters above sea level.
At Rainbow Mountain, there will be time to rest and take amazing photos. After that, we’ll continue with a short 30-minute hike to the Red Valley. This part of the hike is not very strenuous, as it takes place mostly on flat ground.
The visit to the Red Valley (4,900 meters above sea level) takes place at its main viewpoint, where you’ll see the wide red peaks that offer a dreamlike panorama. Along the way, you’ll also see the famous Red River, which during the rainy season turns red due to the minerals that wash down from the valley’s mountains.
After enjoying the panoramic view, we’ll return along the same trail, this time mostly downhill. There is also the option to ride horses for this part of the journey. Once back at Phulawasipata, tourist transport will be waiting to take us to Cusipata.
In Cusipata, we’ll enjoy a buffet lunch and take a break from our great adventure through two of Cusco’s top tourist destinations.
End – 6:00 PM
After lunch, the return to Cusco is scheduled. This is a full-day experience that ends with drop-off at the visitors’ hotel door or at a central location in the city.
An immersive, private, and peaceful adventure
Exploring the Red Valley offers a different kind of travel experience. You’ll visit one of the most impressive natural destinations in a quiet setting. Not many people know about it, which makes your experience more authentic. You’ll be able to explore every angle at your own pace, without rushing, and discover one of the best landscapes in Peru.
Features of the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain
Visiting the Red Valley is an unforgettable experience that also includes a trip to Rainbow Mountain. To help you have a more informed adventure, here are the main features of both destinations.
| Feature | Red Valley | Rainbow Mountain |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cusco region, Pitumarca district, Canchis province. | Cusco region, Pitumarca district, Canchis province. |
| Average altitude | 4,900 meters above sea level | 5,036 meters above sea level |
| Distance from Cusco | Approximately 100 kilometers (3 hours by car and 2 hours 30 minutes of hiking). | Approximately 100 kilometers (3 hours by car and 2 hours of hiking). |
| Total tour duration | 15 hours (full day). | 15 hours (full day). |
| Difficulty level | Medium (challenging up to Rainbow Mountain, then the trail is easier). | Medium (constant ascents and high altitude make it a bit more difficult). |
| Main landscape | Mountains with intense red tones surrounded by rock formations in a vast panorama. | Mountain with natural colored stripes: red, yellow, green, turquoise, and brown. |
| Tourist appeal | Less crowded, ideal for a more immersive and peaceful experience. | Very popular, one of the most visited destinations in Cusco. |
| Best time to visit | Dry season: April to October (clear skies and better visibility). However, during the rainy season, you can see the incredible Red River. | Dry season: April to October (clear skies and better visibility). |
| Hike duration | Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. | Approximately 2 hours on average. |
| Recommended for | Nature lovers and those looking for lesser-explored landscapes in a peaceful setting. | Visitors who want to see one of the most stunning natural destinations in Cusco. |
Recommendations for Your Trip
- To complete the entire route, you’ll need to be in good physical shape. However, the section up to Rainbow Mountain can be done on horseback, making the journey easier.
- The standard tour starts at 4:00 AM and ends at 6:00 PM in Cusco. Keep in mind it also includes the visit to Rainbow Mountain.
- The Red Valley is located at approximately 4,900 meters above sea level, so it’s important to acclimatize in Cusco beforehand to avoid altitude sickness during the hike.
- During the dry season (April to October) you’ll find clearer landscapes and sunny days, though more travelers will also be on the trail.
- The rainy season (November to March) usually brings cloudier days, sometimes limiting the full view of the landscape. However, it also offers more privacy along the route.
- Regardless of the season, bring warm clothing — due to the altitude, it’s essential to keep your body temperature stable.
- Bring plenty of water for the hike. Having a snack or small meal will also help you recharge energy along the way.
- Take your time during the hike. This way, you can appreciate not only the destination but also all the stunning landscapes along the route.
- Book your Red Valley experience now and also visit Rainbow Mountain. Contact our advisors to explore all the options available to make your trip unforgettable.
Questions and Answers
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1. Is it worth visiting the Red Valley?
Yes, the Red Valley offers one of the most stunning landscapes in Cusco. Its mountains and plains are painted in reddish tones, making it an impressive and much less crowded destination. You can also combine your visit with Rainbow Mountain in a single tour, which makes the experience even more special.
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2. How do I get to the Red Valley from Cusco?
The most practical way is through a tour. You’ll depart early, around 4:00 AM, and after about three hours by car, you’ll reach the starting point of the hike in Phulawasipata. From there, it’s approximately a two-and-a-half-hour walk to the main viewpoint of the Red Valley.
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3. How long does the entire tour take?
It’s a full-day tour, usually starting at 4:00 AM and ending around 6:00 PM. It includes transportation, entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, and visits to both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley.
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4. Is the hike very difficult?
The hike has a moderate level of difficulty. The most challenging part is the ascent to Rainbow Mountain due to the altitude and steep terrain. The path to the Red Valley is flatter and more manageable. If you’re unsure, you can rent a horse for part of the journey.
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5. What is the elevation of the Red Valley?
The Red Valley is located at about 4,900 meters (16,076 feet) above sea level. The altitude can affect your stamina due to lower oxygen levels, so it’s essential to acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days beforehand.
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6. What is the best time of year to visit the Red Valley?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when the skies are clearer and the landscapes more vivid. However, these months are also more crowded. During the rainy season, from November to March, there are fewer people and you may see the famous red river, though there’s a higher chance of fog and rain.
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7. Should I bring food or drinks?
Yes, it’s important to bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike. I also recommend bringing light snacks like nuts, energy bars, or chocolate to replenish your energy along the way.
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8. Can I do the hike on my own without a tour?
Yes, but it’s not highly recommended since the tour includes transportation, guide, meals, and safety throughout the trip. Doing it on your own can be complicated due to transportation, distance, and safety concerns.
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9. Is it safe to visit the Red Valley?
Yes, it’s safe—especially if you go with an organized tour. The guides know the route well and are trained to handle any situation. Just be sure to follow their instructions and stay on marked trails.
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10. What’s the difference between Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley?
Rainbow Mountain is famous for its natural multicolored stripes and tends to be crowded. The Red Valley, on the other hand, offers a broader, more peaceful landscape dominated by red mountains. Visiting both gives you a more complete and varied experience.