Things you should know before visiting the red river in Peru
Red River in Peru is a new attraction that went viral on social media, drawing a lot of attention from travelers and explorers. If you are in Cusco or planning to travel to Cusco, this destination has to be on the list of places to visit, but here is some information that you should take into account before.
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When is the best time to see the Red River?
The best time to visit the Red River in Peru is during the months of Peru’s rainy season (December – March) because it is the result of rain runoff. However, during the dry season (April – November), the river remains the unattractive color of muddy brown.
How to get the Red River in Peru?
First of all, you have to know that there are two red rivers in the Ausangate mountain range. The first is near the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca and the second is on the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain route.
How to get to the red river of the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca?
The Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca is located within the territories of the Checacupe district. To get there, take a bus (Cusco-Sicuani) from Av. Huayruropata. The first section takes approximately 2 hours to Checacupe, then continues in a collective car to Pitumarca. From there, you must hire a car to the community of Japura; the road is unpaved, so take precautions.
Another way to visit is to hire a travel agency. They will show you the mountain of colors and, on the way back, make strategic stops so you can take a picture of the red river.
Note: Ask your travel agency to take the route Cusco – Pitumarca – Vinicunca. By the Cusipata route, you will not see the red river.
How to get to the red river of Palccoyo mountain?
Palccoyo is located in the district of Combapata, 2 hours east of Cusco. Take the Cusco – Sicuani bus and get off in Combapata. Since there is no public transport to the community of Palccoyo, you must hire a car for a 1.5-hour journey along a dirt road.
Alternatively, hiring a travel agency typically includes transportation, food, and a professional guide who will stop at the Red River points.
Why is it red?
The phenomenon is due to soil erosion from mineral deposits in the mountains and valleys. The red coloring results from red sandstone full of iron oxide. This sedimentary rock washes off the mountainsides during rain, turning the water a red or pink hue depending on the volume of precipitation.
My name is Abel, and I am the co-founder of AB Expeditions, a local travel company based in Cusco. I was born in Chinchero, in the community of Chusso. My journey began working as a farmer, then later as a porter on the Inca Trail. After that, I studied to become a tour guide, learned English, and spent 20 years guiding different treks around the Cusco region.
Over the years, I began writing blogs about the treks I’ve done and sharing useful tips about traveling in Cusco. Eventually, I founded AB Expeditions to offer authentic travel experiences with a strong commitment to supporting local communities and creating unforgettable adventures for our guests.
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