Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Our Rainbow Mountain tour takes you above 5,000 meters to see Vinicunca, the mountain whose stripes of mineral colors have become one of the most striking landscapes in the Andes.
The colors of the earth high in the Andes
Summary
Vinicunca, known as Rainbow Mountain, is one of the most photographed natural wonders in Peru. Its red, yellow, green and lilac stripes are the result of mineral sediments accumulated over millions of years.
The Rainbow Mountain tour starts very early with a drive south of Cusco. After breakfast, you hike through puna landscapes, among llamas and alpacas, with Ausangate peak in view. Then you reach the viewpoint at over 5,000 meters above sea level.
It is a demanding experience because of the altitude, but it is accessible for people in good physical condition with proper acclimatization. For those who need it, you can also rent a horse for much of the climb. Alternatively, if you prefer a shorter walk, Palccoyo offers similar colors with less effort, while Humantay Lake is another classic high-altitude day trip from Cusco.
Highlights
Itinerary
04:00 - 04:30
Hotel pickup
We pick you up at your hotel in the historic center of Cusco before sunrise.
Our team picks you up at your hotel very early to begin the drive south of Cusco by tourist transportation. Meanwhile, you can use the journey to rest.
04:30 - 07:00
Transfer and breakfast
Drive through the Vilcanota Valley, then stop for breakfast.
We drive through the Vilcanota River valley and then stop at a local restaurant for a buffet breakfast before continuing to the trailhead.
08:00 - 09:30
Climb to Vinicunca
Hike across the puna until you reach the mountain viewpoint.
We start hiking at a slow pace along a trail that climbs through high-altitude grasslands, with llamas, alpacas and Ausangate peak on the horizon. The climb takes between an hour and a half and two hours, depending on each person’s pace.
09:30 - 10:30
Rainbow Mountain viewpoint
Time to admire and photograph the landscape while you rest.
At the viewpoint, you have time to admire the colorful stripes of Vinicunca and take photos. Also, if you wish, you can visit the Red Valley by paying an additional entrance fee on site.
10:30 - 11:30
Descent
Return along the same trail to the parking area when the visit ends.
Then we descend the same way to the trailhead, where our transportation is waiting.
11:30 - 14:00
Buffet lunch
Transfer and lunch at a local restaurant before the drive back.
Next, we drive to the Vilcanota Valley to enjoy a buffet lunch with Peruvian dishes at a local restaurant.
14:00 - 17:00
Return to Cusco
Return by tourist transportation to Cusco during the afternoon.
After lunch, we return to Cusco. Finally, the Rainbow Mountain tour ends at the Main Square or near your hotel in the historic center.
Include
What does it include?
- Pickup from hotels in the historic center of Cusco
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Professional guide in English or Spanish
- Breakfast and buffet lunch
- Community entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Permanent assistance during the tour
What's not included?
- Horse rental for the climb
- Entrance to the Red Valley
- Trekking poles
- Drinks and snacks
- Tips for the guide
- Travel insurance
Important information
What to bring
Warm layered clothing, beanie and gloves
Rain jacket or waterproof poncho
Hiking shoes with good grip
Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
Water and energy snacks
Cash for horse rental or restrooms
Passport or identification document
Altitude and acclimatization
The viewpoint is above 5,000 meters. Therefore, we recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before the tour, walking slowly, staying well hydrated and telling your guide if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
Best season
The tour operates all year. From April to October skies are usually clear and the colors are more visible; however, from December to March there may be rain, fog and even snow.
Recommendations
Not recommended for people with heart or respiratory conditions or for pregnant women. Also, if you have doubts about your health, consult a doctor before your trip.
Gallery
FAQ
How difficult is the hike?
The Rainbow Mountain tour is demanding mainly because of the altitude, not the distance. The climb takes between an hour and a half and two hours, with moderate slopes and a steeper final section.
Can I go up on horseback?
Yes. Local communities offer horses for much of the climb, at an additional cost paid on site. However, the last section to the viewpoint must be done on foot.
What is the Red Valley?
It is a valley of reddish mountains located near Vinicunca. You can visit it from the viewpoint by paying an additional entrance fee on site, if time and conditions allow.
Are the colors always visible?
The colors are most vivid in sunshine. On rainy or snowy days, however, they may look faded or be covered, which cannot be predicted in advance.
How many days of acclimatization do I need?
We recommend at least two days in Cusco before doing this excursion, because the viewpoint is above 5,000 meters.
Is it suitable for children?
It depends on their age and adaptation to the altitude. Therefore, we recommend contacting us before booking if you are traveling with young children.
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