Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Full Day

Duration

Full Day

Type of tour

Hiking

Difficulty

Medium

Best Time

April - October

Vinicunca Mountain, also known as the Rainbow Mountain, Seven Colors Mountain, or Red Mountain, is a magical destination that captivates visitors with its vibrant hues and breathtaking surroundings. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, winding rivers, Andean wildlife, and traditional communities, it has become one of Peru’s most visited natural wonders.

Hotel Pickup (04:00 – 04:30 a.m.): Start of the journey south of Cusco in a tourist transport.
Transfer to Cusipata (approx. 2 hours): Drive through valleys and Andean villages until reaching the district of Cusipata.
Breakfast in Cusipata: Short break with an energizing breakfast before continuing the route.
Transfer to Chillihuani (approx. 1 hour): Arrival at the Andean community, the starting point of the hike.
Ascent to Rainbow Mountain (approx. 1h 30m): High-altitude hike with views of llamas, alpacas, and the Ausangate glacier (horse option available).
Exploration of Vinicunca: Free time to enjoy the landscape, take photos, and listen to the guide’s explanation.
Descent and Return to Cusipata: Return to the starting point and enjoy a traditional Andean lunch in Cusipata.
Return to Cusco (approx. 5:00 p.m.): Drive back and arrival in the city in the afternoon.
End of service.

The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Tour begins very early, between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m., with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and departure in tourist transport heading south of the region. During the 2-hour drive, you will pass through Andean valleys and small traditional villages until reaching the district of Cusipata, where you will enjoy a hearty breakfast and a short rest before continuing.

After breakfast, the journey continues for about 1 hour to the community of Chillihuani, the starting point of the hike. From here, the ascent of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes begins toward Rainbow Mountain. The trail takes place at high altitude and offers spectacular landscapes, with views of the imposing Ausangate glacier and the presence of llamas and alpacas grazing freely along the way. For those who prefer, there is the option of renting horses from local villagers as an alternative to the physical effort.

Upon reaching Vinicunca, at more than 5,200 meters above sea level (17,000 ft), you will have plenty of time to admire the stunning scenery of the mountain, famous for its natural colored stripes formed by the accumulation of minerals over millions of years. Here you can take photographs, rest, and listen to your guide’s explanation about the geological origin and the cultural and spiritual significance of this place for the Andean communities.

After the visit, you will descend back to Chillihuani, where the transport will be waiting to take you to Cusipata. There, you will enjoy a traditional Andean lunch, perfect for recovering energy after the hike. Finally, the return journey to the city of Cusco begins, with an estimated arrival around 5:00 p.m., concluding an unforgettable experience at one of Peru’s most impressive natural wonders.

¿Qué incluye?

Pre-Tour Information: Briefing before the tour.
Transfers: Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the hike.
Equipment: Trekking poles and assistance throughout the trek.
Professional Guide: Service in English and Spanish.
Tourist Transport: Vehicle equipped with oxygen for greater safety.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included.

No incluye

Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the program
Travel insurance (highly recommended to purchase before the tour)
Additional activities and tips (optional)
Horse rental available for USD 30.00 (optional)

Recomendaciones

Prior Acclimatization: It is recommended to spend at least two days in Cusco before the tour to adapt to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Appropriate Clothing: Wear warm layered clothing, as the weather can vary between intense cold and strong sun. Don’t forget a windbreaker jacket, hat, gloves, and scarf.
Comfortable Footwear: Bring trekking shoes with good grip, as the trail can be steep and slippery in some sections.
Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and use a hat or cap to protect yourself from UV radiation.
Hydration and Snacks: Carry enough water to stay hydrated and bring energy snacks such as nuts, granola bars, or chocolate.
Camera: Don’t forget your camera or phone with enough battery to capture the breathtaking views of the mountain.
Optional – Horse Rental: If you have difficulty walking long distances, you can rent a horse at the base of the mountain to help with the ascent.
Avoid Heavy Meals: Before the tour, avoid very greasy or heavy foods to prevent stomach discomfort at high altitude.
Respect for Nature: Do not leave trash, respect marked trails, and follow the guide’s instructions to help preserve the natural environment.

Enjoy this unique experience in the Peruvian Andes!

SHARED SERVICE PER PERSON

02 Persons / $50.00 AMERICAN DOLLARS PER PERSON.

03 Persons / $.45.00.00 AMERICAN DOLLARS PER PERSON.

04 Persons or more persons / $.40.00 AMERICAN DOLLARS PER PERSON.

DEPARTURE DAYS: Every day.

Preguntas frecuentes

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with pickup at the door of your hotel in Cusco. At the end, you will be dropped off back at your hotel in the city.
What is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain?
The best season is between April and November, when there is less rain and the trails are in better condition. During the rainy season (December to March), the weather can be unstable and visibility reduced.
Is the hike to Rainbow Mountain difficult?
The difficulty level is moderate to high, due to the altitude and the steepness of the trail. Good physical condition and prior acclimatization are recommended before the tour.
Can I rent a horse for the hike?
Yes, horses are available for rent at the base of the mountain. The cost is additional and must be paid directly to the local muleteers.
How can I prevent altitude sickness?
It is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before the tour, drink coca leaf tea, stay well hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or alcohol before the hike.
What clothing and gear should I bring?
It is important to bring layered warm clothing, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a windbreaker jacket, trekking shoes, water, and energy snacks.
Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast and lunch in the town of Cusipata. If you have any special dietary requirements, please inform us in advance.
At what altitude is Rainbow Mountain located?
The mountain is at a very high altitude, so it is important to be prepared for lower oxygen levels. In case of altitude sickness symptoms, guides carry oxygen and a first-aid kit.
Can children or older adults visit the mountain?
It depends on each person’s physical condition. The high altitude and demanding hike may be challenging for young children and older adults.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations and rescheduling are subject to the agency’s policy. It is recommended to check the terms before making a reservation.

The Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is one of the most impressive and popular destinations in Peru. Located in the Ausangate Mountain Range, at more than 5,200 meters above sea level, it amazes travelers with its natural tones that look as if they were hand-painted. This full-day tour is designed for adventurers seeking close contact with nature, unique landscapes, and living Andean culture.

Start of the Tour

The day begins very early, between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m., with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We will travel south of the region in tourist transportation, crossing picturesque Andean valleys and small traditional villages until we reach the district of Cusipata, where we will enjoy an energizing breakfast to prepare us for the hike.

Hike to the Summit

After breakfast, we continue by transport for about one hour to the community of Chillihuani, the starting point of the hike. From here, the ascent begins, lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Although challenging due to the altitude, it becomes an unforgettable experience thanks to the dreamlike Andean landscapes, the view of the imposing Ausangate snow-capped peak, and the company of llamas and alpacas that freely roam the area.

For those who need it, there is the option of renting horses from local villagers, allowing you to enjoy the journey with more comfort.

The Vinicunca Experience

Upon reaching the summit, the reward is unique: the stunning Rainbow Mountain, with its natural stripes formed by the accumulation of minerals over millions of years. You will have plenty of time to contemplate the scenery, take photographs, and listen to your guide’s explanation about the cultural and spiritual importance that Vinicunca holds for the Andean communities.

Return and Lunch

After this experience, we begin the descent back to Chillihuani, where transportation awaits us to return to Cusipata. There we will enjoy a traditional Andean lunch, perfect for regaining energy. Finally, we head back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival around 5:00 p.m., concluding a day full of adventure and unforgettable memories.

Advantages of the Tour

One of the most famous hikes in Peru, with unique landscapes.
Full-day experience, ideal if you have limited time in Cusco.
Option to rent horses for those who prefer less physical effort.
Direct connection with nature and Andean communities.
Includes breakfast and lunch, ensuring comfort throughout the trip.

Disadvantages of the Tour

Very high altitude (over 5,200 m.a.s.l.), which may cause altitude sickness.
Demanding hike, not recommended for people with health problems or low physical condition.
The weather can be unpredictable (cold, wind, or sudden rain).
Requires waking up very early to make the most of the day.

From: $50.00 / person

IMPORTANTE

To enjoy the full Machu Picchu experience, it is essential to book in advance, especially for Circuit 2, which is the most recommended. This tour offers the most comprehensive coverage of the citadel, combining breathtaking panoramic views with the most important archaeological sites.