The Rainbow Mountain Tour
Overview
Come to Peru’s sacred mountains to give your mind, body and soul a break from the daily grind. Seize the chance to journey through an undiscovered terrain full of desert landscapes and snow-capped peaks that reach into heaven. As you pass through lush, emerald-colored valleys, you’ll be inspired by views of Ausangate Mountain standing like a god-carved monolith in the distance. Of course, all of this will lead up to the exiting moment when you first spot the colored minerals that formed the painted hills you’re walking through.
Pick up & Drop off
Rainbow Mountain
📍 Hotel Pickup (06:00 AM)
We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 6:00 AM and begin our 3-hour drive to the trailhead. Our first stop will be Cusipata, where we’ll briefly break before continuing toward Phullawasipata (4,626 m / 15,177 ft).
📍 Scenic Drive
Enjoy the scenic ride as we pass herds of alpacas and llamas along the way. Be sure to bring your camera, as we’ll have breathtaking views of Ausangate Mountain. You’ll also get the chance to stroll through rural areas and meet the friendly locals.
📍Hike to Rainbow Mountain
The hike to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (5,030 m / 16,498 ft) takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once we reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the colorful rock formation that gives Rainbow Mountain its name – turquoise, orange, brown, and red sedimentary layers.
📍Break and Views
At the peak, you’ll have time to relax, take photos, and enjoy a short break, typically lasting around 30-45 minutes. Take in the panoramic vistas and the incredible landscape before descending.
📍 Return to Trailhead
After soaking in the views, we’ll begin our descent. Once we return to the trailhead, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before starting our drive back to Cusco.
📍 Drive Back to Cusco
We’ll embark on the 3-hour drive back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time at your hotel around 5:00 PM.
Total Distance & Estimated Walking Time
- Walking distance: 6 km (3.73 miles)
- Estimated walking time: 2 to 3 hours
Meals Included: Lunch
Note:
- Departures are available year-round, though the recommended trekking period is from April to November due to weather conditions.
- Due to access road restrictions in Cusco, pickups from some hotels may require walking.
- All travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- For 2 – 3 people: 170 USD each
- For 4 – 6 people: 140 USD each
- For 7 – 10 people: 120 USD each
Note:
- The prices provided are for groups in private service.
- Professional guide in English or Spanish
- Transport
- Lunch.
- Entry tickets to Vinicunca
- Breakfast.
- Tips
- Horse to ride (you can rent at Phullawasipata one horse + horseman)
- Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am
- Departures are available along the year although due to weather conditions, the recommended period for this trek is April to November
Regarding the Level of Difficulty
- Preparation is essential if you want to enjoy a comfortable, healthy experience during this once-in-a-lifetime journey. The journey to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is a challenging trek that will last a full day and bring you to an elevation above 16,498 feet. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition before attempting to take on this adventure. Make sure you are properly rested prior to the start of the journey. It is recommended that you stay in Cusco or a place with similar elevation for at least two days before your journey begins. Doing so will help you to properly acclimatize. Remember to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated the day prior to the hike.
