Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour from Cusco – Apu Vinicunca

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Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour from Cusco Details
Apu Vinicunca from Cusco

Discover the vibrancy of the Peruvian Andes. The Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour from Cusco takes you on a memorable journey to Apu Vinicunca.

Locals refer to it as the montaña de siete colores. This translates to Rainbow Mountain. This colored mountain showcases nature’s artistry like no other.

The Cusco region houses Rainbow Mountain. It rises majestically amidst snow-capped peaks, making it a sight to behold. This tour gives you a chance to traverse high altitudes. 

You’ll be reaching heights that soar 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level. You must prepare for such elevations. This helps you avoid altitude sickness.

The city of Cusco serves as your starting point. From here, experienced tour operators transport you through the heart of the Andean landscape. They guide you with expertise, ensuring a seamless trip to Rainbow Mountain. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide, the wonders of the Cusco region unveil before your eyes.

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain? It’s during the dry season. This period offers clear skies, revealing the full spectrum of the mountain’s colors. Yet, any visit to this mountain, irrespective of the season, promises awe and admiration.

Before setting foot on the top of the mountain, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee. This is a common practice, ensuring the maintenance and preservation of this natural gem. 

Remember, you’re not just visiting Rainbow Mountain. You’re stepping into a world. In this world, nature has painted every possible hue onto the slopes of the Peruvian Andes.

By the end of this tour, the city of Cusco will beckon you back. We will be wrapping up a day filled with high-altitude adventures and the mesmerizing beauty of the Rainbow Mountain Cusco.

Departure Time

04:30 AM

Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour Includes

  • Round-trip transportation: From Cusco to the starting point of the trek and back.
  • Professional guide: Fluent in both English and Spanish, experienced in the Lake Humantay trek.
  • Entrance fee to the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain area.
  • Hearty breakfast and traditional Peruvian lunch.
  • First aid kit and oxygen: For safety and altitude-related concerns.
  • Trekking poles: Helpful for many when navigating the trek's terrain.
  • Guided trek to the Rainbow Mountain
  • Pre--tour briefing or orientation session in Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour Excludes

  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and drivers.
  • Personal hiking and trekking gear.
  • Additional snacks and beverages.
  • Souvenirs or personal shopping expenses.
  • Horse or mule rental for trekking assistance.
  • Any additional side trips or optional activities.
  • Accommodation in Cusco before or after the tour.

Recommended To Carry

  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with good grip. The terrains can be uneven.
  • Light layers of clothing. The weather can change, so it's wise to dress in layers that can be added or removed as needed.
  • Warm jacket or sweater. Even if the day starts warm, it can get chilly, especially in higher altitudes.
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
  • Water bottle. It's essential to stay hydrated, especially when being active.
  • Personal snacks or energy bars. While some tours might provide snacks, it's always good to have your own, just in case.
  • Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
  • Cash. For purchasing souvenirs, snacks, or any additional costs that might arise.
  • Camera or smartphone. The sites are picturesque, so you'll likely want to take photos.
  • Personal identification and a copy of your passport.
  • A small backpack or daypack to carry these items.
Itinerary

Embark on the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Peru Trek: A Colorful Odyssey from Cusco to the Peaks

Your adventure starts early. At 4:00 AM, Cusco’s city will be your rendezvous point. Here, our comfortable ride will await you. This vehicle will whisk you away to where your trek begins.

As we journey for about 3 hours, you’ll notice the landscapes unfolding. Quaint villages will dot your route. Expansive fields will stretch out before you. 

You can glimpse snow-capped peaks far in the distance. The majestic allure of the Peruvian Andes will surround you.

By 7:00 AM, we will reach our trek’s starting point. Here, we will refuel with a hearty breakfast. This meal will serve as your energy booster for the trek that lies ahead.

At 8:00 AM, we’ll initiate the trek’s first phase. We will make your way up the mountain on a winding path. This stretch spans roughly 7 km (4.3 miles). As we progress, you’ll start to discern the captivating hues of the mountain.

Around 10:30 AM, we will find ourselves at the base of Apu Vinicunca. Before you, the grandeur of the Rainbow Mountain will stand. You will have plenty of time to soak in the views here. Let the mountain’s rich colors, created by sedimentary mineral layers, mesmerize you.

When you’ve soaked in the view, it will be time to head back. Our descent should start around 11:30 AM. Going down will likely feel easier and faster than ascent. By 1:00 PM, you can expect to be back where we began.

After your return, a traditional Peruvian meal will await you. You can savor this delightful treat and recharge.

Post-lunch, our journey back to Cusco begins. Another 3-hour ride will bring us back to the city. By 5:00 PM, the Rainbow Mountain Peru Tour from Cusco should conclude, leaving you with memories of Apu Vinicunca.

Key Stats of the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Trek:

  • You’ll cover a distance of approximately 14 km (8.7 miles) in total.
  • The highest point you’ll reach stands at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.
  • Your trek will start from an elevation of around 4,300 meters (14,107 feet) above sea level.
  • You can consider the trek’s difficulty as moderate to challenging.
Photos
FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Rainbow Mountain?

The dry season, typically from April to September, is considered the best time to visit. However, it can be visited year-round with varying conditions.

How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its altitude and the length of the hike. Acclimatizing in Cusco for a couple of days before the trek can help with altitude issues.

How high is Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain’s altitude is about 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.

How long is the hike to Rainbow Mountain?

The hike typically covers a round trip distance of approximately 14 km (8.7 miles).

Can I rent a horse or mule?

Yes, you can rent a horse or mule for assistance on the trek, but this is usually at an additional cost and may not cover the entire distance.

Do I need any special gear?

Hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear, and sun protection are essential. Walking sticks can also be helpful.

How long is the drive from Cusco to the starting point?

The drive typically takes around 3 hours one way.

3 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Noel

Solo Traveller

Hiked Rainbow Mountain with Explore Peru Guide and it was breathtaking! Expert guidance, seamless experience, and unforgettable views. Highly recommend!

September 22, 2023

Koshy

Solo Traveller

Stunning hike to Rainbow Mountain with Explore Peru Guide! Professional, knowledgeable, and made the entire experience unforgettable. Five stars for sure!

September 20, 2023

Jefrey

Couple Traveller

Amazing trek up Rainbow Mountain with Explore Peru Guide! Top-notch service, unbeatable views, and a memory for a lifetime.

September 7, 2023