Rainbow Mountain Peru, 1 or 2 days
The Experience
Peru’s Rainbow Mountain Peru’s Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, is a breathtakingly beautiful landscape in the Ausangate region, just a few hours’ drive from Cusco. During the trek, you will pass through picturesque communities where time seems to have stood still. You’ll walk past local adobe homes and spot herders with their flocks of llamas and alpacas. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a magnificent view of Mount Ausangate, which at 20,948 feet, is the highest peak in the region.
Tip: Tucked behind Peru’s Rainbow Mountain is the Red Valley, a stunning mountain formation of deep red hues. These formations are also well worth a visit but often go unnoticed due to the altitude. However, if you still have the energy and time, don’t miss out on the Red Valley!
Note 1: The hike begins at an altitude of 14,193 feet, and Rainbow Mountain reaches over 16,400 feet. Therefore, it is important to be well-acclimated to the altitude before taking this trip. Note 2: We can provide an additional pack horse for an extra fee. Note 3: In addition to the day trip, you can also book a two-day excursion with fewer crowds. We would be happy to provide you with more information regarding this option.
– Besides being in good physical condition, it is vital that you take the necessary time to properly acclimate to the altitude.
What's Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (Cusco)
- Transportation to/from Rainbow Mountain
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Breakfast in Hanchipacha
- Lunch after the hike (typically buffet or packed)
- Guided trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Oxygen tank & basic first aid kit
- Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain
What's Not Included
- Tips for guide and driver
- Personal snacks or drinks
- Horse rental (available on-site for extra cost)
- Trekking poles (can be rented)
- Entrance to Red Valley (optional extension, extra fee)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
At 5:00 AM, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. After a drive of over 3 hours, you will arrive at the village of Hanchipacha, where breakfast will be served. From Hanchipacha, it is a 15-minute drive to the village of Quesiuno, where the hike begins. Quesiuno is located at an elevation of 14,193 feet. During the trek, you will be able to observe how the locals live in the mountains. All around you, you can take in beautiful mountain landscapes, such as the Ausangate Glacier.
The hike's final destination is Rainbow Mountain, a spectacular geological formation with vibrant colors. You will spend approximately one hour at the summit of Rainbow Mountain before hiking back down to the village of Hanchipacha, where lunch will be served. In total, the round-trip hike takes about 6 hours. You will return to Cusco by nightfall.
