TRAVEL GUIDE
Rainbow Mountain Peru
All You Need to Know to Get to Rainbow Mountain
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a truly special place that will give you the most beautiful experience and take your breath away. This fertile valley is dotted with remarkable Inca ruins, ancient fortresses, picturesque Andean markets, and villages steeped in age-old traditions is what you’ll experience on a tour to the Inca heartland. Also, the Sacred Valley is a photographer’s paradise with stunning landscapes and mountain views against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. It is also an adventure activity hub, with biking, hiking, horseback riding and much more all on offer in this lush, idyllic landscape.
All information a traveler needs to know before visiting the Sacred Valley
The breath-taking Rainbow Mountain in Peru that goes by many names as: Stripy Mountain, Colored Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca or the montaña de 7 colores (seven-colored mountain), is an absolute must for all those who love stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. Learn everything you need to know before you go.
This geological wonder of Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca sits at 5,200 meters (17,060 ft), in the remote region of the Andes Mountains, located in the Vilcanota range, also home to the majestic Ausangate, considered a holy mountain in Peru.
Rainbow Mountain was once a spectacle only to be admired by trekkers along the Ausangate Trek, but nowadays you can find day tours to visit this geological wonder and witness this display of natural beauty in all its glory on a shorter 1- or 2-day hike as part of your Peru vacation.
A visit to Rainbow Mountain has blown up in popularity in recent years and is the second most visited site in Cusco after Machu Picchu. In fact, Rainbow Mountain tour is becoming one of the top activities to do while in Cusco.
Overview
Rainbow Mountain has increasingly become popular as the second most important destination in Peru, for those who love gorgeous scenery and landscapes.
Even though it is located over 5,200 masl (17,060 feet)). It is nowadays a must-see place for everyone visiting Cusco. When comparing the altitude of Rainbow Mountain to Everest Mountain, Rainbow Mountain is more than half that of Mount Everest.
The Rainbow Mountain can be easily reached on a one-day tour from Cusco. For this hike it is necessary to be acclimatized for a minimum of 48 hours before doing the activity.
Climate & Weather
As Rainbow Mountain is located in the highlands, its climate is quite cold and windy.
The best time to visit is during the dry season which starts from April to October.
During the dry season the sun is very intense
However, you should be aware of the climate in the Peruvian Andes. The weather is tricky
especially during the rainy season. The temperature ranges between 0°C to 14°C and can drop down in just seconds.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season, lasting from roughly April until October.
Keep in mind that the weather in Rainbow Mountain is different from the weather in Cusco. Go well prepered.
How to Get to Rainbow Mountain
The quickest and safest way to get to Rainbow Mountain is through a tour from Cusco.
All tours depart from Cusco city. Most of them start very early, at 4 to 4:30 in the morning.
The journey by car from Cusco takes 3 to 3.5 hours to reach the village of Pitumarca, for breakfast and then the trip is completed with an additional 1-hour drive to the start of the trail.
The tours are offered in private service or in small groups.
Prices vary according to the type of service and the travel company you are going with.
Many travelers opt to take advantage of Rainbow Mountain tours offered with transportation, food, a guide, oxygen, and other amenities.
Rainbow Mountain Trail
Once you reach the base or trailhead, it is about 1.5 to 2 hours uphill to the summit.
The trail is signed all the way to the mountain itself.
There are 2 trails: there is one trail for visitors and the other for horseback riders. Be sure to take the right one if you don’t want to get hurt by the horses that go much faster.
Along the way it is possible to find local people offering snacks and water.
Locals offer everything from coca candy, water, chocolates, souvenirs, coca tea to food and beer.
For this we recommend you to bring cash and coins.
The locals offer everything from coca candy, water, chocolates, souvenirs, coca tea to food and beer.
Toilets
Restrooms are basic, they are available along the trail. You need to pay 1 soles, bring some cash for that.
There are no restrooms on the summit side of Rainbow Mountain.
History
Although the mountain had always existed back in Inca time it was hidden for centuries under thick layers of snow and ice. However due to climate change, the ice gradually melted away.
Rainbow Mountain was discovered in 2013 according to locals, and since then, thousands of visitors seek to do the challenging hike to see this incredible 7-colored mountain.
When did Rainbow Mountain form?
The mountain was formed by the weathering, climatic conditions and sedimentary layers over time.
Minerals all over the area were mixed with the minerals in the ground, turning the earth into the many colors such as turquoise, lavender, gold and other colors. you see today.
What to See
Many of the photos you probably see of Rainbow Mountain that are posted on Instagram or Facebook may be slightly edited. That’s why seeing it in the real or in-person version is the best option. And believe it or not, Rainbow Mountain does exist!
What the hike to Rainbow Mountain offers are beautiful views that you will probably never see again in your entire life. Because the scenery is unique in each place.
Driving through Quechua villages combined with views of mountains and snow-capped peaks in the distance will make your experience start from the road to Rainbow Mountain.
Experience your trip being surrounded by locals dressed in their typical costumes. Children walking with alpacas as if they were literally their pets. The spoken language will remind you that the Inca culture is still alive.
Red Valley
If you thought Rainbow Mountain is all you will see, think twice. Rainbow Mountain has a few extra things to add to your visit.
Red Valley is located just 20 minutes away from Rainbow Mountain. Exactly on the right side of Rainbow Mountain. There is a turn off road to the Red Valley, the road is visible and not as challenging as the road to Rainbow Mountain. Very few travelers know about this alternative tourist attraction.
There are 2 ways to see it
You can hike to the viewpoint from where you can appreciate it from the highest part and take a panoramic photo of all the scenic landscape offered by this view.
Hike downhill to the Red Valley to explore it. This short hike will take you 25 to 35 minutes. There is a different path that will allow you to get to the parking lot in the end of the trail.
Conclusion
- The Red Valley viewpoint is less crowded than the classic Rainbow Mountain.
- You can reach it on a private or small group tour from Cusco.
- The route to the Red Valley is the same that leads to Rainbow Mountain.
- Make sure you are properly adapted to the altitude to opt to do it.
- Don’t go to Red Valley in the afternoon in the rainy season because of the lighting.
- The best time to visit is during the dry season.
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is the new hidden gem of which you can also opt for instead of the Rainbow Mountain.
Palcoyo Mountain is a 3.5 hour drive away from Cusco. Palcoyo is located in the district of Checacupe, in the province of Canchis Cusco -Peru. The roads that leads to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain are slow and windy, but most part generally in good condition.
The easiest way to get there is with an organized tour from Cusco. All along the way the views are simply amazing. Compared to the classic Rainbow Mountain it is not overcrowded.
The hike is not physically demanding. It is a 30 minute round trip hike. This option is perfect for those who love nature. On the way to Palcoyo by car, you will see herds od aklpacas and llamas grazing alongside the road. They’ll stop for photos so long as you don’t get too close. You will also see local communities and lots and lots of potatoes growing.
Checacupe
For those heading to the mountain of Palcoyo the colonial bridge of Chcacupe is a mandatory stop.
This beautiful colonial bridge is located in the district of Checacupe. Although it is not very famous yet by visitors, many travel agencies are including it to the tours of the Palcoyo Mountain.
Packages
Explore Peru’s Rainbow Mountain at the southern tip of Cusco, Peru; hiking along a stunning wilderness route and a remote colorful landscape with endless scenery. Our tours and treks to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain from Cusco offer an unforgettable adventure with fantastic views of the Peruvian Andes. The routes pass through beautiful Quechua villages where the Quechua-speaking inhabitants have lived since the epoch of the Incas.
Rainbow Mountain Peru 1-Day Tour
Experience the best of Rainbow Mountain on a day tour from Cusco. Witness Rainbow Mountain in all its glory, take some pictures and explore the area on private tour with a guide. Our tours are offered in private service and small groups. Click here to learn more
Horseback Ride to Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca - 1 Day
Rainbow mountain trip on horseback, is the best tour option for Rainbow Mountain. Taking this day trip you will get mind-blowing views of the Rainbow Mountain and its surroundings.
Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Trek
Our Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley 2 Day package is designed for you to discover the incredible scenery of the Peruvian Andes. Learn more about this tour in the following link and contact one of our travel specialists for more info.
Rainbow Mountain Trek 3D/2N
This new trekking option will spellbound you. With a perfect combination of amazing landscapes, snowcapped, colorful tarns, rushing streams and more. Click to learn more about this 3 day tour.
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain 4-day hike is one of Peru's best hiking lovers' options. Don't miss this adventure filled with a series of stunning glacial lakes and the most amazing views. Managed 100% by a local company
Guidelines
Travel Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a guide for Rainbow Mountain?
Technically no, but getting your bearings is not easy if you are in a remote village. If you are short of time or want to get the most out of your trip, opt for a tour from an authorized agency. it is the fastest and safest way to visit Rainbow Mountain.
How do you get to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco?
The easiest and safest way is to take an organized tour from Cusco. Travel agencies offer tours to Rainbow Mountain in private service or in small groups.
How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
Hiking to Rainbow Mountain is not easy but not impossible, in fact there is the option to go on horseback. The hike itself is at a moderate level of difficulty. The biggest factor to beat is the altitude. For this it is highly recommended to spend at least 2 days to acclimatize in Cusco.
How much does it cost to go to the Rainbow Mountain?
The cost varies based on the type of service you select and the travel company you prefer. To know the exact price click on the following link: price of Rainbow Mountain private tour.
Can I go to Rainbow Mountain by myself?
Of course you can, although consider that traveling alone or on your own to the to Rainbow Mountain could take quite some time. To learn more about how to get to Rainbow Mountain you can visit the following link.
How do I prepare for Rainbow Mountain Peru?
First of all, it is important to acclimatize slightly to the altitude. As your body gradually gets used to the altitude and your lungs to breathing the thinner air of the Andes you will feel ready to take the Rainbow Mountain tour with no problems.