OVERVIEW
Rainbow Mountain Trek 1 day – Embark on our full day Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco, and immerse yourself in a remote region of the Andes Mountains to explore one of the most incredible natural wonder on the planet in the middle of the Andes of Peru, with the best local tour operator of Peru. This unique 1 day hike to Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca Mountain, also called Mountain of Seven-Colors in Peru, offers travelers an entire day of unforgettable adventures amid a surreal landscape and local culture contact; and is perfect for those travelers short on time but looking to enjoy stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery in their lifetime!
This stunning Rainbow Mountain Trek in One Day, or Seven Colors Mountain Tour in Cusco, will take you through a beautiful Andean valley, in which you may interact with the local people who are still keeping traditional Quechua culture alive! Besides, on this trek you’ll able to see isolated communities, snow capped glaciated peaks, herds of alpaca and llamas in their natural habitat, and pristine beauty; hiking through remote high-altitude desert paths to the breathtaking Vinicunca mountain one of the new natural attractions of Cusco, found in the Vilcanota mountain range. In addition, you will able to witness the impressive view of Ausangate mountain (6,300 masl / 20,900 fasl) towering in the distance (the highest peak in the region) considered “Apu” (holy mountain or mountain spirit) by local Peruvians and is the deity of Cusco.
Day 1: Cusco – Cusipata – Chillihuani – Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca – Cusco
To make the most of our time on the trail and at the Wonderful Mountain of 7 Colors or the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain in Peru, our amazing Full Day Rainbow Mountain / Vinicunca Trek will begin early in the morning at 4:00 am with pick up from your hotel in Cuzco city, we set out by private transport for 2 hours to the Southern Valley of Cusco passing picturesque Andean towns to the village of Cusipata. Upon reaching the Cusipata village (3,300 masl /10,826 fasl), we provide a full continental breakfast, perfect fuel for the hiking ahead.
After breakfast, we will head back to the van to continue traveling for about 1 hour on the dirt road to the trailhead, known as Phulawasipata. Throughout the journey experience magnificent views of the rolling mountains, we’ll pass quaint Andean towns such as Paucarpata district (3310 masl) and the community of Chillihuani, until the control point (Llaqto).
Upon reaching to the starting point of the walk, known as Phulawasipat, located at an elevation of 4,650 m /15,255 ft, we start our trek along a meandering path in the foothills of the magnificent Andes. As we ascend, marvel at the flora and fauna, passing Llamas and Alpacas stand along the way. If we are very lucky we may see some chinchillas and vicuñas. Vicuñas are the only non-domesticated animal of the llama family in Peru and are very skittish.
This whole area is home to many people, and you will have the opportunity to see them working the land. Be surprised to see the traditional clothing they use and that they make themselves thanks to the practice of textile art they have inherited from their ancestors. They preserve their ancient culture and refuse to be submitted by the rules of the western world. Your guide will teach you about the meaning of some clothes and, if you want, you can ask him to teach you some words in Quechua.
After climbing for about 1.5-2 hours, we will arrive at the impressive Rainbow Mountain , or Vinicunca, also called Mountain of 7 Colors, which is located at 5020 masl / 16,466 fasl. Upon reaching the viewpoint of Vinicunca or Montaña de Colores, we’ll take our time to admire this natural formation’s unique beauty and feel the thrill of witnessing an unforgettable spectacle. This is your reward for the strenuous climb: Glorious layer of turquoise, orange, brown, and red rock sediment. Explore the surroundings while your guide explains the theories regarding this mountain’s origin that seems to be taken from the gods.
Take photographs and immerse yourself and enjoy spectacular views of the unique colored rock formations that gives Rainbow Mountain its name. When the day is clear, we will be also rewarded with an impressive view of the Ausangate Mountain (6,300 masl / 20,900 fasl) in a distance, which is the most important Apu, or mountain deity, in Andean cosmology, the highest in the region. There we will take a break between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions. If you want to stay longer, inform your guide.
Later, there is a possibility of walking through the Red Valley in Cusco, if the climate and weather allow it. Don’t miss this valley of completely red mountains! After some time to rest and take those classic shots for your Instagram feed, we’ll return down the same way we came for around 45 minutes or 1 hour. Our private transport will be waiting for us when we arriving back at the trailhead. We will then drive for 45 minutes to a local restaurant at Cusipata village where a delicious lunch will be waiting for us. Following lunch, we’ll return on our transport to the city of Cusco and drop you off at your hotel around 5:00 pm or 5:30 pm. End of the Rainbow Mountain Tour with incredible memories of a very unique day.
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
- Total Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
- Approximate Walking Time: 2.5-3 hours
- Lowest Elevation: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft
- Highest Elevation: 5,020 m / 16,466 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, depending on level of physical fitness
What’s Included For Rainbow Mountains Trek 1 Day?
- Pre-departure briefing: We’ll meet you at your hotel in Cusco the night before the Rainbow Mountain trek to go over the itinerary, and you can take this opportunity to ask final questions and make any final preparations. The meeting will be at 5:00 PM the evening before your day trip begins.
- Professional & Experienced Guide: Our expert guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. Our region’s local best guides are chosen for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and a desire to share in the experience. Some of them with more than 10 years of experience leading people in the mountains of Machu Picchu are here to take you to explore spectacular Peru’s Rainbow Mountain or Mountain of Seven Colors. They’ll make sure you are safe and happy.
- Transportation: All your transportation is included in this stunning Rainbow Mountain Trek. We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to travel by van around three hours to the Southern Valley passing picturesque Andean towns until arriving to the trailhead. Once you finish visiting one of the most beautiful sceneries in the world, nestled in a remote region of the Andes Mountains, including Rainbow Mountain of Peru, we will take you back to the door of your hotel.
- Meals: On our full day Rainbow Mountain day trip, we provide one continental breakfast, and one selection of fresh dishes of lunch, served buffet-style in the small village of Cusipata. We respect all diets (vegetarian or vegan are available), so let us know on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing.
- Permit & Entrance Tickets: All the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain are included.
- Medical Kit & Oxygen bottle: Your trekking guide will carry a first-aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle to face basic emergencies. If something does happen, which is rare
What Is Not Included?
- Flight
- Hotel before/after the tour
- Dinner is not included on this hike
- Horse to ride – you can add a horse to ride if you prefer
- Walking poles (poles must have intact rubber bottoms)
- Water for the hike – please fill your bottles/bladder before you depart
- Items of a personal nature and souvenirs
- Travel interruption and travel medical/evacuation insurance (required)
- Tip for your guide is optional but sometimes extra is always welcome, especially considering their work
Important Note:
- Flights: Flying to Cusco can be tricky. Delays occur often and it is not uncommon for flights to be canceled. Please be sure to arrive in the city at least two days before your tour start date. LATAM is the most reliable of the airlines. SKY and Jetsmart Airlines are acceptable companies, as well.
What to Bring on the Rainbow Mountains 1 Day Hike Tour
- Original passport
- Comfortable hiking pants
- Down jacket, or a warm jacket
- Trekking shoes with protector’s ankle, or similar
- Hiking long sleeve T-shirts
- Rain jacket/poncho
- Winter hat and gloves
- Rain pants
- Sunblock (factor 35+ recommended, the sun can be strong)
- Water for the trek (recommend at least 2L)
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Camera and films with spare batteries (note: batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
- Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented from us)
- Toilet paper, and face tissue paper
- Extra money (American dollars and Peruvian soles in cash – little coins for toilet) and also for souvenirs, drinks and tips.
Frequently Asked Questions Explore the Vibrant Colors of Rainbow Mountain in Peru
What is Rainbow Mountain?
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores in Spanish, is a mountain in the Andes of Peru that is known for its vibrant colors. The mountain is made up of sedimentary rock that has been eroded over time, revealing layers of different colors.
How do I get to Rainbow Mountain Hike?
The Rainbow mt treks usually starts from Cusco or the nearby town of Cusipata. The trek itself is a day trip, and most tour operators provide transportation to and from the starting point of the trek. It’s best to book a tour with a reputable company to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
How difficult is the trek to Rainbow Mountain Trek?
The trek to Rainbow Mountain is considered to be challenging due to the high altitude and steep inclines. The trek is approximately 10 kilometers long and reaches an altitude of over 5,000 meters above sea level. It’s recommended that you spend at least a few days in Cusco before attempting the trek to acclimatize to the high altitude.
What should I bring with me on the trek to Rainbow Mountain Trek?
It’s important to bring warm clothing, as temperatures at the top of the mountain can be very cold. You should also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. It’s also important to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during the trek.
How difficult is the rainbow mountain trek?
The difficulty of the rainbow mountain trek can vary depending on the route and the level of physical fitness of the participant. Generally, it’s considered a moderately difficult trek, with some steep sections and high altitude. It’s recommended that participants acclimatize to the altitude for a few days before attempting the trek.
Is it safe to go on a rainbow mountain tour?
Yes, it’s generally safe to go on a rainbow mountain tour. However, it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator and to follow the instructions of your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s also recommended that participants have travel insurance and consult with a doctor before traveling to high-altitude destinations.
Are there any age restrictions for the rainbow mountain tour?
There are no specific age restrictions for the rainbow mountain tour. However, it’s important to consider the physical fitness and altitude tolerance of children and elderly participants before booking the tour. It’s also recommended that children under the age of 08 are accompanied by an adult.
What is the best time to go on a rainbow mountain tour?
The best time to go on a rainbow mountain tour is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. However, it’s important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before booking your tour.