Rainbow Mountain Tour – Vinicunca Full day
The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Tour is a day trip to one of Peru’s most incredible natural sites. This colorful peak is located in the Vilcanota mountain range, southeast of Cusco, and, of course, is famous for its surreal natural colored stripes of fuchsia, turquoise, lavender, and gold created from minerals.
The Rainbow Mountain peaks at 5,200 meters, (17,060 ft) has become a symbol of the Andes, and one of Peru’s most photographed locations. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through traditional valleys and culminates with an awe inspiring high-altitude hike. On your hike, you will see the snowcapped peeks, along with majestic grazing alpacas, and small Andean communities living in a way that preserves their ancestry.
While challenging and certainly the highest trek you ever do, the reward is something you’ll never forget. From the top, the view of the entirety of Vinicunca is reminiscent of a hand-painted canvas. Rainbow Mountain gained notoriety in 2016, and has since captured the attention of travelers the world over!
Join us for a day of awe, discovery, and adventure. The Rainbow Mountain Tour is perfect for those interested in incredible landscapes, high-altitude trekking, and perhaps one of the most unique sites in Peru.
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Rainbow Mountain day tour
Day 01: Rainbow Mountain day tour
Witness the surreal beauty of Rainbow Mountain on this full-day adventure from Cusco. Hike through high-Andean landscapes filled with llamas, alpacas, and glacier views until you reach the vibrant, multicolored slopes of Vinicunca at 5,200 meters. A challenging but unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.
Starting from Cost: 50.00 USD
Duration of the Tour: 01 day
Location of the tour: south of Cusco, district of Cusipata.
Nature of the Tour: transportation, 4-hour hike, medium-high degree of difficulty, distance 5 miles, it is necessary to present good physical condition and health.
Limitations of the Tour: wild place, between 15800 and 16600 ft.
The operation is subject to weather conditions.
Rainbow Mountain Itinerary
DAY 1: Rainbow Mountain Cusco
The Rainbow Mountain day tour from Cusco begins very early in the morning with a scenic journey southward in tourist transport. After approximately 2 hours, we reach the town of Cusipata, where we continue along a winding dirt road for about an hour until we arrive at Phulawasipata, the starting point of our hike.
Here, we begin a moderate ascent surrounded by spectacular Andean landscapes. Along the trail, you’ll spot herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely, adding charm to the route. As we climb, the majestic glacier of Ausangate—the highest peak in the Cusco region at 6,384 meters (21,100 ft)—comes into view, making the experience even more awe-inspiring.
During the hike, you’ll witness glimpses of traditional Andean life: local farmers tending crops, stone corrals housing livestock, and native wildlife such as chinchillas, Andean geese, and mountain caracaras. After about 2 hours of hiking, we finally reach the highlight of the day — the stunning Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), at an elevation of 5,050 meters (16,600 ft).
Take your time to explore, take photos, and soak in the unique landscape of colorful mineral formations. Afterwards, we descend along the same trail back to Phulawasipata, where our transport awaits. We then return to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch, before heading back to the city of Cusco in the afternoon.
Included/Not Included
Included
- Transportation
- Professional guide
- Oxygen tank
- Entrance ticket to the attraction
- Food
Not Included
- Horse service
- Drinks and walking sticks
Recommendations
- Warm and light clothing, hiking pants and shoes, hat.
- Small backpack; rain poncho, water bottle, sun block, sun glasses.
Prices
GROUP SERVICE
$ 50 USDincludes personal porter who will carry your personal items up to 5 kilos (including the sleeping bag + mattress: 2kgs and a half)
PRIVATE SERVICE
- 02 people 0 USD
- 03 people 0 USD
- 04 people 0 USD
- 06 – 08 people 0 USD
Travel Info
About Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, is one of the most striking geological wonders in Peru. Located in the Vilcanota mountain range, southeast of Cusco, this colorful formation rises to an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 ft) in the district of Pitumarca.
What makes it truly unique is its natural palette of colors—fuchsia, turquoise, lavender, gold, and green—which run across its slopes like a painted canvas. These vibrant stripes are the result of millions of years of geological processes involving marine, lacustrine, and fluvial sediments that were uplifted by tectonic activity and oxidized by weather and erosion.
The Colors Explained
According to geologists, each color band corresponds to a specific mineral composition. Here’s a breakdown of the main pigments:
- Pink or Purple: Red clay, siltstone, and sand.
- Lavender or Violet: Clay with calcium carbonate and silicates.
- Red: Iron-rich sandstone and clay.
- Green: Ferromagnesian clays and copper oxide.
- Yellow or Gold: Limonite and calcareous sandstone rich in sulfide minerals.
The presence of iron oxide is a key factor behind many of these brilliant tones.
A Rising Tourist Attraction
Although Vinicunca’s colors have existed for millennia, it only rose to fame in recent years. Since 2016, it has drawn the attention of hikers, travel bloggers, and social media influencers. Thousands now visit daily, making it one of Peru’s most photographed natural landmarks.
In 2017, Business Insider listed it among the “100 places to visit before you die,” and Instagram posts of the mountain continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Rainbow Mountain is by booking a full-day tour from Cusco. Most tours travel by tourist transport southward to the town of Cusipata, followed by a drive to Phulawasipata, the starting point of the hike. The walk takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on your pace and acclimatization.
Some visitors arrive via the alternative route through Checacupe – Pitumarca – Pampachiri, but this is less common and requires careful planning and local knowledge. Entrance fees are approximately S/.10 for foreigners and S/.5 for Peruvians.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit
- Acclimate in Cusco for at least 1–2 days before the hike to avoid altitude sickness.
- Stay hydrated and eat a light breakfast before the trek.
- Bring warm layers, sun protection, water, and snacks.
- Walking sticks and oxygen are recommended for those sensitive to high elevation.
- Horse rentals are available at the trailhead for an extra fee.
- Pack out all trash and help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
You can also visit the stunning “Rainbow Mountain” independently. To do so, take a bus from the city of Cusco toward Sicuani and get off at the town of Cusipata. From there, continue by shared taxi to the community of Phulawasipata, the starting point of the hike through the spectacular Seven-Color Mountains. Entry tickets cost 15 soles for Peruvian visitors and 25 soles for foreigners.
Climbing Difficulty
The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes around 2 hours, depending on your physical condition. While the trail is not dangerous, it does require moderate physical effort due to steep ascents and descents. One of the main challenges is the cold temperatures and strong winds at high altitude. To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, it’s highly recommended to spend at least 1–2 days acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand.
How Much Does a Ticket to Vinicunca Cost?
Entrance fees are 15 soles (approximately $4 USD) for Peruvian nationals and 25 soles (around $7 USD) for international visitors. These funds help maintain the tourist infrastructure in the area.
How to Rent a Horse When Visiting Vinicunca
Local residents in Phulawasipata offer horse rentals for approximately 100 soles (around $30 USD) for a round-trip service. Horses cannot be reserved online; arrangements must be made directly with the locals upon arrival.
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness on the Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco
Altitude sickness, or soroche, is a common discomfort when visiting high-altitude destinations. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. To prevent them, spend 1–2 days in Cusco to acclimatize before the hike. Drink plenty of water and consider drinking coca tea, a traditional Andean remedy known to help with altitude symptoms.
What Are the Visiting Hours for Vinicunca?
There are no official opening hours, but visits generally take place during daylight, from early morning until mid-afternoon. Most full-day tours run from around 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., including transportation and hiking time.
Can Children Visit Vinicunca?
Yes, children can visit Rainbow Mountain with parental supervision. However, due to the cold climate and extreme altitude, it is not recommended for babies or children with respiratory or health conditions.
Are There Hotels Near Rainbow Mountain?
The closest accommodations are in the town of Cusipata. Lodging here is basic but offers the necessary comfort for a short stay before or after the hike.
Are There Bathrooms at Rainbow Mountain?
Basic restrooms are available along the hiking route, maintained by local residents. The cost to use these facilities is approximately 1 sol (around $0.30 USD).
How to Hire a Guide for the Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco
The only way to visit Rainbow Mountain with a guide is to book an organized tour. Independent travelers typically complete the hike without a guide.
Is It Possible to Visit Vinicunca in a Wheelchair?
Unfortunately, the trail is not wheelchair accessible. The path includes steep and uneven dirt sections that are not suitable for wheels.
Can Elderly Visitors Go to Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, elderly travelers can visit Vinicunca as long as they are in good health and physical condition. It’s advisable to consult a doctor before the trip, especially for those who are not used to strenuous walking or high altitudes.
This Rainbow Mountain day tour from Cusco takes travelers to one of Peru’s most captivating natural wonders, where vibrant, mineral-rich layers create a surreal rainbow effect that contrasts beautifully with the deep blue Andean sky. Though the altitude presents a physical challenge, the reward is a view unlike any other—etched in the memory of every adventurer who makes the journey.
Frecuently Asked Questions
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The hike is considered challenging mainly because of the altitude, not the technical difficulty. The trail is steady and well-marked, but the thin air at over 5,000 meters can make even short distances feel demanding. Taking it slow and listening to your body makes all the difference.
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Rainbow Mountain is unlike anywhere else in Peru. Its natural stripes of color were formed over millions of years by mineral deposits, creating a landscape that feels almost unreal. Standing there, surrounded by snowcapped peaks and wide open skies, it feels less like visiting a tourist attraction and more like stepping into a natural work of art.
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Yes, acclimatization is very important for this tour. Spending at least one or two days in Cusco before visiting Rainbow Mountain helps your body adjust to the altitude and makes the experience much more enjoyable. Travelers who acclimatize properly tend to feel stronger and more confident on the hike.
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The hike begins gradually, passing through open Andean landscapes where alpacas graze freely and local families tend their land. As you climb higher, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with snowcapped peaks surrounding you. Reaching the summit is a powerful moment, often accompanied by a sense of accomplishment and awe.
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Rainbow Mountain is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with physical activity and high-altitude environments. While there are optional horse services available locally, the experience is most rewarding for those prepared for the altitude and willing to take the hike at a steady pace.
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Along the route, you will see herds of alpacas and llamas, wide valleys, and dramatic mountain scenery typical of the Vilcanota range. The contrast between colorful hills, white snow peaks, and deep blue skies makes the journey just as memorable as the destination itself.
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Rainbow Mountain gained international attention around 2016, when melting snow revealed its vibrant colors more clearly. Since then, images of Vinicunca have captured the imagination of travelers worldwide, turning it into one of Peru’s most iconic natural landmarks.
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Reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain is often an emotional moment. Many travelers describe a mix of exhaustion, pride, and wonder as they take in the sweeping view of colors stretching across the mountain. It is a reminder that some of the most beautiful places require effort—but reward it generously.
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