Peru · Trekking

1-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek from Cusco with Vinicunca Views

1 Day Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Hike to the fantastic Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca
  • 02 Admire stunning views of Ausangate and the vast Andean landscape
  • 03 See herds of llamas and alpacas along the route
  • 04 Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Cusipata

Drive along a picturesque route from Cusco to Cusipata for an exciting trek to Peru's amazing Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, famous for its fantastic array of colours in the middle of the Andes Mountain Range. Hike to the summit to take in stunning views of the vast Andean landscape, with spectacular scenery at over 4000 masl and views of Ausangate along the way. This full-day experience combines dramatic mountain scenery, local Andean life, and time to enjoy one of Peru's most iconic natural wonders.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Cusco, Ausangate, Urus Mountain
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Rainbow Mountain Trek from Cusco

  • Wake up early to enjoy this natural marvel at its best. Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, we will pick you up directly from your hotel to begin our ride to Cusipata, located on the southern side of Cusco. Along the way, we will observe picturesque Andean towns and Inca agricultural platforms.
  • We will stop to observe herds of llamas and alpacas that will entertain you while you enjoy a delicious continental breakfast to give you the nourishing boost you need to begin the hike.
  • We continue our drive until we reach the trailhead, where the hike begins at over 4630 m / 15190 ft.
  • There, we will start along a meandering path in the middle of the Andean mountains that follows a pretty stream. As you ascend, you will be impressed by the views of Ausangate Mountain (6385 m / 20928 ft.).
  • Take time to enjoy the wonderful Andean landscape while you rest and get enough oxygen. This remote area is home to thousands of people who make their lives at this elevation. You will see them working the land for crops, and you will also see local people weaving their traditional multi-coloured clothing using the artistic textile talents they have preserved from their ancestors.
  • After an hour and a half of hiking, we will reach the summit of the amazing Rainbow Mountain at 5100 m / 16732 ft. With its gorgeous views, take your time to enjoy this iconic natural area in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. Your guide will explain the colours of the mountain and take you to the best spot to capture the best photos. You will also have enough time to explore the surrounding areas.
  • Once you are done, we will start descending to the bus station by the same route we took to arrive.
  • Then we will board our bus to the restaurant in Cusipata and enjoy our buffet lunch.
  • After that, we will return to Cusco, and our bus will drop you off at the door of your hotel.
Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, Ausangate, Cusipata highlands

Where this trip takes you

Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, Ausangate, Cusipata highlands

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
3 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Pick up from your hotel
  • Round-trip transport
  • Professional Peruvian tour guide
  • Safety talk
  • Breakfast and lunch
  • Entrance fees
  • Trekking poles
  • First-aid kit

What's Not Included

  • Water bottle
  • Tips
  • Entrance fee to the Red Valley

What to bring

RECOMMENDATIONS:

We focus on making your trip an unforgettable experience. We want to provide all the details you need to know before leaving your country and starting your life experience in Peru.

What you need to pack?

  • Passport
  • Good day backpack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage: water reservoirs like CamelBak are encouraged, with enough capacity for at least 2-3 liters.
  • Comfortable hiking pants

INSIDE YOUR DAY BACKPACK:

Your daypack can be any size for hiking, but we recommend the smaller, the better. If it is larger, try to keep it as light as possible.

  • Rain gear
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Water bottle
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
  • Personal medication or a first-aid kit
  • Snacks (chocolate, energizing bars, caramels, etc.)

Know before you go

  • Rainbow Mountain is located at over 5100 m / 16732 ft, and you need a few days in Cusco to acclimatise to the altitude.
  • Also, bring warm clothes, because even the summer season here is cold and windy.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Cusco, Peru
End of the journey

Your 1 day finishes where it began.

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