Description
This tour is one of the most popular challenges for travelers visiting Cusco. We will hike toward Vinicunca, known worldwide for its natural colored stripes created by minerals. During the journey, you will enjoy incredible views of snow-capped peaks, lagoons, and herds of alpacas in their natural state. It is a demanding adventure due to the altitude, but the view from the top makes every step worth it.
Rainbow Mountain tour summary - Cusco
- Cusipata Community
- Hike to Vinicunca
- Rainbow Mountain Viewpoint
- Views of Mount Ausangate
Itinerary
Day 1: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca Full Day
We begin very early, picking you up from your hotel between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. to head south of Cusco. After about 2 hours of travel, we will arrive at Cusipata, where we will enjoy a nutritious breakfast for energy. We will continue the journey for one more hour to the starting point of the hike. We will ascend for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours surrounded by Andean landscapes until we reach the main viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain (5,070 masl). You will have time to take photos and enjoy the view of the imposing Mount Ausangate. Finally, we will descend to take our transportation, enjoy a buffet lunch, and return to Cusco around 5:00 p.m.
Our services include
- Pickup from your hotel (city center).
- Tourist transportation for the entire journey.
- Nutritious breakfast and local buffet lunch.
- Professional guide who speaks Spanish and English.
- Trekking poles and first aid kit (includes oxygen).
Not included
- Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain: Paid directly to the local community.
- Horse rental (optional, coordinated on-site).
- Personal expenses and additional snacks.
- Tips for the guide and the driver.
Recommendations
- Acclimatization: It is very important to be in Cusco for at least 2 days before this tour to avoid altitude sickness.
- Clothing: Use very warm clothing (gloves, hat, scarf, and thermal jacket). At the summit, it is very cold and windy.
- Shoes: Use trekking boots or sneakers with good soles.
- Candy: Carry lemon or coca candies; they help a lot during the climb.
- Water: Stay hydrated; drink water in small sips during the way.
The itinerary experience
Important
- Documents: Carry your original ID or Passport.
- Health: This tour is not recommended for people with severe heart or respiratory problems due to the extreme altitude.
- Weather: The weather on the mountain is unpredictable; the tour takes place even if it rains or snows, unless there are security risks.
