Full Day Vininkunka – Rainbow Mountain
Duration
Full Day
Difficulty
Moderate
Language
Español / Ingles
Max. Altitude
5,200 m.s.n.m.
The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in Peru is a geological and natural wonder that remained hidden by snow until the thaw around 2015, revealing its layers of 14 minerals formed by marine sediments and tectonics, exhibiting bands of colors (red, yellow, green, etc.) due to erosion and oxidation, and connected to pre-Incan routes, now a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors for its natural beauty and Andean mysticism.
Prices
We’ll pick you up at 4:am and take you in our private van for 3 and a half hours through the Vilcanota Valley and passing small towns and communities until we reach chillca (3750m /12,303 ft), the starting point for our hike. There, your guide will take you to a local house to teach you about the local traditions, and you’ll enjoy a healthy breakfast.
After a delicious breakfast, you’ll start your journey. We’ll hike for approximately 3 hours until we get to the famous Rainbow Mountain. On the way up, you’ll appreciate beautiful landscapes and alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas, the national animal of Peru. Once we summit Rainbow Mountain 5100 m / 16,732.28 ft, we’ll stay at the top for a 15 to 20 minutes in order to enjoy the beautiful view and learn cool information about this colored mountain once that, We will then make our descent for approximately 2 hours until we reach our rest spot, where our driver will wait for us and our tour guide will take you to the local restaurants for lunch where you will enjoy delicious, organic buffet lunch. After lunch, we will catch up our private van back to Cusco and leave you at your hotel.
Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Pisaq, Peru
- Tour Type: Full Day tour / van – hike
- Start/End Time: Pickup is at 4.00 am from your hotel and you should be back around 4 pm
- Consideration: Please provide comfortable clothes, camara, phone, others etc.
Included
- Profesional English – Spanish speaking tour guide
- Rainbow mountain - Permit
- Lunch organic buffet cousine
- Breakfast organize by the compay
- Professional Driver - Full transportation
Not Included
- Trekking poles are not include in your day trip
- Tips also not include for your guide, Driver (not obligatory)
- Arrive in Cusco at least one or two days before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Bring your original passport or a copy for the tour.
- Wear warm, layered clothing suitable for cold mountain weather.
- Use comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
- Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
- Bring gloves and a warm hat for early morning temperatures.
- Stay well hydrated during the hike.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals the night before the tour.
- Carry a small backpack for water, snacks, and personal items.
- Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for optional expenses such as horses.
- Walk at your own pace and follow your guide’s instructions.
- Respect the natural environment and do not leave trash on the trail.
The Rainbow Mountain hike is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). The trail itself is not long, but the thin air makes it physically demanding. A good level of fitness and prior acclimatization in Cusco are strongly recommended. Horses are usually available for rent if you need assistance during the ascent.
The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, weather conditions are more stable and visibility is excellent, allowing you to see the vibrant colors of the mountain clearly. June, July, and August are the busiest months. March and November are good alternatives with fewer visitors and occasional rain.
The hike to Rainbow Mountain usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, depending on your pace and physical condition. The descent takes approximately 1 hour. Although the distance is short, the altitude makes the hike more challenging than it appears.
You should bring warm layered clothing, a rain jacket, hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A small backpack with water and snacks is recommended. Trekking poles are optional but can be helpful for balance, especially on the descent.
Yes, altitude sickness can affect some travelers due to the extreme elevation. To reduce the risk, acclimatize in Cusco before the tour, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and walk slowly. Coca tea is commonly offered to help with altitude adjustment, but listening to your body is essential.
Prices
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All Included:
Tours with hotel pick-up, transportation, professional guide, and entrance tickets.
24/7 Communication:
We’re here for you before, during, and after your journey.
Flexible Cancellation:
Cancel up to 30 days before your tour in case of emergency. (For Machu Picchu and Inca Trail tours, please check specific conditions.)
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