Rainbow Mountain: What the Hike Is Like
About 2 hours' walk to a viewpoint above 5,000 m
Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain, sits in the Vilcanota range southeast of Cusco. Its red, yellow, green and purple stripes come from minerals in the rock, and they became visible when the ice that covered it retreated. It is one of the most requested day trips from Cusco, and also the most demanding because of the altitude: the viewpoint is above 5,000 meters. Here is how the day goes from start to finish, how much you walk and how to prepare so you can enjoy it.
Tours to Rainbow Mountain
Operated by MachuPicchuCusco · Certified guides · Small groups · Book with confidence.
How the day goes
We pick you up before dawn and drive about three hours southeast of Cusco, stopping for breakfast on the way. From the trailhead the climb takes around 2 hours, at a slow pace with rests. At the top there is time for photos and, if the sky is clear, for a look at the Ausangate glacier. You come down the same way, faster, and we stop for a buffet lunch on the way back. You are in Cusco by mid-afternoon.
Altitude: the real challenge
The trail is not technical, but above 4,500 meters every step takes effort. That is why you should not do it on your first day in Cusco: spend at least two days in the city first, sleep well the night before and eat light. On the trail, go at your own pace and drink often. If you run short of breath, a horse can take you almost to the last stretch; you pay for it on site.
What to bring
Mornings are below freezing and the midday sun is strong: wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen. Hiking shoes with good grip, a liter and a half of water, a snack and soles in cash for the entrance and the horse. Trekking poles help a lot on the way down.
When to go
From April to October the sky is usually clear and the colors show more contrast. In the rainy months, December to March, there may be snow on the stripes and the trail gets muddy, although the tour still runs. Early in the day the light is better and there are fewer people at the top.
