Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Full-Day Tour

On this tour, you'll get to see one of the Andes' most breathtaking sights. In the native language of Quechua, Vinicunca means “seven color mountain.” It is also commonly referred to as “Rainbow Mountain” because of its striped pattern of red, green, and lavender. These colors come from different types of sediment and are due in part to the high altitude.

This tour leaves before dawn, with a pickup time of 4:40 AM or 06:00 AM from your Cusco hotel. Your transportation will begin the 3-hour journey to Chilca, which is 14,763 feet (4,500 m) above sea level. As pick up time is very early in the morning, we will arrange a box breakfast.

Then, the hike through the Ausangate mountain region begins. The hike to Vinicunca Mountain takes 3 hours and covers close to 3 miles (4.5 km). Once you reach the mountain, you will be 16,076 feet (4,900 m) above sea level. The altitude necessitates an easygoing hiking pace.

On this trip to a remote part of the Peruvian Andes, you’ll have the chance to see more camelids than you ever knew existed. Llama and alpaca live in this area, as well as more rare species like guanaco, vicuña, and Andean deer. Other rare animals to look for on the tour include puma and the Andean condor.

After you’ve had your fill of the view, the tour returns to Chilca for lunch. Then you’ll begin your drive back to Cusco, where you will arrive between 6 and 7 pm.

Please note that it is best to acclimate to the high altitude before attempting this trip. It’s recommended that you spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before the start of the trek. The hike is difficult, but you have the option to ride a horse instead for an extra fee.