Hiking to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is one of the best day trips from Cusco: a geological wonder streaked with stunning natural colors. It rises to 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level in the district of Pitumarca, Canchis province, about a three-hour drive from the city, making it one of the highest points in the Cusco region. Its name comes from the Quechua word WINIKUNKA, meaning “colored stones shaped like a neck,” and its colors come from minerals pushed up from deep within the earth to the surface. It’s a truly magical place. The hike takes about two hours depending on your fitness level, and reaching the top can be challenging because of the weather and altitude — horses are available for rent along the trail if you’d like to take it easier. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and unforgettable photos. The tour lasts about nine hours, and if you’ve just arrived, we recommend taking time to acclimatize before doing it.
Rainbow Mountain, Cusco Moderate
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Full Day
A true natural wonder!
Tour details
- Duration Full day
- Max. group 8 people
- Languages EN / ES
- Difficulty Moderate
- Departures Daily departures
- Tour type
- Nature
- Places visited
- Rainbow Mountain (Seven Colors Mountain)
About this tour
Day-by-day itinerary
-
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Full Day Vinicunca
3:30 am: Pick-up from your hotel
5:00 am: Breakfast at a local restaurant
6:30 am: Arrive at the trailhead parking lot – briefing
8:30 am: Reach the summit
9:30 am: Hike through the Red Valley (optional)
11:00 am: Return to the vehicle
12:30 pm: Lunch at a local restaurant
3:00 pm: Arrive back at your hotelNote: All times are approximate.
What’s included
- Hotel pick-up
- Certified professional guide fluent in English
- Private transportation for 2 to 8 people
- Rainbow Mountain entrance fee
- Breakfast and buffet lunch (optional, with vegetarian or vegan options)
- Trekking poles
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Not included
- Horse rental (if needed)
- Tips
- Dinner
Recommendations
- Wear hiking boots, warm clothing, long pants and a rain jacket.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves and a hat.
- Trekking poles
- Rain poncho, depending on the season
- Water for the trail — 1 liter is recommended
- Camera or video camera
- A daypack of up to 5 kg for the hike
- Extra cash
Video
Frequently asked questions
About this tour
How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
The hike takes about 1.5 hours each way, climbing to around 5,000 m (16,400 ft) above sea level. The trail isn't technical, but the altitude makes it demanding. We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before the tour.
What time is pick-up?
Pick-up is very early, around 3:30 am, so we arrive before the crowds. We stop for breakfast on the way and get back to Cusco at about 3:00 pm.
Can I rent a horse if I get tired?
Yes. Local families rent horses for most of the climb. You pay them directly on site in cash (soles), so bring small bills.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers: a thermal base layer, fleece, windproof jacket, hat, gloves and sunglasses. The weather changes quickly — you may get sun, snow and rain on the same day. Bring sunscreen and water.
When is the best time to see the colors?
From April to October (dry season), skies are usually clear and the colors are at their most vivid. After snowfall during the rainy months, the mountain may be partly covered in white.
Booking & payments
How do I book this tour?
Choose your date and number of travelers in the booking box and pay a 50% deposit online to confirm your place. You can also write to us on WhatsApp and we will help you with the whole process.
Which payment methods do you accept?
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal and bank transfer. The balance can be paid in Cusco before the tour.
What is the cancellation policy?
Refunds depend on how far in advance you cancel. Tickets already issued (Machu Picchu, trains) are subject to their providers' rules. Read our Payment & Refund Policy for full details.
How can I prevent altitude sickness?
Spend your first day in Cusco resting, drink plenty of water and coca tea, eat light and avoid alcohol. Plan high-altitude hikes after two or three days in the city.
Can I book this tour as a private tour?
Yes. All our tours can be private, with your own guide and transport and flexible times. Contact us for a quote.
Questions about this tour?
Ask a local specialist
Tell us your dates and group size. We will send you availability and a personalized quote with no commitment.
