The famous multicolored Vinicunca mountain.
Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain, is one of the most breathtaking and photographed landscapes in Peru — natural stripes formed by minerals over millions of years.
The tour crosses high-Andean landscapes with alpacas and llamas to the trailhead, at about 4,600 m. From there, a 1.5 to 2-hour hike leads to the viewpoint, at an impressive 5,036 m.
It is a strenuous hike due to the altitude — rewarded by one of the most striking views in the Andes, with the Ausangate range in the background.
What makes this itinerary unique.
The multicolored Vinicunca mountain at 5,036 m.
Views of the sacred Ausangate range.
High-Andean landscapes with alpacas and llamas.
Breakfast and buffet lunch included.
Certified high-altitude guide, oxygen, and first aid kit.
Day by day.
Early morning departure from Cusco through Andean landscapes and small villages, with a stop for an Andean breakfast.
Start the hike at about 4,600 m and climb for 1.5 to 2 hours to the Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m), with time for photos. Descend, enjoy a buffet lunch, and return to Cusco in the late afternoon.
Everything we take care of for you.
Inclusions
- Hotel pickup and round-trip tourist transport
- Professional certified high-altitude guide
- Andean breakfast and buffet lunch
- Support trekking poles
- Complete first aid kit and emergency oxygen
Not included
- Local community entrance fee (paid on-site)
- Support horse (optional, hired on-site)
- Additional drinks, tips, and personal expenses
Essential packing list.
- Original ID (passport or national ID)
- Layered clothing + warm jacket and windbreaker
- Trekking shoes or sneakers with good grip
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap or hat
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
- Raincoat (especially between November and March)
- Cash in soles for extra expenses
- Personal medication
Important information
- 1 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco are recommended before high-altitude tours.
- Hike at your own pace and stay hydrated — the altitude makes the effort more demanding.
- Departures are usually early in the morning; get a good night's rest the day before.
- Inform the team about any pre-existing medical conditions before booking.
- Tour subject to changes due to weather conditions — no refunds in these cases.
- Booking policy: 50% deposit and 50% up to 15 days before the trip.
- At 5,036 m, UV radiation is intense and the air is thin — we recommend doing this tour after your 3rd or 4th day in Cusco.
Visit Vinicunca once acclimatized.
As a direct local operator, we recommend visiting the Rainbow Mountain preferably after a few days in Cusco, so your body is adapted to the altitude.
Daily departures available. Chat with our team on WhatsApp to confirm your date.
Common questions about this itinerary.
The hike itself is moderate, but the altitude (5,036 m) makes it strenuous. Good prior acclimatization makes all the difference.
Palcoyo is a quieter alternative, with a short hike (40–60 min) and fewer crowds. Vinicunca is the most famous and highest mountain.
Yes, there is an option for a support horse for part of the climb, hired on-site from the local community members.
Related packages.
Rainbow Mountain — Palcoyo
An alternative to Vinicunca featuring a short hike (40–60 min) and three rainbow mountains. Ideal for families.
View itinerary
Mountain of Colors — Pallay Punchu
The 'new mountain of colors': sharp peaks patterned like Andean textiles, overlooking the Langui-Layo lagoon.
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Humantay Lagoon
A ~1.5 to 2-hour hike to the turquoise waters of the lagoon at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped peak.
View itinerary