It’s important to note that this route is less demanding than the traditional trail via Pitumarca and Kayrawiry. We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 3:30 AM to start our journey southeast through Cusipata (3339 m.a.s.l.) and then on to the village of Llactoc.
Here, you will begin your hike, passing herds of alpacas and llamas, as well as native Andean flora. The hike lasts approximately 2.5 hours and offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and colorful landscapes along the way.
Once at the summit of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), you’ll have about an hour to take in the breathtaking scenery and snap some unforgettable photos. Then we’ll descend for about 1.5 hours back to Llactoc, where our transport awaits.
We’ll drive back to Cusipata for a delicious traditional lunch, and then return to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 PM.
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
- Excursion: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – Approx. 2.5 hr hike up
- Altitude: Up to 5200 m.a.s.l. (17,060 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Included
- Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the starting point of the hike.
- Bilingual guide (Spanish/English).
- Basic breakfast and traditional lunch.
- Entrance ticket to Vinicunca Mountain (Rainbow Mountain).
- Permanent assistance during the tour.
Not included
- Horse rental.
- Trekking poles.
We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1 day before the start of your adventure to acclimatize to the altitude.
What to Bring
- Water bottle
- Windbreaker jacket
- Warm clothes, waterproof jacket, rain poncho
- Hiking shoes
- Sunglasses and hat
- Sunscreen
What is Rainbow Mountain?
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of Seven Colors, is a natural formation famous for its colorful layers in the Cusco region.
Where is Rainbow Mountain located?
It is located in the Peruvian Andes, in the Cusco region, along the route to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, between the Cusipata and Pitumarca areas.
How high is Rainbow Mountain?
The mountain is at more than 5,000 meters above sea level, so the altitude may affect some visitors.
Is the hike difficult?
Yes, it is usually considered moderately difficult due to the altitude, cold weather, and physical effort required.
Do I need to acclimatize before going?
Yes, it is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco before visiting the mountain to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
What symptoms can altitude cause?
Altitude can cause headache, dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite, and fatigue.
What should I bring on the tour?
It is recommended to bring a warm jacket, rain poncho, water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and, if possible, trekking poles.
Are horses available?
Yes, in some areas horse services are available to help those who do not want to walk the entire route, although there may be an additional cost.
What is the best time to visit Rainbow Mountain?
Many travelers recommend the drier months, as the weather is usually more stable and the views are clearer.
Can children visit Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, but it is recommended to check with the agency before the tour. It is also important to consider the altitude, cold weather, and the child’s physical condition.
PAYMENT METHODS
The agency requests a 50% deposit of the total cost of the services to be contracted. This deposit can be made through authorized payment systems. The client must pay the balance 15 days prior to arrival in Peru.
All reservation requests will be responded to via the same means within 48 hours at the latest. If you do not receive a response within the indicated timeframe, please contact our phone numbers: +51 989 781698 – +51 958 383038.
OPTION A: BANK TRANSFER
If you want to use this option, remember to increase the deposit amount by $24. This is the fee our bank requires for each transfer.
Account in dollars:
Payments must be made to the following bank account in Lima, PERU:
Name: PERU CREDIT BANK – MIRAFLORES AGENCY
Address: Larco Avenue # 611 MIRAFLORES, LIMA – PERU
Telephone: (+51) 3119898
Account number: 285-90887840-1-63
CCI: 00228519088784016350
Account name: PERU INKAS TOP SAC
SWIFT code: BCPLPEPL
OPTION B: CARD PAYMENTS
We accept all major credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and American Express. A 3% surcharge will be applied to the final tour amount for credit card payments. A payment link will be issued via We Travel through one of our representatives, allowing you to make the payment securely.
OPTION C: TRANSFER BY WESTERN UNION
With Western Union, you can quickly send and receive money between any agent or branch worldwide. Be sure to request the To Send Money form; send money in US dollars.
Western Union has offices internationally and also online at www.westernunion.com.
If using this method, please send an email confirming the deposit and the Western Union transaction number.
Beneficiary: Jose Luis Naivares Mamani
Address: General Collanta Q-2
Department: Cuzco
Province: Cuzco
District: Cuzco
Telephone: 913851073
Document Type: DNI
Document Number: 70418002
