TREKKING ALTERNATIVE One-Day Trek to Rainbow Mountain
Vinicunca, also known as the Rainbow Mountain in Peru or the Rainbow Mountain, stands as a renowned and stunning hiking spot in the middle of the Andes. The mountain is celebrated for its vibrant striped formations composed of sedimentary minerals, creating a panorama adorned with hues of red, purple, yellow, and green. Ascending this 17,000-foot summit promises an unparalleled spectacle of this surreal terrain. Whether you are a novice hiker or an experienced climber, embarking on this trek is an opportunity not to be missed!
Itinerary
Hiking the Rainbow Mountains
We depart from Cusco at 5:30 a.m. to begin a captivating journey through the vibrant Andes mountain range, just 3 hours south of the city. On this journey, we travel south, crossing extraordinary valleys and ravines that delight our senses with breathtaking panoramic views. This involves a 2-hour drive followed by a 1-hour drive on a dirt road, taking us from Cusipata to Llactoc. The multicolored mountains guide us to the vicinity of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, where adventurers are captivated by the natural splendor and the impressive surroundings of the 7 colors, complemented by the snow-capped peaks south of Cusco. At Llactoc, we found three designated parking lots that marked the start of our 70-minute hike to the top of the sweeping, colorful mountains, with the final 18 minutes involving an uphill climb with some steps. During the Vinicunca tour, we immerse ourselves in the natural habitat of Peru's Rainbow Mountains, exploring ancient and vibrant villages where locals converse in the language of the Incas, Quechua or Runasimi, who have protected the Peruvian Andes for centuries, gradually revealing the wonders of the rugged Andean landscape.
Lo que se incluye:
- Participation in distinctive hiking experiences around Vinicunca
- Guidance by a qualified outdoor tour guide
- Round-trip private transportation from Cusco to Llactoc
- Access to the Rainbow Mountains hiking trail
- Enjoy a packed lunch with dietary preferences catered to; Available options: vegan, vegetarian, etc.
- Receive a portable oxygen tank along with a complete first aid kit
- Receive logistical support before and during the guided tour of Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain
- All applicable Peruvian taxes included
Estadísticas del día
- Trip Departure Time: 05:30
- Trip Duration from Cusco to Llactoc (Start of the Vinicunca Mountain Adventure in Peru): Approximately 3 hours (2 hours on the highway and 1 hour on a dirt road)
- Start Altitude of the Rainbow Mountain Trek in Peru, Vinicunca: Llactoc 4,900 meters/16,076 feet
- Hiking Time to Summit: 70 minutes
- Hiking Distance: 7 km/4.3 miles
- Altitude of Rainbow Mountain Pass in Peru: 5,100 meters (16,732 feet)
- Return Time to Cusco: Between 1:30 PM and 5:30 PM.
Not included
Hotel accommodation in Cusco or Airbnb in Cusco
Breakfast provided by the hotel
Hiking poles are recommended
Coverage for travel, health, or emergency insurance
Personal items not covered in the included services
Tips
Recommendations
Opt for a great daypack like the Eagle Creek Afar Backpack or equivalent to carry your hiking essentials.
Choose lighter hiking boots with solid ankle support.
Bring a pair of hiking pants, avoid jeans.
Bring a waterproof jacket.
Bring a warm winter jacket.
Don't forget to bring necessary medications.
Include iron tablets and altitude sickness pills.
Apply sunscreen (SPF 45 or higher is recommended).
Bring a reusable plastic or metal water container.
Include bandages or moleskin for any unexpected needs.
Bring extra money for souvenirs and drinks.