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Located in the Cusco region, Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or the Mountain of Seven Colors, is one of Peru’s most breathtaking destinations. This mountain, standing at approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, owes its vibrant hues to the mineral composition of the soil, creating a stunning visual effect with streaks of red, yellow, green, and blue.
To reach Rainbow Mountain, visitors must embark on a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) hike from the starting point in the Cusipata community. The trek, while challenging due to the high altitude, offers rewarding panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, herds of llamas and alpacas, and the vast Andean landscape.
Not far from Vinicunca lies the Red Valley, a lesser-known but equally mesmerizing site. As its name suggests, this valley is covered in a deep red terrain due to its high iron oxide content. The contrast between the bright blue sky, sparse vegetation, and crimson mountains creates a surreal, almost Martian-like landscape.
Both destinations provide a unique experience for trekking and nature enthusiasts, allowing travelers to witness the mystical beauty of the Peruvian Andes and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the local communities.
The journey begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cusco, usually around 4:30 to 5:00 AM. A scenic drive south follows, passing through breathtaking Andean landscapes until reaching the town of Cusipata. Here, at a local restaurant, a hearty breakfast is served to provide energy for the trek.
After breakfast, the journey continues by vehicle to Phuluwasipata, the starting point of the hike. From here, the ascent begins along a gradually rising trail surrounded by mountains and grazing llamas. As the hike progresses, the air becomes thinner, and the altitude is noticeable, but the stunning scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
Upon reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), usually around mid-morning, visitors are rewarded with vibrant hues of red, yellow, and green that have made this destination one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders. There is time to rest, take photographs, and admire the breathtaking views of the Andean mountain range.
Instead of returning directly, the trek continues toward Red Valley, a less-visited but equally mesmerizing location. This valley gets its striking red tones from the high mineral content in the soil, creating a landscape that looks almost otherworldly. Visitors explore the area, taking in the dramatic formations and the peaceful atmosphere.
After exploring Red Valley, the descent begins back to Phuluwasipata. From there, the vehicle transports the group back to Cusipata, where a buffet lunch featuring local dishes awaits, allowing everyone to recover their strength.
Finally, the return journey to Cusco, starting in the early afternoon, offers another chance to admire the Andean scenery before arriving back in the city around 4:00 to 5:00 PM. Upon arrival, guests are transferred back to their hotels. In case of heavy traffic, drop-off will be at a location one block away from Cusco’s main square.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as easy as possible. In this section, you will find speedy answers to all those questions you had about Rainbow Mountain in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
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Of course! During the travel, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you are not going to need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags, put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (In the unlikely case of theft many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing all the items). Best put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Peru Hike Company can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it’s in the Historic Center of Cusco. The pickup time will be coordinated with your guide in the briefing. The pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to traffic. Cusco is a very old city, therefore, it has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs may be located on streets without access to cars or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. We strongly recommend that you book accommodation with good access.
Group tours are made up of different types of people. Physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route. It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, it will be the guide who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if said modifications can be made.
Strikes and demonstrations are usually frequent in Peru and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your excursion as planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date. Under these circumstances, tours may also be cancelled. In case of changes or cancellations, all situations will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority and our decisions will be made to protect it.
You’re responsible for your objects during the tour. Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our trucks, tents, or restaurants.
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Very good price and quality of service, and also very easy to book. I highly recommend this company.