It's known as the Rainbow Mountain hike.  But the Qechua people of the Andes call it Vinicunca Mountain. The Rainbow Mountain hike is ranked by National Geographic as one of the top 100 places you should visit before you die. Vinicunca is a Qechua word that means "7 Color Mountain." The colors are caused by mineral deposits that formed in layers over millions of years resulting in colored rock strata. The colors are most vibrant on cloudy days when the treeless landscape collides with the open sky to become the backdrop to a dazzling kaleidoscope of natural pigments.

The trip begins and ends in Cusco, Peru.  And because of the high altitude up to 16,000 ft / 4877 m, it's recommended that you save this trip until the end of your vacation. This allows you as much time as possible to acclimatize. There are now routes that don't require extensive hiking. If you're able to march around Machu Picchu, you should be able to do the Palccoya route.  I've included detailed notes below to get an idea of what to expect. 

1-Day Budget-Friendly Rainbow Mountain Hike (private tour guide with local bus transport)
$92 USD pp for 2 / $78 USD pp for 4

4 AM. Our English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco historical center and accompany you on foot to the bus stop for local transportation. Ride about 3.5 hours to trail head where the hike to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) begins and continues for 3 hours.  Hike back about 2 hours to the bus for the ride back to Cusco, arriving your hotel around 8 pm. Fitness is important.

Includes: 

  • English speaking licensed guide
  • local bus transport
  • light snacks
  • trekking poles

Not included:

  • Mule rental (note: not available at all routes)
  • Meals / bottled water
  • Hotel
  • Insurance
  • Tips

1-Day Deluxe Rainbow Hike (private)
$120 USD per person (4 or more) $160 per person (2-3)

Cusco - Rainbow Mountain View (choose the route you want. Hiking or No Hiking)
5 AM Adios driver and Bi-lingual tour guide will pick you up at your hotel and begin driving to the southern valley. Along the way we pass small Andean villages stopping as needed. Rainbow Mountain is known for colorful layers of rock sediment; turquoise, oranges, browns and reds. If it's a clear day you can see Ausangate Mountain. Choose from the following 2 options:
-Vinicunca Pass with Hiking
From the parking area, it takes an average of 3 to 4 hours of hiking to Vinicunca pass (5020 m /16,470 ft) and back to the van. Horses can be rented at your expense for one-way ride to the pass. Then hike down.
-Palccoyo Route with Minimal Hiking
Drive through the picturesque Red Valley, to the parking area just below a viewpoint. Walk up stone steps about 5-10 minutes to a landing with spectacular views of the the Andes including Rainbow colored rock strata. Follow the stone path to a slightly higher saddle for a closer look. Optional hike into Bosque de Piedras (stone forest)
About 30 minutes to 1 hour to explore on foot at your pace. It's a short walk from the parking area to the first viewing platform. 

Includes:

  • private transport and driver beginning and ending from your hotel in Cusco
  • English-speaking guide
  • box lunch and water refills
  • entrance fee
  • use of trekking poles

Not included:

  • Mule rental (note: not available at all routes)
  • Meals / bottled water
  • Hotel
  • Insurance
  • Tips

Notes:

  • best time to go to Rainbow Mountain is in dry season from April through December. (trail can be muddy during the rainy season)
  • ask your hotel to provide box breakfast 
  • horses not available on the Rainbow Mountain route without the hike
  • because of the high altitude, it's best to schedule the drive to Rainbow Mountain at the end of your trip to Peru to allow you extra time to acclimatize.
  • pickup from hotels in Sacred Valley is not recommended.
  • there are no hotels or lodges available for overnight. Although you could camp if you're interested in a 2-day Rainbow Mountain Trip.
  • dress warmly and expect sun, rain, hail, wind and misty conditions. 

To make a reservation:

  • Send email or call or text our US office 757-714-6649 
  • Let us know your preferred dates and we will confirm availability for guide service
  • Tell us how many people are in your group and their ages
  • Give us the name of your hotel in Cusco and the date of your arrival
  • Full payment must be received at least 8 days prior to service

 Contact our US Office if you have any questions.  757-714-6649