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Discover the stunning Rainbow Mountain of Vinicunca, famous for its unique hues and the spectacular Andean landscapes that surround it. The tour combines segments in tourist transportation and hikes, traversing some of the most impressive natural landscapes of Cusco. Enjoy a day trip with all services included, designed for you to explore Vinicunca comfortably, making the most of every moment.
Overview of the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca tour, 1 day
Why choose this experience with us?
- Small groups and guaranteed departures: We travel in groups of no more than 18 people, for a more authentic experience along the whole route. Departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, so you can plan your adventure with complete confidence.
- All meals covered: Buffet breakfast and lunch included, before and after the hike, for a fuller and more comfortable experience.
- A professional guide throughout the tour: From the pickup at your hotel to the end of the experience, our guide answers your questions and provides insight and safety along the whole journey.
- Every destination without rushing: An itinerary designed to explore each stop at a calm pace, taking in the natural scenery and the culture of the destination.
Programme at a glance
Cusco – Cusipata – Kcayrahuiri – Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) – Cusipata – Cusco
Discover the natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain on a one-day excursion. The route combines stretches by tourist vehicle with a hike from Kcayrahuiri, and includes stops in Cusipata for breakfast before the hike and lunch at the end of the day.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Hiking distance | Approx. 3.1 miles / 5 km, there and back |
| Hiking time | Approx. 2 to 3 hours, up and down |
| Highest point | Vinicunca: 17,060 ft / 5,200 m |
| Lowest point | Kcayrahuiri, start of the hike: 15,190 ft / 4,630 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperature | By day, 50 °F to 59 °F (10 °C to 15 °C) with spells of strong sun. At night and in the early hours it drops to 28 °F or 23 °F (–2 °C or –5 °C), and the wind at altitude makes it feel colder. |
Highlights of the route
- Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain): one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Peru, famous for its spectacular multicoloured stripes and the mountains that surround it.
- Ausangate snow peak: the highest and most important sacred mountain in Cusco, surrounded by glaciers, lagoons and spectacular Andean scenery.
- Andean communities along the way: villages such as Checacupe and Pitumarca, which the route passes through, keep their traditional dress and the ancestral customs of Andean culture.
Itinerary of the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca tour, 1 day
Cusco – Cusipata – Kcayrahuiri – Vinicunca – Cusipata – Cusco
Get ready for an unforgettable day among some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Peru. Seeing Rainbow Mountain is an experience that stays with you.
- The journey starts very early, between 4:00 and 4:30 in the morning, when our team picks you up at your hotel to set off for Vinicunca. We travel by tourist vehicle along the Ruta del Sol to Cusipata, watching the sunrise between the mountains.
- On arrival in Cusipata we enjoy a buffet breakfast to start the day with energy.
- The route continues through small Andean communities such as Checacupe and Pitumarca, which still keep their traditional dress and some of the customs of Andean culture. Along the way you can also see llamas, alpacas and other Andean animals in their natural habitat, alongside spectacular scenery.
- Finally we reach Kcayrahuiri (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), where the hike begins. The walk takes about an hour and a half to reach Vinicunca (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), through a variety of Andean panoramas.
- At the top you have time to take in Rainbow Mountain and the majestic Ausangate snow peak, take photographs and listen to the guide explain how its colours formed naturally and the importance of the apus, the sacred mountains of the Andean worldview.
- We then walk back to Kcayrahuiri to board the vehicle to Cusipata, where a buffet lunch is waiting.
- Finally we set off back to the city of Cusco, after an unforgettable experience at one of the most impressive natural destinations in Peru.
What the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca tour includes
Guaranteed entrance
- Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket, included in the service, so you avoid the long payment queues on site.
Support and safety
- Pre-tour assistance. Before departure, our team answers all your questions about the programme online.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English). A team of guides highly trained in history, culture and tourist information accompanies you along the whole route.
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank. Our guides receive ongoing first-aid training, which ensures prompt assistance during the tour.
- 1 trekking pole, for extra stability and support on the climbs and descents, reducing the effort.
- Waterproof backpack cover, to protect your belongings from the sun, the rain and the conditions on the trail.
- 24/7 customer service, with an emergency number available from start to finish.
Meals
- Buffet breakfast and lunch in Cusipata, before and after the hike. The menu combines traditional Andean flavours, prepared with local ingredients and served with a selection of regional desserts.
Transport
- Pickup by tourist vehicle from your hotel in Cusco.
- Tourist transport throughout the tour.
Not included
- Horse hire (optional). Local villagers offer horses to reduce the effort of the climb. It costs around 100 soles, paid in cash directly to the community's horsemen on the day. The horse does not go all the way to the top: it leaves you about 10 to 15 minutes' walk from the main viewpoint.
- Travel insurance (recommended): cover for flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions and medical assistance.
- Tips (optional).
- Extra costs caused by circumstances beyond our control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policy.
Price of the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca tour
Rates by group size
| Your group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2 people | 39 USD |
| 3 people | To be confirmed |
| 4 people | To be confirmed |
| 5 people | To be confirmed |
| 6 or more people | To be confirmed |
Plan your visit
We recommend booking early to secure your date. Travelling soon? Ask us about availability: depending on the date, you can also book just a few days ahead.
Upgrade your experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Private service at your own pace | On request | A more comfortable, personalised experience, with flexible timings, more time for photographs and the freedom to take breaks. |
| Ancestral walk with llamas | On request | An exclusive private service, accompanied by llamas from the local community that carry part of the luggage during the hike, with time shared with Andean families and a traditional herbal drink from the region. |
The best time to visit Vinicunca
The dry season, from April to October, brings clear skies and less chance of rain, which means the mountain's colours look their most intense and the hike is safer.
What to bring to Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca
These are the most important items for this high-altitude excursion.
Required documents
- Original, valid passport or national ID.
Luggage
- A light 20 to 30 litre backpack or day bag, for the essentials.
- A water bottle and a snack.
- Cash, preferably in small notes, for purchases and souvenirs.
Clothing and footwear
- Trainers or hiking boots with good non-slip soles.
- Layered clothing: a breathable base layer, a warm layer and a down jacket, as it is very cold at the summit.
- A waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- A chullo (Andean hat) and gloves for the morning.
- A hat or cap and sunglasses.
- A bandana or buff to protect you from the wind, dust and sun.
- A special outfit for your photos at Rainbow Mountain.
Personal items
- Sunscreen.
- Personal medication and a basic first-aid kit.
- Wet wipes or toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
- Energy snacks: chocolate, nuts or energy bars.
Gear and extras
- Camera or phone.
- Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs or tips.
Important notes
- We recommend acclimatising for at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour.
- Avoid heavy luggage so you can enjoy the experience more.
- Keep your documents and valuables with you at all times.
Frequently asked questions about Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca
How difficult is Rainbow Mountain?
The experience is considered moderate, mainly because of the altitude, above 5,000 m (16,400 ft). The trail is not technically complex, but altitude sickness (soroche) and the final slope call for good fitness and prior acclimatisation in Cusco.
Can I get altitude sickness?
Yes, altitude sickness is possible, as the hike takes place above 5,000 m (16,400 ft), where there is less oxygen. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue or dizziness. To prevent it we recommend good acclimatisation, staying hydrated throughout and resting properly before and during the hike.
Can older travellers or people with medical conditions do this tour?
Yes, as long as the person can move about independently and is reasonably fit. We recommend that travellers over 70 and anyone with a pre-existing medical condition have a medical check-up beforehand.
Because of the altitude and the effort involved, in these cases we suggest the private service, which lets you go at your own pace and take the breaks you need.
Can I hire a horse for part of the route?
Yes. Local villagers offer horses to reduce the effort on part of the climb. It is not included in the tour: it costs around 100 soles, paid in cash directly to the community's horsemen on the day. The horses do not go all the way to the summit or the main viewpoint: they leave you about 10 to 15 minutes' walk from the final point.
Can someone weighing more than 91 kg use the horse service?
No. Under the local horsemen's rules, the service is allowed for passengers of up to 90 kg (198 lb). From 91 kg it is not permitted, to protect the welfare of the animals given the demanding altitude and terrain. As an alternative there are motorbikes or the quad bike tour with the Red Valley and Rainbow Mountain.
Does the agency provide an oxygen tank during the tour?
Yes. We carry an oxygen tank for the group during the hike and another one in the vehicle. Even so, we recommend that each passenger brings a portable oxygen inhaler, especially if you are sensitive to altitude.
The best prevention is still proper acclimatisation, staying hydrated, avoiding heavy meals before the tour and telling the guide about any discomfort straight away.
What is the best time of year to hike to Rainbow Mountain?
The dry season, from April to October or November. In those months the sky is clear and there is less chance of rain, so the mountain's colours look their most intense and the hike is safer.
How many people are in the shared group?
Groups have a maximum of 18 passengers, for more personal attention. Anyone who prefers a more exclusive experience can request the private service.
How far is Rainbow Mountain from Cusco?
It lies roughly 140 km (87 miles) southeast of the city of Cusco. The drive takes about 3 hours by tourist vehicle, followed by around an hour and a half of hiking to the summit.
How long is the hike from the starting point to the summit?
Usually between 1 hour and 1 hour 20 minutes uphill, depending on your pace and acclimatisation. The full round trip covers roughly 5 km (3.1 miles), and the climb is the most demanding part.
What clothing should I wear?
The best approach is to dress in layers, to cope with the intense cold, the wind and the strong sun. Essentials are a warm down jacket, comfortable trousers, high-ankle hiking shoes, gloves, a hat and a rain poncho.
What happens if I feel unwell during the hike?
Your safety is our top priority and all our staff are trained in first aid. If you show signs of altitude sickness, tiredness or any other discomfort, the team assesses your condition and provides the assistance you need: depending on the situation, we arrange the return with the driver or a transfer to the community's first-aid post.
If specialist care is needed, we have the support of a clinic near the start of the hike, which can arrange an evacuation to Cusco.
Is there phone signal or internet during the visit?
Signal is very limited and, in most cases, unavailable during the hike. At some higher points there may be intermittent signal, although it is not guaranteed. We recommend letting family or contacts know that you may be out of touch for around 5 to 6 hours.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Check availability. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates. We will send a booking form for each participant to complete.
Step 2. Passenger details. To arrange the booking we need, exactly as they appear on the passport, full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. A deposit per person is required to secure your place. We recommend booking early, especially on public holidays and in high season.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the booking is confirmed you receive the official invoice and your place is 100 % guaranteed.
How is the outstanding balance paid?
The balance can be paid in cash, in US dollars or Peruvian soles, in Cusco, one or two days before the tour, according to the terms your sales consultant sets out.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Yes. You can cancel or change the date of your booking up to 48 hours before departure. In those cases an administrative charge applies, deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Any other questions?
You can contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % local Peruvian company specialising in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco and Peru. We have a team of certified guides and operations staff committed to unique, safe, high-quality experiences.
We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personal attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee standards of excellence in every detail of the operation, from planning to running the tour.
