The Most Famous Hike in Peru & South America
1 Days & 0 Nights
Enjoy the natural colors of the stunning Rainbow Mountain! Hike through a secluded valley, where you can interact with local people who still keep the ancient Quechua culture alive. You’ll see snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas, glaciers, and birds, all within an incredibly colorful mountain range. The hike to Rainbow Mountain offers opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including eagles and birds (caracara is the name of the local bird). The colorful sandstone mountains in the Vinicunca area are very different from other ecosystems you’ll see in Peru.
We will pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. and begin our incredible adventure. Our private transportation will take us for approximately 3 hours through the southern valley until we reach the town of Cusipata where we will have our breakfast consisting of local food based on quinoa, maca and more local products. After finishing our nutritious breakfast we will board our transportation to continue our journey to the community of Llacto (4,638 masl / 15,216 feet) where our hike will begin. Along the way, there are impressive views of valleys, rocky mountains, llamas and alpacas with which you can take photos. .
We will begin our hike following a beautiful trail where we will have views of the Ausangate Mountain (the highest mountain in Cusco). After a hike of approximately 2 hours total we will arrive at our destination, the Rainbow Mountain (5,200 masl / 16,466 feet). Upon reaching the summit you will have time to explore the area, take photos or just appreciate the atmosphere. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the summit.
Afterwards, we will return the same way we came. The hike takes 1 hour downhill to our private transport which will be waiting for us to return to the town of Cusipata and have lunch at our restaurant in the town of Cusipata.
After finishing our lunch we will embark on the 3-hour return trip to the city of Cusco to drop you off at your hotel, arriving around 4:00 pm.
You can rent with us, request it in the briefing or at the time of making your reservation.
Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is a natural mountain famous for its colorful mineral layers, located in the Andes near Cusco.
Rainbow Mountain is located at approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest day hikes in Peru.
The hike is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, even though the trail itself is not very technical.
The hike usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit, depending on your pace.
Most tours include transportation from Cusco, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch, and basic first aid support.
Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, snacks, and a rain jacket.
The best time is during the dry season (April to October), when weather conditions are clearer.
Yes, but it is recommended to have good physical condition and proper acclimatization due to the altitude.
Yes, it is one of the most unique natural attractions in Peru, offering stunning views and a memorable high-altitude experience.
It is located about 3 to 4 hours by car from Cusco, followed by a hike to reach the viewpoint.
👉 Book your Rainbow Mountain Tour today and discover one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders.
5030 MSNM- 16732 FT M.S.N.M
Up to 2-8 People People
Group
Van
Medium
Meta Peru Travel is a licensed and certified luxury travel agency recognized by Peru’s leading tourism and sustainability organizations, ensuring every journey meets the highest international standards.