Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Daily departures
- Duration: 1 day (approx. 16 hours)
- Start time: 03:00 h
- Return time: 19:00 h
- Mode: Shared Group
- Difficulty level: Medium – High (3-hour hike at high altitude)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
Live one of Peru’s most magical experiences with this full-day tour to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a natural wonder located over 5,000 m.a.s.l. in the Vilcanota mountain range. With its multicolored layers formed by ancient minerals, this mountain has become a symbol of the Peruvian Andes and one of the most visited destinations in the world.
The tour begins at dawn to make the most of the day and avoid the crowds. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, high-Andean communities, and routes that once formed part of the legendary road to Qollasuyo, one of the four regions of the ancient Inca Empire. From Chillca, the starting point of the hike, we walk through areas inhabited by alpacas, llamas, and even condors until we reach the summit at 5,200 m.a.s.l.
This adventure is perfect for those who love challenges, surreal landscapes, and authentic encounters with Andean nature and culture.
Itinerary Summary
- 03:00 a.m. – Hotel pick-up and departure south of Cusco
- 06:30 a.m. – Arrival in Chillca and traditional breakfast
- 07:30 a.m. – Start of hike to Rainbow Mountain
- 10:30 a.m. – Arrival at Vinicunca (5,200 m.a.s.l.) and photo time
- 11:30 a.m. – Return hike to Chillca
- 13:30 p.m. – Box lunch
- 14:30 p.m. – Bus ride back to Cusco
- 19:00 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco and hotel drop-off
Detailed Itinerary
03:00 a.m. – Pick-up and Drive to Chillca
We start very early with hotel pick-up in Cusco. On board our tourist vehicle, we travel south, passing through the rural towns of Checacupe and Pitumarca, enjoying scenic views of Andean valleys and clear rivers.
06:30 a.m. – Breakfast in Chillca
We arrive at Chillca (4,200 m.a.s.l.), the starting point of the hike. Here, we enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast to gain energy before the ascent.
07:30 a.m. – Hike to Vinicunca
We begin a 3-hour hike along a 7 km trail. Along the route, we may see local herders, alpacas, vicuñas, and possibly even Andean condors. Your guide will explain the region’s flora, fauna, and geography along the way.
10:30 a.m. – Arrival at Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
We reach the summit of the Rainbow Mountain, located at 5,200 m.a.s.l. From here, we enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of this natural phenomenon, accompanied by the towering Apu Ausangate, Cusco’s highest peak at 6,372 m.a.s.l. It’s the perfect time for unforgettable photos.
11:30 a.m. – Descent to Chillca
After taking in the view and resting, we begin our descent back to Chillca. The return is easier and takes approximately 2 hours.
13:30 p.m. – Box Lunch
Upon returning to Chillca, we enjoy a nutritious box lunch to recharge before heading back to the city.
14:30 p.m. – Return to Cusco
We begin our road journey back to Cusco.
19:00 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco
Arrival in Cusco and hotel drop-off, concluding this unforgettable adventure.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Rainbow Mountain Tour?
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Professional guide (Spanish and English)
- Traditional breakfast in Chillca
- Box lunch
- Entry ticket to Rainbow Mountain
- Permanent assistance during the tour
What’s Not Included?
- Assistance horse (optional – S/ 70.00, paid directly to the community)
- Tips for guide or driver
- Additional snacks and drinks
- Personal expenses
Tips
Recommendations for Your Rainbow Mountain Tour
- Wear warm clothing for the Andean cold (hat, gloves, windbreaker)
- Use sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes
- Bring a small backpack with personal items
- Use sunglasses, sunscreen, and a cap
- Bring mineral water and energy snacks
- Carry a camera or phone with a full battery
- Bring soles in cash for purchases or horse rental
- Have good physical condition and at least 2 days of prior acclimatization in Cusco
- Note: This tour involves challenging hikes at high altitude. It is not recommended for people with heart or respiratory conditions without prior medical evaluation.
