The Rainbow
That Grew on a Mountain
Rainbow Mountain — also called Vinicunca, or Montaña de 7 Colores in Spanish — is one of the most spectacular geological phenomena on Earth. Sitting at 5,200 meters / 17,060 feet in the Andes mountain range, its layers of multicolored sedimentary rock — reds, yellows, greens, lavenders and whites — form a landscape that looks hand-painted.
This full-day tour from Cusco takes you by private transport to the trailhead, and with your guide you'll cover the 7 km / 4.3 mi climb up to the main viewpoint. No crowds, small groups, and plenty of time to enjoy the summit.
One-of-a-kind colors — Formed by minerals like iron oxides, chlorite and dolomite over millions of years. The mountain was covered in glacial ice until just a few years ago; the gradual melting revealed these colors.
Small groups, an authentic experience — Maximum 12 people per group. No tourist caravans. Real time at the summit to take it in, photograph it and feel the place.
Breakfast and lunch included — We start the day well fed. On the way back, a buffet lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Andean cuisine.
Your Day in Detail
Departure from Cusco
Private transfer to the mountain (~3 hours)Hotel pickup at 4:30 AM. Drive by private transport toward Cusipata and then to the trailhead at 4,300 m / 14,108 ft. Along the way we may catch sunrise over the Andean valleys. A light breakfast before setting off.
Hike to the Summit
7 km / 4.3 mi climb up to 5,200 m / 17,060 ftWe set off at a comfortable pace, stopping to rest and acclimatize. The trail passes through Quechua communities, high-altitude grasslands and unique rock formations. In the final hour of the climb, the colorful landscape starts to reveal itself. Arriving at the main viewpoint is a moment you won't forget.
Descent and Lunch
Back to the starting point for a buffet lunchA quicker descent back down. A buffet lunch of traditional Andean cuisine (soups, stews, quinoa, native potatoes). Transfer back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.
The Climb to 5,200 m / 17,060 ft
The hike starts at 4,300 m / 14,108 ft and climbs 900 meters / 2,950 feet to the summit over about 7 km / 4.3 mi of trail.
What's Included?
Included
- Private transfer Cusco ↔ Vinicunca
- Certified bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
- Breakfast before the hike
- Andean buffet lunch on the way back
- Conservation area entrance fee
- Emergency portable oxygen
- Trekking poles (loaner)
Not Included
- Horse rental (optional, ~$15 paid locally)
- Travel insurance
- Tips (at your discretion)
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Altitude sickness medication (ask us)
Tour Photos
Travelers Who've Reached
5,200 Meters
Verified reviews from real people.
I'd never seen anything like it. The colors are real, not Photoshop. The hike is tough because of the altitude, but the guide keeps your pace. Small groups — the best part of the tour.
The best tour of my entire trip through Peru. Breakfast before we started, Andean lunch on the way back, the small group, and a guide who explains the geology behind the colors. Worth every dollar.
We recommend 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco before this tour. The hike reaches 5,200 m / 17,060 ft. If you have any concerns, ask us before booking.
