The agency minibus picks you up at your accommodation in Cusco while the city is still asleep. It is a good idea to sleep in the vehicle during the first stretch.
Rainbow Mountain
AvailabilityDaily departures, subject to availability
TransportTourist transport
GuideProfessional guide included
Available languagesSpanish and English, subject to availability
Service typeGroup service
Cancellation policyAsk about the booking conditions
Maximum altitude5,000 m a.s.l.
DifficultyChallenging
DurationFull day
Experience Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) on a hike surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes. After breakfast in Cusipata you will start the climb to the viewpoint to enjoy spectacular views and take photos. Then you will head back for a traditional lunch before returning to Cusco.
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Throughout the itinerary you will discover the destination’s most representative places accompanied by our local team. Each day combines guided visits, scenery, culture and time to rest, with assistance from the beginning to the end of the journey.
Itinerary
You will travel for about two hours south of Cusco. You will stop in a village along the route (such as Cusipata or Tintinco), where the agency offers a simple buffet breakfast to give you energy.
The bus continues along an unpaved dirt road up the mountain to Phulawasipata, the car park where the hike begins.
The uphill trek begins. The trail takes between an hour and a half and two hours depending on your pace. It is flat at first but becomes very steep on the last stretch. You will see streams, Andean landscapes and hundreds of alpacas.
You will reach the main viewpoint facing the impressive mountain with its turquoise, gold and red stripes. You will have time to take photos, rest and enjoy the beautiful view of the snow-capped Ausangate.
The descent follows the same route and takes about 1 hour. It is much easier and faster than the climb.
The bus takes you back to the restaurant from the morning.
You will enjoy a hot lunch of Andean and Creole food to recover all your energy.
Final drive back to the city. The transport drops you off in central Cusco (usually near Plaza Regocijo).
Important note: Times are approximate and may change depending on the operating conditions of the day.
Included
What is included
- Hotel pickup
- Tourist transport
- Professional guide
What is not included
- Meals not mentioned
- Tips
Recommendations
Before booking
- Book as far in advance as possible.
- Minimum of 2 participants.
- Bilingual service in Spanish and English.
- Check the difficulty level and required physical condition.
- Check the cancellation policy before booking.
Before travelling
- Bring the original document used for booking.
- Bring a light backpack for essential items.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for the activity.
- Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat and clothing for changing weather.
- Carry cash for personal expenses.
Legal and safety requirements before travelling
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book the tour?
We recommend booking as early as possible; ideally up to 24 hours before.
Can I do the tour without a travel agency?
No. Some services require entrance tickets or permits bought in advance, or hiring authorised operators. We recommend checking the specific conditions of the programme before visiting on your own.
What is the best time of year to travel?
The dry season usually offers more stable weather, better suited to outdoor activities. However, our programmes run for most of the year, always subject to weather conditions, availability and the rules of the relevant authorities.
How difficult is the tour?
The difficulty level is challenging, as Rainbow Mountain is above 4,900 m a.s.l. The tour combines vehicle transfers with walks of different lengths and intensity. Please consider your physical condition before taking part.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. We recommend valid travel insurance that covers medical assistance, emergencies, cancellations and, if needed, adventure activities. Each traveller should choose insurance that fits their own needs and circumstances.
How many people are in the group?
Group size can vary from 15 to 20 people, depending on the travel date, availability and the programme booked. If you would like a more personalised experience, we also offer private service, subject to availability and service conditions.
What happens if the tour is cancelled due to the weather?
The safety of our travellers is our top priority. If weather conditions put the tour at risk, our team will assess the situation and, following the authorities' instructions and each service's policies, will offer the available alternatives, which may include rescheduling, changing the itinerary or another solution according to the booking conditions.
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