Rainbow Mountain
Description
The Mountain of Seven Colors (also known as Vinicunca or simply 'Rainbow Mountain') is one of the newest and best attractions in Peru. Located more than 100 kilometers from the city of Cusco, at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level (m.s.n.m.), it is a mountain formation tinted in various hues due to the complex combination of minerals.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We will depart from Cusco around 04:30 a.m. heading south of the city, for a journey of approximately two hours, until we reach the town of Cusitapa, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast. We will continue our trip for another hour, reaching Phulawasipata at 4,600 meters above sea level, where we will begin our hike. During the walk, we will see agricultural sites, canyons, and snow-capped mountains. The moderate ascent will take about an hour and a half, and we will be able to appreciate a variety of South American camelids, impressive ecosystems typical of the area, and a stunning view of the Apu Ausangate. Around 10 a.m., we will reach our destination, Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain, or Mountain of Colors, at 5,200 meters above sea level, where we will have 30 minutes to take in the best views of the area. After enjoying Vinicunca, we will return to Cusco using the same means of transport, enjoy a delicious lunch in Cusipata, and arrive back in Cusco around 16:30 p.m.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
If your hotel or Airbnb is not near the historic center, we will meet at the Plaza de Armas of the city, specifically at the fountain.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(12)
We booked the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour with ATVs, and it was absolutely unforgettable. The day started early, with pickup at 4:45 AM, followed by a two-hour drive through the quiet Andean morning. We stopped for a hearty breakfast before continuing the ascent—over an hour and a half on a dirt road that climbed above 4,000 meters. At the top of the road, the landscape suddenly opened into an extraordinary valley painted in deep reds and greens. From there, we rode our ATVs across this surreal scenery—an exhilarating experience surrounded by raw, untouched nature. It was my first time, but the explanation was very clear. A final 30-minute hike brought us to over 5,000 meters, where the famous Rainbow Mountain came into view. The colors were just as stunning as we had imagined. Behind us, towering glaciers and dramatic dark, red-ochre, and green mountains created a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. It was an incredible adventure filled with emotion, vibrant colors, and unforgettable views. Just be mindful of the altitude—it definitely makes itself felt!
Unforgettable, extraordinary and wonderful experience. It was etched in my mind and heart. I highly recommend the agency. Thank you ☺️
The best operators in Peru 🇵🇪 have excellent coverage in the country, and a qualified staff attentive to guide and explain Peruvian culture
It was amazing the organization, the compliance, the quality in the information and the treatment of the assigned guides, the professionalism and the group management, I would come back with you again and again a thousand times, highly recommended the Service, 20 out of 10.
The 7-Color Mountain excursion was an unforgettable experience. The ascent path is challenging for height, but each step is worth taking to the top and taking in the stunning landscape of natural tones that look painted on the mountain.
Having a Guide who besides being a great companion is a motivator ensures the success of the individual challenge, because it is not every day you climb 5,200 meters. Achievable challenge and a huge life lesson
¡Exactamente! Subir a 5,200 metros es un desafío impresionante, pero con el apoyo y motivación de un gran guía, todo es posible. Cada paso se convierte en una lección de vida inolvidable. 🌄💪 Somos tu operador de confianza.
The agency was incredible and gave us all the support. They quickly resolved an unforeseen issue I had and the guides went out of their way to make us feel special. I recommend Machupicchu Agency and will look for them when I return to Peru or visit other countries in South America. About the Mountain: it is one of the most memorable experiences I have ever had. The van journey to get there starts out beautifully; the views of the surrounding mountain and valley are also magnificent. However, it requires intense physical effort, it is essential to prepare before the trip and leave this tour for the final days, when you are more adapted to the altitude.
Estimado. Obrigado por confiar na Machupicchu Agency. Ficamos muito felizes em saber que você teve uma experiência positiva e que nossa equipe pôde lhe fornecer todo o suporte necessário. Agradecemos suas recomendações e estaremos encantados em ajudá-lo em futuras visitas ao Peru ou a outros países da América do Sul. Esperamos vê-lo novamente em breve.
An incredible experience, Peru is a beautiful place and the places, the agency also gave us excellent service and treatment, it is highly recommended to take the trip with them.
¡Qué alegría leer tu experiencia! Nos emociona saber que pudimos ser parte de tu aventura en la Montaña Arcoíris. Perú tiene tanto por ofrecer, y nos encanta saber que disfrutaste cada momento. Nos hace muy felices que hayas sentido la calidad y el buen trato que nos caracteriza. ¡Te esperamos para seguir explorando juntos más rincones increíbles de nuestro país!
Excellent agency, very concerned about their clients and punctual, their guides always attentive and supporting in everything required to make it a beautiful tou.
Estimada Maribel, Apreciamos mucho tus palabras sobre tu experiencia con nosotros en Machupicchu Agency. Nos complace enormemente saber que encontraste nuestro servicio excelente y que cumple con tus expectativas. Nuestro equipo trabaja con dedicación para garantizar que cada detalle esté en su lugar y que nuestros viajeros tengan una experiencia memorable. Nos alegra saber que la puntualidad, la atención y el apoyo constante de nuestros guías contribuyeron a que tu tour fuera bello y placentero. Gracias por recomendarnos con tanto entusiasmo. Tu satisfacción es nuestra mayor recompensa y nos motiva a seguir trabajando arduamente para brindar el mejor servicio posible. Si en el futuro deseas explorar nuevamente esta región o si conoces a alguien que esté planeando un viaje, estaremos aquí para asegurarnos de que la experiencia sea igualmente espectacular. Una vez más, gracias por confiar en nosotros y por compartir tus comentarios positivos. Saludos cordiales, Equipo de Machupicchu Agency
We are delighted with your services! Everyone is very friendly and attentive at all times. The very good organization for the hotel reservation and the purchase of tickets for tourist attractions. The selection of A1 restaurants, the good food. The guides on each tour knew a lot about Cusco’s history and their company was very pleasant. We had a great family time and especially very satisfied in each tour we did. The activities from the first to the last day in Cusco were exceptional. Thank you very much Machupiccu Agency for making this dream a reality. Super recommended!
Gracias Muriel, esperamos tenerlos de vuelta muy pronto. Felices de que vuestra experiencia haya sido buena.
