Vinicunca Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is a breathtaking natural wonder located near Cusco, Peru. This 13-hour excursion offers an opportunity to experience its vibrant colors and stunning vistas. With round-trip transportation, meals, and essential gear included, the tour caters to adventurers seeking an unforgettable high-altitude journey. While the hike requires a moderate level of fitness, the rewards of reaching the 5,200-meter summit are undoubtedly worth the effort. Intrigued travelers can explore the details and book their spot on this captivating Andean expedition.
Key Points
- Full-day guided excursion to the colorful Vinicunca Mountain (also known as Rainbow Mountain) from Cusco, Peru.
- Tour includes roundtrip transportation, breakfast, lunch, walking sticks, first aid, and oxygen for the 2-hour uphill hike to 5,200 meters.
- Priced from €36.98 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour not recommended for individuals with medical conditions or physical limitations due to the high altitude.
- Immersive experience to observe South American camelids, birds, lagoons, and snow-capped mountains in Peru’s stunning natural landscapes.
Tour Overview
The Vinicunca Mountain of Colors Excursion is an activity that takes visitors to the stunning Rainbow Mountain located in Cusco, Peru.
This 13-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco hotels, a guided hike to the mountain’s peak, and breakfast and lunch. Priced from €36.98 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is provided 30 minutes before the 7:00 AM departure. The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations due to the high altitude and strenuous hike.
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Itinerary
The tour’s itinerary commences with pickup locations at Plazoleta de San Blas, Centro Histórico, Santa Ana, San Pedro District, and Wanchaq.
From there, guests embark on a 2-hour bus ride to the Cusipata District, where they enjoy a 50-minute breakfast.
Then, it’s an 80-minute bus journey to the Rainbow Mountain.
After 1 hour of shopping and sightseeing at the mountain, guests have the option of a 1-hour bus ride back to Cusipata for a 50-minute lunch.
Finally, the tour returns to Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, taking 2.5 hours.
Highlights and Experience
What makes the Vinicunca Mountain of Colors Excursion so captivating? The tour provides a guided experience with a bilingual guide, allowing visitors to take in the panoramic views from various vantage points.
Travelers can observe South American camelids, birds, lagoons, and snow-capped mountains along the way. The physical activity involved, a 2-hour uphill walk to Rainbow Mountain at an elevation of 5,200 meters, adds an adventurous element.
With walking sticks, a first aid kit, and oxygen provided, the tour caters to those seeking an immersive journey amid Peru’s stunning natural landscapes.
Inclusions
The tour includes round-trip transportation, breakfast and lunch, walking sticks, a first aid kit and oxygen, and the entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain. Plus, mineral water is provided throughout the excursion.
| Included | Not Included |
| — | — |
| Round-trip transportation | Extra expenses |
| Breakfast and lunch | Foods not mentioned |
| Walking sticks | Tips |
| First aid kit and oxygen | |
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart or respiratory issues, recent surgery patients, wheelchair users, people over 287 lbs, babies under 1 year, and those over 95 years old. Prohibited items include weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, litter, unaccompanied minors, and fireworks.
More Great Tours NearbyExclusions
While the tour includes several key amenities, it doesn’t cover extra expenses or foods not mentioned in the itinerary.
The exclusions are:
Extra expenses, foods not in itinerary, tips, souvenirs, and optional activities are not covered by the tour package.
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Extra expenses incurred during the trip
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Foods and drinks not specified in the itinerary
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Tips for the guide and driver
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Souvenirs and personal purchases
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Activities or services not included in the package
Not Suitable For
This tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals due to the physical demands and high-altitude environment.
Pregnant women, those with heart or respiratory issues, or recent surgery patients should avoid this excursion.
Wheelchair users and people over 287 lbs (130 kg) are also not recommended to join.
Infants under 1 year and the elderly over 95 years old may struggle with the exertion required.
The walk to the Rainbow Mountain can be challenging, and the high elevation may cause altitude sickness for some.
Participants must be able to walk for 2 hours uphill to fully enjoy this scenic tour.
Prohibited Items
Certain items are prohibited on this Vinicunca Mountain excursion for safety and environmental reasons.
These include:
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Weapons or sharp objects
-
Alcohol and drugs
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Littering or any waste disposal
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Unaccompanied minors
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Fireworks or other explosives
Visitors are expected to respect the natural surroundings and follow the guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
The tour operator reserves the right to refuse entry or remove anyone found violating these rules.
Adhering to the prohibited items policy helps maintain the beauty and integrity of the Vinicunca Mountain region.
Physical Requirements
The Vinicunca Mountain excursion requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to the high-altitude setting.
The 2-hour uphill walk to the mountain’s summit reaches an elevation of 5,200 meters, which can be challenging for some participants. Visitors should be prepared for the strenuous nature of the hike and be able to walk uphill for extended periods.
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with heart or respiratory issues, or those who’ve recently undergone surgery.
Proper clothing, footwear, and hydration are essential for completing the trek comfortably and safely.
Since You Asked
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?
The weather can be cool and windy, with temperatures averaging around 45°F (7°C) during the tour. Proper outdoor clothing, including warm layers, is recommended to ensure comfort while exploring the vibrant Rainbow Mountain.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?
According to the tour overview, participants can bring their own snacks and water. However, the tour provides mineral water and meals like breakfast and lunch, so bringing extra provisions may not be necessary.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The excursion is a pre-set 13-hour package that includes transportation, meals, and activities. Customers can’t modify the itinerary or add extra time at the Rainbow Mountain site.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has age restrictions, as it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years old. The tour requires physical effort due to the high altitude, so it may not be appropriate for certain age groups.
How Difficult Is the Hike to Rainbow Mountain?
The 2-hour uphill hike to Rainbow Mountain is considered moderately difficult due to the high altitude of 5,200 meters. Travelers should be in good physical condition and accustomed to high-altitude trekking to complete the walk comfortably.
The Sum Up
The Vinicunca Mountain excursion from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure to witness the stunning colors and landscapes of this natural wonder. With round-trip transportation, meals, and essential gear included, it’s a well-rounded tour suitable for moderately fit participants. Whether you’re an avid hiker or seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour provides an opportunity to explore the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain at high altitude.
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