From Cusco: Hike to VINICUNCA With Andean Food, Full Day

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cusco to the stunning Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain. This full-day adventure promises breathtaking Andean views, a hearty local breakfast, and a challenging yet rewarding hike to the mountain’s 4700m summit. With expert guides ensuring your safety and providing insightful commentary, you’ll learn about the region’s natural beauty and savor a delicious buffet lunch. Get ready to witness the vibrant colors and otherworldly landscapes that make this hike an absolute must-do.

Key Points

• Take a day-long hike to Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, with pickup from Cusco accommodations.
• Enjoy a 1.75-hour hike and 30 minutes to 1 hour at the summit for photos and guide explanations.
• Savor a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant and a buffet lunch after the descent.
• Explore the stunning landscape and learn from a professional bilingual guide during the 14-hour adventure.
• Dress warmly and prepare for unpredictable weather conditions during the hike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a day-long hike to Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, a stunning natural wonder located in the Andes of Peru.

Discover the stunning Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder nestled in the Andes of Peru, on a day-long hike.

It’s an activity-packed 14-hour adventure including pickup from your Cusco accommodations, a drive to the trailhead, breakfast at a local restaurant, and a 1.75-hour hike up to the mountain.

At the summit, you’ll have 30 minutes to 1 hour to snap photos and learn about the geologic phenomenon from your guide.

After the descent, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch before the 2-hour drive back to Cusco.

All transportation, meals, and a guide are included in the $22+ per person price.

Itinerary Highlights

Morning starts early on this Vinicunca hike, with pickup from your Cusco hotel or Airbnb between 4:20 and 5:00 am.

After a 1.45-hour van ride, you’ll enjoy a 45-minute breakfast at a local restaurant.

Then, it’s time to hit the trail for the 1.45-hour uphill hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, covering 4 km starting at 4700 m.

Once there, you’ll have:

1. 30 minutes to 1 hour to explore and take photos.

2. Guide explanations about the magnificent, multicolored landscape.

3. A hearty 1-hour buffet lunch in Cusipata.

4. A 2-hour drive back to Cusco, ending near the Plaza de Armas.

Inclusions

This tour package includes a pickup from your hotel or Airbnb, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy round-trip transportation, a hearty breakfast, and a delectable buffet lunch.

Your professional bilingual guide will be by your side, providing expert knowledge and ensuring your safety with oxygen and a first-aid kit.

With these inclusions, you can focus on the stunning natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain, capturing breathtaking photos and learning about the vibrant local culture.

It’s an all-inclusive experience that makes exploring this unique destination a breeze.

Important Information

Although free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, this hike isn’t suitable for everyone.

Pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, and those with low fitness levels should avoid this trek.

Here’s what you’ll need to know:

• Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing.

• Bring a hat, snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

• Smoking isn’t allowed.

• The hike takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, and the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for cold, snow, fog, or rain.

• The entrance fee is 25 soles for foreign visitors and 20 soles for Peruvians.

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Weather and Conditions

The hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes each way.

The weather can be unpredictable, so visitors should prepare for cold, snow, fog, or rain. It’s smart to dress in warm layers and wear comfortable hiking shoes.

The actual time spent at the summit may vary depending on the conditions – some days you might enjoy 30 minutes to an hour of exploring, while other days the visibility could be poor, cutting the visit short.

No matter the weather, the entrance fee is 25 soles for foreigners and 20 soles for Peruvians.

Picking Up and Dropping Off

To get your adventure to Rainbow Mountain started, the tour company picks up participants from a wide range of locations around Cusco.

They’ve got you covered, with pickup points that include:

1. Major hotels across the city

2. Airbnbs and private rentals

3. Key landmarks like Plaza de Armas

4. Centrally located meeting spots

After the hike, you’ll be dropped off at either Plaza Regocijo or near Plaza de Armas, so you can continue exploring Cusco at your leisure.

The convenient pickups and drop-offs make this a hassle-free way to experience the stunning Rainbow Mountain.

What to Expect During the Hike

As you set out on the hike to Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, the trail winds its way through the stunning Andean landscape.

The incline is steady, so take your time and catch your breath. You’ll traverse rocky terrain, cross streams, and spot grazing alpacas.

The air grows thinner as you ascend, but your guide’s encouragement keeps you motivated.

Finally, you reach the magnificent, multicolored mountain. Snap photos of the breathtaking vistas before heading back down the same path, your sense of accomplishment growing with each step.

Exploring Rainbow Mountain

Upon reaching the summit, visitors are greeted by Vinicunca’s stunning natural display. The vibrant, multicolored layers of the mountain unfold before them, a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and whites.

Awed by the sight, they pause to take in the breathtaking panorama:

1. The snow-capped Andes stretch out in the distance, a testament to the region’s raw, untamed beauty.

2. Herds of alpacas and llamas graze peacefully on the slopes, adding a touch of life to the otherworldly landscape.

3. Crisp, mountain air fills the lungs, invigorating the senses.

4. The guide shares insights into the geological processes that shaped this natural wonder over millennia.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Hike?

Hikers are welcome to bring their own snacks and water on the Rainbow Mountain hike. However, a hearty breakfast and buffet lunch are provided, so bringing your own full meal isn’t necessary.

Is There an Option to Ride a Horse Instead of Hiking?

Yes, there’s an option to ride a horse instead of hiking to Rainbow Mountain. For an additional fee, you can enjoy the stunning views while comfortably seated on a trusty steed for the trek up the mountain.

Is the Tour Guide Available to Take Pictures During the Hike?

The tour guide is there to capture memorable photos during the hike. They’ll gladly take pictures of you and your group at the stunning Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.

Can I Extend My Stay at Rainbow Mountain Beyond the Scheduled Time?

Visitors can’t extend their stay at Rainbow Mountain beyond the scheduled time. The tour has a tight itinerary, and the group must return to Cusco on time. Lingering longer isn’t possible unless you arrange a separate, private tour.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. It’s a flexible offering that allows solo travelers or small groups to join. The tour will run as long as there’s at least one participant signed up.

Sum Up

Conquer the stunning Vinicunca, marveling at its vibrant hues along the way. Refuel with a hearty Andean feast, savoring the flavors of the region. This exhilarating adventure promises an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the captivating beauty of the Andes. Prepare to be left in awe of Rainbow Mountain’s breathtaking splendor.

You can check availability for your dates here: