Nestled in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco, Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain captivates visitors with its striking multicolored hills. This one-day excursion offers a challenging hike through breathtaking scenery, though experiences can vary due to factors like unpredictable weather and crowds. While the tour package provides transportation, meals, and a professional guide, customer feedback suggests the journey may not always live up to the mountain’s vibrant reputation. However, those willing to brave the trek are rewarded with the chance to witness this natural wonder firsthand.

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Key Points

Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is a popular day trip from Cusco, Peru, with a tour price starting from $33.00 per person.
The tour includes a 2-hour drive to the trailhead, a 2-hour uphill hike, and a 2-hour hike back, with meals and a guide provided.
Entrance fees for foreign visitors are 20 soles for Rainbow Mountain and an additional 20 soles for the Red Valley.
The overall customer experience is rated 3 out of 5, with issues reported regarding transportation timing, guide behavior, and site overcrowding.
The tour’s duration and experience are heavily dependent on weather conditions, which can affect the length of time visitors can spend at the mountain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain or Mountain of Seven Colors, is a popular day trip from Cusco, Peru.

The tour price starts from $33.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment using the "reserve now & pay later" option.

The small group tours are limited to 10 participants and last one day. The itinerary includes a 2-hour drive to the trailhead, a 2-hour uphill hike to the mountain, and a 2-hour hike back.

The tour includes transportation, meals, a guide, and necessary equipment.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Details

The tour typically starts around 5:00 am with a 2-hour drive to Cusipata for breakfast.

A 2-hour drive to Cusipata kicks off the tour, starting around 5:00 am, with breakfast awaiting at the destination.

After eating, it’s a 1-hour drive to the Chilliwani trailhead at 4,700 meters elevation. Visitors must pay the entrance fee: 20 soles for foreigners, 10 soles for Peruvians.

The 4-kilometer hike up to Rainbow Mountain takes around 2 hours. Depending on weather, visitors can spend 30 minutes to 1 hour at the colorful site.

Then it’s a 2-hour hike through the Red Valley back to the car. Lastly, there’s a 2-hour drive to Cusco after a buffet lunch in Cusipata.

Inclusions

The tour package includes roundtrip transportation, breakfast and buffet lunch, an English/Spanish speaking professional guide, first-aid equipment and oxygen for emergencies, and trekking poles. These inclusions aim to ensure a comfortable and supported experience for visitors. The specific details of the inclusions are as follows:

| Inclusion | Details |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Roundtrip from Cusco |

| Meals | Breakfast and buffet lunch |

| Guide | English/Spanish speaking professional |

| Safety | First-aid equipment and oxygen for emergencies |

| Gear | Trekking poles provided |

The tour provides a comprehensive set of services to enhance the overall experience of exploring the stunning Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.

Customer Experience

According to the available customer reviews, the overall experience of visiting Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain has received a 3 out of 5 rating.

Travelers have reported issues with transportation timing and guide behavior, as well as complaints about the quality of breakfast and overcrowding at the site.

However, many have noted the stunning scenery of the multicolored mountain as a positive aspect of the tour.

The experience seems to be heavily dependent on weather conditions, which can impact the duration of stay at the Rainbow Mountain.

Key takeaways include:

Potential for transportation and tour guide problems
Varied quality of meals and site congestion
Spectacular views when weather permits

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Transportation

Although the tour starts around 5:00 am, the 2-hour drive to Cusipata for breakfast and the subsequent 1-hour drive to the Chilliwani trailhead (elevation: 4700 m) provide ample time for travelers to take in the scenic route.

The roundtrip transportation is included in the tour package, making for a hassle-free experience. While some reviews mention issues with transportation timing, the overall convenience of the logistics allows visitors to focus on the main event – the hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain.

Travelers can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey to and from the trailhead.

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Site Conditions

Once hikers reach the Chilliwani trailhead (elevation: 4700 m), they embark on a 2-hour uphill trek spanning 4 km to the main Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.

While the scenery is breathtaking, the experience can be impacted by:

Potential for large crowds at the site, leading to overcrowding and limited viewing opportunities.
Fluctuating weather conditions that may shorten the duration of stay at the mountain, from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
The need to pay separate entrance fees for Rainbow Mountain (30 soles) and the Red Valley (20 soles).

Entrance Fees

Entrance fees are required to access both the Rainbow Mountain and the adjacent Red Valley during the tour.

Foreign visitors must pay 20 soles per person to enter the Rainbow Mountain site, while Peruvian nationals only pay 10 soles. An additional 20 soles is charged to visit the Red Valley.

These fees are collected at the trailhead before the hike begins. Visitors should come prepared with the appropriate amount in local currency to avoid delays or issues accessing the sites.

The entrance fees help maintain the trails and support local conservation efforts in the region.

Professional Tour Guide

The tour is led by an English/Spanish speaking professional guide who accompanies the group throughout the excursion. The guide provides valuable commentary on the region’s history, geology, and culture, enhancing the overall experience.

Some key responsibilities of the guide include:

Ensuring the safety and well-being of the group during the hike
Offering guidance and assistance to participants, especially those experiencing altitude sickness
Sharing insights and anecdotes that bring the natural surroundings to life

The guide’s expertise and attentiveness play a crucial role in making the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain tour an informative and memorable adventure.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season from May to October when weather conditions are more favorable, allowing for clearer views and easier hiking. However, crowds may be larger during the peak summer months.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available at the Site?

There are no restroom facilities available at the Rainbow Mountain site. Visitors must plan accordingly during the hike and use the facilities in the nearby towns before and after the trek.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water on the Hike?

Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and water for the hike. Packing snacks and a refillable water bottle is recommended, as there are no food vendors along the trail. Carrying your own provisions can enhance the overall hiking experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It involves a strenuous 2-hour uphill hike at high altitudes, which could be challenging for kids. The tour’s difficulty level and long duration make it more appropriate for older, physically fit participants.

Are There Any Altitude Sickness Precautions I Should Take?

Due to the high elevation, visitors should take precautions against altitude sickness. This includes drinking plenty of water, getting proper rest, and being aware of symptoms like headache, dizziness, or nausea. Consulting a doctor is recommended for those with known health conditions.

Sum Up

Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain offers a unique and visually stunning experience, but the journey can be challenging. Tour packages provide convenience, but the overall customer satisfaction varies due to factors like weather and crowds. While the vibrant hills are a sight to behold, visitors should be prepared for the strenuous hike and manage their expectations for the overall experience.