RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
Tour Description
The journey to Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinincunca or Cerro Colorado, is one of the most astounding experiences due to its breathtaking scenic beauty. It's a geological formation where different minerals display various shades of colors formed thousands of years ago. At this mountain, you'll receive the protection and wisdom of what was once sacred to the Andean culture. In addition to enjoying the landscape, you'll encounter the flora, fauna in their natural habitat, and the people who still maintain their traditions and customs.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
It's essential to consider all the details mentioned about the tour to Rainbow Mountain. Have good physical condition for the trek (approximately 9 km). The hike lasts 3 hours uphill and 2 hours and 30 minutes downhill. A preliminary acclimatization stage of 2 to 3 days in Cusco or a similar city is necessary, and be prepared for temperature changes during the tour.
➤ MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 3800 meters above sea level. The altitude increases as you progress, making the trek tiring and breathless.
➤ MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 5250 meters above sea level.
It's advisable to drink coca or muña tea at breakfast, which helps open the bronchi and improves breathing.
The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, ranging from hot, sunny weather to rain, wind, and cold. Hikers should be prepared with the appropriate gear for variable weather conditions throughout the day.
Carry extra power banks (batteries have reduced duration in cold conditions).
If you wish to do both the Rainbow Mountain Trek and the Humantay Lake Trek, it's essential to have a rest day between both activities as both require a high level of physical effort.
Detailed Itinerary
- 03:30 to 04:00. Pickup from hotels in Cusco to start the adventure and hike to Rainbow Mountain. We'll travel by vehicle to Cusipata. In this locality, we'll enjoy breakfast at a local family restaurant. Then, we'll continue the journey for approximately an hour to the starting point of the hike. The hike to the mountain viewpoint, located at an altitude of 5100 meters, will take about 1.5 hours. From this point, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Ausangate and, weather permitting, the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca.
- After reaching the summit and taking photographs, we'll rest before starting the descent, which will take about 1 hour. Then, we'll follow the same path back to our vehicle and head to where we'll have lunch. After regaining energy, we'll begin the return journey to the San Francisco Square in Cusco, where our activity will conclude.
- 17:30. Arrival in Cusco.
- It's essential to note that entrance prices are subject to change without prior notice.
Includes
- Assistance one day before the tour.
- Meals (semi-buffet breakfast and lunch).
- Optional vegetarian meal, indicate at the time of tour reservation.
- Professional guide in English/Quechua/Spanish from the area.
- First aid kit including an emergency oxygen bottle.
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (urban area).
- Tickets for Vinicunca entry.
- Tourist transportation Cusco - Qhechuyno - Cusco.
- Drop off in the center of Cusco.
Does not include
- Items not mentioned in the program.
- Extra drinks.
- Horse and emergency muleteer S/. 100 (in case you cannot continue the hike or feel unwell).
- Trekking poles $8 per person.
- Extra expenses.
Recommendations
- 1.Warm clothing, waterproof clothing.
- 2.Trekking shoes.
- 3.Sun hat.
- 4.Sunglasses.
- 5.Sunscreen.
- 6.Snacks, water.
- 7.Comfortable clothing.
- 8.Trekking poles.
- 9.Jacket, 25-liter backpack for daily walks.
- 10.Hat and gloves for cold weather.
- 11.Waterproof backpack cover and rain poncho.