Peru · 1 Day
Rainbow Mountain
At 17,000 feet, mineral bands paint the mountain red, ochre, and green — a geological phenomenon few dare to climb up close. We depart before dawn to beat the clouds.
- ✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
- – Does not include lodging or flights.
Itinerary
03:30 · Hotel pickup in Cusco
We leave before dawn heading southeast of Cusco — you have to beat the clouds that often cover the mountain by midday.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
06:00 · Arrival in Cusipata
Cusipata marks the start of the trail up to Vinicunca, already above 4,300 meters, through high-Andean grassland and grazing alpaca herds.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
06:30 · Guided ascent to Rainbow Mountain
The guided climb reaches 5,200 meters, where mineral layers paint the mountain red, ochre and green — a geological phenomenon you can only really see up close, on foot.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
09:00 · Time at the summit
At the top, the view opens toward the Ausangate glacier — plenty of time for photos and to catch your breath before heading back down.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
09:30 · Descent
The descent is guided, at the same pace as the climb up, the landscape shifting color as the midday light moves.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
12:00 · Lunch (not included)
Lunch on your own in the village, before heading back to Cusco.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
15:30 · Return to Cusco
Return to Cusco in the afternoon, the rainbow mountain fading into the rearview mirror.
✓ Includes: transport + local guide.
We personalize every detail with you.