Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Day Hike from Cusco
from US$ 40 per person
The day starts with a 4:00 a.m. pickup at your Cusco hotel. You ride to the village of Cusipata for breakfast, then hike with your guide for about two hours up to the red, green and yellow bands of Vinicunca.
At the top there is time for photos and for taking in the surrounding peaks. Then you walk back down to the trailhead for lunch before heading back. The round trip is about 10 km with a high point of 5,036 m, rated moderate.
Spend two or three days in Cusco first to acclimatize. Pack warm layers, gloves, a hat, sunglasses and strong sunscreen, since the temperature at the summit can drop to 0 °C.
Highlights
- Guided climb of about 2 hours to Rainbow Mountain at 5,036 m
- Breakfast in Cusipata and a buffet lunch after the descent
- The group carries a first-aid kit and oxygen
- 4:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Horse rental available for part of the trail (paid separately)
Gallery
- Duration
- Full day
- Schedule
- 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Capacity
- Up to 15 people
- Minimum age
- 10 years
- Service
- Shared
- Languages
- Spanish and English
Itinerary
Full day with a high-altitude hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
- 4:00 a.m.
Pickup in Cusco
Pickup at your hotel and a ride in a tourist vehicle to the village of Cusipata.
Breakfast in Cusipata
Breakfast before starting the hike.
Hike to Vinicunca
Guided climb of about 2 hours up to Rainbow Mountain.
Time at the summit
Time for photos and views of the surrounding peaks before heading down.
Descent and lunch
Walk back down to the trailhead and a buffet lunch.
- 6:00 p.m.
Arrival in Cusco
Return to the city by tourist vehicle.
Included
- Hotel pickup
- Tourist transport
- Professional bilingual guide
- Breakfast
- Buffet lunch
- First-aid kit and oxygen
Not included
- Rainbow Mountain entrance fee (S/ 15)
- Horse rental (optional)
- Tips
- Personal purchases
Important
- The hike is about 10 km round trip, 4 to 5 hours in total.
- Maximum altitude of 5,036 m above sea level. Moderate difficulty: basic fitness required.
- Minimum age: 10 years.
- The temperature at the summit can drop to 0 °C: bring warm layers, a hat, gloves and a scarf.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven ground. Trekking poles are optional.
- Bring high-protection sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat.
- Bookings are confirmed with a 50% deposit.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
It is rated moderate and requires basic fitness. The round trip is about 10 km over 4 to 5 hours, and altitude is the main challenge.
How high is Vinicunca and how do I avoid altitude sickness?
The highest point reaches 5,036 m above sea level. Spend a few days in Cusco beforehand, walk at your own pace and drink water; the group carries oxygen and a first-aid kit.
What should I bring to Rainbow Mountain?
Warm layers, comfortable shoes for uneven ground, a hat, gloves, a scarf, sunglasses and high-protection sunscreen. Trekking poles are optional but help on the way down.
Can children do this tour?
The minimum age is 10, because of the altitude and the length of the hike.
Are the entrance fee and horse included?
No. The Rainbow Mountain entrance fee is paid on site, and the horse is optional at extra cost.
