TRAVEL GUIDE
Truly a place like no other. Quickly becoming world famous, Rainbow Mountain, aka Vinicunca, is made up of 14 mesmerizing colored-minerals that make for the perfect Instagram post. Until recently, the colored mountain was hidden to the world, covered in deep snow which melted due to unfortunate climate changes.
Minerals from ancient soils were eroded and transported by the masses of waters that covered the area during the tertiary and quaternary periods. Over time, the minerals piled up over one another forming layers of different colors arranged according to the weight of each mineral. Further tectonic movements of continental proportions elevated such layered sediments, which will later become the top of Vinicunca mountain range. The oxidation of the minerals gave rise to the bright colors we see today.
The only way to get to Rainbow Mountain is through the 2.5 mile trek (approx. 2 hours). It’s level of difficulty is considered between moderate and difficult, mostly due to the altitude at which you’ll be walking in.
Although doable by yourself, our recommendation, and most popular option, is with a tour. You have the convenience of getting picked-up from your hotel/hostel, a local tour guide telling you all there is to know about Rainbow Mountain and finally being dropped back off at your accommodation.
If looking to visit Rainbow Mountain, make sure to check out this top-rated tour!
At these altitudes, temperatures change quickly so it's a must taking clothing that's easy to take off or put on.
You will do a lot of walking around the Inca citadel so make sure to wear shoes your comfortable with.
The sun is much stronger at high altitudes so it's important to wear sunblock. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
At these altitudes, temperatures change quickly so it's a must taking clothing that's easy to take off or put on.
You will do a lot of walking around the Inca citadel so make sure to wear shoes your comfortable with.
The sun is much stronger at high altitudes so it's important to wear sunblock. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
Rainbow Mountain impressively reaches 17,060 feet (5,200m).
Altitude sickness can, unluckily, affect anyone regardless of physical fitness or age, but there are a few ways to try and prevent it.
The most important thing to do is acclimatize before heading to such high altitudes. Spend a day or 2 in Cusco before going to Rainbow Mountain. Take it slow and let your body get used to the altitude. Drink lots of water and avoid greasy foods. Chew some coca leaves or drink coca leaves tea – the locals in highlands have been chewing coca leaves for centuries, thanks to its ability to alleviate mild altitude sickness symptoms. Coca leaves can be bought in any supermarket, and even souvenir shops or street stalls.
We recommend checking with your doctor for any tips or recommendations such as taking high altitude medicine (Soroche) or other options.
Rainbow Mountain Tour
Hike the unique and colorful Rainbow Mountain, seen nowhere else
Difficulty
Challenging
Time
1 Day
