Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (also called the Mountain of 7 Colors) is one of the most famous images of Peru: red, yellow, green and lilac stripes formed by minerals above 5,000 m, in the Vilcanota range. It is visited in one day from Cusco. Here is what you need to know.
Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain: key facts
- Altitude: 5,036 m at the viewpoint.
- Distance from Cusco: about 3 hours by bus.
- Hike: 4–5 km round trip, 1 h 30 to 2 h of climbing.
- Difficulty: moderate to demanding because of the altitude.
- Tour length: full day (early-morning pick-up and return at dusk).
What the day is like
We leave Cusco around 4:00 to arrive before most groups. We have breakfast on the way and start walking near 4,600 m. The climb is gradual, with alpacas and views of the Ausangate snow-capped peak. At the top you have time for photos and, if the weather helps, to climb to the Red Valley viewpoint. We have lunch on the way back and reach Cusco in the afternoon. See the itinerary of our Rainbow Mountain tour.
Best season and time of day
From April to October (dry season) the sky is usually clear and the colors look best. From December to March it can snow and cover the stripes. The best light is mid-morning, which is why we leave early. More details in the best time to hike in Cusco.
How to avoid altitude sickness
- Do it after 2 or 3 days in Cusco, never on the day you arrive.
- Walk slowly, breathe through your nose and drink water.
- Avoid alcohol the night before and eat light.
- If you feel a strong headache or dizziness, tell your guide: we carry oxygen.
Read our guide to acclimatizing in Cusco.
What to bring
- Layered clothing: it is cold at dawn and the sun is strong at midday.
- Waterproof jacket, hat, gloves and sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and lip balm.
- Trekking shoes with a good sole.
- Water, snacks and cash in soles for the entrance and the horse.
Why the mountain has colors
The stripes come from layers of sediment with different minerals that were deposited over millions of years and then tilted and exposed by the movement of the Andes. Red comes from iron oxide, yellow from iron sulfides, green from chlorite and the purple and brown tones from mixtures of minerals. For centuries it was covered in snow; it became famous only around 2015, when the melting ice revealed its colors and the photos went around the world.
Rainbow Mountain on horseback: is it worth it?
At the start of the trail, families from the community offer horses to ride up much of the way. It is a good option if you feel the altitude or travel with children or older people, and it also brings income to the local community. Keep in mind that the last stretch to the viewpoint is steep and done on foot. Pay for the horse in cash and in soles.
Red Valley and alternative routes
From the top, if the weather allows and the group has energy, you can walk a few minutes to the Red Valley viewpoint, a valley of intense red earth facing the Ausangate peak. There is also the Palccoyo rainbow mountain, more accessible and with fewer people, though less spectacular. If your priority is the classic photo, Vinicunca is the one.
Mistakes to avoid
- Going on the same day you arrive in Cusco: it is the surest way to suffer from the altitude.
- Climbing without warm layers: even with sun, the wind at 5,000 m is freezing.
- Not bringing cash: the entrance and horses are paid in soles and there are no ATMs.
- Trying to rush: the key is a slow, steady pace with short pauses.
Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake?
If you only have one day, Humantay Lake is a little lower (4,200 m) and shorter, ideal as a first acclimatization. Rainbow Mountain is higher and more photogenic. Many travelers do both on different days. Book here without paying anything today.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Rainbow Mountain?
The main Vinicunca viewpoint is at about 5,036 m above sea level. The hike starts near 4,600 m.
How far do you walk?
About 4 to 5 km round trip, with a climb of 1 h 30 to 2 h. There are horses for the climb for an extra payment.
Is the altitude dangerous?
Not if you are acclimatized. We recommend doing it after 2 or 3 days in Cusco, walking slowly and telling the guide about any symptom; we carry oxygen and a first-aid kit.