Rainbow Mountain

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Tour Description:

This tour provides a remarkable opportunity to witness one of nature's wonders while immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Andes. The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering an experience that you'll remember for a lifetime. It's crucial to acclimatize to the high altitude in Cusco before embarking on this tour, as the trail reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern.

Trip departures:
Daily

Duration trip:
Full-Day

Difficulty of the trip:
Very challenging

Those who are on good physical condition.

Details of the trip.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO - CUSIPATA - PHULLAWASIPATA - VINICUNCA - CUSCO:

04:30 – 04:45 am: Pick up from your selected location. The bus heads south of Cusco through mountain valleys (approx. 1.5 hours). As the sun rises, you can rest or enjoy the breathtaking Andean scenery.
06:30 am: Arrival in Cusipata for a nutritious breakfast. Shortly after, continue the journey for another 1.5 hours to Phullawasipata (4,626 m / 15,177 ft.), the trailhead. Horses are available for hire here if needed.

08:00 am: Begin the hike (approx. 1 – 1.5 hours challenging difficulty), ascending from a green valley into stunning high-altitude landscapes. Along the way, admire herds of alpacas and llamas, spot locals in traditional dress, and enjoy views of the imposing Ausangate Mountain.

10:00 am: Reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca, 5,036 m / 16,522 ft.). Take time to rest, explore, and capture memorable photos of this spectacular natural wonder. At 11:00 am. Begin the descent (45 min – 1 hour) back to Phullawasipata, where transportation will be waiting.Enjoy a well-earned buffet lunch in Cusipata. Finally around 04:30 pm you will be back in Cusco. Drop-off will be one block from the main square to avoid rush hour traffic.

Note: During the rainy season, trail conditions can be slippery and challenging. Good hiking boots and caution are highly recommended.

WALKING DISTANCE: 6 km / 3.73 miles
DIFFICULTY: Challenging
WALKING TIME: 2 to 3 hours
STARTING ELEVATION: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
HIGHEST ELEVATION: 5,030 m / 16,498 ft

INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED:

Pick-up at hotel.
Transport from Cusco - Trail head - Cusco.
01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch.
Entrance Fee.
Tour guide.

NOT INCLUDED:

Horse to ride (You can rent one at the trail head).
Tips for staff (optional).

WHAT TO PACK

A small daypack.
Comfortable shoes (runners or hiking boots).
Rain jacket or poncho.
Camera.
Warm coat/jacket.
Hat, gloves.
Basic toiletries.
Hat for the sun.
Sunscreen.
Sunglasses.
Extra money (soles) for additional snacks, water, etc.
Snacks and water.
Positive mind!

TOUR PRICES

GROUP TOUR

From
$50 USD

*Group size from 10 to 25 people. *Regular departure time from 4:30am to 5:00am.

PRIVATE GROUP

From
$115 USD

*Minimum 2 people in the group. *Departure time for this option is very flexible. *Meals are upgraded according to your diet. NOTE: If there are more members in your group. Please let us know because price could be better.