Hidden high in the Peruvian Andes, Rainbow Mountain Peru — also known as Vinicunca or the Montaña de Siete Colores — is a spectacular geological formation famous for its vibrant stripes of red, yellow, green, and purple. These dazzling colors are the result of unique mineral layers exposed over time, creating a surreal, rainbow-like appearance that attracts hikers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world. Whether you’re on a short Rainbow Mountain day trip or a multi-day adventure, this destination is a must-see for anyone traveling through Cusco.
Surrounded by wild landscapes, herds of alpacas, and sweeping views of Ausangate — the highest and most sacred mountain in the region — the Rainbow Mountain trek offers the perfect blend of challenge and reward. This unforgettable hike takes you deep into the heart of the Andes, just a few hours from Cusco, and immerses you in the raw beauty and vibrant culture of the highlands. The trail to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley is more than a hike — it’s an emotional and physical journey into one of the most pristine ecosystems in South America.
For those seeking even more solitude and breathtaking scenery, the nearby Red Valley is an unmissable extension. Featuring crimson-hued hills and panoramic ridgelines, this lesser-known gem offers a more peaceful alternative to the popular summit. The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley combo lets you experience two unique landscapes in one trek, making it a top pick for photographers and adventurers alike.
The Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Full-Day Tour begins early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. We head south in our private tourist transport on a scenic drive through traditional Andean villages and beautiful landscapes until we reach the town of Cusipata (3,250 m / 10,660 ft). There, you will enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast with various local options such as eggs, breads, pancakes, fruits, tea, coffee, and coca leaves to help with the altitude.
After breakfast, we continue by vehicle for about one more hour to the trailhead, located at approximately (4,600 m / 15,090 ft) above sea level. From here, we begin our moderate hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain. The walk takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at a steady pace. Along the way, you’ll pass through spectacular high-Andean landscapes, herds of alpacas and llamas, and views of towering snow-capped peaks like Ausangate.
At the summit of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), sitting at (5,100 m / 17,414 ft), you’ll have plenty of time to rest, take unforgettable photos, and admire the vibrant natural colors that give this mountain its name — red, yellow, green, and purple tones layered across the rock formations.
For those who want to explore even more, there’s an optional short hike to the stunning Red Valley, a less-visited area with deep crimson hills and dramatic Andean scenery that feels like another planet.
After soaking in the views, we descend the same way back to the starting point, where our transport will be waiting. We then drive back to Cusipata to enjoy a buffet lunch with a variety of typical Andean dishes, including vegetarian options, salads, soups, and local desserts.
Finally, we return to Cusco in the afternoon, arriving between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m., completing a full day of breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as easy as possible. In this section, you will find speedy answers to all those questions you had about Rainbow Mountain in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
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Of course! During the travel, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you are not going to need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags, put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (In the unlikely case of theft many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing all the items). Best put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Peru Hike Company can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it’s in the Historic Center of Cusco. The pickup time will be coordinated with your guide in the briefing. The pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to traffic. Cusco is a very old city, therefore, it has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs may be located on streets without access to cars or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. We strongly recommend that you book accommodation with good access.
Group tours are made up of different types of people. Physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route. It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, it will be the guide who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if said modifications can be made.
Strikes and demonstrations are usually frequent in Peru and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your excursion as planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date. Under these circumstances, tours may also be cancelled. In case of changes or cancellations, all situations will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority and our decisions will be made to protect it.
You’re responsible for your objects during the tour. Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our trucks, tents, or restaurants.
Secure your trekking adventure by paying just 20% now, and complete the remaining 80% in Cusco 1 or 2 days before your hike begins. With a small deposit your spot is guaranteed, making the process simple, safe, and stress-free so you can fully focus on enjoying the trek of a lifetime.
Book fast and easy on our website and keep track of your reservation with our most advanced booking system, be updated on our discounts every week.
Absolutely breathtaking experience! The Rainbow Mountain Full Day tour was even more amazing than I imagined. The colors of the mountain are unreal, and the Red Valley felt like walking on Mars. Everything was perfectly organized — from the breakfast to the hike. Highly recommended!
The Rainbow Mountain Full Day tour is something I will never forget. From the early morning pick-up to the stunning views at the summit, everything was smooth and magical. The guides were super kind and made sure we all felt safe and motivated during the hike.
One of the best tours I’ve done in South America. The Rainbow Mountain Full Day was a dream — high altitude, amazing views, friendly guides, and delicious local food. I loved every part of it, especially the peaceful moment at the top of the mountain.
