Visit the famous Vinicunca, popularly known as the Rainbow Mountain. Experience one of the most iconic natural wonders in Peru with complete safety protocols, quality service, and scenic high-Andean landscapes.
Service: Private | Best For: Couples, Families, Friends & Adventure Travelers
Discover the spectacular natural colors of Vinicunca formed by millions of years of mineral weathering. Our tour provides a safe, comfortable, and well-organized experience with full safety equipment and local guidance to help you navigate the high elevation smoothly.
Trekking: Approx. 6 km (round trip)
Walking Time: Approx. 3–3.5 hours (hike up and down)
Difficulty: Moderate (High Altitude)
Maximum Altitude: 5,200 m
Accommodation: Return to Cusco (Hotel not included)
Your excursion begins with an early hotel pickup in Cusco between 04:30 AM and 05:00 AM. We travel south by private transport toward the town of Cusipata (approx. 2 hours), where we stop to enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast. Afterward, we continue driving through picturesque villages (Paucarpata, Tintinco, Chilhuani) along the route until reaching Phulawasipata, the official starting point of the hike.
From Phulawasipata, begin the gradual ascent up to the viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain (5,200 m), taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. At the summit, take time to enjoy the panoramic views, take memorable photos of Vinicunca and Mount Ausangate, and learn about the geological formations from your guide. After exploring, descend back to Phulawasipata to take our transport back to Cusipata for a delicious lunch before returning to Cusco (arriving around 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM).
Highlights
Morning pickup from hotel & scenic drive through the Southern Valley
Breakfast & lunch in Cusipata
Hike through high-Andean valleys surrounded by alpacas and mountain views
View of Mount Ausangate (6,384 m) glacier
Summit viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca, 5,200 m)
Return transport back to your hotel in Cusco
Rest in comfortable accommodations selected for their location, comfort and unique experience along the route.
The hike is rated as moderate in terms of distance, but challenging due to the extreme altitude (5,200 m / 17,060 ft).
More Than a Trek. Your Own Salkantay Experience.
The Salkantay Trek operates throughout the year, but weather conditions vary considerably between seasons. Your itinerary should be planned according to your preferred travel conditions and trekking experience.
