Vinicunca — the “Seven Colour Mountain” — sits at 5,200 m in the Cordillera Vilcanota, three hours south-east of Cusco. The red, ochre, mustard and turquoise bands came from iron, sulphur and copper oxidising in sedimentary layers that only emerged in the last decade as the summit glacier retreated. It is now one of the most-visited day-trips out of Cusco.
The hike from the Cusipata parking area to the viewpoint is 1.5 to 2 hours up, climbing from 4,800 m to 5,200 m. Horses are available for the ascent; most travellers hike up and ride down. The viewpoint also opens up Ausangate (6,384 m), the highest peak in the region, on the far side.
Peruways runs small-group day-trips with 4 a.m. hotel pickup in Cusco, breakfast on the way, Quechua guides from the Pampachiri and Chillihuani communities who hold the land, lunch in the valley, back in the city by late afternoon.
Go in the dry season (April to October) for sharp colours and a dry trail. Book your Vinicunca day with Peruways and we’ll put you in a group of eight to twelve.
