Vinicunca — the Rainbow Mountain — sits at 5,200 m in the Cordillera Vilcanota of southern Peru, three hours south-east of Cusco. Its 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.
The hike from the trailhead at 4,800 m up to the viewpoint takes 1.5 to 2 hours. The altitude is the real challenge — more than the trail itself, which is a steady climb on a well-worn path. Horses are available for the ascent, and most travellers hike up and ride down.
For acclimatisation, spend two or three nights in Cusco (3,400 m) before attempting the Vinicunca day-trip. The dry season (April to October) is the time to go, when the bands are sharpest and the trail isn’t muddy.
Peruways runs small-group day-trips from Cusco with 4 a.m. hotel pickup, Quechua guides from the local community, breakfast and lunch, and horses on request. Book your day with Peruways.
