RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Cusco - Pitumarca
Full Day
Difficulty: Moderate
Private Service
The Rainbow Mountain, with its naturally segmented striations, or stripes of various colors, is located in the Cordillera of Vilcanota, remote part of the Ausangate mountain range and south of the city of Cusco.
The Rainbow Mountain has only recently gained international attention among travelers and hikers who like to enjoy the high mountains.
Highlights:
- Ausangate Rainbow Mountain
- Alive Culture
- Landscape
Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca – Cusco
We’ll pick up you at your hotel at 5:00 am to drive south of Cusco to the rich community of Vinicunca. After that, we begin our ascend on a medium-hard walk for approximately 2 – 3 hours to the site of the famous Ausangate Rainbow Mountain; at this point, our breathing will become increasingly labored as we gain altitude. Once we reach the top of the pass, there may be some chilly gusts of wind, so please make sure you dress warmly.
You will be rewarded for your trekking efforts when you finally see the incredible mountain, with its vibrant multicolored layers of rocky sediments: turquoise, orange, brown, and red. At the same time, you will have majestic views of the snow-capped Ausangate. This hike to Vinicunca is undoubtedly Peru’s most famous new attraction.
Once here. our guide will show you the best angles of the mountain for photo sessions. He will also help you locate local people, llamas, and alpacas for portrait photography. This will make your trip memorable and unforgettable.
After reaching and having a great time photographing this enchanted mountain, we start descending to the last stop for a lunch, to finally head back to Cusco.
Includes:
- Private transportation
- Professional bilingual guide and photographer
- All entrance fees
- Breakfast and lunch
- Ozonized water (we will provide it in all the tour, but you must carry your own canteen)
- First aid kit and oxygen
Not Included:
- You can take a horse or motorbike for U$$ 40.00
- Other requirements
- Tips for staff
- Services not mentioned
To enjoy our tour, don’t forget to bring:
- Passport or ISIC card OBLIGATORY
- Waterproof and warm clothing
- Photographic camera
- Lens 50/80mm F1.8 or F2.8
- Lens 24-70mm F2.8
- Lens 70-200mm F2.8 (recommended) or other similar.
- Tripod (recommended)
- Sun block SPF 45 – 90
- Sunglasses
- Small backpack (canteen, snacks, etc.)
- Raincoats or rain ponchos (all year)
- Binoculars (optional)
- Walking poles
Frequently Asked Questions
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a stunning multi-colored mountain located in the Andes of Peru. Its vibrant colors come from mineral deposits, creating a breathtaking natural landscape.
The hike to Rainbow Mountain is moderate to challenging due to the high altitude. The total hike is around 4 km approx.. round trip, with some steep inclines near the summit.
Yes, altitude sickness can be an issue. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least two days before the hike. You can also drink coca tea and stay hydrated to help prevent symptoms.
Yes, you can rent a horse from local communities along the trail for an additional fee. However, the last part of the hike to the summit must be done on foot.
The best time is during the dry season (April to October) when skies are clearer. The rainy season (November to March) can make the trail muddy and visibility lower.