Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain Trek
Trek for two days to the iconic Rainbow Mountain of Peru
Guided
Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain Trek Overview
Discover the Rainbow Mountain of Peru on this fully guided trekking tour! This is a breathtaking two-day trek in Peru’s Vilcanota’s Cordillera on a route called the “Camino Del Apu Ausangate.” This hike takes you to one of the most sacred mountains in the region. The “Apu” is one of the most pristine mountain ecosystems in the world. This trek shows you Vinicuna, the Rainbow Mountain, in all its colourful beauty.
Your trek will be accompanied by llamas and horses that will carry your gear and are owned by shepherds of the community of Chillca, who are proud to share their land with you. Trek through pastures, over mountain ridges, and through gorgeous scenery that all leads to Vinicuna. After your hike, rest up in mountain lodges, or “tambos,” where friendly chefs will prepare local cuisine for you and you can savor the beauty and hospitality of Peru. The Rainbow Mountain is waiting for you!
Trip highlights
Walk the Camino Del Apu Ausangate, a route through the Vilcanota’s Cordillera of Peru.
Enjoy the chance to experience the unique Vinicuna, the Rainbow Mountain, up close.
Learn about the culture and history of this wonderful mountain region as you walk.
Make your trek a bit easier by letting the llamas and horses help carry your gear so you can focus on the journey.
Day By Day Itinerary
Begin with a morning departure from Cusco, travelling by bus through the lush Vilcanota Valley to the town of Checacupe, from where you’ll start to ascend Pitumarca. Through the spectacular canyon of Japura, arrive at the pastoral community of Osefina, where you will see the herding of llamas and alpacas.
Little by little, you will ascend through a picturesque valley where you can see some of the highest potato crops in the world. The landscapes change drastically as you leave behind the last houses until you reach the pass of Anta (16,000ft/4,900m). Catch the first views of the Vilcanota mountain range. Spend the night in the Huampococha Tambo, located near the lagoon of the same name, where the nests of the "Huallatas" (Andean geese) lay.
- Overnight Location:
- Lodge in Ausangate (4,800m/15,748ft)
- Distance:
- 4 hours, 6.5km
- Meals:
- Lunch, dinner, snacks
The first rays of the sun greet you at this magical location. After enjoying a hearty Andean breakfast, begin to hike through formations of red sandstone. As you hike you’ll witness geological wonders and admire the beauty of this unique landscape. Reach Mt. Vinicunca or “Rainbow Mountain,” renowned worldwide and one of the most spectacular vantage points of the entire Andes Mountains.
After time to rest, snap photos, and take in the amazing colors of the mountain, begin the descent through the valley to Japura. On the way, you’ll have your final lunch stop before taking transportation back to Cusco. Onto the next adventure!
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- 6 hours, 10km
- Meals:
- Breakfast, lunch
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, and snacks are included.
- Accommodation for 1 night is included.
- This tour includes private transport for you to Chillca and back to Cusco. It does not include flights to and from Peru. While on the trail, hikers will need to carry a daypack (camera equipment, water bottle, extra layers, rain gear, and other accessories you might need on the trail). Horses and llamas will carry your duffle bag.
- English-speaking guide
- Waterproof bags for the baggage carried by llamas
- First aid kit and oxygen
Not included
- Flights or any kind of transport before or after completion of the program
- Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
- Travel insurance
- Emergency transportation
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 4/5. You will need to be able to hike 4-6 hours in high elevation conditions for two consecutive days, and we recommend a preliminary 2-day acclimatization stage for your body prior to the trek if possible.
There are a few things you can do to make hiking at high elevation more comfortable: arrive at the tour starting point early for an initial acclimatization stage. The recommended length of this stage depends on the altitude you’re used to, but generally 2-3 days is recommended. Drink lots of water while hiking. If you start to experience a headache, nausea, dizziness, or confusion, let your guide know right away. They will be equipped to handle any signs of altitude sickness as required.
The best time to take this tour is between April and November when the weather is most favourable for hiking.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, and snacks are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco International Airport (CUZ) from where you will be picked up and taken to Chillca.
Yes, the tour guide is English-speaking.
The tour ends in Chillca from where you’ll be transported back to Cusco.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain Trek with 10 Adventures?
Custom Guided Trips
Experience a private trip led by a highly-vetted local guide taking you to places most travellers never see.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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