If you’ve already visited Machu Picchu, the next top tourist destination is Rainbow Mountain. This impressive peak, also known as Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca, is covered in various hues thanks to the minerals it preserves. The easiest way to reach this natural site is to opt for a tour; they have daily departures and you can book at short notice. Find out what the Rainbow Mountain tour is like and plan it into your trip.

• The 7-Colored Mountain
• The tour to the 7 Colors Mountain
• What will I see during the trip to Rainbow Mountain?
• ATV Tour Features
• Tips for your trip to Rainbow Mountain
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tourist at the top of Rainbow Mountain

The 7-Colored Mountain

If you’re looking for a stunning natural setting, not only for the stunning destination itself but also for the scenic route you’ll travel, it’s Rainbow Mountain. It’s the second most visited tourist destination in Cusco for a reason, although it requires more physical effort than most attractions.

To get to Vinicunca, you first have to travel a stretch by car and then the final part on foot, although there are many options to overcome this hike (horseback riding or ATVs).

As this is a popular tourist attraction, you’ll find daily tours, so you don’t need to plan ahead. Just remember to acclimatize beforehand, as the summit is 5,036 meters above sea level.

Mountain of 7 Colors – Vinicunca

The hike to Rainbow Mountain:
The hike to Vinicunca is 6 kilometers long and can be completed in approximately two hours. The initial stretch is easy, following flat paths, but at the end, you must overcome a very steep trail. If you prefer more comfort, you can rent a horse from local muleteers from the start of the hike. This will help you overcome the difficulty and allow you to enjoy all the scenic views along the way to the mountain.

The tour to the 7 Colors Mountain

As one of the most popular tours in Cusco and with no capacity limits, you can visit Rainbow Mountain at any time, without having to plan far in advance. It’s a full-day adventure, where you’ll discover unforgettable landscapes. Learn more about the Rainbow Mountain tour:

• The adventure begins very early, around 4:00 a.m., from your hotel door, where the tour bus will pick you up. The tour will head south to the town of Cusipata, where you can catch up on some sleep (a two-hour drive).
• Upon arrival in Cusipata, you’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast to recharge your batteries. Then, continue your journey to the Phulawasipata checkpoint (a 1-hour drive). The trek begins here, so you’ll have time to prepare for your next hike.
• The hike is 6 kilometers long, with an easy initial stretch, while the final section is considered challenging. Horses can be rented from the start of the hike, which is the best option if you’re not in good physical condition.
• Throughout the entire trip, and from the beginning of your adventure, a tour guide will accompany you. They will not only provide you with historical information about the area, but will also ensure your safety.
• The entire route to the mountain is filled with landscapes. You’ll see mountains of various shades, green fields, many animals, and, if you’re lucky, snow-capped peaks. Remember that Rainbow Mountain is very close to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, which will add even more scenic value to your adventure.
• Upon reaching the top of the mountain, you’ll see its seven colors in all their splendor. There are many angles from which to get the perfect photo. You’ll also have free time to explore the area and use the basic amenities (restrooms and food stalls).
• The return journey will be the same, whether you choose to descend by foot or on horseback. The reunion with the entire group will take place at the drop-off point of the tour bus.
• Before returning to Cusco, there will be a brief stop in the town of Cusipata for lunch. Arrival in the city is scheduled for around 6:00 p.m., at a central location or at your hotel door.

Tourist taking the tour to the Rainbow Mountain

What will I see during the trip to Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, but what will most catch your attention during the trip will be the following:

• The mountain ranges: From the moment you set out on the hike to Vinicunca, you’ll see immense mountains that resemble some of its colors. These peaks are on both sides of the valley, which seems to provide a sense of shelter, in addition to seeing increasingly incredible landscapes as you ascend.
• Ausangate Snow-Climbed: It’s the highest snow-capped mountain in Cusco, at 6,384 meters above sea level. We’ll be able to see it from key angles along the way, but upon reaching Rainbow Mountain, after another five-minute hike, we’ll be able to see it in almost all its splendor. It’s one of the most beautiful views of the entire hike.
• The Southern Valley: From Cusco to Vinicunca, we’ll cross the southern valley, a place filled with agricultural fields, lush vegetation, and memorable landscapes alongside mountains. The route will be surrounded by verdant flora throughout.
• Wildlife: Throughout the adventure, we’ll be able to see typical Andean animals, such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, some farm animals, and, with luck, large birds like eagles or condors.

Visitor observing an alpaca on Rainbow Mountain

ATV Tour Features

To reach Rainbow Mountain, you can also opt for an ATV tour, which takes you on a more adrenaline-fueled adventure through the landscapes of the southern valley. Discover its main features compared to the classic tour:

Tips for your trip to Rainbow Mountain

• Before traveling to Rainbow Mountain, remember to acclimatize, as you’ll be at a high altitude and could suffer from altitude sickness. It’s best to spend your first few days in Cusco doing light activities and getting plenty of rest.
• Bring very warm clothing for the hike; you’ll be at a high altitude where temperatures can drop to below zero.
• If you travel during the months of April to October, you’ll find clear weather with more sunny days. However, Rainbow Mountain will also be more popular with tourists.
• Rain is more likely to fall during your tour from November to March, so you’ll need to pack waterproof clothing or a rain poncho. These are the months with the fewest visitors, and you’ll be able to fully enjoy Vinicunca.
• If you can’t walk the final stretch, or simply don’t want to, you can rent horses from local muleteers who will take you almost to the top of the mountain, just a few small steps away.
• When booking your tour with Ticketmachupicchu, you’ll also find the option to take the tour with an ATV. This is a much more adrenaline-filled and scenic adventure, ideal if you want to experience a greater adventure.
• Upon reaching the summit, you’ll find some basic amenities, such as restrooms and small food stalls. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot llamas, with whom you can take an iconic photo.
• The Rainbow Mountain tour includes everything: tourist transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, breakfast, and lunch. Everything will be planned, so you can focus solely on enjoying the experience.
• Remember to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the ride, and snacks will also be key to conserving your energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What time does the tour start?

  The tour starts very early, around 4:00 a.m., as the journey is long. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and returned to Cusco at approximately 6:00 p.m.

• 2) What does the Rainbow Mountain tour include?

  The tour includes tourist transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, breakfast, and lunch. Basically, everything will be arranged, so you’ll just have to focus on enjoying the experience.

• 3) How long is the walk to get to the mountain?

  The hike is approximately 6 kilometers long. The average climb takes two hours, depending on your physical condition and the weather.

• 4) Is the walk very difficult?

  The first section is relatively easy, but the final stretch requires more effort due to the elevation gain. If you’re not feeling well physically, you can rent a horse to get almost to the top.

• 5) What is the altitude of Rainbow Mountain?

  The summit is 5,036 meters above sea level. Therefore, it’s important to acclimatize in Cusco at least two days beforehand to avoid altitude sickness.

• 6) What time of year is best to visit Rainbow Mountain?

  The best time to visit is between April and October, when the days are sunnier and the skies are usually clear. If you go between November and March, you’ll find fewer tourists, but a greater chance of rain.

• 7) Can I rent a horse during the tour?

  Yes, there are local muleteers who rent horses from the start of the hike. This is an ideal option if you don’t want to walk the entire route or if the altitude makes you feel uneasy.

• 8) What is the difference between the classic tour and the ATV tour?

  The classic tour includes a 6-kilometer hike of medium to difficult difficulty. The ATV tour, on the other hand, reduces the final hike to just 2 kilometers and is recommended for young people or those in good physical condition.

• 9) Are there bathrooms or restrooms at the top of the mountain?

  Yes, you’ll find basic amenities like restrooms and small food stalls. They’re not very sophisticated, but they do the trick for visitors.

• 10) Is it safe to take the Rainbow Mountain tour?

  Yes, the tour is safe. You’re always accompanied by a professional guide who supervises the tour and provides support in case of any issues.

Advice from people who have been there

7 Colors Mountain

By: Mateo S.

“A landscape that seems to be from another world“

“The 7 Colors Mountain is an incredible natural spectacle. The hike is demanding because of the altitude, but the shades of the mountain and the view of the surroundings make it all worth it, a unique experience!“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, September 5, 2025