Rainbow Mountain Full Day Tour from Cusco

The adventure begins very early in the morning with a hotel pick-up around 4:00 a.m. from your accommodation in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft). You’ll travel south in our private tourist transport, passing through small Andean villages and enjoying beautiful landscapes bathed in the first light of day. After about three hours of driving, you’ll arrive at the picturesque town of Cusipata (3,310 m / 10,860 ft), where a delicious buffet breakfast will be waiting for you in a local restaurant. This first stop allows you to enjoy hot drinks, traditional Andean dishes, and time to prepare for the trek.

After breakfast, the journey continues for about one more hour to the trailhead in Phulawasipata (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the starting point of the hike. Here, your mountain guide will provide a detailed briefing about the route, altitude, and safety recommendations. You’ll begin your ascent toward Rainbow Mountain, following a gradual path surrounded by stunning Andean scenery — snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas and llamas, and traditional shepherds dressed in colorful attire.

The hike to the summit takes about two hours, covering approximately 3.5 km uphill. As you climb higher, the striking mineral colors of Vinicunca become visible, painting the mountain in shades of red, yellow, green, and turquoise. Upon reaching the top — at an impressive 5,036 m (16,522 ft) — you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Andes and the majestic Ausangate Glacier, the highest peak in southern Peru. You’ll have about 40 minutes to rest, take photos, and fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

For those seeking an additional challenge, there’s an optional short hike to the Red Valley (Valle Rojo), a nearby formation of crimson hills that contrasts beautifully with the turquoise tones of the Andes.

After taking in the views, you’ll begin your descent back to Phulawasipata, which takes around 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace. At the trailhead, our private transport will be ready to take you back to Cusipata, where a freshly prepared buffet lunch awaits. Enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine made with local ingredients — a perfect way to end your mountain experience.

Finally, you’ll begin the return drive to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 p.m. This marks the end of an unforgettable day exploring the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a true natural wonder of the Peruvian Andes, guided safely and comfortably by The Ausangate Trek S.A.C.

• Pick-up time: 4:00 a.m. from hotel in Cusco
• Starting altitude: 3,400 m (11,155 ft) – Cusco
• Breakfast: Buffet in Cusipata (3,310 m / 10,860 ft)
• Trailhead: Phulawasipata (4,630 m / 15,190 ft)
• Summit altitude: Rainbow Mountain – 5,036 m (16,522 ft)
• Hiking distance: 7 km (round trip)
• Hiking duration: 3.5 to 4 hours total
• Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging (due to altitude)
• Lunch: Buffet in Cusipata after the hike
• Return time: Arrival in Cusco around 5:00 p.m.
• Best season: April to November (dry season)
• Total tour duration: Approximately 12 hours