Rainbow Mountain Private Tour

Overview: Rainbow Mountain Private Tour

Discover the wonders of the Andes

Enjoy an exclusive private tour from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), guaranteeing a unique experience far from the crowds of visitors who visit Rainbow Mountain every day. Our private tour allows you to fully appreciate the vibrant colors of this Andean geological wonder and its surroundings. Your adventure begins with a comfortable pick-up at your hotel, followed by a scenic drive through spectacular landscapes, where our expert tour guide will share fascinating facts about the culture, history, and geological processes that created the mountain’s unique colors.

Location: Rainbow Mountain Private Tour

We guide you to Rainbow Mountain, an exclusive destination located at an altitude of 5036 m. Located 120 km southeast of Cusco, in the province of Canchis, this mountain is located in the Vilcanota mountain range, near the snow-capped Ausangate, considered an APU and protector according to Andean beliefs. Accessible via a day trip from the city of Cusco, Rainbow Mountain is nestled in the Ccayrahuire sector of the community of Pampachiri, surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes. Perfect for a private excursion to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco, this remote location offers a serene getaway. If you are looking for a different experience, explore our day trip to Machu Picchu to discover another wonder.

Weather: Private tour of Rainbow Mountain

We prepare you for the climate of Rainbow Mountain, ideal for an exclusive hike to Vinicunca, at an altitude of 5,036 m. From May to November, enjoy dry days with temperatures between 5 and 15 °C, perfect for a private Andean adventure and a day trip to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco. From December to April, the rainy season arrives, with nights dropping to -5°C, so a warm jacket is essential for this luxurious experience on Rainbow Mountain. The wind adds a touch of excitement to this private excursion to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco. For a different experience, consider our Humantay Lake Tour and discover the diversity of Andean climates.

  Rainbow Mountain Private Tour – Itinerary

Full-day excursion: Rainbow Mountain of Vinicunca

Our tour begins with pickup at your hotel at 3:00 a.m. We will then head to Cusipata for a comfortable 2-hour drive, where we will enjoy a nutritious breakfast to properly prepare for the day ahead.

Once at the starting point of the hike, at approximately 6:30 a.m., we will begin the ascent to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, an experience that can take around 2 hours, depending on the pace of the group and the weather and physical conditions.

Upon reaching the summit, at an altitude of approximately 5,036 meters above sea level, we will have time to explore the surroundings, take panoramic photographs, and immerse ourselves in the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes.

After our visit to the summit, we will begin the descent back to the starting point. Once in Cusipata, a comforting lunch awaits us to replenish our energy and enjoy the local hospitality.

Finally, we will begin the return trip to Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m. This schedule may vary depending on traffic conditions and any additional stops that may be necessary.

Packing list

• Water
• Waterproof hiking shoes
• Warm clothing (thermal clothing, fleece, hat, gloves)
• Waterproof clothing (waterproof jacket, poncho)
• Sun hat, sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal expense

Benefits: Private tour to Rainbow Mountain

• Exclusive experience: Enjoy a visit without crowds with our 3:00 a.m. departure.
• Personalized guidance: A specialized guide will accompany you throughout this private adventure.
• Breathtaking views: Contemplate the vibrant colors of Vinicunca at 5,036 m, a highlight of any exclusive excursion to Vinicunca.
• Your own pace: Move at your own pace, ideal for a day trip to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco.
• Cultural immersion: Connect with Andean traditions.
• Comfort included: Breakfast, lunch, and trekking poles enhance your luxury experience at Rainbow Mountain.

For a different experience, explore our tour of Lake Humantay.

Considerations: Private tour to Rainbow Mountain

• Altitude awareness: At 5,036 m, acclimatize first in Cusco to make your exclusive hike to Vinicunca easier.
• Weather preparation: May to November is the best time, but bring layers of clothing for the cold.
• Physical condition: Moderate physical condition is required for the 7 km hike; our guide will adapt to your pace so you can enjoy this unique adventure.
• Early departure: The 3:00 a.m. departure guarantees a crowd-free day trip to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco.
• Hydration needs: Bring water; high altitude can cause dehydration during this luxurious Rainbow Mountain experience.
• Emergency horse: Rent one if needed (not included) for a more leisurely trip.

Complement your trip with our tour of the city of Cusco.

History: Rainbow Mountain

We invite you to discover the history of Rainbow Mountain, a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes, rich in minerals that give it its vibrant colors, formed over 24 million years from mineral-rich sediments exposed by tectonic movements.

Geological formation

The colors of Rainbow Mountain (red, yellow, turquoise) are the result of layers of iron oxide, sulfur, and copper, shaped by erosion, making it a prominent destination for a private excursion to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco.

Inca culture

This place is near Nevado Ausangate, a site that had spiritual significance for the Incas, symbolizing the masculine energy of Pachamama and protector, a belief that resonated in the local Andean culture during the Inca era and continues to do so today.

Modern discovery

Hidden beneath glaciers millions of years old, over time it was visited only by adventurers trekking around Nevado Ausangate, gaining fame in 2015 as a photograph that went viral at the time. Thanks to this, we can now offer a unique experience at Rainbow Mountain.

Qoyllur Rit’i Festival

The nearby Qoyllur Rit’i festival, a UNESCO event, honors Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain with dances, enhancing its appeal for exclusive excursions to Vinicunca.

Conservation efforts

Local communities preserve this private tourist destination in Rainbow Mountain, balancing tourism with care for the ecosystem and ensuring its beauty for future adventurers.

This history enriches your trip and perfectly complements our tour of the city of Cusco for a more complete Inca experience.