When in Cusco, obviously you’ll be here to visit Machu Picchu and the former Inca Empire City. However, there’s too much to do in Cusco and its surroundings, and proof of that we have Rainbow Mountain. also known as "Vinicunca" in the Quechua language. This colorful and vivid attraction is 2 hours from the City. It attracts locals and foreigners thanks to its characteristic color.
First things first: You have to know that this mountain is located 5,200 meters above sea level in the Vilcanota mountain range, near the Ausangate Mountain. You have to walk 8 kilometers to reach the mountains, which makes the hike difficult for those who want to see it.
Although this sounds challenging, many visitors mention that the trek is worth it, making unforgettable moments. This guide will teach you the best time to visit this mountain. We also give you some recommendations to take and how to maximize it.
There are mainly two seasons in this area, dry and rainy seasons. The rainy season begins in mid-November and normally lasts until March. At this time of year, the path is dampish and muddy. The mist covers the mountains so that visibility might be low. You won't see the views or take good images.
The weather in the Rainbow Mountains during the rainy season is sometimes, nice in the morning and rainy in the afternoon. Or, it's the reverse: bad in the morning and good in the afternoon.
On the other side, the dry season lasts from April to mid-November. The weather is often clear, the paths are firmer and easier to navigate. It's a great time for a more comfy and fun climb to see the mountain's beauty and surroundings.
January and February are the wettest months in the whole Cusco Area. You’ll find pathways with fewer visitors, quiet locations, and muddy roads. If you love rain, bring rain gear and a good pair of trekking shoes, believe us when we tell you you’ll get soaked.
Between March and April, you’ll see more rays of sunshine but cloud weather still be present, in March especially weather could be treacherous: It could be sunny in the day, but it may rain heavily at noon or in the afternoon. In April you may expect occasional showers, but the rain will decrease significantly.
From May to August the weather’s almost perfect: Expect beautiful blue skies, zero rain, and cultural celebrations such as the Inty Raymi. However, May is when the high season is beginning so expect crowded paths, increased pricing, and people everywhere.
In September and October, you’ll see a transition in colors, fewer tourists, good weather, and calmer pathways. Prices will be cheaper than in the high season, which is a good time to visit the City and the Mountains.
November and December make a transition, even though are relatively calm and the temperature is mild, expect occasional and sudden showers
Dress and Pack Smart: Hiking boots are the greatest choice for your trip to Peru and when visiting the Rainbow Mountain. We mentioned clothing before, so, you should be ready for all weather conditions, no matter when you visit. You can bring a waterproof jacket, a hat, and layers. Don't forget sunglasses and a good UV sunscreen too.
Kill (more than two) birds with one shot. Before Vinicunca, you can visit Machu Picchu. You can see Red Valley, Humantay Lake, and Palccoyo. You can also wander around Cusco City. By doing so, your body won’t be only acclimatized to fight better altitude sickness symptoms, but you’ll see the stunning places that the Cusco area has to offer.
Consider the seasons: For peace and quietness, you can come to visit during shoulder or low-season months, such as January. September or November. On the other side, If you enjoy a lively atmosphere, June and July are peak visitor months.
Take your best shot: Don't forget to take plenty of shots of this breathtaking landscape! You'll be able to see more rainbow hills all around the peak. The region has unique geography and geology. It has many colorful mountains, but Rainbow Mountain is the most striking. Along the route, you may encounter several llamas and alpacas because the locals in the Rainbow Mountain area keep herds of these furry animals.
Respect local people & Nature: Interact respectfully with locals, respect the environment don’t leave trash, and follow your guide’s instructions.
Fight against altitude sickness: Hiking more than 5000 meters above sea level is a hard task, and there’s a big chance you can get altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, go at your own pace, and drink coca tea; a natural treatment for altitude sickness for thousands of years. that locals commonly use. One day or hours before your trip, stay away from big meals, alcohol, and cigarettes.
Hiking Rainbow Mountain is a somewhat challenging task. The climb is hard to do due to the altitude. You'll likely feel breathless the whole way and feel like you're pushing against a thick wall of air with every step.
The hike consists mostly of flat terrain. The tough "push" to the peak only takes 20 to 30 minutes, despite the trek's final section having a steep grade.
In case you determine the trek is too difficult, you can hire a horse to carry you to the peak's base. Throughout the hike, tour guides will provide oxygen and motivation, ensuring that you always feel secure and supported.
Currently, there are two ways to reach the Rainbow Mountain, and the journey between Cusco and the destination varies depending on which route you take:
The most popular and often-used way right now to Rainbow Mountain is the Pitumarca Route considering its considerable difficulty. Using Cusco as a starting point, you must go to the village of Checacupe.
This is where you get a bus to the Pitumarca region, which takes around half an hour. You may have a hearty breakfast and use the toilets here. You have to travel right away to the settlement of Kayrawiri, where your journey starts.
On the Cusipata Route, you’ll follow the same steps of the previous route, but only this time you’ll get off in the Cusipata district, some kilometers before Pitumarca. After having breakfast there, you go by car to Phulawasipata, where you’ll start the trek.
The only options available in the area are rustic restrooms along the way. Be sure to bring with you toilet paper, just in case.
Thanks to the minerals beneath the mountain area. heavy rains, erosion, and UV rays the beautiful Rainbow Mountain obtained its vivid and bright colors.
Don’t waste more time and contact us, Viagens Machu Picchu staff will be more than glad to help you solve your questions. Let’s embark together on discovering what Peru, Cusco, and the Rainbow Mountain have to offer.
