Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley: Tips for the Day Hike

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is one of the most photographed places in Peru. Its colored stripes are the result of mineral layers that were exposed when the glacier covering the mountain melted. Here is how to make the most of your day.

The hike

From Cusco it is about a three-hour drive to the trailhead at 4,330 m / 14,206 ft. The hike to the viewpoint at 5,050 m / 16,568 ft takes about two hours on a wide path. From the top you can see the snow-capped Ausangate. Many visitors turn back here – but just a few minutes further lies the Red Valley, a landscape of deep red hills that is much quieter. The round trip is about 10 km / 6 mi and takes around four hours.

How hard is it?

The path itself is not technical, but the altitude makes every step heavier. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water and plan at least two days in Cusco before the hike. Horses can be hired at the trailhead for part of the way up.

Tips from our guides

• Leave early: Our pickup is around 5:00 am, so you reach the top before most groups.
• Dress in layers: Mornings are freezing, midday can be hot, and the weather changes quickly.
• Sun protection is essential at this altitude.
• Best time: The colors are most vivid on clear days in the dry season (April to November). In the rainy season, the mountain can be covered with snow.

Alternatives

Palcoyo offers three colorful mountains with a much shorter and easier walk, and is far less crowded. Adventurous trekkers can reach Rainbow Mountain on a multi-day trek from Ausangate.

Book the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Trek or Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.