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Peru, a country of so many enchanting wonders and gems, holds Rainbow Mountain – a colorful tapestry that will leave you breathless. Literally. This site is nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, at a staggering height of 17,060 feet (5,200 meters) above sea level. Since its discovery, the site has gained global recognition for its awe-inspiring colorful beauty. 

Join me on an unforgettable journey to Peru’s Rainbow Mountain!

View of Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca as it’s known locally, which means “colored mountain” in Quechua, had been concealed beneath a thick blanket of ice up until its discovery around 2013. By 2015, more ice had receded and the vibrant hues of the mountain were revealed to the world. Popularly with the site has increased dramatically with more than 1,500 visitors a day in peak season. Typically, peak season is June through mid-September, however, I visited in late March and found the weather to be perfect.

Rainbow Mountain images tend to be oversaturated on the internet, giving people a false expectation. My photos show what you can expect to see on your visit, which is still an absolutely stunning site.

How my day went

I booked my tour with Rainbow Mountain Viajes Speedy Tour through TripAdvisor during a site-wide sale for $67.50 per person. I was extremely excited leading up to this adventure because it was so different from all the other advertised tours, leading you to Rainbow Mountain on ATVs! The tour includes a guide, both breakfast and lunch along a gorgeous river, and one ATV and helmet per person. Visitors must pay the entry fee to Rainbow Mountain of 25 soles or about $6.50 separate from the tour costs. 

While I was on my tour to Humantay Lake (read about it here), others in our group mentioned how their tour to Rainbow Mountain was canceled because of village protests that were blocking the road. I quickly hopped on WhatsApp and messaged the tour guide with concerns about cancellation. I was overjoyed when the guide, Beto, let me know that the tour was in fact not canceled because he brings the ATVs on an alternate route that is not blocked. Little did I know that we would be the only people visiting Rainbow Mountain on the day of our tour! Talk about luck.

View from Rainbow Mountain, looking back at where we hiked

The start of the tour was another early morning with pick up at 4 AM. There were a total of 5 of us on the tour, plus the guide, Beto. I took the beginning of the journey to shut my eyes for a little longer. When the sun appeared, it was nice to daydream while looking at the passing scenery. 

About halfway into the drive, we stopped in the town of Quiquijana for a hot breakfast. It was a big buffet-style restaurant and a popular stop for tours. Although we were the only Rainbow Mountain tour, several others ate breakfast with us on their way to alternative sites in the region such as the Seven Lakes of Ausangate. 

Where we ate breakfast and lunch in Quiquijana, Peru

After breakfast, our tour continued the drive for 1.5 hours, through the town of Uchullujllo, until we reached a small building where our ATVs were being prepared. Once we had our helmets and ran through the safety instructions for the ATVs, we were off! 

The ride was roughly 45 minutes, passing through luscious green landscapes that truly seemed like a painting. The road went through a small town where the local children were walking to school. Our guide, Beto, obviously had a great relationship with the kids, as he quickly pulled over on his ATV and had a few kids hop on so he could drop them off at the school’s front doors further down the road. I could tell the kids loved the days when Beto drove through. 

Riding the ATVs to Rainbow Mountain

Shortly after making our way through the small town, we started the zig-zagging ascent up the mountain. The path was narrow, with enough room to fit the ATVs one by one. As we climbed, views of a stunning river were seen cutting through the landscape. 

After several twists and turns, we stopped at a small checkpoint to pay the entry fee to a local. And oh my gosh, this stop was stunning. The dense green-covered mountains faded before us, with spots of deep red hues popping out before the towering rock formation. I was able to stay here for a few minutes and soak it all in. There are a few locals that live in the area and, for me, I thought it was amazing that this was their view every day.  

View from Rainbow Mountain check-in point

We drove our ATVs around the corner and parked, preparing ourselves for the upcoming hike to Rainbow Mountain. Now, typically, Rainbow Mountain tours will start from the Northwest side of the mountain and require a 4.3-mile hike. This tour was entirely unique, starting from the Southeast and requiring a 2.8-mile hike. The 2.8-mile hike immediately starts the ascent up the mountain while the usual Rainbow Mountain experience is relatively flat for the first 1.5 miles. 

Although the hike was short, it was the hardest hike of my life. At 17,000 feet, the elevation of Rainbow Mountain is comparable to Everest Base Camp. Oxygen levels are nearly 50% less than what is available at sea level.

View from Rainbow Mountain check-in point

I mentally prepared myself for the hike but my body was on the struggle bus. Although the 11,000-foot elevation in Cusco did not affect me, the increase to 17,000 feet did. I became easily winded, having to take a break after as little as 2 steps. Halfway up I started to feel slightly dizzy and confused, not being able to focus on more than the steps I was trying to take. 

The three others in our group were more fortunate and probably a bit more acclimated to the high altitude that I was. One man in the group had a packet of coca leaves which he offered to the group to help ease the effects of the altitude. The guide also offered oxygen to everyone, which we all happily said yes to.

What shocked me was when I asked the guide how quickly he could hike up if he was without a group, to which he informed me it would take him under 20 minutes. It took our group nearly 1.5 hours. 

View from the Pitumarca trail to Rainbow Mountain (south trail)

Throughout the hike up, we were surrounded by deep shades of red and green in the mountains, with the Glacier of the Nevado Ausangate standing out as a stark contrast. In front of the glacier was a herd of alpacas grazing which only put the grandeur of the site into perspective, comparing their small size on the mountainside to the continuation of mountain peaks jutting up around us. 

View of Nevado Ausangate Glacier

Once I arrived at the top of Rainbow Mountain, the colors changed to add purple, aqua, orange, and yellows painted into the scenery. With me was a black shaggy dog who happily joined the hike shortly after the start. He must’ve thought the hike was easier than I did with how effortlessly he made it to the top. He was even happier when I shared some of my apple with him while I sat and enjoyed the beautiful views. 

My hiking buddy

Usually, locals are at the top of the mountain waiting for visitors, selling snacks, water, and photo opportunities with adorned alpacas. Because of the protests and the closure of Rainbow Mountain from the North, no one was at the top. We had the entire view to ourselves! Being able to experience Rainbow Mountain without the crowds was truly spectacular.  

We spent a good while at the top, resting and taking in the incredible mountain colors, reflecting on the intense uphill climb we just completed. From the top, I was able to see the typical route that visitors hike for Rainbow Mountain and although you can see more of the mountain’s colors throughout the hike up, the hike that I completed from the Southeast side was awe-inspiring with deep greens and reds interlaced into the mountainsides and had an insane view of Nevado Ausangate Glacier. 

View of the Cusipata Trail leading to Rainbow Mountain (north trail)

98% of Rainbow Mountain visitors take the Casipata Trail (from the Northwest). It is an easier route with a more gradual incline but with a lot more people. If you prefer to stay away from the crowds and experience something more unique, I highly recommend a tour with Beto at Viajes Speedy Tour.

South trail from Rainbow Mountain

I experienced Rainbow Mountain like no other visitor has – without hundreds or even thousands of people around me. The entire Rainbow Mountain experience was something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Our small group of 5 took in the exceptional experience with so much appreciation.

What is Rainbow Mountain?

Rainbow Mountain is a recent discovery within the Andes Mountains, renowned for its vibrant multi-colored striped slopes containing red, yellow, green, and turquoise hues. The mesmerizing colors are a result of mineral deposits that have been exposed over time. The site, also known as Vinicunca, is a geological masterpiece with cultural significance to the Quechua community.

View from the top of Rainbow Mountain

Where is it located?

Rainbow Mountain is located 3 hours southeast of Cusco, near the town of Pitumarca. 

How did Rainbow Mountain get its unique colors?

Rainbow Mountain’s coloring comes from the sediment of minerals throughout the area. Different minerals create different coloring:

• Red: Iron oxide aka rust
• Purple: Marlstone and calcium carbonate
• Yellow: Iron sulfide
• Green: Phyllites and clays containing iron and magnesium  
• Pink: Red clay, mud, and sand 
• Brown: Fanglomerate rock

What tour did I take for Rainbow Mountain?

I booked my Rainbow Mountain ATV tour with Viajes Speedy Tour Operator on TripAdvisor. Because of political disagreements in the region, every Rainbow Mountain tour was canceled except for this one! This tour steps away from the crowds and gives such a unique experience, driving to the start of the Rainbow Mountain hike by ATVs. I cannot recommend this tour enough! If you have any questions, you can reach out to the company on WhatsApp at +51 978636869 

Can I take a taxi?

Yes, it is possible, however, I will not recommend this whatsoever. The elevation of Rainbow Mountain is extreme and going without a guide can put you and your party in danger. For perspective, Rainbow Mountain is equivalent to Everest Base Camp elevation. Guides even carry oxygen on them for hikers.

How long is the hike to Rainbow Mountain?

Typically, tours will start at Rainbow Mountain Cusipata Trail Parking and the hike is 4.3 miles out and back. Expect the hike to take about 3 hours round trip. The first 1.5 miles of this hike is a relatively small climb.

On the tour I took, we hiked from a different starting point, closer to Rainbows Mountains Parking which was a 2.8-mile hike out and back that took 2 hours and 45 minutes for me to complete, including rest time at the top.

One member of our group saying hi to one of the many horses that were grazing in the area

Is the elevation that bad?

Yes! Do not downplay the effects of high elevation. Before hiking make sure you are acclimated to higher elevations or know from previous experience that you will not fall ill to the high elevation. You can be as mentally prepared as possible but your body will not physically be able to push faster due to the lack of oxygen. Guides for Rainbow Mountain carry oxygen on them for emergencies.

Is hiking the only option to get to the top of Rainbow Mountain? 

No, you also have the option to pay an additional fee for a horse/mule or motorbike which will bring you close to the top of the hike. This is available for both the upward and downward journey, with the upward journey being more expensive. Expect to pay 60 soles for the journey up and 20 soles down. 

Although horses and motorbikes are typically available, don’t rely on them. On the day of my visit, neither was available because of local conflict. 

Is there a bathroom?

Yes, from the most popular starting point at Cusipata, there are bathrooms with flushing toilets and an attendant. These cost 2 soles per person. From the side I hiked up, near Rainbow Mountains Parking, there were only porta-potties, which were free at the time of my visit but lacked basics such as toilet paper. Be sure to bring some toilet paper and change!

Where did I stay in Cusco?

I stayed at a fantastic bed and breakfast in the historic district of Cusco called Amaru Inca, located at Cuesta San Blas, 541, Cusco City Centre, 84 Cusco, Peru. My stay included breakfast and a private bathroom (with plenty of hot water)! The view of the city from the hotel was stunning.

View of Cusco at night from Amaru Inca Hotel

Find your next stay Booking.com or Vrbo.com!