What is the duration of the Rainbow Mountain hike?

The ‘Rainbow Mountain‘, also known as ‘Vinicunca‘ or the ‘Mountain of Seven Colours‘, is located in the region of Cusco, a 3.5 hour drive from Cusco city. The hike to the classic viewpoint can vary in duration depending on a number of factors. The primary factors being, the location of the start point, the overall pace of the group, and the weather conditions on the day.

Typically, a full day tour to the Rainbow Mountain will begin early in the morning in the city of Cusco, followed by a private car or tourist bus to the start point of the hike. This start point can change to weather and local political factors, however the ascent to the classic viewpoint will generally take 90 minutes by hiking on foot, or 1 hour on a horse, followed by an extra 20 minutes on foot.

The start point of the hike is located at an altitude of 4,650 m / 15,255 ft and the summit of the viewpoint is located at an altitude of 5,040 m / 16,535 ft. Therefore, the acclimatisation to the high altitude and physical ability of the group will need to be a factor when estimating the time spent walking to the top.

Naturally the descent from the viewpoint back to the transportation will take less time that than the ascent. Since horses do not carry people on the return journey down the trail, the only way back from the viewpoint would be to walk on foot, which typically takes around 1 hour.

Factors influencing the duration of the hike

Participants’ Physical Condition: Each person’s speed and stamina can vary greatly depending on their fitness level, which will inevitably have an impact on the pace of the hike to the viewpoint.

Acclimatization to Altitude: The summit of the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint is located at an altitude of 5,040 m / 16,535 ft, making acclimatization crucial. We therefore recommend that visitors take a few days to acclimatise when arriving in Cusco city, which sits at an altitude of 3,400 m / 11,155 ft, before embarking on a tour to Rainbow Mountain.

Group Size: Large groups have the potential to move slower, especially if the tour guides need to ensure that all members are safe and comfortable. Additionally, group dynamics, such as the presence of children or older people, can affect the pace.

Weather Conditions at Rainbow Mountain: Weather can significantly impact the duration of the hike to the viewpoint. Rain, snow, or strong winds are all common climatic conditions at this altitude, which can extend the time it takes to complete the hike.

When planning a hike at high altitude and with challenging terrain like Rainbow Mountain, it is crucial to consider these factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Preparation for the Hike

When attempting the Rainbow Mountain hike, it is advisable to be in good health. It is true that the trek is not particularly challenging or technical, but it does require a reasonable level of physical fitness, especially considering the altitude to enjoy the experience and complete it comfortably.

Best time to visit Rainbow Mountain

Rainy Season

The rainy season runs from December till April, with the wettest months being in January and February. Although we advise visitors to be prepared for wet conditions during this season, it is worth bearing in mind that it does not rain all the time. The summertime in Peru also take place during this period, with the warmest months occurring in January and February. Despite the increase in temperature however, the overcast skies and rain showers can make it seem colder on gloomy days.

Dry Season

The dry season runs from April to December, with the high season for tourism taking place in May, June and July. However, it is worth bearing in mind that winter begins in June, so the temperatures atop Rainbow Mountain will be very cold. If you don’t mind the chill, the best months for exploring the Rainbow Mountain are May to October, as not only are the conditions more preferable for hiking, but the trail to Rainbow Mountain will be less wet and treacherous. The clear skies above your head will also treat visitors to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and glacial mountains. Furthermore, as tourist numbers in Cusco increase during this time, you will inevitably need to share the experience with others.

Required Equipment for the Hike

Essential equipment needed for hiking the Rainbow Mountain trail includes:

• good quality trekking shoes or boots
• lightweight / breathable clothing
• a medium sized backpack
• sunscreen (high SPF)
• wide brimmed sun hat
• sunglasses
• bottle of drinking water

*Your Machu Picchu Viajes Peru tour guide will carry an emergency first aid kit and oxygen bottle*

Acclimatization and Health Tips

It is crucial to be adequately acclimatised to the high mountainous region of the Andes before embarking on the Rainbow Mountain hike. It is also important to bring sufficient water for hydration and a high SPF sunscreen to protect against the strong UV rays at altitude. Acclimatization will need to be a priority when arriving in Cusco which is located at an altitude of 3,400 m / 11,155 ft. We therefore recommend that visitors first spend one or two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before attempting to hike the Rainbow Mountain. Most tours to the Rainbow Mountain offer a complete one day experience to and from the city of Cusco, departing early in the morning and arrival back in Cusco by late afternoon. The total journey, including transportation and hiking, takes about 12 to 14 hours.

Additional services available at Rainbow Mountain

If you are planning a visit to the Rainbow Mountain, you will be pleased to learn that there are a number of alternative options for reaching the viewpoint than just simply walking the trail on foot.

Most tour agencies in Cusco are able to arrange for horses to happily carry you along the trail from the carpark. This horse ride will typically take 1-hour but will only get you to the first viewpoint. After that, if you wish to reach the highest viewpoint, you will need to hike the final 20 minutes on foot, to the summit at 5,040 m / 16,535 ft. Please note that the horse will not return you to the transportation, so you will have to head back down the trail on foot.

Some tour agencies in Cusco also offer ATV quad biking excursions up to Rainbow Mountain. This ATV tour will typically take 45 minutes up to the viewpoint and 30 minutes back down to the transportation.

These services represent an alternative and less physically demanding journey up to the viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain. Giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy the landscape, using minimal physical effort.