Rainbow Mountain Hiking 2 Days
Vinicunca Adventure: 2-Day Rainbow Mountain Private Hiking Tour
Join our “Rainbow Mountain Expedition,” a 2-day private hiking tour to the awe-inspiring Vinicunca, known as Rainbow Mountain. This journey offers a unique opportunity to witness one of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders, marked by its vividly colored sandstone formations. As you trek through this remote and uncharted route, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andean landscapes, featuring snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and glacial rivers. Along the way, encounter the rich biodiversity of the region, including condors, vicunas, and herds of llamas and alpacas. You’ll also witness the vibrant culture of the local Quechua communities, who thrive in this challenging Altiplano environment. This adventure combines breathtaking scenery with cultural immersion, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic Andean experience. Ideal for small groups, this sustainable trek promises an unforgettable journey to the magnificent Rainbow Mountain.
Highlights
- Discover Vinicunca: Witness the spectacular Rainbow Mountain, a geological wonder with vibrant, multi-colored sandstone layers, on this exclusive 2-day private hiking adventure.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich heritage of Quechua communities living in the Altiplano, showcasing their resilience and vibrant traditional attire.
- Natural Beauty: Traverse remote trails to see emerald lakes, glacial rivers, and snow-capped peaks, encapsulating the diverse landscapes of the Andes.
- Eco-Friendly Trekking: Embrace a sustainable approach to exploration on this small-group tour, promoting responsible travel while immersing in the natural splendor of Rainbow Mountain.
- Intimate Exploration: Ideal for adventure seekers, this private tour offers a deeply personal encounter with one of Peru’s most extraordinary natural wonders, ensuring an unforgettable experience in Vinicunca.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Quesiuno and Trek to Surine Lagoon
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to Quesiuno, a quaint starting point nestled in the Andes.
Embark on a rewarding hike towards Surine Lagoon, an emerald gem amidst the mountains. Witness diverse Andean landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush valleys, as you trek. Experience a rich cultural immersion, encountering local alpaca herders in their colorful traditional attire.
Day 2: Sunrise at Rainbow Mountain and Return to Cusco
Wake up early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over Rainbow Mountain. Marvel at Vinicunca’s vivid colors and striking geological formations, a highlight of your trek. Conclude your journey with a drive back to Cusco, filled with memories of a unique and enchanting trek through Peru’s natural beauty.
Prices for this trek
PRIVATE TOUR PRICE | |
---|---|
1 person | US$ 1015 per person |
2 people | US$ 527 per person |
3 people | US$ 435 per person |
4 people | US$ 364 per person |
5 to 8 people | US$ 341 per person |
9 to 14 people | US$ 285 per person |
More than 15 people | US$ 250 per person |
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
* Prices are based on the number of people traveling together.
Includes and excludes
Included
- The clients will receive a briefing the night before the trek.
- Pick up from the hotel and transfer to Quesiuno (starting point of the trail).
- Transfer from Cusipata town to Cusco.
- Entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain.
- Personal tents accommodate two people for greater comfort and security. Our tents are 4-season and well-maintained for field performance.
- Each individual should bring an inflatable sleeping mat.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs. Kitchen tent.
- Toilet tent with bio-degradable toilet facilities.
- English-speaking tour leader plus an assistant guide for groups of over eight trekkers
- Chef and cooking equipment.
- Campsite fees have to pay to the local community in every camp.
- Pack animals (to carry tents, food, and cooking equipment).
- Pack animals to carry personal gear up to 7kg per person (including sleeping pad and sleeping bag).
- One emergency horse every six people.
- Horse riders.
- Meals (1 breakfast, 2-lunches, one dinner + daily morning snack + daily tea service except for last day). Vegetarian or special diets are available at no extra cost.
- A cloth bag for everyday snacks saves plastic bags and decreases waste.
- We will provide boiled water from lunchtime on the first day.
- Bio-degradable personal hand soaps.
- Our kitchen staff uses bio-degradable dishwashing detergents.
- Hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in the water bottle every morning, night, and lunchtime.
- We bring a first-aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle.
- 24-hour support by our local staff.
Not Included
- The price does not cover domestic or international flights. Consult a travel agency if necessary.
- VISA procedures, travel insurance, pre, and post-tour accommodation.
- Additional personal costs (alcoholic beverages, laundry).
- The price does not cover gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff.
- Guidance in another language (Germany, French, others), in case you request them, please ask your travel agent.
- Additional items are not included explicitly in the itinerary description.
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Sleeping bag.
Trip code: RMH02D-PVT
Day 1 – Transport to Quesiuno, Hike to Surine Lagoon
- Pick up from the hotel at 06:00, and set out on a drive through the South Valley. The drive to the trailhead at Quesiuno (4,326m/14,189ft) is 3 hours and 30 minutes long. Along the way, stop at the town of Checacupe to check out part of the Inca Bridge and the functioning colonial bridge from the XII century.
- Upon arrival at the head of the trail, we will load all the gear on the horses and begin our hike uphill. Following a lovely stream, we are immediately surprised by the main herds of alpacas and llamas and the consistent views of the Ausangate Mountain. We will hike through villages and interact with the residents. Furthermore, we will have the opportunity to see chinchillas and vicuñas.
- After a 3-hour hike, we will reach Alccataure (4,600m/15,092ft), where we will re-energize with lunch. After a satisfying lunch, we will begin our hike uphill to the first step.
- After 1 hour and a half, we will follow Llama Trail to the Minasniyuq pass (4,980m/16,339ft). Here we will catch our first stunning views of the Rainbow Mountains. Then we will continue with a one-hour downhill hike to our camp, Surine Cocha (4,800m/15,748ft).
- Distance estimate: 9 km (5, 59 miles), Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 – Sunrise at Rainbow Mountain, Back to Cusco
- After breakfast, we will hike gradually uphill for 2 hours until we reach the famous Rainbow Mountain (5,030m/16,498ft).
- The guide will explain what makes these mountains so unique: they are composed of various minerals, which make different colors of stone striations.
- As we pass through lush, emerald-colored valleys, we see Ausangate Mountain views standing like a god-carved monolith in the distance. Of course, this will lead to the exciting moment we first spot the colored minerals that formed the painted hills. It is truly a chance to stand in awe of Mother Nature’s handcrafted jewels. The guide will explain the geological history of Rainbow Mountain as we approach its beauty.
- Once we reach the peak, we will have a chance to eat and take in the panoramic views. Typically, the break lasts 45 minutes.
- It is time to descend after soaking in the beautiful vistas.
- Returning to the trailhead should take lunch before traveling to Cusco.
- We will embark on the 3-hour drive back to Cusco and drop off at the Cusco hotel.
- The approximate arrival time is between 17:00.
- Distance estimate: 9 km (5, 59 miles), Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.