Rainbow Mountain Hike

rainbow mountain hikerainbow mountain tour perurainbow mountain trek peru
 

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN HIKE PERU

Rainbow Mountain Hike is an epic 3-hour trek of 7 km/4.3 miles trail, and reaches the mountain top at 5036 m /16,000 ft. The Rainbow Mountain is one of the most famous and spectacular attractions to hike in Peru. Its name suits and describes perfectly the mountain of the vibrant colors. And, this is natural that have been formed over the years through weathering and erosion. This creates the breathtaking display of colors you’ll encounter when you Hike Rainbow Mountain Peru.

Rainbow Mountain Hike starts with a short ascent at Fulawasipata, then takes a break with the longer, flatter stretch before finally preparing you for the short, steep climb to the lookout point. Hikes to Rainbow Mountain in Peru have never been easy, mostly because of the altitude symptoms. But, with a good determination, acclimatation and the right company, you can conquer the Rainbow Mountain. Now if you want to make it less difficult, there is an option to go by horse and walk the last section. And walking in this section of the trail is a must to be able to take the best photographs and enjoy the amazing surrounding landscapes the Rainbow Mountain has to offer.

HIKE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PERU

Rainbow Mountain Hike length: 3 hours RT, based on regular pace.

Rainbow Mountain Trail Distance: 7 km. (4 miles)

Rainbow Mountain trailhead: 4,328 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level. – Summit: 5,036 meters (16,486 feet) above sea level.

Rainbow Mountain Weather: Always cold and changeable.

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN HIKE FROM CUSCO

Rainbow Mountain Hike

The Rainbow Mountain Hike used to require at least 5 days, but now you can get there in a day trip! For the Rainbow Mountain Tour our private vehicle heads towards the south valley of Cusco and reaches the trailhead of Phulawasipata. The Rainbow Mountain Hike starts here and takes about 3 hours back and forth. The Rainbow Mountain Trail offers beautiful Andean landscapes with the Ausangate Mountain behind. This is the tallest point in the region of Cusco and has been considered a holy place of worship by indigenous Peruvians for a millennium. The tradition of prayer and making offerings continues to this day. Its valleys are also populated by wild and domestic camelids. With some luck, you might be able to spot them on your hike!

The Rainbow Mountain is Peru’s second most popular attraction after Machu Picchu and deserves a place on your bucket list when you visit Cusco. To get the most out of your trip and for a perfect Rainbow Mountain Hike, choose a private tour specialist company like ours!

RAINBOW MOUNTAIN HIKE 1 DAY

Rainbow Mountain Day HikeTrailhead: 4,328 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level.

Summit: 5,036 meters (16,486 feet) above sea level.

When you Hike to Rainbow Mountain in Peru, the altitude is something you should put into consideration. Trail is not too steep and wouldn’t be difficult if it wasn’t for the altitude. We suggest that you take this hike at the end of your trip to allow a good acclimation.

The symptoms of high altitude sickness (“soroche” in Peru) can include headache, nausea, dizziness, tiredness and shortness of breath. In some cases these symptoms can develop into more serious situation. This can happen when you climb quickly to high altitudes and generally above 10,000 ft / 3,050m.

BEST TIME TO HIKE RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PERU

The peruvian Andes offers two different seasons: dry (May to november) and wet ( December to April). And the best time to take the Rainbow Mountain Hike is during the dry season. 

If it’s a clear day, the views at the top are incredible. We don’t recommend the Rainbow Mountain Hike on a rainy, cloudy day because you wouldn’t see anything. Also, the hike could be harder as the trail becomes muddy and slippery. 


 

OTHER TOURS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN