The 7-color mountain, also known as Vinicunca, represents one of the most spectacular geological phenomena in the world and the most photographed natural destination in Peru. This Rainbow Mountain tour will take you to discover the Mountain of 7 Colors, located in the province of Quispicanchi, Cusco, where the natural multicolored stripes create a surreal landscape at 5,200 meters of altitude.
During this 7-color mountain tour, you’ll explore one of the most impressive natural treasures of the Peruvian Andes, where the Rainbow Mountain of Peru shines in all its splendor alongside the majestic Ausangate snowcap. This 7-color mountain excursion is perfect for lovers of high-altitude trekking and Andean landscape photography.
General Tour Information
- Total duration: 12 hours (full day)
- Start time: 04:30 – 04:45 hrs
- Return time: Approx. 16:30 hrs
- Maximum altitude: 7-color mountain height – 5,200 masl
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (high altitude)
- Hiking distance: 6 km (round trip)
Itinerary
Cusco – Cusipata – 7-Color Mountain – Cusipata – Cusco
Pickup and Tour Start
We begin the 7-color mountain tour with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center. Our guide will greet you to start this adventure to Cusco’s Rainbow Mountain, one of the most photographed 7-color mountains in Peru and the world.
Journey: Cusco – Cusipata
We embark on a 2-hour scenic drive south, crossing breathtaking Andean landscapes until reaching Cusipata (3,310 masl). Along the way, we’ll witness sunrise over the snow-capped peaks and gradually approach the location of the 7-color mountain.
Energy Breakfast in Cusipata
We enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast to fuel up for the high-altitude hike to the 7-color mountain. This is the perfect time to acclimate before ascending further.
Transfer: Cusipata – Phulawasipata
We continue climbing for 1 additional hour to Phulawasipata (4,200 masl), the base camp and starting point for the trek to Vinicunca. During this leg, we’ll catch the first glimpses of the colorful mountains in the distance.
Trek to the 7-Color Mountain
We begin the most thrilling hike of the tour: a 1.5 to 2-hour trek (depending on fitness level) to Cusco’s 7-color mountain. During this high-altitude trekking, we’ll ascend 1,000 meters in elevation through:
Landscapes you’ll encounter along the way:
- Red Valley with unique geological formations
- Andean grasslands where llamas and alpacas graze
- Panoramic views of Ausangate Mountain (6,372 masl)
- Puna flora adapted to high-altitude conditions
- Local communities of camelid herders
Summit Exploration – Rainbow Mountain
We arrive at the summit of Peru’s 7-color mountain! At 5,200 meters above sea level, we stand at one of the planet’s most spectacular natural viewpoints.
Experiences at the summit:
- Panoramic photography of the 7-color mountain
- Observation of the geological stripes creating natural colors
- Views of the Red Valley and surrounding colorful mountains
- Gratitude ritual to the Apus (sacred mountains)
- Sightings of Ausangate and other snowy peaks
Our guide will share fascinating insights about:
- Geological formation of the 7-color mountain
- Mineral composition creating its natural colors
- Cultural significance for Quechua communities
- Touristic discovery history of the Rainbow Mountain
Descent to Phulawasipata
We descend via the same trail, enjoying new perspectives of Peru’s colorful mountains and capturing unique photos of Cusco’s 7-color mountain from different angles.
Return to Cusipata
We board our transport back to Cusipata, where a hearty lunch at a local restaurant awaits—perfect for recharging after the 7-color mountain excursion.
Lunch and Return to Cusco
We savor a traditional Peruvian lunch while sharing stories from our Cusco 7-color mountain adventure. Then, we begin the return trip to Cusco, arriving around 16:30 hrs and concluding this unforgettable journey in Cusco.
Included
Includes
- Pick up from your Hotel.
- Tourist transportation.
- Accredited Professional Tourist Guide.
- Entrance Ticket.
- Breakfast.
- Lunch.
- First aid kit.
Not Include
- Extra Drinks & Foods.
- Extra Money & Tips.
Recommendations:
- Very important: bring a Face Mask & Face Protector.
- Warm Clothing (Jacket, Jumper, Hat, Scarf, Gloves, etc.)
- Trekking shoes.
- Small backpack to carry your necessary belongings.
- Rain cape.
- Sunscreen.
- Antibacterial hand gel.
- Sunglasses and/or cap.
- Extra Money in Soles.
Contact Us
More Information
Technical and Geographic Information
Altitude and Location Data
- Total elevation gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)
- 7-Color Mountain location: Vilcanota Mountain Range, Quispicanchi, Cusco
- 7-Color Mountain height: 5,200 masl (17,060 feet)
- Coordinates: Approximately 13°52’S, 71°18’W
- Trek starting point: Phulawasipata (4,200 masl)
The Geological Phenomenon of the 7 Colors
Why does the 7-Color Mountain have these hues?
The Rainbow Mountain of Peru owes its spectacular multicolored stripes to the mineral composition of its sedimentary rocks:
- Brown: Manganese oxide
- Red: Iron oxide (hematite)
- Yellow: Iron sulfide (limonite)
- Green: Chlorite and epidote
- Purple: Magnesium oxide and silicates
- White: Sandstone and quartz
- Pink: Red clay and mudstone
Essential Recommendations
Altitude Preparation
The high altitude of the 7-Color Mountain requires prior acclimatization:
- Arrive in Cusco 2–3 days before the tour
- Stay hydrated at all times
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals
- Consider altitude sickness medication if needed
Recommended Gear
- Thermal layers and windproof jacket
- Hiking boots with grip soles
- Hat and gloves for morning cold
- Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen (intense UV radiation)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May–September): Ideal conditions for the Peruvian 7-Color Mountain
Rainy season (October–April): Greener landscapes but unpredictable weather
Photography Tips
Golden hour: Best colors at sunrise/sunset
Composition: Include the Red Valley for contrast
Perspective: Experiment with angles to highlight different color layers
Where Exactly Is the 7-Color Mountain Located?
If you’re wondering where the 7-Color Mountain is, this natural wonder lies in Cusco’s Quispicanchi Province, Pitumarca District, southeastern Peru. Part of the Vilcanota Range, it neighbors the towering Ausangate Mountain. Specifically, it’s in the Pampachiri rural community, between Cusipata and Pitumarca. From Cusco, it’s a 3-hour drive followed by a 1–2 hour hike (depending on fitness).
How High Is the 7-Color Mountain?
At 5,200 masl (17,060 feet), altitude sickness is a real risk. Prepare by hydrating, resting well, and avoiding heavy foods pre-tour.
Rainbow Mountain Peru: Key Facts
Here’s what makes Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) unique:
- The Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca sits at an altitude of more than half that of Mount Everest
- It’s also called Vinicunca, a word from Peru’s native Quechua language, meaning “colored mountain”
- The Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca is made up of 14 different colorful minerals
- Just 10 years ago it was completely covered in snow, hiding its full beauty
- It was discovered thanks to social media by tourists doing the Ausangate trek
- Temperatures still drop below 0°C (32°F) at night—key info for multi-day Ausangate treks
- You’ll spot llamas and alpacas along the Vinicunca route
- Weather can shift rapidly from snow to rain to blazing sun in under an hour
- You can rent a horse at any point if the hike gets tough—no need to book one in advance
How Does Altitude Affect You at the 7-Color Mountain?
The 5,200 masl (17,060 ft) altitude may cause discomfort if unacclimatized. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, insomnia, or fatigue.
Recommendations:
- Consult your doctor if concerned before traveling
- Acclimatize at least 1 full day in Cusco pre-tour
- Drink fluids and eat energizing foods
Hike Difficulty
The 3–4 hour round-trip hike involves steep sections and moderate-to-high exertion. The main challenge isn’t the trail but the altitude, cold, and wind. Basic fitness and good health are advised.
What to Pack for the Tour?
For the 7-Color Mountain in Cusco, we recommend:
- Water, snacks, cash, and camera
- Warm, comfortable clothing
- Waterproof jacket, flexible pants, and hiking shoes
- Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
How Long Is the Hike to the 7-Color Mountain?
The trek takes 1.5–2 hours (depending on pace/fitness) from Phulawasipata (4,200 masl) to the 5,200 masl summit of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain).
Best Time to Visit the 7-Color Mountain?
The ideal window is April–October (dry season), with stable weather and clear skies. Avoid November–March (rainy season), as trails may be inaccessible.
How Hard Is the 7-Color Mountain Hike?
The trek is moderate to challenging, mainly due to altitude. The steep climb and cold/windy conditions demand physical effort. Acclimatize in Cusco beforehand, hike at your own pace, or rent a horse. Some routes offer ATV access to reduce hiking time.
Tour Price to the 7-Color Mountain?
The cost of the 7-Color Mountain tour varies depending on the service package you choose: It may include tourist transportation, breakfast, lunch, professional guide, oxygen, trekking poles, or even horse rental. At Dreamy Tours, we offer different options so you can experience this adventure in the best way possible.
Contact us to get updated prices and choose the package that best fits your needs.
Looking for an easier option?
If long hikes aren’t your thing, you can choose Palcoyo Mountain, also known as the Colorful Mountain Range. This alternative has lower altitude and just a one-hour walk, perfect if you want to experience Peru’s colorful mountains without much physical effort.
Price
How Much Does It Cost?
We have price alternatives that accommodate all budgets, prices per person, expressed in US Dollars.
Make your quotes and reservations by email [email protected], you can also communicate with one of our sales executives at the telephones detailed below, we will be happy to assist you.
Phone – WhatsApp: +51 969 787 221
Phone – WhatsApp: +51 986 994 218
How To Book The South Valley Cusco Tour?
To start the reservation process, please send us the following information:
- Name and surname:
- Passport number:
- Nationality:
- Date of Birth:
- Phone:
- Very important – We need the address and information about the hotel that you are staying at, in the city of Cusco, to be able to pick you up at the time when the tour starts
To confirm reservations it is required to pay 50% in advance and the other 50% can be paid upon arrival at your destination.
Payment Methods
- IZIPAY
- PAYPAL
- WESTER UNION
- MONEYGRAM
- TRANSFER TO OUR BANK ACCOUNT PERU
Map
