Best Rainbow Mountains Peru: Everything you need to know

Rainbow Mountains Peru Tour: Everything You Need to Know

This iconic Seven Colours Mountain of Peru is one of the best tourist destinations in Cusco. Many travelers call it Rainbow Mountain due to its natural vibrant colours. It offers breathtaking views of the colourful mountain and its surrounding spots, which hide some of the most fascinating high-altitude landscapes. Embark on our different best adventures to discover the magic and feel the energy in the most remote place in the Andes. Let’s discover more about the Rainbow Mountains of Peru: everything you need to know.

The Rainbow Mountain of Peru

The Rainbow Mountain is a well-known tourist attraction in the region of Cusco; the locals who live around the mountain call it Vinicunca, which means “Wini” (black stone) and “Kunka (neck). Since it was shown to the whole world, it was recognised as the best destination and must be on the bucket list of everyone who visits Peru, although its location makes it the most challenging day tour in the region.

In addition to this natural wonder, Cusco has two other Rainbow Mountains as spectacular as Vinicunca. These are located quite farther that this classic one, offering unique scenery and breathtaking landscapes; these are Palccoyo and Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountains. Three of them offers a vibrant pattern and colors formed by mineral sediments over thousands of years.

How the Rainbow Mountains were created

These Rainbow Mountains of Cusco are naturally formed by the earth’s erosion after thousands of years; thanks to this natural phenomenon, nowadays they offer different vibrant colors that will take your breath away. Each of these mountains combines with different scenery, making these unique spots in the entire planet.

For thousands of years, different mineral deposits piled up over one another, forming multiple layers of different colors according to the composition of each mineral that exists in the area, as well as the water and air conditioning helped to form that spectacular conical shape. The current exposure is a result of millions of years of erosion and tectonic movements. The most important thing happened during the collision between the South American and Nazca tectonic plates, which gave the chain, hills, and slopes that make the famous Andean Mountain range.

Mineral Composition on the Rainbow Mountain

Everyone is surprised with the spectacular colors that these mountains show up; however, what are the minerals that we can find in this iconic mountain? Below we will describe each mineral that gives different tonalities:

RED: Clay rich in quartz, mica and sericite

PINK or FUSCHIA: Combination of Red clay, sand and shale

GREEN:Clay with iron, magnesium and copper combination

YELLOW: Rom clay rich in quartz, mica and sulfur

WHITE:Limestone and quartz sand

PURPLE or LAVANDA: Clay and calcium carbonate in marl and a bit of silicates

Exploring Each of these Three Rainbow Mountains

The Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is the most popular destination compared to the other two mountains; however, each of these offers a different spectacle for travelers who immerse themselves to explore those beautiful natural marvels in Cusco. Vinicunca offers an unreal experience together with snow peaks, while Palccoyo offers tranquillity and easy access, but Pallay Punchu is without a doubt the most impressive sharp mountain away from crowded places, as is Vinicunca.

Classic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain

This Classic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca in the Quechua language, is the closest one to Cusco, located 3 hours south of the city, and it is the most popular tourist destination in Cusco in the last few years, due to its stunning and vibrant natural colors that astonish everyone that arrives here. After the photos were released on social media and its vibrant colors captivated travelers and photographers, many people have it on their booking list.

Due to its location of 5,036 meters (16,522 feet), it is one of the most challenging Rainbow Mountains compared to others, but getting there can offer a memorable experience at the high altitude, enjoying the landscapes that surround Vinicunca mountains. The other highlight is Ausangate Mountain, which is the highest peak in Cusco.

Additionally, you will have the privilege to hike to the Red Valley located just 20 minutes from Vinicunca, jus imagine yourself walking along the reddish path surrounded by mountains with the same colors, definitely this will amaze you with its tranquility and breathtaking vistas.

Vinicunca Mountain Features

Location: Cusipata District
Max. High: 5,036m / 16,732 ft
Hiking Distance: 7km / 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Hiking time: 2-3 hours

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Palccoyo Mountain is a less-known tourist destination in Cusco; it was discovered a few years after Vinicunca, and nowadays is the best alternative option to avoid the crowds of the classic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. It is also easier and sits at a lower altitude than its rival Vinicunca; however, it offers a magnificent range of colours, and you will be able to see three different Rainbow Mountains during this tour.

This Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain offers a different experience from picturesque Andean communities where time stops to preserve their cultural customs, especially in the farming activities. The impressive Stone Forest, which is a natural formation of giant rocks that are rising toward the sky in sharp peaks, will astonish you and make you feel small in comparison.

Enjoy a pretty hike through herds of alpacas and llamas while your mind and body feel the tranquillity of the Andean mountains. On the way back, you will be able to stop in Checacupe, where you have the option to see three incredible bridges from different ages: Inca, Colonial, and Republican.

Palccoyo Mountain Features

Location: Checacupe District
Max. High: 4,900m / 16,076 ft
Hiking Distance: 3 km / 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking time: 1-1.30 hours

Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain

Discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is the third Rainbow Mountain in Cusco. Pallay Punchu has a totally different shape from the other two mountains (Vinicunca & Palccoyo); its sharp and colorful shape is unique in the region. Located a bit farther than the others, it offers a lifetime experience with its stunning landscapes. Perfect for those seeking unique and tranquil places combining breathtaking views.

Pallay Punchu means “adorned poncho” in the local language due to the similarity of the traditional poncho in Cusco; it shows lines of different colors, which were formed over millions of years thanks to the different minerals that exist in the area.

Visiting Pallay Punchu, you will also connect with local people who live along the route, learn their traditions and culture, share a moment with them to learn bit of Quechua. On the way back, you will stop at the beautiful high-altitude lagoon where you can admire the incredible landscape.

Pallay Punchu Mountain Features

Location: Layo District
Max. High: 4,700m / 15,419 ft
Hiking Distance: 2 km / 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking time: 1 hour

Which Rainbow Mountain is the Best?

Cusco has three Rainbow Mountains, and all of them offer stunning landscapes in the highlands; however, which is the best choice for you? This can be a difficult question, as each of these destinations had pros and cons, but no worries; we are here to help you decide which Rainbow Mountain will be the best option for you. In the table below, we will describe each feature that will help you decide which one to go with.

Features	Vinicunca	Palccoyo	Pallay Punchu
Difficulty	Challenging	Moderate	Moderate Low
Hike Distance	7 km / 4.3 miles	3 Km / 1.8 miles	2 Km / 1.3 miles
Altitude	5,036 m / 16,522 feet.	4,910 m / 16,070 feet.	4,600 m / 15,256 feet.
Lanscapes	Vibrant colors, snow peak & Red Valley	Stunning colors, Andean communities, herds of alpacas	Sharp peaks, lagoon, Andean Communities
Tourist affluence	Very demanding	Moderate	Low
Travel Distance	3 hours one way	4 hours one way	4 hours one way

After having read this article, you probably will choose Vinicunca as the best rainbow mountain; however, this will depend on different factors, such as your fitness level, physical conditions, and preference of landscapes. Three of them offer breathtaking landscapes unique on the planet, cultural experiences, and challenging but rewarding hikes. From our side, we definitely recommend Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain; our logistics itinerary will allow you to enjoy this iconic destination.

How to get to Rainbow Mountains Peru

These three rainbow mountains are located south of Cusco, around 3 to 4 hours driving. There is not direct local transportation that goes there; however, different travel companies organize daily departure tours from Cusco. This is the best option because more of them include transportation, tour guides, and meals (breakfast and lunch) at a reasonable price. Ask a travel expert for more details.

How far are the Rainbow Mountains from Cusco

This will depend of which Rainbow Mountain you are going to, as we mentioned up, these mountains are located a few hours driving from Cusco. have a look the table below to have better idea.

Features	Vinicunca	Palccoyo	Pallay Punchu
Drive Distance	3 Hours O/W (3 Hrs round trip)	4 Hours O/W (8 Hrs round trip)	4 Hours O/W (8 Hrs round trip)
Hike Time	2-3 Hrs one way	2 Hrs round trip	2 Hrs round trip

What to pack for the Rainbow Mountain Tour

Exploring the Rainbow Mountains Peru and have a experience of lifetime, will depend of what you pack to go there, and it is important to be well prepared for different factors before heading there. Here is a list that you should bring for your day tour:

Clothing

Layers of clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes. Start with lightweight clothing for the beginning of the hike, and bring warmer attire for the summit, where the weather can be cold and windy.

Rain Jacket: Hiking in the mountains can be more difficult that you think, the weather can change quickly and it is always good idea to have with your a rain Jacket or poncho.

Hiking boots Proper hiking shoes will help you lot during your hike, specially in the difficult terrains. where the Rainbow Mountains are located, boots with uncle support are well recommended.

Important items

Water bottle: Water is essential during any activity, hiking at this altitude you need to stay rehydrated, bringing you own 2 litters reusable water container is very helpful for our environmental impact.

Day backpack: Small backpack is well recommend for these day trips in Cusco, this will help you to keep your essential items with you during the hike.

Sunscreen: UV rays are stronger at higher altitude, is always important to put on the sunscreen and stay protected from the sun.

Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the strong sun, snow reflection and wind at this remote areas.

Toilet paper: Keep with you a roll of toilet paper, due along the tour many facilities does not offer paper.

Gloves: The weather can drops any time of the day, specially at such altitude, we recommend to bring wool gloves to stay warmer during the visit of the Rainbow Mountains.

Beanie: Beanie will help you lot to keep warm your head, specially at the top of the Rainbow Mountain which is very windy.

Hat or cap: Protect yourself from the strong sun at this altitude.

Extra items

Extra Cash: We recommend to bring extra cash for extra water, bathrooms or to buy some souvenirs.

Snacks: Hiking at the cold areas your body loses lot of energy, keep your energy levels up with light and nutritious snacks, such as dried fruit, energy bars, or nuts.

Hiking poles: If you have difficulty hiking on uneven terrain, the trekking poles are very helpful specially on the downhill sections.

How to deal with the Altitude Sickness During the Rainbow Mountain Tour

The most people are worry about the altitude when they plan to hike to the Rainbow Mountains, however we are here to provide you all the information you need to complete your Rainbow Mountain tour with no issue.

Best Tips for Altitude Sickness in the Rainbow Mountain

Before heading to the Rainbow mountain you need to prepare well! Have a look below our trip advices.

Proper acclimatization: Once you plan your trip to Cusco, we highly recommend leaving the Rainbow Mountain tour for the last activity that you can do in Cusco, better after all your tours are done in Cusco. This will help you to acclimate properly to the altitude and reach the Rainbow Mountain without any problem.

Stay rehydrated: While you are doing different activities in Cusco, we recommend drinking water; this will help you to avoid any complications with the altitude sickness.

Rest Properly: After each activity in Cusco, rest enough; your body works more when you are at the high altitude, and it needs to rest enough to keep working the next day.

Eat lightly: Eating light foods will help you to adapt easily to the altitude; fruits and soups will provide your body enough energy to work better.

Drink Coca tea: If you want better response of your body to the altitude, we recommend drinking Coca tea; however, if you have any tox screen for your work after the trip, we don’t recommend drinking Coca tea.