All You Need To Know About The Rainbow Mountain!

All You Need To Know About the Rainbow Mountains!

 

The Different Colorful  Mountains
 

The One-Day Rainbow Mountain Tour

Our 1 Day Vinicunca hike will take you to the top of the famous stripy mountain, where you’ll have sweeping panoramic views of the otherworldly landscape of the Vilcanota Mountain Range and across to the imposing Ausangate Massif. We’ll have to trek at a very high altitude to get to the kaleidoscopic Vinicunca, but it’s worth the effort – and we’ll be with you every step of the way. If you are struggling with the altitude, you also have the option to ride a horse to the summit to see the spectacular Vinicunca in all its glory!

 

The Spectacular Vincunca!

The Palcoyo Mountain(s)

 Palcoyo is actually much more than a stripy Peruvian mountain.... it is 3 stripy peaks! Palcoyo is found in the same section of the Peruvian Andes called the Vilcanota Mountain Range. This mountain range is just a few hours South of Cusco in the same region as its more famous counterpart - Vincicunca,  as well as the Ausangate Mountain (the highest in Cusco) and the Qollor Riti Festival! Palcoyo is the lesser-visited kaleidoscopoic Mountain, receiving a fraction of the visitors as Vinicunca. This makes it perfect for those who prefer an off-the-beaten-track experience, far away from the Cusco tour buses. The other advantages are that it is at a lower elevation than the "main" colorful mountain, it is a shorter distance to trek there, and you can see the stunning Red Valley stretching for miles, as well as the fascinating stone forest on your Palcoyo journey! 

 

Palcoyo Mountains!

 

 

 

The 7 Day Ausangate Trek With Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu

The Ausangate mountain is a sacred mountain for the local people and is the highest in the region. The Ausangate trek is considered one of the most challenging treks to Machu Picchu, in large part due to the high elevation along the route. We will also trek to the famous Vinicunca, found in the same mountain range.  The Ausangate trek with Vinicunca and  Machu Picchu is one of the most naturally stunning treks in Peru, passing through unspoiled landscapes of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and crystalline lakes. Combine this with the stunning Vinicunca Mountain, then a transfer to Machu Picchu, and you have got yourself one pretty amazing Peru Trek!   

 

The Sacred  Apu Ausangate on The Ausangate Trek!

The 10 Day Ausangate Trek With Vinicunca and Machu Picchu

This exceptional 10 Day hiking trip to the Ausangate and Vinicunca region is the same as the 7 Day option mentioned above. The difference is that we include your acclimatization days in Cusco prior to the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Peak trekking adventure to Machu Picchu. We also include a night in Cusco when you return from Machu Picchu so that you don´t have the hassle of searching for a hotel!

 

Glacial Lakes on The Ausangate Trek

 

Optional Add-Ons For Your Trek

Cusco is a beautiful Andean city in Peru with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore in its own right! Of course, Cusco is renowned for being the gateway to Machu Picchu. If you have a few extra days in Cusco before or after your colorful hike, here are some optional add-ons and activities you can consider to make the most of your time on your visit to the land of the Incas.

 

Optional Add-Ons 

 

• The Huayna Picchu Hike is actually an optional hike inside Machu Picchu on your visit to the Inca site. The Huayna Picchu Mountain is the famous conical mountain in all of the classic Machu Picchu photos! Each day, 400 lucky people have the opportunity to climb this peak for the most majestic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys. You will need a special permit for this hike however as numbers are restricted. Let us know at the time of booking your Machu Picchu tour!

 

 

 

• Sacred Valley Tour: The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a picturesque region just outside of Cusco. You can visit towns like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, exploring ancient ruins, local markets, and enjoying the spectacular countryside of The Andes. If you are struggling or trying to acclimatize before your Inca Trail trek or Salkantay Trek, you should visit The Sacred Valley as it is 1000 meters lower than Cusco. 

 

 

• Horse Riding: Enjoy horseback riding in the beautiful countryside around Cusco, with the option to visit archaeological sites such as the Temple of the Moon and Qenqo, and enjoy horse riding through the wonderful Andean region before your trekking adventure in the Andes.

 

• ChocoMuseo: This Chocolate Museum in Cusco offers workshops on making chocolate from scratch. It's a great activity for families or chocolate lovers.

 

• San Pedro Market: Explore this bustling local market on your Cusco City tour to experience the daily life of Cusco's residents. You can buy local products, sample traditional foods, and shop for souvenirs at this wonderful, eclectic Cusco Market.

 

• Sacsayhuaman and Cusco Ruins: Explore the archaeological complex of Sacsayhuaman, located just above Cusco. It's an impressive site with large stone walls and beautiful views of the city. Tambomachay and Puka Pukara are the lesser-known Inca ruins in the Cusco area. They are typically less crowded than the more famous sites like Sacsayhuaman and Machu Picchu, and you can visit on a Cusco city tour either before or after your hike to Machu Picchu.

 

Sacsaywaman Fortress near Cusco

 

• Zip-Lining: There are several zip-lining options in the Sacred Valley, offering an adrenaline-filled adventure with breathtaking views. The Via Ferrata and Zipline adventure in the Sacred Valley is an excellent option before your Machu Picchu trek.

 

• South Valley Tour: The South Valley of Cusco is less frequented by tourists but offers a unique perspective of the region's history and culture. You can visit sites like Tipon (Inca agricultural terraces), Pikillacta (pre-Inca ruins), and Andahuaylillas (known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" ) for its stunning church.

 

• Humantay Lake: A day trip to Humantay Lake, located in the Salkantay region, offers a breathtaking glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It's a relatively moderate hike and a great way to experience the Andean highlands as you acclimatize for your multi-day trek in the Andes.

 

• Qeswachaka (Inca Rope Bridge): Qeswachaka is the last remaining Inca bridge made of woven grass. You can visit this ancient engineering marvel, participate in bridge-building activities, and learn about traditional Quechua culture before your Machu Picchu hike.

 

• Mountain Biking: If you're an adventure enthusiast, consider mountain biking in the Sacred Valley or South Valley. There are various cycling routes catering to different skill levels. Our favorite is the cycling adventure at Maras and Moray in the Sacred Valley.

 

• Visiting Local Communities: Engage in community-based tourism by visiting local Andean communities. You can learn about traditional weaving, farming, and customs, and even participate in cultural exchanges.

 

• Maras and Moray ATV tour: You can combine a visit to the Moray archaeological site with a Mountain Bike Tour or ATV tour, through the surrounding countryside, providing a unique perspective on local life in The Sacred Valley.

 

• Huchuy Qosqo: This is a less crowded day hike that is perfect as an acclimatization hike before you tackle the Inca Trail hike or Choquequirao Trek. This one-day hike takes you to the ancient site of Huchuy Qosqo, offering beautiful views and a glimpse into Inca history.

 

Humantay Lake 

Tips on Physical Preparation For The Hike

Traveling to any destination anywhere in the world can be hard, both emotionally and physically. Peru and South America are no exception; you need to take care of your health to enjoy your trip. Here, we will offer some useful tips for healthy travel and some advice on staying healthy during your tours and treks.                                               

 

Before You Leave Home 

Visit a medical clinic before you travel, and your doctor will be able to give you the injections you need for the locations you wish to visit in Peru. Vaccines and medications are one of the best ways to protect yourself while traveling. Vaccines for Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Tetanus, and a rabies vaccine are our recommendations for traveling to Peru. There are also other illnesses you could encounter, such as the famous Travelers' Diarrhoea, and colds (there are different cold viruses in Peru), which are the most common things you may encounter when you travel to Peru.

 

Visit Your Travel Clinic Before Your Peru Trip!

 

First Aid Kit

Pack a good first aid kit; you may think that you do not need this, but this is an essential part of any preparation for any Peru hike. Take the essentials like anti-diarrheal medication, antihistamine, anti-motion sickness medication, pain relievers, laxatives, antacids, anti-bacterial ointment, hand sanitizer, band-aids, cream for sunburn, and rehydration salts.  If you don’t need them, then great, but it is better to have a fully equipped first Aid kit on your tour than not! Remember, your trek involves trekking in remote regions where medical facilities are scarce or non-existent.
 

Travel Insurance

We all know that when traveling, this is an extra expense that you might not be thinking about for your trip. However, a basic travel insurance policy is essential for remote trekking and any travel in Peru. We hope that all will run smoothly, but if something should happen, you can at least rely on your insurance policy for emergency treatment and to help get you home if necessary. Without it, you may be in serious trouble during your tour!

Fitness Levels

Build up your fitness level with aerobic training, or cardiovascular training before hiking on your Vinicunca Trek. This refers to exercise or activities that use oxygen to adequately meet the demands of exercise through aerobic metabolism and should be the focus of your preparation. Swimming, running, and hiking, are all excellent ways to prepare for hiking tours.

 

Day Hikes 

 

Mental Preparation

Training for a Rainbow Mountain hike is as much about your physical endurance as it is about your mental stamina. There will be points along the excursion that are particularly tough, usually on the way up to high passes.  Despite tired legs and sore bodies, you will need to be able to dig deep to push yourself up and over these passes. Make sure you have a positive attitude before arriving in Cusco. That means preparing yourself mentally for your high-elevation trekking challenge ahead!

 

During yourTour

Water:

Anywhere you travel in the world, you need to be careful with the drinking water. Normally, what most people do is buy bottled water, which is the best idea, but make sure that the seal is intact. It is important to take a refillable water bottle. If you are on a multi-day trek, such as the Ausangate and Vinicunca Trek to Machu Picchu. This is also a good way to protect the environment and avoid the use of unnecessary plastics along your journey. Taking purification tablets is also a good idea, depending on the season. In the dry season, water is harder to come by, but don´t worry, we have you covered on the trip! We also provide plenty of hot drinks that help keep you hydrated and warm, and you know the water has been boiled to avoid any stomach issues on the tour.

 

Food: 

Eat healthy and in reputable restaurants before your trip to avoid illness. Getting sick before your trek is not a good way to prepare for this challenging Peru hiking tour! Remember that your body is dealing with the altitude gain even before you begin to trek the stunning Rainbow Mountain, and getting sick could take away valuable travel time on your trip to Peru. Wait until after your trek to sample or experiment with the local cuisine and try all of the delicious dishes (and pisco sours) on offer during your Peru tour package!

 

Quinoa Salad - Perfect Preparation For High Altitude Treks

 

The Altitude:

Take it easy when you arrive in Cusco and drink plenty of water. Do not take the altitude lightly; this can make you feel sick, and you do not want to spoil your trek. For the first few days in Cusco, do nothing more than stroll around until you feel your breathing is normal and you are used to the thinner air. After a couple of days, do some day hikes around the local archaeological sites or some mountain biking in the Sacred Valley, for example, which is at a lower elevation.
 

Alcohol:

Save the parties and drinking until after your Rainbow Mountain Trek, your body will thank you for it. Alcohol can cause terrible hangovers at altitude and should be avoided, at least while you are acclimatizing 😊 In any case, you will probably want to celebrate completing your trip, so save the Pisco Sours until afterwards!

 

Pisco Sours After The Trek!

 

Hotels:

The top-end hotels throughout Peru usually have decent gyms and excellent spa facilities to help you keep fit and well during your stay. There are a number of wellness options for those who are looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle during their Machu Picchu vacation packages. Ask us at Valencia Travel for more information on wellness options for either before or after your tour.

Staying for Long Periods of Time in Peru:

If you plan to stay in Peru for a while, there are plenty of hiking options to help you keep fit.  The most famous day trip, of course, is Rainbow Mountain on Cusco day tours, however, there are many different trekking options. There are a number of hiking clubs in Cusco for example, where you can keep fit and also enjoy some of the more off-the-beaten-track trekking routes of the Andes in the company of other trekkers.

You can also sign up for a local gym if you want to maintain your fitness regime from back home before you hike to the stripy mountain. Explain to the trainer how long you have been traveling in Peru, or at high altitude, and that you want to prepare for the trek. They will make sure you are not over-exerting yourself, especially in Cusco or other high-altitude cities, when you first arrive.

 

Ausangate and Vinicunca Trek to Machu Picchu

 

High Altitude and Acclimatization Tips for Your Rainbow Mountain Tour

If you are planning to travel to Peru, you will experience an incredibly diverse range of landscapes and habitats where you can take part in all types of adventurous and cultural activities. One of the ultimate destinations to visit is the magical Vinicunca Mountain, which can be found at over 5200 meters above sea level, and close to the city of Cusco. The Rainbow Mountain can be a phenomenal experience for even the most worldly-wise adventurer, so remember, acclimatization to the altitude is just as important as not forgetting your walking boots.  Remember, acclimatization is a lot more complex than simply popping a few tablets. Here are some top tips to help you avoid suffering from high altitude when you arrive for your trek.

 

You will be Hiking At Over 5000 Meters on The Trek!

 

Rainbow Mountain Treks
 

Take it Easy When You Arrive For Your Tour! 

On arrival in Cusco, first things first, there should be no rushing around. The best thing to do is to take it easy for the first 24 hours. The remarkable Andean scenery will still be there the following day! If you have made plans to trek at high altitude in Peru, plan your ascent over a period of days. This gives your body time to adjust, rather than just heading off into the mountains after leaving your bags at your hotel.

 

Acclimatizing in Cusco!

 

Relax as You Acclimatize for The Trek

There are plenty of amazing things to do in the city of Cusco, and if you can allow yourself as much time as possible to relax and take things easy, then you will be in much better shape for when you start to take things to a higher level on the Rainbow Mountain tour. Coffee shops, reading material, and getting to know the area are all excellent ways to relax in Cusco, and there are some impressive examples of Inca architecture. It is definitely worth taking a look around Cusco on a Cusco City tour as part of your acclimatization to the high altitude in the Andean region of Peru.

 

 San Blas Breakfast

 
Pack Light On Your Hike

Make sure you only take the absolute necessities on the hike. Carrying an overweight backpack will not only slow you down but will also over-exert you in areas where there is less oxygen at higher elevations, and the difficult terrains that you will be facing.  You can store your main luggage at your Cusco hotel or at our office. This means that you only need to carry your essentials in your day pack.

 

Eat Well In Preparation for The Trek

This refers to eating the correct way and the right meals on your arrival to Cusco… not eating everything in sight! Salads (washed in purified water), sandwiches, and plenty of water are excellent in order to prepare your body for any potential altitude issues. Don´t forget, your digestive system slows down at high altitudes, so smaller, more frequent meals are the way to go instead of massive plates of food. Try and stick to carbs instead of greasy food to keep your energy levels up. This is the best preparation for the Rainbow Mountain tour.

 

Peruvian Potatoes!

 

Avoid Alcohol Before Your Trip, At least!

Although all that sitting around as you acclimatize for your trekking adventure can often lead to the more sociable side of life in Peru, it is worth avoiding alcohol until your body has acclimatized to the altitude. Feeling nauseous, dizzy, and suffering severe headaches can really take their toll even without a few drinks, and when altitude is combined with alcohol, the effects can be seriously nasty. Save the pisco sours until after the trek!

 

The Magical Coca Leaf On High Altitude Tours

For centuries, the humble coca leaf has been used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes in the Andes. This magical leaf helps to combat altitude symptoms, acts as a diuretic, and is downright tasty! Whether you make a herbal brew or chew them directly, this incredible natural remedy will help with the headaches and other side effects of high altitude, which you will surely experience on your hike.

 

Coca Leaves Help Acclimatization!

Time is a great healer, as they say, and it certainly is when it comes to adequate acclimatization before your Rainbow Mountain Trip. Allow in general 2 to 3 days of acclimatization before even thinking about venturing to the high elevations. Your body will thank you for it, and you will have a much better experience if you are feeling at your best. Find out more about the Rainbow Mountain tours with Valencia Travel here.

 

Colorful Llama at The Colorful Vinicunca!

 

Trekking Distances on Rainbow Mountain Tours

Day-by-Day Trekking Distances 

The Rainbow Mountains of Peru are located in the Vilcanota Mountain range. This is in a section of The Andes that is in the  Southern Cusco region. One thing is for sure, this mountain range is not easy to get to! The journey involves a 3 -4 hour drive from Cusco. After this journey by car, you will then have a hike to reach the stripy mountain of your choice. The distance hiked is detailed below for the option your prefer!

 

Vinicunca Hiking Distance

7 KM / 5 Miles (return journey)  and 3-4 hours hiking.

 

Palcoyo  Hiking Distance

4 KM / 2.5 Miles (return journey)  and 2-3 Hours hiking

 

The Red Valley Near Palcoyo 

 

Ausangate , Vinicunca and Machu Picchu 7 Day

70 KM /42 Miles  (hiked over 5 Days)

Daily distance and hiking time: between 7 and 15 KM / 4 - 10 Miles and 5-8 hours daily hiking.

 

Ausangate , Vinicunca and Machu Picchu 10 Day

70 KM /42 Miles  (hiked over 5 Days)

Daily distance and hiking time: between 7 and 15 KM / 4 - 10 Miles and 5-8 hours daily hiking.

 

Apu Ausangate!

 

Hiking to the different Rainbow Mountains includes trekking through scenery that´s out of this world!  Whether you prefer a one-day trekking expedition, an off-the-beaten-track experience, or a multi-day trek around the Ausangate and Vinicunca, you'll carry with you not just photographs and memories of otherworldly landscapes but a profound sense of accomplishment and wonder that will stay with you long after your epic adventure is over!

 

Local Child and His Lamb at Palcoyo 

 

Starting and Ending Points for The Different Tours

Our Rainbow Mountain Tours all begin and end in Cusco with your hotel pick up and drop off.  What is in between, though, is very different! 

 

The Vinicunca tour will begin with a 3.5-hour car drive to the trailhead at Cusipata. After your visit, you will hike back along the same trail to Cusipata, where our vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.

 

The Palcoyo Tour heads to the same trailhead from Cusipata but will take a different, easier (lower and shorter than Vinicunca)  hiking route. Three of the stripy mountains can be seen on this route: Palcoyo, Wilcacunca, and Pallay Puncho.

 

The Ausangate with Vinicunca multi-day treks also begin and end in Cusco. We will head to a different trailhead in a village called Tinki and will finish at the ot springs of Pacchanta, where our private car will transfer us to Ollantaytambo train station for the Machu Picchu visit.

 

Whichever kaleidoscopic mountain you choose to visit, we will be with you every step of the way! 

 

Llamas at Vinicunca 

The Ultimate Packing List For Rainbow Mountain Tours
 

Vinicunca is one of those places that is on most people´s bucket lists when they visit Peru. However, one thing we are constantly asked about is the question of what to pack.

 

For the multi-day treks to Vinicunca with the Ausangate region, we will provide a duffle bag for your main luggage. This will be carried by a pack mule along the Ausanagate and Vinicunca trek, so you will only need to carry a small daypack with essential items for that day´s trekking. The ultimate tip is to pack light.  A weight restriction of 7 KG approx. is the normal weight allowance, and 3 of those kilos will be for your sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

 

What to Pack for The Ausangate and Vinicunca Trek to Machu Picchu

Clothing

• Windbreaker -An extra layer to keep out the cold Andean wind
• Raincoat or waterproof jacket - The Weather is unpredictable in the high Andes!
• Fleece - A warm fleece will come in handy for when temperatures start to drop, especially at the campsites each evening.
• T-shirts  1 for each day of the trek
• Thermal clothing - it will depend on the season in which you trek, but just in case, it never hurts to carry it in your backpack. The Ausangate campsites are at very high elevations, and temperatures often drop below freezing.
• Comfortable trekking pants
• Underwear: You choose how many to bring 😊
• Warm Pajamas - At night, it will get cooler, so pajamas are essential
• Swimming Costume… for the thermal springs in Pacchanta
• Sun Cap
• Beany
• Scarf
• Gloves
• Sunglasses
   

Footwear for the Trek
 

• Trekking boots. It will depend on the season when you go. If you go in the dry season, we recommend boots that are breathable, comfortable, and broken in.
• Running shoes. We advise you to take a pair of trainers just in case. You never know what can happen and also to let your feet rest.
• Comfortable shoes for the campsite / Sandals. This is optional, but these will allow your feet to breathe at the end of each day
• Woolen socks for the cold
• Synthetic socks for hiking are lighter and more comfortable
   

Equipment required for the Multi-Day Tours

• A daypack for each day's trekking items
• Flashlight
• Trekking poles: You can also rent them there before starting the trek
• First aid kit
• Refillable water bottle
• Camera
• Charger and Power Pack
• GPS (optional)
• Snacks
   

Hygiene Products

• Sunscreen
• Deodorant
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Insect repellent (mainly for the Machu Picchu area)
• Hairbrush
• Quick-drying towel
• Toilet Paper
• Baby wipes (they're very handy when trekking!)

 

Alpacas Along The Ausangate to Machu Picchu Trek

 

 

Palcoyo Day Trips

What To Wear:

• Long-sleeved Thermal Shirt
• Thermal leggings 
• Fleece
• Trekking pants
• Thick socks
• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof pants (optional)
• Scarf
• Cold weather Hat
• Gloves
• Bandana or Sun cap

 

What to Take:

• Backpack 20-30 L
• Waterproof cover for a backpack
• 2 Liters of Water (minimum)
• Trekking shoes (waterproof)
• Trekking poles 
• Headlamp
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Sunscreen lip protector
• Sunglasses
• Personal Medications
• Motion sickness tablets for the car ride
• Camera/ Extra battery
• Personal snacks
• Toilet paper
• Dry change of clothes, shoes, and a plastic bag to store wet items
• Pillow/ Blanket for the car ride 
• Cash in Peruvian Soles - (small denominations)

 

Always check what equipment is included in the cost of the Rainbow Mountain Day Trips and  Ausangate and Vinicunca treks, and base your packing list on that. Remember that the idea is to pack as light as possible! If you have any questions about what to pack for the trip, contact us here!

 

 Horses Will Take You Some of the Way, If Needed!