Explore the Rainbow Mountain in Peru: Your Next Adventure
Experience the magic of Rainbow Mountain, an iconic destination in the majestic Peruvian Andes. With our exclusive tours from Cusco, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience. Admire spectacular landscapes, connect with the rich Andean culture, and embark on an adventure designed just for you. We include transportation, expert guides, and everything you need. Book now and make your dream of exploring Vinicunca come true!
Why choose us?
Take the best tours to the Rainbow Mountain with Machupicchu Terra, a tour operator with more than ten years of experience in organizing special and unforgettable trips to this tourist attraction at more than 5 thousand meters above sea level. Learn more about our services!
What is the Vinicunca ATV tour like?
An adventurous option during a visit to Rainbow Mountain is to take the route on board a fully equipped ATV. The tour includes everything you need for an incredible but safe trip. Learn more through this educational video!
The weather on the trip to the Mountain of 7 Colors
The Rainbow Mountain, located at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level, has a dry and cold climate, with icy winds and occasional rain at certain times of the year. During the day, when tourists visit, the average temperature is between 10ºC and 14ºC. At night, the temperature can drop below 0 degrees Celsius. Learn more!
The dry season in Cusco and the Mountain of 7 Colors
- The dry season is from April 1 to November 30.
- The climate is dry, with very little chance of rain, which makes it easier to see the mountain.
- It is considered the best time of year to visit Vinicunca.
The rainy season in Cusco and the Mountain of 7 Colors
- The rainy season is from December 1 to March 31.
- The weather is rainy, with a chance of rain, which can prevent a good walk and viewing of the mountain.
- It is considered a difficult time to visit Vinicunca.
The height on the trip to the Mountain of 7 Colors
The Mountain of Seven Colors is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Cusco, although it is also one of the most challenging for the hundreds of tourists who come there every day. Vinicunca is located at 5,200 meters above sea level, an elevation that makes physical exercise difficult for anyone not adapted to the high altitude climate. However, there are other less high destinations such as Palcoyo. Learn more!
The height on the route to Vinicunca, the 7-color mountain
- Vinicunca, the mountain of 7 colors, is located 5,200 meters above sea level.
- The route to Vinicunca is a challenge as it is a walk of 3 kilometers on average.
- The altitude of Vinicunca can cause agitation and headaches. Prior acclimatization of at least 3 or 4 days is recommended.
The height on the route to Palcoyo, the other mountain of colors
- Palcoyo, the other rainbow mountain in Cusco, is located at 4,900 meters above sea level.
- The route to Palcoyo is a more accessible route as it is only 1 kilometer long.
- The altitude at Palcoyo can cause agitation and fatigue for visitors. A prior acclimatization of at least 3 or 4 days is recommended.
Rainbow Mountain Experience: You Choose How!
Feel the thrill of ascending one of Peru’s natural wonders. Whether walking through magical landscapes or speeding on an ATV, you will experience a unique connection with the mountain, the wind, and the colors. You choose how to feel this adventure that will mark your trip and remain in your memory forever.
Classic Adventure: Rainbow Mountain Hiking Tour
Connection with Nature
- Stunning Andean landscapes
- Fresh air and cool climate
- Local wildlife like llamas and alpacas
Cultural Experience
- Interaction with traditional communities
- Learning about ancestral customs
- Living crafts and traditions
Rewarding Physical Challenge
- Progressive hike up to 5,000 meters
- Strengthening body and mind
- Satisfaction upon reaching the summit
Adrenaline: Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour
Adventure and adrenaline
- Fast ride through mountain trails
- Thrill of riding an ATV
- Wind and landscapes at their best
Accessibility and Comfort
- Less physical effort
- Quick arrival at the destination
- Ideal for those who prefer adventure without fatigue
Spectacular Views
- Unique panoramas from different angles
- Opportunity for amazing photos
- Dynamic and different experience
Differences between the 7-Color Mountain and the Palcoyo Colorful Mountain
| Aspect | Seven Colors Mountain (Vinicunca) | Palcoyo Mountain |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cusco, Canchis province, Pitumarca district | Cusco, Canchis province, Checacupe district |
| Altitude | 5,200 m / 17,060 ft | 4,900 m / 16,076 ft |
| Difficulty | High (demanding hike due to altitude) | Low (short and easy walk) |
| Hiking time | 1.5 to 2 hours uphill (from Phulawasipata) | 30 to 45 minutes easy walk |
| Access from Cusco | 3 hours by vehicle + hike | 3.5 hours by vehicle + short walk |
| Crowd of tourists | Very crowded, especially in high season | Fewer tourists, quieter experience |
| Weather | Extreme cold, strong wind, possibility of snow | Similar climate but less extreme |
| Landscape and views | A mountain with intense color stripes | Several colorful mountains, wider panoramic view |
| Additional attractions | Red Valley, Ausangate Snow Mountain | Stone Forest, natural viewpoints |
| Best time to visit | April – November (dry season) | April – November (dry season) |
| Ideal for | Travelers in good physical condition seeking a challenging hike | Families, people who prefer an easier walk |
Video Experiences of the 7-Color Mountain
Travel Guide to the 7-Color Mountain!
The 7-Color Mountain is known by many names: Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain, the Colorful Hill, and more. It is located at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level, making the route a challenge for any visitor. However, it receives over 1 million visitors each year. Through this Travel Guide, learn more details about visiting this amazing tourist destination in Cusco.
Vinicunca
Vinicunca is the famous 7-Color Mountain, also called Rainbow Mountain. After Machu Picchu, it is the most popular and visited destination in Cusco. It is famous for its high mountain landscape dyed with various colors due to the minerals abundant in the area.
Palcoyo Mountain
The colorful mountain of Palcoyo is one of the tourist destinations most similar to Vinicunca. The advantage is that it does not require such a demanding hike, so the route is suitable for visitors of all ages. Its summit is at 4,900 meters above sea level.
The Red Valley
The Red Valley, located just 1 kilometer from the 7-Color Mountain, is one of the most beautiful and strange landscapes in Cusco. Due to the proliferation of minerals in the area, its slopes resemble Mars. It is at 5,200 meters above sea level.
Pallay Punchu Mountain
Pallay Punchu is another mountain whose scenic beauty resembles the 7-Color Mountain. It is also on the way to Ausangate. It is famous for its colorful peaks and sharp slopes that allow for incredible photos. It is at 4,700 meters above sea level.
Discover new experiences!
Visit the Rainbow Mountain along with the impressive Red Valley, where the landscapes look like they belong to another planet. Then, marvel at Palcoyo, a calm and colorful alternative. Three unique destinations, full of natural beauty, Andean culture, and unforgettable hikes. Ideal for those seeking adventure, color, and a connection with nature.
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain 1-day Tour
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain dazzles with landscapes as stunning as Vinicunca. It rises up to 4,900 meters above sea level. The hike is short and easy, just about 20 minutes. It is the perfect choice for travelers of all ages.
- The hike is short and accessible with only 1 to 1.5 km, perfect for all types of travelers.
- It is a destination with low tourist influx, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in peace.
- It offers three colorful mountains and the impressive Stone Forest in a single tour.
- It is located at an altitude of approximately 4,900 m a.s.l., reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
7 Colors Mountain + Red Valley 1-day Tour
The Red Valley, near Vinicunca, impresses with its intense red color formed by minerals. The tour includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, and meals, offering an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.
- It is the most famous and recognized postcard of Vinicunca worldwide.
- The trekking is more demanding with 7 to 8 km, ideal for those who love adventure.
- It combines both the 7 Colors Mountain and the striking Red Valley in one tour.
- It reaches an altitude of approximately 5,200 m above sea level, making it a true height challenge.
Testimonials from our visitors!
Thousands of visitors have already visited the 7 Colors Mountain with the company of ‘Tour 7 Colores’. You too can live one of the most amazing experiences with a tour to Vinicunca. Read the testimonies of our tourists and find out why we are the best travel option to this tourist destination.
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“The walk cost me a lot but in the end I arrived after almost 2 hours. There was in front of me the most beautiful mountain I have ever seen. The guide took good pictures and we undertook the return trip (easier than the outward journey). I love all. Good tour in several aspects. ”
Marijke V.Unforgettable landscape! -
“The rainbow mountain is a unique place in the world. Getting there is difficult but it is part of the adventure. You walk for almost 2 hours until you reach the mountain. The weather was good so I could see all the colors of the mountain. Good tour service“
Ruud H.A place that should or should be visited -
“Getting there is a feat for people like me who are not used to heights. However, each step is worth it to see the natural spectacle of this mountain. The Machu Picchu Terra agency complied with everything so I have no complaints. ”
Mallory H.A natural spectacle
Questions and answers about visiting the Rainbow Mountain in Cusco
Rainbow Mountain is located at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level.
The city of Cusco, capital of the department of the same name, is located approximately 100 kilometers away by road.
Rainbow Mountain can be visited year-round. However, the dry season is the most recommended: from April to November.
The 1-day Rainbow Mountain tour includes: hotel pickup, full transportation, a professional tour guide, all entrance fees, buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, and return to the visitor's hotel in Cusco.
The 1-day Rainbow Mountain tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The route is safe for all visitors. We recommend a 3 or 4-day adaptation to Cusco's geography. It's also recommended that you have no heart problems.
In addition to the Rainbow Mountain route, there are other similar options, such as the routes to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, the route to the Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain, or the route to the Red Valley.
Yes, the route is recommended for older adults. However, they must be in good health and not have any heart problems.
The one-day Rainbow Mountain group tour costs $35 per foreign adult. Discounts are also available for Peruvians.
The final hike to Vinicunca is 3 kilometers along dirt roads. For the average tourist, this hike can be completed in an average of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Visitors who are unable to complete the hike have the option of renting a horse from a local resident.