General information about the Rainbow Mountain

The Rainbow Mountain (also called Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain, Cerro Colorado, etc.) is one of the newest and best attractions in Peru, and is among the best tourist places in Cusco. About 3 hours by car from the city of Cusco, at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.), this mountain formation is dyed in various colors thanks to the combination of minerals, creating that characteristic multicolored landscape. It is the second most visited tourist attraction in Cusco, only after Machu Picchu. The best way to visit it is through a tour to the Rainbow Mountain, since doing it on your own is difficult. There is no public transportation to there, which can be even more expensive than taking a tour. Fortunately for tourists, this tour is one of the most affordable in Cusco (if we compare it with other tours such as Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley). Complete guide to the mountain here ➔

Why is it called Rainbow Mountain?

According to various investigations carried out in the area, the multicolored hues are due to the different minerals that cover the area in layers: red clay and mud (pink), clay (red), sandstone (white), marl (lavender), clay and copper oxide (green) and limonite (brown yellow). These natural substances began to form 65 million years ago when water and rain covered its slopes and peaks. Over time, the extreme climate thawed the snow that formed there, revealing to the world what is today one of the most important tourist attractions in Cusco.

Location and height

Rainbow Mountain is located 60 kilometers from the city of Cusco, in the Urubamba Valley. This incredible place is located in the Peruvian Andes, in the department of Cusco and the province of Canchis, at 5,200 m.a.s.l., an area of ​​considerable elevation.

The coordinates of its location are: -13.9393,-72.8951

It belongs to the town of Pitumarca, who call it “Cerro Colorado” or “Mountain of 7 colors.” Because it is located on the road to the imposing Ausangate snow-capped mountain, this site was known long before by adventurers who dared to make the trip. The photos they posted on Facebook and Instagram made it popular. Since 2016 it has been a popular tourist attraction.

How to get there?

Difficulty of the hike to the mountain of seven colors

The hike lasts 2 or 3 hours (depending on the physical condition of the tourist) and is not dangerous and requires moderate to high physical effort. There are sections with considerable slopes going up and down. However, one of the greatest difficulties is the cold weather and the icy wind. The altitude of the area can cause altitude sickness or soroche. It is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude in the city of Cusco for 1 or 2 days, it would be better to do this tour as one of the last.

Climate

The climate, typical of the higher areas of Cusco, is cold. Rain, wind and altitude sickness can be the biggest obstacles for travelers. Temperatures can drop below zero degrees Celsius. Rain can occur at any time of the year. For your visit, bring a rain poncho.

Flora and fauna

The incredible geography of the place is the setting for animals typical of the high Andean areas of the sierra and south of Peru, such as llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. The inhabitants of the area raise horses to offer them as transportation to visitors. Due to the altitude of this region, ichu or natural Andean grass is abundant.