Rainbow Mountain, as it’s usually called in marketing, is called Vinicunca by the people who live in the area. Similar to Humantay Lake, this is a 4-hour drive each way and about a 3 hour walk total.

The Vinicunca route has suffered from unchecked overtourism. Expect a very crowded trail and lots of trash along the way. Ask tour operators for Palcoyo, which has similar views, fewer people and less trash. More info about Palcoyo is below.

Most tour agencies in Cusco offer trips to Rainbow Mountain. Be aware that it’s an 8 hour round trip drive for about a 3 hour hike.

The hike

The hike itself ascends to 5,200m (17,060ft) which is not a comfortable altitude for most people. It has been heavily marketed as a “must do” in the Cusco area without a lot of education about what it’s like to hike at that altitude.

However, it is a beautiful place and if you like high altitude, it’s an option. It’s also a great place to see cara cara falcon (photo below) up close, as they soar the thermals close to the summit.