Frequently Asked Questions
Where Does My Rainbow Mountain Tour Begin?
We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco. The location doesn’t matter. If you are staying at a private residence or Airbnb, we will do our best to pick you up at that location or nearby. We will inform you one day in advance where exactly.
Do you think I should wear walking shoes?
Not necessarily. But it is highly recommended that you wear strong and comfortable shoes suitable for all weather conditions as you walk through these steep and colorful mountains.
Will I suffer from altitude sickness on the Rainbow Mountain Tour?
Some people experience altitude sickness. To reduce the chances that altitude will affect you on this one-day hike, you need to spend some time acclimatizing to drink plenty of fluids. Finally, you can chew coca leaves like the natives of South America.
Do I need to be in good physical shape?
You should be more or less physically fit. The trail is excellent and not very steep, but at 5000 masl the gradual ascent can be difficult. For people who are not in good shape and prefer to ride, there are horses available for rent.
Why book with us?
We are direct operators for the Rainbow Mountain tour and are committed to sustainable tourism on all of our excursions. Therefore, we guarantee you the best service, the best tour guide and the safest transportation while traveling to these sacred places in Ausangate Mountain. Book this Rainbow Mountain tour!
What is the location of Rainbow Mountain?
Vinicunca is located in Cusco, province of Canchis and district of Pitumarca. The road that leads to this place is the one that goes south of Cusco.
What to bring to the Rainbow Mountain tour?
The obligatory things to take is:
Warm clothing at least one for the descent, when descending from Vinicunca make a cold!, sunscreen, cap or hat, short wind, good trekking shoes (walkers) not new because the new can hurt your feet and hinder the walk, extra money for some unexpected expenses. Rain poncho, you don’t know when it might rain. Cold gloves. Some extra snacks as well as for extra expenses such as saddle horse rental. In case you have a special diet. Walking sticks for support.
Do I have to have travel insurance?
Totally recommended and not only for this trip but for any trip you want to make.
Weather during the trek?
From April to September is considered the months where there is no rain and if there is minimal. From September to March is considered rainy months, being from January to March with more intensity. However, even if it is rainy season, there are days in which not even a drop of rain falls. Also in any season can fall hail, or snow so be prepared for any situation and put a good face.
How long is the Hike?
Depending on your physical condition, the climb can be from 2.5 hours to 4 hours and the return the same, we strongly recommend having a little preparation in walks to enjoy more of this excursion and avoid disappointments.
Is the tour group or private?
When you go to the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, you meet every agency that offers this same tour at “cheap” costs but remember you get what you pay for. In many cases some agencies can charge much less but send you on a tour where the groups are 20, 30 to more tourists and a single guide. We offer our excursion in exclusive service where the minimum number of tourists is 2 and the maximum 15 per group. In this way the excursion becomes more pleasant and the guide will have more comfort in giving their explanations as well as the tourists in listening. Now you can also choose the option in private service, there the mobility and the guide will be at your disposal. This is recommended for couples, families or people who do not want to share the tour with others.
Is it recommended for children?
This tour is not recommended for children because they may have problems walking, however in case it is a child who likes hiking at high altitude, if you can do so.
Can people with medical problems do this route?
If you have medical problems, we recommend that you consult your doctor and indicate that you want or have planned to make a walk in the Peruvian Andes and that the altitude is 5000 m.a.s.l. if you have medication must have with you that medication to continue with your treatment.
Horseback Rental?
If you have problems walking or there are children on the excursion, we recommend hiring a horse (the locals rent it) so you can lighten your trip, remember that the horse can not take you all the time because there are very steep climbs for which you must get off the horse and then continue on horseback or on foot.