our journey begins in the early hours of the morning, with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. Departing the city, you'll embark on a scenic drive through the southern valley, passing traditional Andean towns such as Urcos and Cusipata. After approximately 1.5 hours, you'll arrive in the village of Cusipata, where a hearty Andean breakfast awaits. This meal typically includes scrambled eggs, Andean bread, fresh fruits, coffee, coca tea, and natural juices—providing the necessary energy for the adventure ahead.
Following breakfast, the journey continues for about an hour to the trailhead at Chillihuani, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) above sea level. Here, you'll begin your trek to the renowned Rainbow Mountain. The hike spans roughly 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and acclimatization to the altitude. As you ascend, you'll be immersed in breathtaking high-Andean landscapes, dotted with herds of alpacas and llamas, and pass through remote indigenous communities that maintain their traditional Quechua culture.
Reaching the summit at Vinicunca, standing at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountain's vibrant, multi-colored strata—a natural phenomenon resulting from the sedimentation of minerals over time. On clear days, the majestic Ausangate Glacier, one of the most sacred mountains in Andean mythology, can be seen in the distance.
For those who wish to extend their adventure, an optional short hike leads to the breathtaking Red Valley, known for its Mars-like scenery and fewer tourists. This route involves a slightly more challenging descent but offers unmatched vistas of deep crimson hills and silence away from the crowds.
After soaking in the views and capturing memorable photos, you'll descend back to Chillihuani, where your transport will be waiting. The return journey includes a stop in Cusipata for a well-deserved buffet lunch, featuring traditional Peruvian dishes such as quinoa soup, grilled trout, sautéed vegetables, and vegetarian options.
Following lunch, you'll embark on the drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel between 4:30 and 5:30 PM, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This full-day tour offers a physically demanding yet unforgettable experience, showcasing the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Peruvian Andes.
