Full Itinerary of the 8-Day Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain Tour

Day 1: Airport Pick up - Cusco City Tour

Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, we will pick you up and transfer you to your centrally-located hotel in Cusco City. In the late afternoon, at 1:00 p.m., you will walk in the heart of Cusco, visiting the city's most notable sites. These include the Plaza de Armas, the street with the 12-angled stone, Loreto Street, Qorikancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and Cristo Blanco. The tour will conclude back at your hotel around 6:00 p.m.

• Duration: a half-day
• Meals included: none
• Tickets included: yes
• Hotel: San Agustin or Similar
• Transportation + Tour guide

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour - Ollantaytambo

After breakfast at your hotel, your tour guide will pick you up at 7:00 a.m. and drive you for 30 minutes to Alpaca farm to interact with these friendly animals and to Mirador Taray, where you will be greeted with a stunning view of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, the cornfields, and the Andes Mountains. You will then visit the best of the Pisac Inca Site, explore the Pisac Market, and enjoy lunch at a quaint restaurant in Urubamba known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

After lunch, your journey continues with the circular terraces of Moray and the Salineras of Maras before concluding the day in the village of Ollantaytambo. Your accommodation will be a hotel conveniently located near Ollantaytambo and the entrance to the Inca Trail.

• Duration: Full day
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel & buffet lunch in Urubamba
• Included tickets
• Hotel: Tunupa Lodge or Similar

Day 3: Inca Trail

Breakfast will be served at our hotel in Ollantaytambo, and you will join the Inca Trail group around 7:00 a.m. to drive for approximately 30 minutes to the village of Piskacucho, also known as KM 82, which marks the start of the Inca Trail. You will present your passport at the checkpoint and begin the 4-day trek to Machu Picchu. The first day features a relatively easy 6-hour hike alongside flowing streams, through small villages, and past impressive ancient sites. The first campsite, situated at 3,300 meters (10,826 feet), is known as Ayapata.

• Distance: 13.5 kilometers / 8 miles
• Duration: 8 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Lodging: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Inca Trail

After a restful night, our trekking team will gently wake you with a hot cup of coffee or tea served in your tent. You'll have time to take breakfast, pack, and brace yourself for the Inca Trail's most demanding day en route to Machu Picchu. The day's trek involves crossing two mountains over a total of 10 hours. The ascent to the highest point of the Inca Trail, Dead Woman's Pass, takes about 4 hours, reaching an altitude of 4,215 meters (13,828 feet), followed by a 2-hour descent to Pacaymayu for a well-deserved lunch. Post-lunch, you'll tackle a 2-hour climb to Runkuracay Pass (4,000 m / 13,123 ft), then a 2-hour descent to Chaquicocha, your second campsite. En route, you will explore ancient Inca sites such as Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, and Conchamarca.

• Campsite Altitude: 3600m – 11811ft
• Highest Altitude: 421700m – 13835ft
• Distance: 16km / 9 miles
• Duration: 10 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Day 5: Inca Trail

After completing the most difficult and demanding section of the Inca Trail, you will begin on a 5-hour hike to the Inca Trail's last campsite. You'll travel through several ecosystems, enjoy amazing panoramic views of the Vilcabamba Mountain range, and explore majestic Inca monuments like Phuyupatamarca, known as the 'City in the Clouds,' and Intipata, known as the 'Terraces of the Sun,' before arriving at the campsite for lunch. Enjoy the afternoon by taking a shower, interacting with llamas, exploring the beautiful Inca site of Wiñawayna, and participating in an early farewell dinner replete with a special surprise!

• Campsite elevation: 2600 m – 8530 ft
• Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
• Duration: 6 hours
• Meals: breakfast, lunch, supper
• Lodging: camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 6: Machu Picchu

On the final and most awaited day, you will wake up at 3:30 a.m., have breakfast at 4:00 a.m., and begin the final two hours of hiking to Machu Picchu at 5:30 a.m. It's a one-hour hike from the checkpoint to the Sun Gate through circuit 1, where you will arrive around 6:30 a.m. to have the first and most outstanding view of Machu Picchu, and if the weather permits, a breathtaking sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas awaits you here.

After a brief stop at the Sun Gate, you will descend to Machu Picchu for another hour, stopping at different vantage points to get the iconic photo of the citadel. Then, your expert tour guide will take you through the main sights of Machu Picchu through circuit 3, explaining the secrets of the citadel and the Inca Civilization. Later that afternoon, you'll board the Vistadome Panoramic train and a private shuttle to travel to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:30 p.m. at your accommodation.

• Highest altitude: 2700m -8858ft
• Distance: 6km / 3 miles
• Duration: 2 hours
• Meals: Breakfast
• Hotel: San Agustin or Similar
• Difficulty: Easy 

Day 7: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

At 4:00 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco City and driven for 3 hours to the 7 Colors Mountain. On the way, you will enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant. After the meal, you'll board the transport again to go to the trailhead and prepare yourself for the hike with a cup of coca tea to help acclimate to the altitude, and then begin the ascent to the mountain, peaking at 5,200 meters above sea level.

The trek to the top of Rainbow Mountain takes approximately 2 hours, with an elevation gain of 300 meters from the trailhead. Upon reaching the summit, you'll be greeted with a stunning 360° panorama of Rainbow Mountain. Afterward, a 30-minute hike will take you to explore the unique landscapes of the Red Valley. Finally, you'll head back to the trailhead to board your transport and go to a local restaurant to enjoy a well-earned lunch. You'll return to Cusco by van, with an estimated arrival time of around 6:00 p.m.

• Transport, guide.
• Meals: Breakfast, and lunch
• Fees for entry to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley
• Hotel: San Agustin or Similar

Day 8: Fly out

We will transport you back to the airport after breakfast at your hotel.

Price for the Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 8 days tour

Price per person

• From US$ 1050 per person- Adults
• From US$ 1010 per person - Students

Student Discount:

• 40$ off per person

Applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To get the discount, the ID must include:

• Student name, photo, and university name.
• Have a valid expiration date (expired IDs will not be accepted)
• ISIC cards are not valid.

The discount is applied automatically for children. For students, you must submit a copy of your student ID when booking; if your ID is rejected, you will be charged the adult rate. Please email us at info@trexperienceperu.com at the time of booking to receive your discount.

Booking and payment

• Deposit: US$400 per person (to reserve your spot). The remaining can be paid online or at our office in Cusco, using any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us to see alternative payment options.

How to book

To book this tour: 

1. Click on the BOOK NOW button, choose your travel date, select the tour option of your choice (group or private service).
2. Fill in all the requested details with your passport data. If you can hire a sleeping bag, an air mattress, or trekking poles with us, this is the moment, too.
3. Finally, enter your credit/debit card details and make the payment.
4. Our team will contact you shortly to reconfirm your payment and give you more information.
    

Similar tours you might be interested in:

• Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu – 7 Days
• Cusco + Sacred Valley + Inca Trail 7 days
• Cusco + Sacred Valley + Salkantay trek 8 days

Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 8 days Packing List

The Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 8-day tour includes day tours in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and the Rainbow Mountain Tour. For each tour, you need to pack differently.

You will travel to Peru with big luggage, and depending on the tour and day, you will travel with all your belongings or leave your bags at the hotel. Below is detailed information on packing and luggage storage.

Packing list for the City Tour In Cusco

Upon arrival at Cusco airport, we will transfer you to your hotel in the Cusco center. You will have time to unpack, have lunch, and rest before we begin to explore Cusco City in the afternoon.

For the city, you will go in a small backpack where you put all the essentials for the day. Your luggage will stay in Cusco.

• A small backpack or day bag
• Sunscreen and a hat or visor
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A light jacket or sweater - even though it's sunny
• Your camera, of course! Cusco is full of spots for pictures.
• Snacks and water
• Rain gear
• Extra money

You must always travel with rain gear, sun protection, and warm clothes.

Packing list for the Sacred Valley Tour

After breakfast on day 2, your tour guide will collect you from the hotel; you must check out, and you can travel with all your luggage (recommended). During the Sacred Valley tour, you will travel by van, and if the places we visit, your luggage remains in the hotel, and you are with your backpack during the guided tours.

During the guided tours, you will be out in open areas; most of them include hiking, and you need to be prepared. You will spend the night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo and prepare for the Inca Trail.

• A comfortable backpack
• Sun Protection, rain gear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Comfortable clothes for hiking
• Light warm jackets
• Camera
• Water
• Extra money for souvenirs

Packing list for the Inca Trail

The tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in the Sacred Valley after breakfast around 7.00 am. You will travel to the Inca Trail with your backpack and a small duffle bag with 7 kilos; the rest of your luggage, you will give to the driver, who will transfer back to Cusco and deliver to the new hotel after the Inca Trail. The duffle bags will be given during day 2 with the Sacred Valley tour guide and a short briefing for the Trek.

During the Inca Trail, you will have a backpack with all the essentials for the day, which you are responsible for carrying all the time. You will also have duffle bags where you will put all hiking gear for the 4-day trek; porters carry this bag.

After the Inca Trail, your luggage will be waiting in Cusco.

• A good daypack is essential for carrying your belongings during the hike. Ensure it is comfortable and has enough space to fit everything you need.
• Layers of clothing: The weather can be unpredictable on the trail, so it is important to pack layers that you can take on and off as needed.
• Hiking boots: A good pair of hiking boots is necessary for this trek. Ensure they are well broken in before you go to avoid blisters.
• A hat and sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen.
• Water bottle: You must stay hydrated during the hike, so bring a water bottle or CamelBak.
• Snacks: Pack some snacks to keep your energy up during the hike. Energy bars, trail mix, and dried fruit are all good options.
• First Aid kit: It is always a good idea to bring a kit for minor injuries or illnesses.

Packing lits for Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley tour

The pack-up for Rainbow Mountain is early; you will leave your luggage in the hotel, and you don't need to check out as we will return to the same hotel.

One important thing to consider is that Rainbow Mountain is a high-altitude day hike, and the weather can be cold and extreme. Prepare for sunny, cold, windy, and rainy days.

• Sturdy, comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking on this tour, so make sure to bring shoes that will support your feet and keep you comfortable.
• Sunscreen and hats: The sun can be intense at high altitudes, so pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Layers of clothing: The temperature can vary greatly depending on the time of day and whether you are in the sun or shade, so it is important to pack layers of clothing that you can adjust according to the conditions.
• Water bottle: It is important to stay hydrated at high altitudes, so bring a water bottle with you and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Snacks: We recommend packing some snacks for the tour, as there will not be any opportunities to buy food along the way.
• Trekking poles, the trail can be slippery.

Important facts of the Inca Trail with Rainbow Mountain Peru trip in 8 days

City Tour

Plaza de Armas of Cusco

The Plaza de Armas of Cusco, also known as the Main Square or Plaza Mayor, is the historic center of Cusco, Peru. It is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by important landmarks, such as the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús.

The Plaza de Armas has been an important gathering place for the people of Cusco for centuries. During the time of the Incas, the square was known as Huacaypata, which means "place of weeping." It was here that the Incas held ceremonies and rituals, as well as political and military gatherings.

After the Spanish conquest of Peru, the Plaza de Armas became the center of Spanish colonial power in the region. The Spanish built important buildings around the square, such as the Cusco Cathedral, which was constructed on the site of an Inca palace.

Today, the Plaza de Armas is a bustling public square filled with tourists, street performers, and vendors selling local handicrafts. It is also the site of many important festivals and events throughout the year, including the Inti Raymi festival in June, which celebrates the winter solstice and the Inca New Year.

12 Angled Stone Street

12 Angled Stone Street, also known as Calle Hatunrumiyoc, is a narrow street in the city's historic center. It is famous for its remarkable Inca stonework, which features a wall made of irregularly shaped stones that fit together perfectly without using mortar.

The street is believed to have been built during the reign of the Inca ruler Pachacuti in the 15th century. The Inca stonework is a testament to the engineering and architectural skill of the Inca civilization. The stones used in the street construction are of varying shapes and sizes, yet they are fitted together so precisely that not even a blade of grass can fit between them.

The 12 Angled Stone Street gets its name from the way the stones are angled to create a distinctive zigzag pattern. The precision of the stonework is such that it is said that you can't even slide a piece of paper between the stones.

Loreto Street

Loreto Street, also known as Intikijllu, which means "Street of the Sun" in the Quechua language, is a narrow street that leads from the Plaza de Armas to the Coricanbcha and is known for its impressive Inca masonry.

One of the highlights of Loreto Street is a true masterpiece of Inca masonry, a wall made of irregularly shaped stones that fit together perfectly without using mortar. 

Coricancha (The Golden Temple)

Coricancha is an ancient Inca temple considered one of the most important religious sites in the Inca Empire and was dedicated to the sun god Inti.

The name "Coricancha" means "golden courtyard" in Quechua, the language of the Inca civilization. The temple was covered in gold leaf and filled with golden artifacts, making it one of the most valuable and impressive buildings in the Inca Empire.

When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Peru in the 16th century, they plundered the gold from Coricancha and built a church, the Santo Domingo Convent, on top of the ruins of the temple. Today, visitors can explore the church and see the remaining walls and structures of the ancient Inca temple.

Despite the destruction caused by the Spanish, the Inca stonework in Coricancha is still impressive, with perfectly fitted stones that have withstood centuries of earthquakes and other natural disasters. The temple also features a system of underground canals and aqueducts that were used to irrigate the surrounding crops.

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman (also spelled Saqsaywaman) is a fortress complex located on the outskirts of Cusco, Peru. It is one of the most impressive Inca ruins in the area and is believed to have been built during the reign of the Inca Emperor Pachacuti in the 15th century.

The complex is made up of several large, interconnected stone walls, some of which are up to 18 meters (60 feet) tall and weigh over 300 tons. The walls are made up of large blocks of limestone and granite, fitted with incredible precision without using mortar.

Sacsayhuaman is believed to have served as a fortress and a ceremonial center. It played an important role in the Inca Empire's defense against the Spanish during the Conquest of Peru in the 16th century.

Q'enqo

Quenqo (also spelled Kenko or Q'enqo) consists of a large limestone outcropping carved into a series of tunnels, canals, and chambers. The main feature of Quenqo is a large amphitheater, which is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and sacrifices.

The site also contains a series of channels and carvings, including a stone table that is thought to have been used for ceremonial sacrifices. The carvings at Quenqo are believed to have had astronomical and astrological significance for the Inca people.

Puka Pukara

Situated on a hill overlooking the Cusco Valley and is believed to have been an important military outpost and administrative center for the Inca Empire.

The site consists of a series of walls, terraces, and buildings made of stone. The walls are made of red limestone, which gives the site its name, which means "Red Fortress" in the Quechua language. The buildings at Puka Pukara are believed to have been used for military barracks, administrative offices, and storage.

The site also features a large central plaza surrounded by smaller buildings and structures. Some of these structures have been reconstructed, allowing visitors to see what they may have looked like during the Inca Empire.

Tambomachay

Tambomachay is an Inca archaeological site located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Cusco. It is situated on a hidden valley and is believed to have been an important site for worshiping water and fertility.

The site consists of a series of aqueducts, canals, and cascades that lead to a series of small pools. These structures were used to channel water from nearby springs and provide it to the Inca elite for bathing and ritual purification.

The site also features several buildings, including platforms, niches, and chambers. These structures are made of stone and are believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes. Some buildings also feature carvings and decorations depicting water-related themes, such as waves and fish.

Cristo Blanco

Cristo Blanco is a giant statue of Jesus Christ located in the upper part of Cusco. The statue stands on a hill overlooking the city, visible from many parts of Cusco.

The statue was a gift from Arab Palestinian residents in 1945 to commemorate the end of World War II. The statue is made of concrete and covered in white plaster, standing over 26 feet tall.

The statue is a popular tourist attraction in Cusco, and many visitors hike up to the hill to see the statue and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. The statue is also lit at night, making it a beautiful sight.

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Sacred Valley

Location

The Sacred Valley is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, about 50 kilometers (300 miles) from Cusco. It is a beautiful and fertile valley with many Inca sites. The main towns in the Sacred Valley are Pisac, Calca, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. The Urubamba River runs along the Sacred Valley, the Amazon River's tributary, the world's largest river. 

History

The Sacred Valley was once an important center of the Inca Empire and home to some of the most important Inca sites, including Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley was also an important agricultural area for the Inca and is still home to many traditional indigenous communities.

The Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Sacred Valley in the early 16th century and quickly began building their settlements and churches. The Spanish also forcibly relocated many indigenous people from their homes in the Sacred Valley to work on plantations and in mines. However, the indigenous people of the Sacred Valley have maintained their cultural traditions and played an important role in Peruvian society.

Weather

The Sacred Valley is also known for its stunning scenery and mild climate. The weather in the Sacred Valley is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius. However, there can be some variation depending on the time of year and the valley's altitude.

For example, it can be cooler in the morning and evening, and the temperature can drop below 10 degrees Celsius at higher altitudes. The Sacred Valley has two main seasons – the wet season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October).

The wet season is characterized by more rainfall, sometimes making conditions muddy and slippery. However, this is also the best time of year to see the valley's waterfalls at their fullest. The dry season is generally hotter and drier, but there is still plenty of vegetation thanks to irrigation channels that bring water from nearby mountains. No matter what time of year you visit the Sacred Valley, you're sure to be mesmerized by its natural beauty.

Altitude

The altitude ranges from 2,700 to 3,400 meters (8,860 to 11,200 ft) above sea level. The valley is one of the most fertile areas in the world and is home to many different crops, such as potatoes, maize, quinoa, and amaranth. The soil is also extremely rich in minerals, which has made it a popular destination for agriculture and mining.

Restaurants in Sacred Valley

Many restaurants in the Sacred Valley of the Incas offer traditional Peruvian food as well as international cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include: 

Alhambra Hacienda Restaurant
Muña's Restaurant
Don Angel Inka Restaurant
El Chuncho - Ollantaytambo

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Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking adventures in the world. Built by the Incas in the 15th century, it is part of a big ancient Inca path system called Qhapac Ñam. This extensive network of trails helped to connect the Inca empire, which included Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.

Cusco was the capital of Great Inca Empire and, therefore, the most important city in the empire. The Inca trails that formed the Qapac Ñam led from Cusco to the provinces and covered more than 40,000 kilometers throughout South America.

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has 42-kilometer (26-mile) extension and is part of Qapac Ñam.

Inca Trail Altitude Map

Inca Trail elevation gain

The Inca Trail elevation gain is around 3,000 feet (914 meters) from start to finish. The highest point on the trail is 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman's Pass. Most of the elevation gain is in the first few days, with around 1,000 feet (305 meters) of ascent on Day 1 and 800 feet (244 meters) on Day 2. After that, the trial levels out somewhat, although there are still some ups and downs

Highest point on the trail

The Dead Woman's Pass is a high mountain on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at 4,215 meters (13,829 feet) above sea level and is the highest point on the Inca Trail. The pass gets its name from its resemblance to a woman lying on her back. The pass is a challenging section of the Inca Trail, with steep ascents and descents.

Location

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which is well-known around the world, begins at Kilometer 82 - Piscacucho Village, l

History

The Incas built the Iconic Classic Machu Picchu Inca Trail in the 15th century. It is thought that the same people who built Machu Picchu also built the Inca Trail. The trail was used for trading between Cusco and the area around the Amazon region.

After the Spanish conquest, this trail was lost for many years with Machu Picchu, and it was re-discovered in 1911 by an American, Hiram Bingham III, during his expeditions to Peru, searching for the Lost City of the Incas. Today, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are some of Peru's most famous tourist destinations.

Weather

The weather on the Inca Trail is unpredictable and variable. We have 2 seasons. However, you need to be prepared for all seasons when hiking to Machu Picchu.

• The wet season runs from November to March
• The dry season runs from April to October

The temperature during the Machu Picchu Trek varies significantly depending on the altitude and season; temperatures can reach as high as 80°F (27°C) during the day and drop below freezing at night, so hikers must come prepared for hot and cold weather conditions.

Difficulty

Hiking the Machu Picchu Inca Trail can be challenging due to its length and high altitudes; however, its rewards make the experience worthwhile. Its breathtaking scenery will impress anyone while feeling great satisfaction from having accomplished something big!

Inca Trail permits

To participate in the Classic Machu Picchu Trek, you will need to secure the permits well in advance. Every day, there are only 500 permits available, including porters, chefs, tour guides, and travelers.

Inca Trail length

The Inca Trail trek stretches for about 26 miles (42 kilometers) from the Sacred Valley (Km 82), through the Andes Mountains, to the lost city of Machu Picchu.

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Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Circuits included in this tour

With this tour, you’ll visit Circuit 1B + Circuit 3B inside Machu Picchu. This route takes you through the lower section of the citadel, where you’ll explore key sites like the Temple of the Sun, Palace of the king, the warehouses, and other important areas of the urban zone

• Step 1: After hiking the tour, you’ll arrive at Intipunku (Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You’ll then head to the Circuit 1B to enjoy the best views of Machu Picchu.
• Step 2: This is your full guided visit of the archaeological site. You’ll enter through the official gate and follow Circuit 3B to explore the citadel in detail.

Prohibited items

Some things can't be brought on this tour to keep hikers safe, protect the environment, and keep the historical places in good shape. Here is a full list of things and acts that are not allowed:

• Animals (except guide dogs): Only guide dogs are allowed to protect the area's wildlife and keep the trail clean.
• Alcohol and illegal drugs: These are not allowed to keep people from making bad decisions and getting into crashes.
• Weapons (including guns, knives, and other types of weapons) are not allowed to keep everyone safe.
• Materials that can explode or catch fire: Banned because they pose a high risk of fire and explosion.
• For privacy and traffic reasons, big tripods, drones, and professional video gear are not allowed. You need a special pass to bring these things in.
• To protect the fragile historical sites, you are not allowed to touch or climb on the ruins.
• Large backpacks are not allowed in Machu Picchu. Instead, bring only the things you need in a small daypack.

Code of conduct

The Inca Trail 2 day to Machu Picchu is a one-of-a-kind chance to see the amazing sights at this historic place. It's important to follow a code of behavior to make sure your trip is safe, fun, and polite. Here is an in-depth look at the rules for how to behave on the Inca Trail:

• Follow the rules to keep yourself and others safe and protect the nature.
• Don't leave trash: Take all of your trash with you and throw it away properly.
• Keep archaeological places safe: Do not climb on, touch, or damage any ruins.
• Show respect to other walkers and locals: Respectfully keep your space and be kind.
• Follow the marked paths: Stay on marked paths to protect the environment.
• Carry out everything you bring in to protect the beauty of the trail.
• Ready yourself: Bring things you'll need, like water, snacks, and the right clothes.
• Respect wildlife: Keep your distance from animals and don't bother them.
• Help environmentally friendly actions: Buy eco-friendly items and shop at neighborhood stores.
• Have fun and value the experience: Enjoy the wildlife and learn about the history of the trail.

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Rainbow Mountain

Location

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Winikunka, is a peak in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco. Its name is from the stripes of red, purple, yellow, and green minerals covering the mountain's surface. The mountain is about 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level and is part of the Ausangate Region, located on the eastern side of the Andes in the Vilcanota Mountain Range.

It is located about 3 hours southeast of Cusco by car. The region is home to many indigenous people who have lived there for centuries. The area is also popular with tourists, who come to see the fantastic landscapes and learn about the culture and history of the site. 

History

Rainbow Mountain gets its name from the colorful stripes that run down its sides. Mineral deposits cause the mountain's unique colors in the rocks, including iron oxide and clay. Weathering and erosion have exposed these minerals, resulting in the colorful appearance of the mountain. Locals first discovered Rainbow Mountain, then slowly, travelers going the Ausangate treks posted photos on social media. Since then, it has become a popular tourist destination, with thousands of visitors each year.

Weather

The weather on Rainbow Mountain is one of the most varied and exciting in the world. Situated in the Andes, the area experiences a wide range of climates with some of the most extreme weather conditions.

The average temperature is 15°C during the daytime; at night, the temperatures would drop below 0°C. The warmest months are December and January when the average temperature is 20°C. The coolest months are June and July when the average temperature is 10°C.

Rainbow Mountain experiences two seasons: a dry season and a wet season. The dry season lasts from May to October, and the wet season lasts from November to April. During the dry season, there is little to no rainfall, and the days are sunny and dry; however, the temperatures could be below freezing at night.

During the wet season, rainfall is more common, and the days are cooler and damper. Also, at night, the temperatures will not drop too much.

Altitude

Rainbow Mountain sits at an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), making it one of the highest mountains in Peru. Trekking to the top is no easy task; the high altitude and challenging terrain make for a strenuous hike. However, the views from the summit are more than worth it. You can see the surrounding mountains and red valleys from the top. If you're planning on trekking to Rainbow Mountain, take proper precautions.

• Make sure to acclimatize to the high altitude before embarking on your hike.
• Drink plenty of water and pack plenty of snacks to keep your energy levels up.
• And most importantly, be sure to wear proper clothing and footwear.

With a bit of preparation, you'll be able to conquer Rainbow Mountain and enjoy one of Peru's most incredible natural wonders.

Difficulty

At 5,200m above sea level, Rainbow Mountain in Peru is one of the highest day hikes in the world. Most people who sign up for the hike are unprepared for the challenges they will face. Most people underestimate the climb's difficulty, and as a result, many people turn back before reaching the summit. If you are considering hiking Rainbow Mountain, being prepared for a tough challenge is essential.

• Make sure you prepare for this hike
• Arrive a few days before the hike to acclimatize
• Follow the tour guide's instructions
• Travel with a reputable company

What to expect at Rainbow Mountain?

1. The hike to Rainbow Mountain is relatively short but very steep in the last part.
2. You can expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours hiking to the top
3. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area.
4. Be sure to bring your camera!
5. The descent back down the mountain is much easier than the ascent, but it can still be challenging if you're not used to hiking downhill.
6. It should take you about half an hour to reach the bottom.
7. Once you're back at the trailhead, you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
8. Last, it's time to head back home and start planning your next adventure!

Tips for hiking Rainbow Mountain

Hiking Rainbow Mountain can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
 

• Acclimatize: The mountain is located at a high altitude, so it's important to acclimatize before attempting the hike. Spend a few days in Cusco and do shorter hikes to help your body adjust to the altitude.
• Dress appropriately: The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring rain gear. You'll also want to wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction.
• Stay hydrated: It's essential to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at high altitudes. During our tours, we have coca tea and coffee at the beginning of the hike to warm up.
• Pace yourself: Take breaks as needed and pace yourself to avoid altitude sickness. If you start to feel lightheaded or dizzy, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
• Respect the environment: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley are unique and fragile ecosystems, so make sure to stay on designated trails and pack out all of your trash. Avoid disturbing any wildlife or vegetation, and respect the local culture and customs.
• Hire a reputable tour operator: Look for tour operators with a good reputation and positive reviews from previous customers.

Inca Trail + Rainbow Mountain 8 days FAQs

The Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain combination is one of the most breathtaking experiences in South America, combining stunning scenery and ancient culture.