Travel Guide

Reaching Peru’s most visited natural attraction is a challenge that every traveler must overcome, as this beautiful mountain is located over 5,000 meters above sea level. That is why this article will give you some tips and recommendations before making a tour of the Full-Day Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley.

1. About altitude sickness in the Full-Day Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

Climbing the mountain of colors is indeed a challenge due to the great height at which it is located, which has an elevation of 5100 m.a.s.l. At its highest point (viewpoint of Vinicunca). You must be prepared to overcome this altitude sickness and not harm your journey to the mountain of colors.

Drink plenty of fluids, especially coca tea, and try to avoid walking too much.

2.- Acclimatization

Acclimatization is a significant factor in reaching the mountain of colors. It is a slow process, so time is the best remedy to combat this disease. Before the trek, it is recommended to be in Cusco at least one day before the excursion; it is advisable to take light walks around the city of Cusco, or you can also enjoy a city tour on the outskirts of Cusco and thus reduce the effects of altitude sickness, plus you will be preventing the possible symptoms of altitude sickness.

Do not risk being a victim of altitude sickness, do not feel terrible altitude sickness, nausea, dizziness, stomach ache, headache, etc., and follow these tips.

3.- Rest early Full-Day Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley

To visit the mountain of seven colors, we recommend that you rest early because you have to get up very early, as the buses start picking you up at 4:30 in the morning. The distance to do the hike is 5 kilometers and will require all the energy you have.

4.- Prepare the backpack

Preparing your day backpack the night before is recommended. To do so, bring the following essentials: waterproof pants, sunblock, scarf, sunglasses, water, and snacks.

Wear appropriate clothing

Due to the high altitude at which the colorful mountain is located, it is recommended that you wear trekking clothes for the hike, but above all, warm clothes. Consider bringing.

• Trekking shoes
• Waterproof jackets and pants
• Rain ponchos.
• A light backpack.
• Walking sticks

5.- Buying equipment

Although supplies can be purchased in the city of Cusco, it is advisable to buy them on the route to the Full-Day Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley to support the locals. By purchasing them, you will be supporting their families through this work. Bring the following snacks (chocolate, dried fruits, coca leaf candies, lemon candies, and water).

6.- The best time of the year

The best time to hike the mountain of colors is during the dry season, from March to November. It is not advisable to visit from December to February, as this is the rainy season. However, with the effects of climate change, the weather in Cusco is often exceptionally unpredictable.

The total distance of the trekking route

We must consider that the road to the mountain of seven colors is a steep and challenging path, spanning a distance of 5 kilometers. If you feel tired in some ways, you can hire the services of a horse that can do it at the beginning of the walk.

Trip to Vinicunca on your own

To make a trip to the mountain of colors on your own in these times of pandemic is risky because you have to comply with the various protocols set by the government and the Ministry of Health. For which we suggest that you take the services of an authorized agency.