RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

geological origin

The colorfull Vinicunca mountain is a geological formation accumulated through the time by a mixture of sea, lake and rivers elements. These minerals from the mountains dragged by the rivers and wind has caused the rusting of the place and has made the mountain got that magical types of colors.

Geologists and experts in the field say that this phenomenon has recently been discovered thanks to the melting of the glaciers that formerly covered the mountain and  constantly received snow until the beginning of the nineties.

It is the  7 colors Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain. The mountain is located in  Vilcanota range at 5,200 masl, located on the east of Cusco, in  Pitumarca district . Its slopes and peaks are covered with deep colors  like purple, turquoise and gold.

The rainbow mountain appearance is about a complex geological history of sea water, lakes and river water sediments. These sediments, transported by the water that previously covered the area, in between the Tertiary and Quaternary periods, that is  about 65 millions years ago.

By the time, the sediments formed layers (with different grain sizes) that are seen today as fringes. The tectonics movement in the área, raised these sediments until they became mountains.

Then they began to acquire their deep colors through the oxidation of their minerals, by the humidity of the area, their erosion and the deglaciation of the snow-capped mountains.

Here the composition of each strip is detailed according to its color.

Adventure and Excursion in the Mountain of Seven Colors

Vinicunca, currently has become one of the mandatory visits for all travelers who come to Cusco to visit Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites. The rainbow mountain  due to its particular colors, the wonderful landscape that surrounds  and the original culture that it possesses are  attraction for thousands of tourists, in addition to  the adventure when climbing is enjoyed and is unique in the world. Today with the coronavirus pandemic there are many restrictions for entry for nationals and foreigners visitors .

We recommend dressing as follow for the Raimbow mountain tour 

• Wool hat
• T-shirt
• Layer
• A jacket
• Long pants
• Sunglasses
• Gloves
• Small Backpack to carry water, some snacks, camera, etc.

What to bring for the tour

• 2 liters of water (there are options to buy along the route)
• Snacks such as, apple, cereal bar, sweets and chocolates
• Sun cream
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Cash in soles for extras and entrance fee to the Red Valle

Important information

• In the rainy season, do not go to the rainbow mountain in the afternoon, due to the concentration of minerals, there is a high degree of probability of being struck by lightning or frightened by electrical charges.If you have symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.
• High elevations also mean frigid, near-freezing temperatures, so be prepared. Whether you’re going for a one-day or two-day ride, be sure to wear warm clothing. Also remember to take coca leaves to cope with altitude sickness and carry as light a weight as possible in your backpack to walk easily.
• Try to get the main viewpoint for a 360° view of not only the rainbow mountain but also a nearby mighty glacier and a beautiful valley on the other side. We believe that many people do not know what they are missing by not reaching the viewpoint.
• The hike to the top is not a joke, changing weather conditions and altitude , make it a challenge even for experienced hikers. But , if you do that in the correct way is going to be easy.
• Make sure you are acclimatized to the altitude of Cusco before going on the rainbow mountain hike. That is the best prevention against possible altitude sickness. For a pleasant and smooth trek we recommend spending at least 2 days in the city of Cusco before the trek.
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