Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru: Is It Really Worth the Visit?

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Last Updated on November 26, 2025 by Ariana Svenson

Are you wondering, “Is Rainbow Mountain really worth it?” Read on to find our honest answer!

If you are travelling in Peru with children, we will also honestly discuss the pros and cons of whether you should hike Rainbow Mountain.

Rainbow Mountain in Peru must be one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations and hikes in Peru! Vinicunca Mountain, the Rainbow Mountain, was virtually unknown in 2015. Sure, it existed on a unique lodge to lodge trek (see Lodge to Lodge Trekking In Peru) but the vast majority of the world was unlikely to visit it.

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That all changed with ONE Instagram photo from a guy named Eric Hanson! After his Instagram photos and associated blog appeared, everyone wanted to visit! Within 12 months most agencies in Cusco were offering this tour, and photos of Rainbow mountain were always getting a lot of likes on Instagram. Within 24 months it was the second most popular place to visit in Peru after Machu Picchu. It had changed tourism in Peru forever! Literally Vinicunca had “gone viral” and the Rainbow Mountain trailhead was on everyone lips as Number 1 of the things to do in Cusco.

“Interestingly, Vinicunca is a social media phenomenon – it is about getting the picture,” says Ariana Svenson, Co-Founder Apus Peru. “You trek up to 5200m with thousands of other people on a muddy trail. Then you admire the views and hike down. It is not really about the experience. It is about the images you capture and, I suppose, publish on Social media.” If you are interested in doing a tour, then this Rainbow Mountain Tour information will give you some hints!

What Does a Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain Include?

For those who opt for a cheap tour to Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco, some companies start collecting people from the hotels at around 3am in the morning – it all depends on your luck whether you are picked up at 3am – or 4am. Then you head off on a 5 hour drive, so that after a quick breakfast on the way, you will be arriving at a busy carpark high, high in the mountains. From this trailhead you will hike to Rainbow Mountain; usually with all the other goups that left Cusco at the same time. Due to the altitude most poeple find this short trek quite challenging! Let’s not forget that this tour takes you up to 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) which is a full thousand metres higher than the highest point on the Inca trail.

If you want to hike the Inca trail with kids, check out our guide for more details.

Keep this in Mind – Rainbow Mountain Peru is Higher than any mountain in the continental US; And higher than the highest mountain range in the Alps, Mont Blanc which at 4,800 meters. If you want to tackle Rainbow Mountain you need to be fit, healthy and well acclimatised.  

After you reach the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint; everybody is respectful and lets you get “your” photos with Rainbow Mountain.  Lots of people choose to buy a Peruvian poncho or hat (chullo) to make sure they look the part.  Fingers crossed for good weather so that the colors of the mountain really ‘POP’ and show your their true beauty!  Then… its time to do it all in reverse as you head back to Cusco.

Is the Rainbow Mountain Worth Visiting?

Is Rainbow mountain worth visiting?  Obviously this is a subjective question that is going to depend on – YOU. How important is seeing rainbow mountain in person to you? You’re the only person that decides whether it’s worth it or not. Sure, if you are young, don’t mind getting up early, and really really want to get that shot; then is definitely worth the day’s trip. However, if you are not so keen on long bus rides (or prefer to spend your hard earned vacation time in ways that is more more rewarding) then it might not be worth it. Also, I have to say that if you are not properly acclimatised and spend your time with a mega headache – or worse, vomiting – then I would say don’t do it!

As a family traveller with kids in a range of ages, (and who are not fans of long rides on mountain roads) I decided that a trip to rainbow mountain was not a priority for us. I am also priveledged to know that I will visit Peru more times in my life; so trekking Rainbow Mountain is something I could do in the future.

A caveat to this advice is – hiking Rainbow Mountain Peru can be worth if you choose the right travel operator; for example Apus Peru offers a one day Rainbow Mountain trek that is out of sync with the majority of the day tours from Cusco and does not leave as early in the morning. This however, is more costly than many of the group tours so will not be an option for those who are budget conscious. An even better experience at Rainbow Mountain is to do the two day rainbow mountain and red valley tour that enables you to visit Vinicunca mountain not once – but twice – at sunset, and sunrise! This means that if seeing the mountain of seven colors and capturing breathtaking pictures of Rainbow Mountain is a top priority for you, you are in for an unforgettable adventure that promises awe-inspiring views and lasting memories.

Everything You Need to Know About a Trip to Rainbow Mountain

Amongst Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant landscapes and enchanting trails, there lies a wealth of exploration waiting to be unveiled. From uncovering the best alternatives that steer you away from the beaten path to delving into the age-old question that lingers in the minds of every adventurer – is the Vinicunca hike from Cusco truly worth it? – we are on the brink of an expedition that will decode the secrets of this natural masterpiece.

What is the Best Alternative Rainbow Mountain Trek?

Since we published the original post, our friends and acquaintances have hiked out to the still new, and quite secret Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. There is still a lot of driving (say 4 hours vs 6 hours one way) but once you get to the trailhead you only need to walk for about 1 hour on a gentle trail before getting your first views of a red striped mountain. The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is also significantly lower altitude than at Vinicunca, and therefore makes an excellent alternative tour to the rainbow  mountain, which is an good option for those who don’t have so much time to acclimatise.  For more mountains take a look at the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike.

How Can I Prevent Altitude Sickness When I Hike Rainbow Mountain?

There is really no quick way to minimise altitude sickness; other than spending time at lower altitudes and slowly working your way up. Most tour companies say that a minimum of 3 days in Cusco is enough to prepare you for Rainbow Mountain’s thin air! Ideally, I would spend a couple of days in the Sacred Valley – and maybe even visit Machu Picchu – before going to Cusco, which is higher – and before attempting this hike at altitude.

My top tip for having the best Rainbow Mountain experience? Schedule your visit right at the end of your Cusco holiday, when you are best acclimatised. You’ll thank me for it later! 

The Best Time to Visit Rainbow Mountain

Choosing the perfect time to embark on your Rainbow Mountain adventure is akin to selecting the palette for a masterpiece. Each season paints a unique and captivating picture on the canvas of this natural wonder.

Spring: March to May welcomes a burst of life as winter loosens its grip. The melting snow reveals vibrant hues, creating a refreshing and awe-inspiring landscape.  You might experience mud on the trail in early Spring.

Summer: June to August, the peak season, offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The sun’s rays dance upon the slopes, bringing the iconic rainbow striations to life, but be prepared for larger crowds.

Fall (Autumn): September to November transforms the surroundings into a canvas of warm tones. Cooler temperatures make for a pleasant trek, with fewer visitors providing a more serene experience.

Winter: December to February showcases a snow-covered spectacle, but the trek becomes more challenging due to icy conditions – and mud…!  Colder temperatures mean fewer tourists, offering a unique solitary journey.

While weather can be unpredictable, proper preparation and layering are essential. For a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds, consider late spring or early fall, finding that delicate balance between favorable conditions and an intimate connection with the landscape.

Is It Possible to Take a Horse Up Rainbow Mountain?

For those who really want to get those rainbow mountain photos, but might not have the fitness to hike in the Andes of Peru; then you can hire a horse up the mountain.

After 1 hours of horseback ride you will arrive close to the spectacular colorful Mountains (5,100 m / 16,500 ft). The last 25 minutes you need to walk to reach out the lookout of the Seven Colors Mountain, as horses are not allowed to take you all the way to the top.

Do I need a Travel Insurance for the Rainbow Mountain Trail?

Absolutely, travel insurance is a must for a Rainbow Mountain tour, especially when venturing into high-altitude places like Vinicunca or the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. Ensure that your insurance not only covers high-altitude adventure activities but also includes provisions for potential evacuation expenses in case of illness or emergencies in the mountains. It’s a crucial precaution to guarantee a safe and worry-free exploration of these breathtaking but challenging landscapes. Make sure your insurance covers high altitude adventure activities, and that it will cover your evacuation expenses should you become ill in the mountains. Feel free to take a look at the World Nomads Family Travel Insurance.

Can Kids Go to Rainbow Mountain Peru?

Yes. You can do the Rainbow Mountain trek with kids, but make sure you know what the day trip entails. While the trek distance isn’t long, the high altitude makes it much more difficult – and it’s a long road trip to get there. With smaller children, it’s highly likely you’d end up carrying them a lot of the way – all for a picture at the end. Honestly, there are better ‘Rainbow Mountains’ around that are more family friendly than the high, cold and remote Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.

What Gear Should my Kids Wear to the Rainbow Mountain Tour?

Depending on what time of year you visit the Rainbow Mountains of Peru, the temperature can vary greatly.  Keep in mind that the weather can change in an instant in the high Andes mountains, so be prepared for anything. It is important that kids have the proper hiking attire to complete a hike like this. For more information and our personal recommendations, read our Hiking Gear For Kids: Essential Kids Outdoor Gear.

Here is our complete Peru Packing List. 

Pros of a Day Tour to Rainbow Mountain from Cusco

• In terms of being an experiential experience, it’s not something we would recommend for younger children. The Rainbow Mountain is not “kid friendly”!
• On the one day trip, you travel for about 9 -10 hours in a car or bus (upwards of 5 hours each way). The cheaper your service the more hours you spend doing pickups around Cusco city and adding to the amount of time in the car. If you go directly in a private group you might reduce your total travel time to 9 hours.
• Large buses are not known for their safety record; there was recently a crash on the Rainbow Mountain road which resulted in the tragic death of a foreign tourist.
• You spend hours hiking to 5200m (17060 ft )which is freezing cold and the mountain can be obscured. You take a photo and then hike back down.
• If you plan on visiting make sure you check out our post Facts about Rainbow Mountain Peru. This post contains all kinds of useful and interesting information about the Rainbow Mountains of Peru.
• Many people can suffer from altitude sickness on a Rainbow Mountain trip; for two reasons – insufficient acclimatisation in general, or because quite simply the trip takes you to a very high altitude in a very short amount of time and people’s bodies don’t cope.

Climate Change Isn’t the Only Issue at Rainbow Mountain

Climate change isn’t the only bad thing that’s happening here:

…[the 4km] dirt trail climbed by tourists to reach Rainbow Mountain … has been badly eroded in the last 18 months, scarring the otherwise pristine landscape. A wetland once popular with migrating ducks has also been turned into a parking lot the size of five soccer fields that fills each morning with vans of mostly European and American visitors. (Source: Associated Press)

Since the that article was written in 2018, the number of visitors has doubled to 2,000 a day. Twice the number of vehicles to park. Twice the number of people on the mountain – and an increase in hard hoofed horses.  This rapid increase in visitation raises serious concerns about the environmental impact and sustainability of tourism in this area.

Should You Visit Rainbow Mountain?

That’s a tough question to answer. We’d feel like hypocrites if I told you “no.” But the fact is, Rainbow Mountain is past the point of over-tourism already – and it’s only been a thing since 2015!

A 2-Day Trek to Rainbow Mountain May Be Easier

Rainbow Mountain day tours are plentifully offered all around Cusco city, and the trek to Rainbow Mountain has become the number one day trip from Cusco. We strongly recommend that if getting to the top of Rainbow Mountain is something that you really must do, you should consider the two day hike that is offered by a number of quality operators and gets you away from the crowds. In addition you can see Red Valley, a new attraction in the Cusco region.

If you opt to do a two-day hike like Apus Peru offers (check here for more details and rates ) you camp at  K’airahuiri Alto (4700m/15420ft). As this is a high campsite, they will require three days of time in Cusco (or at altitude) before doing this hike.

This is high altitude camping and will be cold! Also, likely you would suffer some mild effects of altitude sickness even if you are well acclimatized.

Peru Family Update: From 2018 Plans to 2023 Adventures with Kids

In our 2018 Peru plans with children aged 8 and 5, we decided that Rainbow Mountain might be too extreme for the little ones. However, we considered the possibility if we opted for a stay at one of the closer Andean Lodges (see our Andean Lodge review) or accommodation in the Valley near Pitumarka, thus saving 4 hours of travel that day.

Fast forward to 2023 – having recently spent a month in Peru with kids aged 13, 9, and 4, hiking along Rainbow Mountain in 2023 didn’t make it to our list this time. As a family always seeking experiences suitable for both kids and adults, Palccoyo Mountain emerged as an ideal, inclusive option. Discover the reasons behind our choice and explore insightful comparisons between Rainbow Mountain and Palccoyo in this ultimate guide.

To be honest, the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain experience leans a bit too much on the touristy side. Once you reach the summit of Vinicunca, while the vibrant rainbow of colors is undoubtedly stunning, you’ll also encounter a scene reminiscent of the crowds at Machu Picchu – people donning colorful ponchos, snapping pictures, and contributing to the hustle and bustle. It’s a sight that, while still awe-inspiring, comes with the trade-off of a more commercialized atmosphere.

The Verdict – Is Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Worth It?

The magnetic beauty of Rainbow Mountain has etched its name onto the global stage, and one can’t help but wonder – is it truly worth the hype? While its fame is well-deserved, we find ourselves hesitating to deem the Rainbow Mountain experience entirely ‘kid-friendly.’ However, this isn’t to dissuade your exploration; instead, we believe in informed choices.

If you decide to venture, consider a private tour that grants you the luxury of arriving before the influx of other tour groups. Timing can significantly enhance your experience, allowing for a more serene encounter with this natural marvel. Alternatively, divert your course to Palccoyo Mountain, where a more expansive landscape awaits your discovery.

Another viable option is the 2-day trek to Rainbow Mountain, steering away from the commercialized day tours. While the latter might not offer the immersive experience you seek, the former provides a deeper connection with the stunning red valley and Rainbow Mountains.

Simply put, the regular tour might not be the best pick, but that shouldn’t stop you. There are many other ways to discover the amazing Red Valley and Rainbow Mountains, each offering a special and memorable experience. So, as you think about your journey, weigh these options carefully, and remember – the essence of exploration lies not just in the destination but in the choices we make along the way.

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