The days before the hike are about getting your body used to much less oxygen. At more than 5,000 m (16,500 ft), Vinicunca is one of the highest day hikes you can do from Cusco.

Rest for 48 to 72 hours in Cusco or the Sacred Valley first. Drink a lot of water or electrolyte drinks, eat meals rich in carbohydrates and avoid alcohol during that time.

The entry area is managed by the local communities. They charge a fee in cash that pays for looking after the land and handling waste.

There is no mobile data up there, so cards do not work. Carry the exact amount in soles for each gate. The money goes directly to protecting this territory.

The path crosses cold, windy puna with little vegetation and glaciers in the distance. Alpacas and llamas graze beside it.

Walk slowly and use poles for balance on the loose gravel. If you would like a much gentler and quieter option, with three colored ridges, a stone forest and a walk of about 40 minutes, see our Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain hike.

The stripes are thin layers of minerals laid down over millions of years. Leaving the marked viewing areas to walk on the colored soil is forbidden.

National Geographic lists Vinicunca among the most impressive multicolored mountains on Earth. Every hike we run follows Leave No Trace. For general travel information see Peru Travel, the official tourism portal.

Yes, on a private departure. The group hike leaves from and returns to Cusco. If you are staying in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo we can send a private vehicle and guide to your hotel.

No. Aguas Calientes sits in a canyon reached only by train, and Rainbow Mountain is on the opposite side of the region. You need to return to Cusco or the Sacred Valley first.

Between 100 and 120 soles in cash, depending on where on the trail you decide to take one. The handlers are from the local community. Tell your guide and they will help you arrange it.

May to September is the dry season, with the clearest skies. The mountain is open all year, but from December to March rain, mud or snow can cover the colors for a time.

Vinicunca is the famous single ridge. It takes a steeper 1.5 hour climb to its viewpoint and it is usually busy. Palccoyo has three smaller colored mountains and a natural stone forest, with an easy walk of about 40 minutes and far fewer people.

The path is wide and gradual, but the hike is rated moderate to challenging because of the height alone. You start at 4,700 m and finish above 5,000 m, where the air is thin. A slow pace and fair fitness are needed.

At least 2 full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Going up without that greatly raises the chance of altitude sickness.

Yes. The communities run basic toilets at the trailhead and at a few points early on the path. They cost 1 or 2 soles and you should bring your own toilet paper.

Yes. If you still have energy at the top, the Red Valley is a deep red canyon with far fewer visitors. The contrast with Vinicunca makes the day richer.

Our guides are trained in first response and always carry oxygen and a first aid kit. They stabilize you on the spot and organize a controlled descent, on horseback if necessary.