Villages on the Way to Rainbow Mountain:

Cusipata
Tintinco
Chillihuani
Phuyu Pata
Chillca

Once in Cusipata, you will need to head towards the village of Tintinco Chillihuani. The journey takes about 1 hour along a rough road until you reach Phuyu Pata. From this point, you can begin your hike to Rainbow Mountain. The hike to Cerro Colorado (Rainbow Mountain in English) is part of the Apu Ausangate snowy peak in the Vilcanota Range, reaching its highest point at 6,384 meters above sea level.

The Incas believed that this mountain was the source of masculine energy that fertilized Pachamama (Mother Earth). The Vilcanota River, which originates in this mountain range, flows into the Amazon. Apu Ausangate means "copper" in Quechua.

When visiting this mountain, remember that it is sacred to the local people, who have inherited Inca and pre-Inca cultural traditions and still make pilgrimages to the mountain's summit, as does the community of Chillca.

Daily Life of the Locals:

It is possible to share the daily life of the local shepherds.

Hike to the Mountain:

The hike takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. It is shorter but has a section with a high level of difficulty, so it is recommended to be in good shape, especially for the last 15 minutes to reach the Rainbow Mountain.

Horse Rental Prices:

Locals offer horse rentals, with prices ranging from S/ 30 to 80 soles (10 to 25 USD). This depends on how long you wish to use the horse.

You will find basic but very useful services. While the hike is not dangerous, you should be in good shape and have the appropriate equipment.

You can travel the regular route without any issues as it is a single path for both going and returning. The return to Cusco takes approximately three hours. Take advantage of the fact that no special permit is required, and many people are unaware of this route.

How to Reach the Mountain with a Travel Agency:

https://www.machupicchuhop.com/es/cusco/montana-de-7-colores-vinincunca-cusco/

Itinerary:

Around 4:00 - 4:30 am, the agency will pick you up from your hotel with our tourist transport. We will travel for approximately 2 hours to Cusipata-Paucarpata, where we will have a buffet breakfast. After breakfast, we will continue for about 40 minutes to the control point. During the 2-hour hike through the colorful hills of Rainbow Mountain, you will also discover a native culture that remains intact to this day.

You will learn about how locals live and have the chance to converse with them. We will walk through a dynamic green valley with views of the impressive Ausangate Mountain on the horizon. Our guide will explain what makes Rainbow Mountain so special.

You will have a panoramic view of the Seven Colors Mountain and enough time to rest and take photos. After the photos, we will return to our vehicle. We will then have lunch. At around 5:30 pm, we will be back in Cusco, and you will be dropped off near the main square.

Includes:

• Expert local driver
• 1 Breakfast
• 1 Lunch with vegetarian option
• Entrance fees to the village of Mollepata
• First aid kit
• Professional guide
• Cusco - Cusipata - Cusco transport
• Ticket to Rainbow Mountain