Rainbow mountains. Rainbow Mountains of Peru: “The ingenious Creation of Nature. Rainbow Mountains on the map
On this moment Several mountains in the Cusco region are known as the Rainbow Mountains in Peru. The mountains are located in the same province of Kanchis of the Cusco region, but in different areas.
The Palcoyo Mountains are located in the Chekakupe area, Vinicunca in the Pitumarka area, which is further down the road.
Mount Vinicunca, aka Rainbow Mountain (Rainbow Mountain), Rainbow (Arco Iris), Mountain of Seven Flowers (Montaña de 7 colores), Red Hill (Cerro Colorado) - relatively new, but already popular route in the Cusco region, Peru. Recommended for connoisseurs of the beauty of nature in the mountains in good physical shape.
As a result of the formation of mountains on the faults of volcanic rocks, they have pronounced original colors, which give them tourist name Rainbow mountains.
In fairness, it should be noted that a similar phenomenon occurs not only in Peru, but also in China (Colorful mountains of Gansu)
IN THE USA. Several mountains in different states. Admittedly, paler than the Peruvian and Chinese counterparts. One of the US mountains in the picture below
Well, and of course, in Russia. Near Akhtubinsky, in the Bogdinsko-Baskunchaksky reserve there is a mountain Big Bogdo. The most high point edges and sacred place for the Buddhists living there.
Well, if you are not going to Akhtubinsk, but have already bought tickets to Peru and love leisure, then visiting any of the Peruvian Rainbow Mountains, you will definitely leave vivid memories of the beauty of the Andes. I remember when I sent my photos from those places to my friends, they did not believe that this was not photoshop.
If you are going to these mountains, then remember that whoever has not adapted to the height in Cusco and immediately goes up the mountain right off the bat, he seriously risks not reaching it. Approximately once a year there is a fatal outcome. Locals in such cases say that the mountain took its victim.
But, all these difficulties can be avoided if you rent a horse and take trekking poles. Part way goes on some pretty steep climbs. Add to this the change of weather from the scorching sun to snow and this can happen 3-4 times along the way, plus, on the track, unlike China, there are no steps, then sticks will come in handy. You may get lucky and it will be sunny all the way, but it is better to be prepared for anything. An oxygen cylinder, which is sold in any pharmacy in Cusco, also does not hurt. Usually on private tours, your escorts will have one of these "to maintain the oxygen balance".
In that area there are vicuñas (a type of camel, like llamas) in wild nature. Nice sight. You can take many nice photos.
For booking inquiries or additional information contact our email
Cradle ancient empire Incas. This amazing country is simply "stuffed" with natural and archaeological attractions. There is legendary city(Quechua Machu Picchu), lost in the Andean highlands; still unsolved mysterious (Spanish Nazca) and amazing (Spanish Titicaca); as well as many others unique places, which undoubtedly include colorful rainbow mountains.
National Geographic, the official publication of the National geographical society USA, included the Rainbow Mountains in Peru in the list of "100 must-see places".
When looking at these geological formations, one gets the feeling that they are covered with a colorful cloth or painted by an original artist from the surrealist or fauvist community. In fact, nature worked on the creation of this masterpiece, which took her a lot of time. But today, any traveler who has visited Peru can admire the result of centuries-old creativity.
Photo gallery not open? Go to site version.
Seven-color, Multi-color or Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca(Vinicunca Quechua), which the locals simply call "Colored Hill", rises in the valley of the same name (Spanish: Valle de Vinikunka) and is a fragment of the Andean mountain range Cordillera de Vilcanota(Spanish Cordillera de Vilcanota).
In the language "Vinicunca" literally means "Mountains painted with the colors of the rainbow." The name comes from 2 Quechuan words: " wini" - a stone (there are always a lot of stones here), and " kunka"- the neck (the so-called bottleneck of the pass).
In the neighborhood of the picturesque Vinicunca there is a mountain Ausangate(Spanish: Ausangate; 6300 m a.s.l.), whose peaks are covered with eternal snow.
Location
The Vinicunca Valley with the Rainbow Mountains is located in a beautiful place, located 100 km from the city (Spanish: Cuzco), province of Quispicanchis (Spanish: Quispicanchis).
The height of the massif, spread among aquamarine lagoons and sparkling snow-capped peaks, reaches 5200 m above sea level. WITH mountain peaks opens great view on the Ausangate glacier, crowning sacred mountain Incas. Every year in the temple at the foot of the mountain, which the Indians call simply Apu(Quechua Apu - "Sacred"), pilgrims gather for the ritual celebration of the day Koyyur Riti(Quechua Qoyllur Rit'i) and offerings of holy gifts. This holiday is dedicated to the Inca deity Apu (or Apo), personifying the mountain spirits, one of the main patron saints of Cuzco. After the conquistadors came to these places, pagan traditions gradually mixed with Christian rites, and now this ceremonial is intertwined with the celebration of the Holy Trinity.
How to get there
Getting to this amazing place on your own is quite difficult, since there are no direct buses from Cusco. You can rent a car, take a taxi (the journey from Cusco takes about 3 hours), or use public transport – shuttle bus going to the side (Spanish: Puno), small town located on west bank worldwide famous lake Titicaca. Take the bus to the village Juliaca(Spanish Juliaca) and from there go on a hike to the Rainbow Mountains.
The most rational way to admire the Rainbow Mountains of Peru is to join excursion group. In addition, there are no comfortable hotels in the settlements of the Vinicunca Valley, so to see the Seven Colored Mountain, it is worth taking a 1-day excursion from Cusco. Usually from ancient capital The Inca expedition starts early in the morning (at 3-4 am) and lasts all day. Approximately 4 hours after the start of the ascent, having covered a distance of 16 km, the tourists find themselves on observation deck located on the mountain adjacent to Vinicunka. From here, amazing views of both the Rainbow Mountain and the majestic Ausangate open up. Climbing Vinicunca itself is prohibited in order to protect the extraordinary mountain from vandalism.
Such a hike requires good physical preparation from the participants. It is also important to know that before this expedition it is necessary to undergo acclimatization for at least 3 days at an altitude of at least 3000 m above sea level (the most low point route leading to the Rainbow Mountains, is located at 4330 m above sea level). Tourists will have to overcome a difficult path, but the panoramas opened to the eye of beauty fully compensate for all the difficulties of the path and the time spent on climbing.
As we move forward, more and more snow-capped peaks open up before the participants of the campaign, bewitching with unearthly beauty.
During the hike, tourists cross vast mountain meadows, clear turbulent rivers, get acquainted with local flora, admire hundreds of cute llamas, alpacas, vicunas, and whoever wants to, communicate with the indigenous population.
Who painted the Rainbow Mountains of Peru and how?
According to scientists, many millions of years ago this mountain valley was completely covered in water. The reservoir was very full-flowing, as they fell into it numerous rivers, rivers and streams, bringing with them soil, sand and limestone of various compositions from neighboring environs and places very remote from here. Due to various solid impurities in the lake, bottom soil of a heterogeneous composition was formed. About 70 million years ago, due to climate change, the lake began to dry up, the sedimentary rocks were exposed and began to be exposed to the sun and wind. Under the influence of these factors, metal impurities that were part of the bottom rocks oxidized and changed their color. And as a result of the activation of mountain-building processes, mountains were formed, painted with multi-colored wavy stripes - yellow, red, green, white and other colors and shades.
It is not surprising that these fantastic peaks have received such a romantic name.
Interestingly, depending on the season, time of day and degree of illumination, the color scheme varies greatly, it reaches its greatest intensity at dawn, when the first rays of the sun touch the Rainbow Mountains. The brightest, richest pattern is observed from July to September.
Curious facts
- The existence of painted mountains in Peru became known to the world only recently, because, according to stories local residents before they were completely covered with snow. Due to global warming, the snow cover began to melt, and the mountains took on their present form. The first tourists visited here only in 2016, and now this place is rapidly gaining popularity among travelers.
- The most famous Rainbow Mountains are in China, they are located in geological park Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, located 40 km from the city of Zhangye.
- That colorful mountains there is in Peru, few people know today.
- The official flag of Cusco is an image of a rainbow - an alternation of seven multi-colored stripes. But this is not due to the proximity of the "Rainbow Mountains". Presumably, the flag was inherited by the city from
No wonder they say that the best artist in the world is nature, however, like a sculptor, designer and, perhaps, even a musician. This is confirmed by numerous amazing corners of our planet, including the Rainbow Mountains in Peru, created as if in the best traditions of abstractionism. Why they are like this and how to get to them - read about this in our article.
Serrania de Hornocal
Under the beautiful melodic name hides a massive mountain range that stretches from the province of Salta in Argentina, through Peru to the Altiplano in Bolivia. It is part of a limestone formation. The peak of Serrania de Hornocal is located at an altitude of 4761 m above sea level. It is from here that the most colorful space landscapes of the region open up.
Why are mountains this color?
The so-called Rainbow Mountains in Peru also belong to this massif. The local tribe of Indians "Quechua" call them Vinicunka. Literally translated, it sounds like "rainbow-colored mountains."
The entire massif is formed by sedimentary limestone rocks. As a result of tectonic activity in the region and the erosion process in the distant past, they formed bizarre multi-colored triangular formations. It seems that all the colors of the rainbow and their shades are mixed here: ocher, green, blue, purple, yellow, bright red, etc. It is not surprising that the mountains received such a romantic name. It is noteworthy that the color scheme varies greatly depending on the time of day and lighting, it reaches its greatest intensity at the moment when the peaks are illuminated by the sun's rays.
The location of the mountains
The Rainbow, or Colored Mountains of Peru are located a hundred kilometers from the city of Cusco ( administrative center region of the same name). The height of the massif, spread among turquoise lagoons and snow-capped peaks, reaches 5200 m above sea level.
Interestingly, the flag of the city is an alternation of multi-colored stripes - a rainbow. However, this is not due to the close location of the picturesque and colorful mountain range. Presumably, he went to the local people from the Inca Empire.
The Rainbow Mountains of Peru are located in a very beautiful place. From their peaks opens one of the best views to the Ausangate glacier, a photo of which is in the article. The mountain is sacred to the Incas, and every year pilgrims gather in the temple at its foot to celebrate the so-called Qoyllur Rit'i day. The event is dedicated to the deity Apu - one of the main patrons of the city of Cusco. After the conquistadors came to these places, the pagan tradition gradually mixed with the Christian religion and is now closely interconnected with the feast of the Holy Trinity.
Rainbow Mountains in Peru: how to get there?
When wondering how to get to the Rainbow Mountains, every tourist should understand that such a hike requires some physical preparation and is fraught with certain dangers. Getting to the place on your own is quite difficult, since there is no scheduled buses. The easiest way is to order a taxi, a little more difficult - to rent a car and arm yourself with a map. The journey takes about three hours in total.
In addition, you can use public transport. To do this, you should take a bus going to the city of Puno or in his direction. It is easy to get to the village of Pitumarka on it, and from it to Osefina, and from there start climbing to the Rainbow Mountains. in Peru since transport system not everything is as simple as somewhere in Europe, so it makes sense for unprepared tourists to think about a paid excursion.
Excursion to the mountains
The simplest and fast way to get to one of the main natural attractions of Peru is to buy an excursion from a tour operator or local agencies. Its cost will be approximately 75-80 dollars, and the duration is one day. The route usually consists of two stops: Cusco, Kesiuno, Rainbow Mountains and back. In order to meet the time, departure is scheduled for the early morning.
It is important to remember that you will not be taken on such an expedition just like that. Before the trip, acclimatization is required for at least three days at an altitude of more than 3000 m above sea level. The lowest point of the route leading to the Rainbow Mountains in Peru is at 4326 m, the walking distance is 16 km. The hike is not the easiest, but its ultimate goal is so delightful that all the hardships of climbing fade into the background.
- this is a real hike with backpacks and tents. Public equipment, food and duty during overnight stays in the field are distributed among the members of the expedition. In this incredibly eventful journey, we will visit the Rainbow Mountains, see Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Choquekerao, salt mines, agro laboratories, Saxayuman and many terraces built by the Incas high in the mountains.
Day 1. Cusco.
Cusco is the meeting place for the participants of the hike with the instructor, who will be waiting for everyone in one of the hostels (details in the information sheet sent to the participants before the hike). Today is all about gathering the group. With those who arrived early, we will go for a walk around the city, starting our acquaintance with Peru and acclimatization, because the city is located at an altitude of 3400m. We will visit the Koricancha temple, local Catholic cathedrals and the Inca Museum.
Day 2. Wonders of Cusco - Inca Valley.
The surroundings of the city are rich in ancient Inca monuments - we will take the opportunity to visit the Sacred Valley, see fortresses, salt pans and an ancient agricultural laboratory.
Day 3. Start of the walking part of the route.
Today the mountain-pedestrian part of the trip begins. We go to Kachora, from where we will go light, and down, and our backpacks will be carried by mules. During the day we will drop 1500m of height, enjoying the views of steep mountain ranges, and for the night we will stop at a stormy mountain river Apurimac.
Day 4. Marampata.
Our path lies in Marampatu. Although the program is built in such a way that in the early days we do not have to overcome long transitions, but today we are gaining altitude, so a long climb awaits us. We'll see along the way ancient city Chequequirao, which we will meet tomorrow. In the evening we will set up camp surrounded by stunning landscapes and tropical forest. We will walk about 10 km per day.
Day 5. Chequequirao.
This day will give us an unforgettable experience. The well-preserved monuments of the rather famous ancient city of the Incas, incredibly harmoniously fit into the harsh mountain scenery nature of the Andes. Having examined the fortress, we go to the Pencinoc terraces, after which we will go down to the valley and set up camp on the banks of the Rio Blanco River. We will walk about 7 km, and the height difference will be 500m up and 800m down.
Day 6. We continue to climb.
In the morning we continue our way up to Maizal, enjoying snow-capped peaks and green mountain slopes. We will set up a camp in a small campsite, with the owners of the only house here, which is located on a small stretch of flat ground. In the second half of the day we will devote to rest and picturesque views of the nature around us.
Day 7. Via San Juan to Yanama.
Today we will walk along the "Imperial Road" of the Incas and gain altitude above 4000m above sea level. On the way we will meet abandoned mines, where silver and gold were previously mined. We will also cross the San Juan Pass (4200m), the colorful views of which will make us take some photos. We descend to the village of Yanama, where we say goodbye to the muleteers and move to the thermal springs in the village of Santa Teresa.
Day 8. Aquas Calientes.
Today we are moving to the village of Gidroelektika, from where we have to move along the colorful railway in Aquas Calientes is a small resort town located at the foot of Machu Picchu. There will also be an opportunity to swim in thermal springs and stay at the hotel for the night.
Day 9. Machu Picchu
We get up early and go to see the most famous ancient city of the Incas - Machu Picchu. We get into the atmosphere of this place, enjoy the views and take pictures. After lunch, we will use the railway and take a comfortable train to the city of Ollantaytambo, which also has Inca cultural monuments, confirming the existence of an ancient mysterious highly developed civilization. Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Day 10. Cusco.
Today we return to Cusco, walk, relax, who did not have time, can take time for souvenirs. Let's try to go to bed early, because tomorrow we will start before dawn.
Day 11. Rainbow mountains. Vinicunka pass.
Today our day starts at 3 am. By bus we go to the start of the walking part of the route to the rainbow pass Vinicunka. These mountains got such a name because of the presence of many layers of multi-colored rocks - they seem to be specially skillfully painted. This is a must see, even though you have to climb a 5029 m high pass. The ascent itself is quite smooth, but as you climb, its influence will be felt. Climbing the Vinicunca pass, the efforts expended will be more than compensated by the incredible panorama that opens up. We will return to Cusco tired, but satisfied and with incredible photos around 20:00. We will rest a bit and take a night bus to Puno.
Day 12. Uros Islands.
Today we arrive at cultural capital Peru - the city of Puno on the shores of the grandiose alpine lake Titicaca. This is one of most beautiful cities Peru is very colorful, with many cafes and souvenir shops. In the afternoon we will go by boat to the Indian islands of Uros, which 
are considered the most unusual attraction of Titicaca. These are not ordinary islands, but man-made - they are woven from reeds by people living here. Houses are also built from reed and boats are made. Previously, the local tribe hunted mainly fishing, production of wickerwork and their sale. But due to the high interest in their unusual way tourism has become the main source of income. We will not miss the opportunity to stay overnight in a wicker hotel and swim in wicker boats.
Day 13 Puno
Today the main part of the program ends, we say goodbye to the Titicaca Islands and head to Puno. Those who do not participate in the additional program can fly from here to Lima and further home. And we continue to explore Peru and go to Arequipa, where we will arrive in the evening.
Additional program.
Day 14. Colca Canyon.
Let's go to one of the most deep canyons peace and natural attractions of Peru. The depth of the canyon is over 3200m, and in some places reaches 4160m. In the village of Janke we will stop for lunch and then go for a light walk among the impressive slopes and picturesque green terraces. There are also several archaeological sites in the area - an ancient Indian settlement and an amphitheater, to which we will also take a walk, and in the evening we will relax in the thermal pools.
Day 15. Cruz del Condor.
Today we go to the impressive observation deck of the Colca Canyon - Cruz del Condor. Here, the height of the walls reaches 3500m, and graceful condors hover over the abyss, with a wingspan of up to 3 meters. After we leave 
in Ica.
Day 16. Nazca lines.
Arriving in Nazca, we go to a local small airport, where on a small plane, only for 4-6 people, we will fly over the Nazca desert and examine from the air incredible, inexplicable traces and drawings left on the surface and mountains. We will fly over giant drawings of Condor, Astronaut, Hummingbird, Spider, Monkey, Lizard and others. Created in time ancient civilization Nazca geoglyphs cause a lot of controversy and conjecture - there are many theories regarding their purpose. Let's try and understand what could have caused the creation of these huge drawings ...
Day 17. Lima. Homecoming
Tour to Machu Picchu. The trip to Peru has come to an end. 
Everyone with tickets home from Lima is flying to Lima today. Those who have the opportunity to stay can continue their acquaintance with this wonderful country.
The cost of the trip includes:
services of an English-speaking instructor, three meals a day with snacks during trekking in the mountains, use of boilers, gas equipment, transportation of backpacks by mules according to the program of the event, a group first-aid kit.
Mandatory additional costs not included in the price:
flight to Lima and back (~$1200), transfer from Aquas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (~$67), flight Lima-Cusco (~$90), entrance to Machu Picchu (~$50), accommodation in hostels/hotels , meals in cities, other expenses (~$450), transfer Cusco-Nasca-Lima (~$80), flight over the Nazca desert (~$90). The cost of the additional program is $100 (from 4 people, less than 4 people - $150).
Souvenirs, restaurants and other personal expenses at your discretion.
We always recommend taking some money with you, as you will most likely want to buy souvenirs, visit a restaurant, or spend money on something else that was not originally planned.
Do you want to go trekking in Peru, see the Rainbow Mountains and the Nazca Desert?
You just need to fill out and submit an application. Also please see .
Submitting an application does not oblige you to make an advance payment - this is just a way to indicate your intention to go with us to.
Upon receipt of contact details, we will contact you to clarify the details, consult on the search, purchase of tickets and other questions of interest to you.
