Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Full Day Tour

Times are approximate and may vary with weather, traffic and the group's pace.

Included

• Pickup from your hotel in Cusco's historic center.
• Round-trip tourist transport: Cusco – Cusipata – Phulawasipata – Cusco.
• Professional Flamenco Travel guide (Spanish and English).
• Breakfast in Cusipata.
• Buffet lunch in Cusipata.
• Entrance to Rainbow Mountain.
• First-aid kit and oxygen tank.

Not included

• Optional horse (hired and paid for on site, from local villagers).
• Trekking poles.
• Dinner and any meals not mentioned.
• Water and drinks.
• Hotel in Cusco.
• Travel insurance.
• Tips (voluntary).
• Personal expenses and any services not mentioned.
• The cost of the horse and pole rental will be coordinated with the reservations team once your booking is confirmed.

Important recommendations

• Safety: the group carries a first-aid kit and an emergency oxygen tank.
• Your guide keeps a very slow, steady pace and keeps an eye on everyone's well-being. If you have serious symptoms of altitude sickness, the guide cannot let you keep climbing.
• The stay at the top is kept short because the freezing winds are bad for your health.
• Horses are available along the route (optional service) for anyone who can't continue on foot. Availability depends on the season and on local arrangements.
• The itinerary may be adjusted for safety in case of rain, hail, fog or snow.
• Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 2 days before the tour. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol for the first few days, and avoid strenuous activity before the trip.
• You don't need mountaineering experience, but you do need good fitness and respect for the altitude. Walk slowly and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
• The tour is not recommended for people with heart, breathing or back problems, or for pregnant women. If you have high blood pressure or another health condition, check with your doctor before booking.
• If you're traveling with children or older adults, consider their fitness and acclimatization. Some families hire a horse for the children.
• The weather changes quickly, so always bring rain gear, gloves and a hat.
• The exact pickup time is confirmed the day before.

What to bring

• ID or passport.
• Small backpack.
• Warm, thermal clothes in layers (jacket, scarf, gloves and wool hat).
• Rain gear or a rain poncho (especially November to April).
• Trekking shoes or boots with good soles.
• Cap or hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Water: at least 2.5 liters per person.
• Energy snacks (chocolate, candy) and coca leaves or coca candy.
• Personal medicines (for headaches, anti-inflammatories, and for altitude sickness after checking with your doctor).
• Camera and spare batteries.
• Extra cash in soles (optional horse, drinks, souvenirs, tips).