The adventure kicks off early, leaving Cusco around 4:00 a.m. for the impressive Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca. After about 2.5 hours of travel, you'll stop in Cusipata to enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast at a local restaurant, before heading to the trail's starting point. The tour is done in a small group, with a maximum of 10 people, ensuring a more personalised and relaxed experience, always accompanied by a professional guide who speaks Portuguese.
The hike, about 7 km (return), runs through wide, peaceful valleys surrounded by snow-capped mountains, llamas, and alpacas. Along the way, the guide shares interesting facts about Quechua culture, local traditions, and the spiritual importance of the sacred mountains to the Andean people. As the sun rises, the scenery comes to life and reveals a unique colour palette—golden, red, and green tones that announce your arrival at your final destination.
The final stretch of the trail is more challenging, but every step is worth it. From the main viewpoint, the panoramic view of the Colourful Mountain is simply spectacular. You'll have time to take photos, rest, and admire the natural beauty that made Vinicunca famous worldwide. If you want, you can also walk a little further to the Red Valley Lookout, an impressive visual bonus (optional).
After the visit, the group will calmly start the descent, accompanied by the guide, to the starting point, where the transport will be waiting. Then, we'll head back to Cusipata for a typical Andean buffet lunch, with vegetarian options. Finally, we'll start the trip back to Cusco, arriving around 4:00 PM.
This tour is ideal for travellers seeking an authentic, safe, and fully Portuguese-guided experience, with the advantage of small groups that provide comfort, personalised attention, and the opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Andes in a unique and unforgettable way.