Peru / Rainbow Mountain

Rainbow Mountain: The colorful peak of Vinicunca (southern highlands)

1 to 2 days, from Cusco

Vinicunca is one of several "Rainbow Mountains" south of Cusco. Its colors come from different mineral layers — sandstone, iron, quartz, calcium carbonate, magnesium and sulfur. Even though you can ride a motorbike almost all the way to the top, you should be well acclimatized for the altitude, which exceeds 5,000m. The hike up Vinicunca can also be combined with a trek around Nevado Ausangate (4 to 5 days) and/or a descent through the Valle Rojo (Red Valley) on the same day. Afterward, you can either head back to Cusco or continue your journey toward Lake Titicaca.