If you’re in search of a truly unique hiking experience, Winikunka - also known as Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain - should be at the top of your bucket list. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, this geological marvel is unlike anything else. The vibrant colors that streak across the mountainside make it one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Though it was only discovered in 2015, the story of how it came to be is just as captivating as the mountain itself.
Our adventure began with an early wake-up call. Our tour bus
picked us up from our hotel in Cusco around 3 am - yes, it was early! But trust
us, it’s all worth it. After a few hours on the road, we made our first stop
around 6 am at a local spot for a delicious traditional Peruvian breakfast. Tip:
Keep your breakfast light. You’ll want to be energized, but a heavy meal might
make the trek a bit more challenging, especially considering what lies ahead.
Once we were fueled up, we hit the road again, heading
straight to Rainbow Mountain. By 8 am, we were ready to embark on the hike.
Most tours aim to complete the hike early in the day to avoid the scorching
midday sun, so it’s important to pace yourself - this is no ordinary hike.
Winikunka’s elevation is one of the toughest aspects of this
adventure. At 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), you’re nearly 500 feet shy of Everest
Base Camp! The altitude can make the hike feel incredibly strenuous, with
nausea and breathlessness being common side effects. Coca tea is your best
friend here. There are plenty of vendors along the way selling this magical
elixir that helps you adjust to the altitude. You can also chew on Coca leaves
to ease the discomfort. Trust us, you’ll want to stay hydrated and sip on that
tea every chance you get!
If you’re not sure whether you’ll be able to make the hike,
don’t worry - there’s an option to take a horse ride for the first portion. But
keep in mind that there’s a steep section near the top where horses aren’t
allowed, so you’ll still need to get your legs moving. And believe us, those
final steps are worth it!
Throughout the hike, you’re treated to some of the most
breathtaking scenery you’ll ever see. The towering peaks, valleys below, and
crisp mountain air make every step worth it. As you get closer to the summit,
the anticipation builds. And when you finally reach the top and see the famous
Rainbow Mountain spread out before you, it’s nothing short of magical. The
bright reds, oranges, yellows, and greens that streak across the mountain’s
slopes are a testament to the power of nature.
After taking some time to snap those picture-perfect shots,
it’s time to make your way back. The descent is far easier, and you can opt to
hike your way down. Don’t forget to stop by one of the vendors and get a stamp
of the Rainbow Mountain on your passport - a fun little souvenir from your
incredible journey!
Once we were back at the bus, it was time for lunch at the
same restaurant where we’d stopped for breakfast earlier in the morning. After
all that hiking, you’ve earned a hearty meal! The Peruvian lunch options were
delicious, and there were plenty of vegetarian choices, too. Tip: Be the first
to use the restroom when you arrive as a lot of people eat a lot and still have
the nausea feeling and they end up throwing up in the stalls. A light lunch is
your best bet, especially after such a physically demanding morning.
After our lunch, we headed back to Cusco for some much-needed rest. The hotel felt like a sanctuary after the hike, and we took a few hours to recover before heading out for a little sightseeing around the town. Cusco has a lovely mix of colonial charm and modern flair, making it perfect for some window shopping and a leisurely stroll. By evening, we found a cozy restaurant for a delightful dinner, capping off a day filled with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable memories.
Rainbow Mountain isn’t your average tourist hike - it’s a
challenging but rewarding adventure that takes you to one of the most unique
landscapes in the world. The hike is not for the faint of heart, but the views
and the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top make it all worthwhile.
If you’re ready for a physical challenge and eager to see one of nature’s
greatest wonders, Rainbow Mountain should be at the top of your list.
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