Routes to Reach Rainbow Mountain

Route via Pitumarca

Start: From Cusco to Sicuani (2 h by bus), then Checacupe and Pitumarca.

Access: From Pitumarca to Kayrawiri to begin the hike.

Hike: 8 km (2.5 h one way).

Advantages: Fewer tourists, more authentic landscapes, contact with local communities.

Disadvantages: Longer route and few services.

Approximate cost: 30-50 soles for entrance, 150-200 soles if booking a tour.

Recommended time: Depart Cusco between 4:00-5:00 AM to arrive early.

Difficulty: Moderate, especially due to altitude.

Route via Cusipata

Start: From Cusco to Cusipata (1.5 h), then to Phulawasipata.

Hike: 7 km (1.5 h one way).

Advantages: Possibility to visit the Red Valley, more direct path, better infrastructure.

Disadvantages: More touristy route, larger crowds.

Approximate cost: 20-40 soles for entrance, 120-180 soles if booking a tour.

Recommended time: Depart Cusco between 4:30-5:30 AM.

Available services: Bathrooms, small shops, horse rental (50-70 soles).

Difficulty: Moderate-low, more tourist-friendly path.

Route via Ausangate

Description: 4-6 day trek through Andean landscapes and the Ausangate mountain.

Distance: 15 km to Vinicunca, 70 km full circuit.

Advantages: Nature and local culture, immersive experience, view of snow-capped peaks and lagoons.

Disadvantages: Requires good physical condition, more logistical preparation.

Best season: May to September (dry season).

Approximate cost: 350-600 soles per person, all-inclusive for the full circuit.

Includes: Specialized guide, camping gear, meals, pack mules.

Difficulty: High, due to altitude (up to 5,200 m) and distance.

Visited communities: Tinki, Upis, Pacchanta with hot springs.

ATV Route

Start: Depart from Cusco to Japura.

Access: ATV to Qosqopata + 10 min hike.

Advantages: Less physical effort and a different experience, suitable for those with lower fitness.

Disadvantages: Cost depends on tour operator, greater environmental impact.

Approximate cost: 250-400 soles per person.

Duration: 8-10 hours total from Cusco.

Includes: Safety equipment, guide, fuel, mountain entrance fee.

Requirements: Driver’s license (for the driver), minimum age 18.

Helicopter Route

Description: Scenic flight from Cusco over the Rainbow Mountain.

Duration: 45-60 minutes of flight.

Advantages: Spectacular view, no physical effort, time-saving.

Disadvantages: Very high cost, subject to weather conditions.

Approximate cost: 350-500 USD per person.

Availability: Book 2-3 weeks in advance.

Operators: Limited, only specialized tourism aviation companies.

Notes: Does not allow descent to the mountain, only aerial view.

Route from Machu Picchu

Description: Combination of two main destinations in one itinerary.

Common itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (overnight)
Day 2: Return to Cusco (overnight)
Day 3: Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco

Advantages: Time-efficient way to visit two main attractions.

Disadvantages: Intense itinerary, limited acclimatization between destinations.

Approximate cost: 700-1,000 soles for the full package.

Recommendation: Add an extra day in Cusco between visits for better acclimatization.

Time and Cost Comparison

Route	Total Time	Approx. Cost	Difficulty
Pitumarca	12 hours	30-200 soles	Moderate
Cusipata	10 hours	20-180 soles	Moderate-low
Ausangate	4-6 days	350-600 soles	High
ATV	8-10 hours	250-400 soles	Low
Helicopter	1-2 hours	350-500 USD	None

General Recommendations

Bring ID or passport for entry to the areas.
Sunscreen SPF 50+ and wide-brimmed hat or cap.
Light and waterproof clothing, layered system to adapt to temperature changes.
Trekking poles to assist with the ascent.
Cash in soles, no ATMs or electronic payment options.
Energy snacks for the hike (chocolate, nuts, energy bars).
Bottled water (minimum 2 liters per person).
Basic first aid kit with altitude sickness medication.
Oxygen backup for people with respiratory problems.
Previous acclimatization in Cusco for at least 2 days before the excursion.

Special Considerations

Altitude sickness: At 5,200 meters, altitude sickness is common. Symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Prior acclimatization and coca leaves are recommended.

Changing weather: Can shift drastically within hours. Check forecasts before departure.

Best time: May to October, during the dry season. Avoid December to March due to heavy rains.

Photography: Best lighting for photos is between 7:00-10:00 AM, hence the importance of an early start.

Responsible tourism: Respect local communities, don’t litter, and stick to marked trails.