Determining the exact distance between Cusco and the Mountain of Colors (Vinicunca) is the first step in planning the visit. The distance by road is approximately 140 to 160 kilometers; however, this figure is misleading, because the route runs along mountain roads and climbs constantly, the vehicle travel time is the most important factor, which turns the excursion into a full day.
The trip is defined by two main challenges: the first is the duration of the vehicle journey, which takes between 3 and 4 hours one way only to the starting point of the hike (depending on the chosen route). The second challenge is the altitude: the hike ends at a viewpoint located at 5,036 meters above sea level. This combination of long travel and extreme altitude demands good logistics and excellent prior acclimatization.
This guide is designed to know the distance and time of the route to Vinicunca. Below, we will analyze the step-by-step to get to this place, detailing the duration, the costs associated with entry, and the necessary planning to tackle the hike.
The Mountain of 7 Colors is located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range, a mountain chain in the Peruvian Andes. Politically, the site is located in the district of Cusipata, Quispicanchi province, in the department of Cusco. The main viewpoint's summit sits at 5,036 meters above sea level (16,522 feet).
Access to the mountain is by road, with two main routes starting from the Cusipata and Pitumarca area. The most commonly used trail ends with the hike that starts from the Phulawasipata parking lot. The route is the end of a long vehicle journey of approximately 3 to 4 hours from the city of Cusco.
The excursion to the Mountain of Colors is an activity that requires a full day due to the long distances by road and the need for time for the hike at altitude. The day obligatorily begins in the early morning hours (between 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.) to optimize time and avoid the high flow of tourists. The logistical breakdown is the following:
The total excursion time is 12 to 14 hours, which highlights the need for good physical condition to face this long and demanding day.
The hike to Vinicunca is not long in distance, but its difficulty is significantly high due to the elevation. The trail is located in the high areas of the Vilcanota Mountain Range.
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The ascent to the Mountain of Colors demands extreme caution. The altitude of 5,036 meters above sea level (16,522 feet) represents a significant risk of altitude sickness (soroche) for travelers who have not properly acclimatized.
Essential Protocol: It is essential to spend a minimum of two to three days in Cusco (3,399 m.a.s.l.) before attempting this excursion; moreover, it is not recommended under any circumstances to do the tour the day after arriving in Cusco. During the hike, the rule is to ascend at a slow and constant pace, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals. The support team usually carries oxygen tanks for emergencies.
The costs for visiting Vinicunca are made up of the tour fee and the access payments that are made directly at the site.
The visibility of the natural phenomenon is directly linked to climate conditions.
Three hours from the city of Cusco you will find a colorful and wonderful place, where nature did one of its most beautiful works. In this land blessed by the Incas, the Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca, as it is also known, is the ideal place to visit. A paradise for lovers of trekking and responsible tourism.
This mountain is one of the most visited destinations by travelers from all over Peru and the world, thanks to its captivating landscape. In addition, its surprising hiking circuit focuses on the imposing and beautiful Ausangate mountain. This has caused more than two thousand people to pass through there daily, making its care essential, since it is a very fragile ecosystem, where the presence of endangered wildlife predominates, such as the Andean condor, vicuñas, Andean cats and more. If you have made the decision to take this tour, rest assured that you will not regret it, but first, write down these details so that you can make the most of your trip.
In the morning from 4:00 to 4:30 a.m., we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco to make the trip to the Vinivunca Mountain, located in the southern part of the Cusco region, from the beginning we will travel for approximately 3 hours by tourist transport, first we will pass through the town of Quiquijana, then continue through Cusipata, and then we will arrive at Chillihuani, where we will have breakfast, then we will continue traveling until we reach Llacto, where we will begin our 1 hour walk to the highest point of the Mountain of 7 Colors, during this journey we will have the opportunity to see the different varieties of South American camelids, beautiful landscapes and birds, arrived at the Mountain of 7 Colors, we will have free time to take pictures of this enigmatic place. Afterwards, we will continue with our return walk to the starting point, then we will go by tourist transport to Chillihuani, where we will make a stop for lunch, then we will return to Cusco, where we will arrive at approximately 6:00 p.m.
The service includes:
Taking the city of Cusco as a reference, from there you have to take the transport to the town of Cusipata, passing through Oropesa, Andahuaylillas and Quiquijana on the route. If you dare to move by public transport, you can take the bus in Huayruropata, very close to the Indoor Coliseum of the city of Cusco (price S/ 8.00).
Although the distance in kilometers is not very long, the journey will take you 1 hour and 15 minutes, with Cusipata being your first stop. Take advantage of this town to eat something, do some shopping or go to the bathroom, since from there on, you will not find good services. Right there you can take a van (in front of the Cusipata municipality) to the Llacto camp. On the route you will come across a gate where you will pay S/ 10.00 to enter the Mountain of 7 Colors.
Once you arrive at Llacto, you will begin the 1 hour and 30 minute walk until you reach the Mountain of 7 Colors.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses. The dry season runs from March to November and is accompanied by bright sunshine, so you need to protect yourself properly.
Hydrate yourself properly. Bring a bottle of water or rehydrating drinks for your journey.
Don't overexert yourself. If you consider it necessary, use a climbing stick or take the additional horse service.
Bring snacks with you. There are no places to buy food along the way, so it is good to have some snacks to replenish energy and overcome any difficulty.
Bring what you need in your backpack. Protect your back. Bring warm clothes and a poncho for the rainy season (December – April)
Peru offers fascinating experiences that reveal natural landscapes, historical monuments, and living cultures, captivating those who seek adventure and discovery in every corner of its territory. Get to know the most outstanding tours:
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