Rainbow Mountain: Wilcacunca, everything you need to know

Rainbow Mountain: Wilcacunca, everything you need to know

If you’re looking for a new adventure that matches or surpasses the Vinicunca excursion in the Cusco region, the Rainbow Mountain known as Wilcacunca should definitely be on your list. This spectacular new destination is becoming one of Peru’s most visited natural wonders and is attracting attention for its colorful rainbow mountains, which rival or even exceed the ones we’re accustomed to seeing.

However, to fully experience this marvel, it’s important to plan your visit thoroughly, from preparation before, during, and after your arrival in the Inca city of Cusco. Here, you will find all the essential information to make your trip to Wilcacunca an unforgettable experience.

What to Bring

Here is a complete list of what you should bring for the hike to the Rainbow Mountain, Wilcacunca:

How to Reach the Rainbow Mountain with a Tour

Choosing an organized tour can be advantageous, especially if it’s your first time visiting this new attraction. Here’s a guide to help you with a successful booking:

Book the Tour

As a first step, we recommend booking online or through a travel agency specialized in Cusco. Typically, tours include transportation, a guide, lunch, and breakfast, though this can vary based on your budget. It’s important to choose a tour that fits your needs and expectations.

Note: Make sure you have spent at least two days in Cusco or at similar altitudes to minimize the effects of altitude sickness.

Transport

Once you have booked the tour, you’ll just need to wait for the anticipated day. In most cases, the tour includes pickup from your hotel. The transportation used by tour agencies varies depending on the group size, but they typically use vehicles from brands like Mercedes, Renault, or Staria, designed specifically for long journeys. The trip from Cusco to the starting point of the hike will take approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Local Guide

Upon arrival at the start of the hike, your official tour guide will be with you throughout the entire journey, providing assistance before, during, and after the tour. Most guides are bilingual, fluent in English, and have extensive knowledge about the area, including its geography, history, geology, and culture. Additionally, they will be readily available to assist you with any needs and answer all your questions.

Path to the Summit

The hike to the summit of Wilcacunca takes between 1.3 to 2 hours from the starting point. The terrain is mostly gradual, with some steeper sections towards the end, just before reaching the final viewpoint. Your guide will ensure you follow the correct path, allowing you to safely and thoroughly explore the mountain and reach your destination.

Return to Cusco

Finally, after marveling at the landscape of Wilcacunca and enjoying its stunning views, the tour will take you back to Cusco. Before departing, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved lunch featuring typical regional dishes. The return to the city usually occurs in the afternoon, giving you time to relax and rest.

What Tours Do Not Include

The cost of entry is 30 soles per person, which is approximately 8 dollars. Additionally, there are services not included in the tour, such as horse rentals, which are optional and can be a great choice for those who prefer to reduce physical effort during the hike.

How to Get to the Rainbow Mountain Wilcacunca Without a Tour

Transportation from Cusco

If you prefer to make the trip on your own without using a travel agency or tour, you have two options:

Option 1:

You can rent a vehicle in Cusco, ideally one suited for rural routes. Some agencies also offer the option to rent the vehicle with a driver, which can be helpful if you’re not familiar with the area. Ensure the vehicle is in excellent condition and confirm all rental details, either by phone or in person. This option allows you to enjoy the hike at your own pace and with greater flexibility.

Option 2:

Another alternative is to take shared or collective transportation available in Cusco on Avenida Huayruropata. These collectives typically leave early in the morning and follow the Cusco-Sicuani route. You should get off at Checacupe, a small town along the way. There, you may find taxis parked; ask the drivers if they know Wilcacunca, the new Rainbow Mountain. If they are familiar with it, negotiate a price for a ride to the base of the mountain and arrange for both the trip to and from the location.

Note: The price for collectives is usually between 10 to 15 soles per person, while the taxi fare in Checacupe can reach or even exceed 150 soles.

Arrive at the Starting Point

Upon reaching the parking area, known as the base in the community of Qallanqa, you’ll be ready to start your adventure. You may see other tourists beginning their hike, but if you’re going independently, it’s advisable to use an offline GPS app, which you can download beforehand in Cusco, as cell signal is nonexistent in this area. This is where your vehicle, whether rented or a taxi, will drop you off.

It’s important to have cash and your identification document handy, as you will need to pay an entry fee before starting the hike.

Starting the Hike

The hike to the summit of Wilcacunca covers approximately 6 km round-trip. The route is relatively gradual, though you will encounter some steeper sections towards the end, which can be more challenging, especially due to the altitude. If you decide to undertake the hike on your own, be sure to take your time, rest as needed, and progress at your own pace.

Return to Cusco

After enjoying the Rainbow Mountain and reaching the summit, head back to the starting point where your transportation will be waiting. You can ask the taxi driver to take you to the bus stop in Checacupe, from where you can catch a collective transport back to Cusco. Keep in mind that you might encounter a number of people waiting, especially if you visit on a busy day.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Traveling Without a Tour

Advantages

• Personalized Itinerary: You can choose your own schedule and travel plans according to your preferences. You’re not bound by a fixed itinerary and have more time to enjoy everything around you.
• Potentially Lower Costs: While not always the case, you might save on costs such as guiding services, breakfast, and lunch. You’ll only pay for transportation, entrance fees, and any additional expenses.
• Independence: You have complete freedom to explore at your own pace without any group restrictions.

Disadvantages

• Lack of Information: Without a guide, you’ll miss out on detailed information about the mountain’s history, culture, and geography.
• Complex Organization: You’ll be solely responsible for planning every detail of your excursion, from start to finish.
• Personal Safety: Without a tour guide, you’ll be responsible for your own safety and well-being at all times. In case of medical issues or emergencies, you won’t have the immediate support and assistance of a guide or organized group.
• Transportation Difficulties: Renting a vehicle suitable for the terrain or finding transportation to Wilcacunca can be challenging, especially as it is a new destination.

Conclusion:

The best option for visiting Wilcacunca is definitely through an organized tour. As a recent and relatively unknown tourist destination, it’s challenging to find others following the route, which significantly increases the risk of getting lost both on the way to and from the summit. Over time, just like Vinicunca, Wilcacunca will gain popularity and it will become easier to visit without a tour, as there will be more tourists in the area, reducing the chances of getting lost. However, if you are determined to visit the new Rainbow Mountain on your own, we have prepared a video to guide you through your adventure.

FAQ about the New Rainbow Mountain

What is Wilcacunca?

Wilcacunca, or Rainbow Mountain, is a new tourist destination rapidly gaining popularity and fame among visitors to Peru. This new mountain is characterized by its multiple color formations and features four strategic viewpoints where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

What to See in Wilcacunca?

In Wilcacunca, you can admire and observe the four main color formations, along with many other formations still in the process of developing. These colors feature hues equal to or surpassing those of Vinicunca, including: red (iron oxide), yellow (sulfur), turquoise (copper), orange (iron), and black (carbon and manganese), among others. Additionally, there are three excellent viewpoints along the trail perfect for photography.

How Did the Rainbow Mountain Get Its Colors?

The colors that characterize Wilcacunca are due to the minerals in sediments that formed millions of years ago. These sediments were deposited and accumulated on layers that were later lifted and sculpted by tectonic plate movement. Over time, erosion caused by elements such as sun, rain, and wind has revealed the colors that define each of the rainbow mountains we see today.

What is the Elevation of Wilcacunca?

Wilcacunca, also known as the Rainbow Mountain or Mountain of Love, is located southeast of the Cusco region in Peru, in the Vilcanota mountain range between the communities of Uchullucllu and Qallanqa. It is approximately 134 km away, with a travel time of about 4 hours one way. The elevation of Wilcacunca varies, with peaks reaching between 4750 meters above sea level and 4950.

How High is Wilcacunca?

Compared to its counterparts, Palccoyo (4900 meters above sea level) and Vinicunca (5200 meters above sea level), Wilcacunca is situated at an elevation of 4950 meters above sea level, nearly the same height as Palccoyo.

Is It Worth Visiting Wilcacunca?

Absolutely, as it offers a similar experience to Vinicunca and Palccoyo in one destination. Additionally, it is not as crowded with tourists visiting Cusco, making it a relatively exclusive spot for the time being.

What is the Best Rainbow Mountain in Peru?

Currently, Vinicunca is considered the best Rainbow Mountain. However, other mountains like Palccoyo, Wilcacunca, and Pallay Punchu are also excellent alternatives if you are looking for less crowded spots and perfect locations for photography.

Are There Two Rainbow Mountains in Peru?

Previously, there were three Rainbow Mountains: Vinicunca, Palccoyo, and Pallay Punchu. However, with the recent addition of the new Rainbow Mountain, Wilcacunca, there are now four Rainbow Mountains in Peru.

Is Wilcacunca Mountain Difficult?

The hike to the summit of Wilcacunca presents a moderate challenge. The terrain gradually inclines, with steeper sections appearing towards the final stretch. Ascending generally takes about two hours, while the return trip may be quicker, depending on your pace.

Which Mountain is Similar to the Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo and Wilcacunca are similar to Vinicunca, offering comparable photography opportunities and experiences.

Why is the Rainbow Mountain Wilcacunca Less Known?

Wilcacunca, also known as the Rainbow Mountain or Mountain of Colors, features several color formations, with four standing out due to their resemblance to the more famous color mountains of Cusco and other parts of the world. The destination is relatively new and less popular due to a lack of recognition and promotion, which means it is not as crowded or widely advertised.

Should I Visit the Rainbow Mountain Before Machu Picchu?

If it’s your first time in Cusco, you should acclimate for at least 2 days. During these two days, you can spend one day acclimating in Cusco and the following day visiting Machu Picchu. Since Machu Picchu is located at a lower altitude compared to Cusco, it is advisable to visit Machu Picchu first and then prepare for your adventure to the Rainbow Mountain Wilcacunca.

Is the Rainbow Mountain Higher Than Machu Picchu?

Yes, in terms of altitude, the Rainbow Mountain is significantly higher than Machu Picchu. The Rainbow Mountain stands at 4950 meters above sea level, while Machu Picchu is situated at 2430 meters above sea level.

When is the Best Time to Visit Wilcacunca Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Wilcacunca Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, which runs from May to August. During these months, the weather is generally calmer with minimal rain or snowfall. Although mornings can be quite cold, you will benefit from clearer views and the sun highlighting the vibrant colors of the mountain.

How much does it cost to enter Wilcacunca Rainbow Mountain?

The entrance fee to visit Wilcacunca is approximately 30 soles, which is around 8 dollars. This fee is generally collected by local residents from nearby farming communities.

How far is Wilcacunca?

The distance to reach the base of Wilcacunca is approximately 134 km, with a travel time of about 3.3 to 4 hours one way by vehicle. The route taken is the same as the one to Vinicunca (Pitumarca).

Will I suffer from altitude sickness at the Mountain of Colors?

No, if you are well acclimated and take the necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness, such as spending at least 2 days in Cusco or at similar altitudes, maintaining your health, and drinking plenty of water.

Do I need travel insurance to visit the Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Wilcacunca. The hike to the summit can be challenging, especially due to the altitude. Travel insurance provides protection in case of medical emergencies, accidents, or unforeseen issues.

What happens if I can’t reach the summit of Wilcacunca?

If you are unable to reach the summit due to health issues or altitude-related problems, whether you are traveling alone or with a tour agency, it is advisable to return promptly. Descending from the high altitude is crucial to alleviate any adverse effects and ensure your well-being.

What is the temperature like at the Rainbow Mountain?

The temperature at Wilcacunca Rainbow Mountain varies. Generally, it is quite cold in the mornings. As the day progresses, the sun may warm the area, accompanied by occasional gusts of wind. During the dry season, the climate is relatively stable. However, in the rainy season, weather and temperatures can change rapidly. Mornings remain cold, but daytime conditions may include rain and even snowfall.