Everything You Need to Know About Our Rainbow Mountain and Puno Tour
Are you ready to explore Rainbow Mountain and Puno in a single day? While it might seem unlikely, we assure you it’s entirely possible! Our adventure begins from either Cusco or Puno, depending on your preference. Just make sure to inform us in advance so we can organize everything perfectly.
Tour Start and End
Start:
Our tour begins in the imperial city of Cusco, precisely at 3:00 a.m. You don’t have to worry about transportation, as we will pick you up directly at your hotel door, ready to head towards Rainbow Mountain.
End:
The tour concludes in the folkloric highland city of Puno, around 6 or 7 p.m. This also means that we will drop you off at your hotel in Puno.
Tour Duration:
The tour lasts for a full day.
Location of Attractions:
Rainbow Mountain:
The famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is located at approximately 5,200 meters (around 17,060 feet) above sea level.
Puno:
Puno is situated at 3,827 meters (approximately 12,556 feet) above sea level.
Travel Times from Cusco to Puno
Cusco to Rainbow Mountain:
The bus journey from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain takes approximately 4 hours one way.
Rainbow Mountain to Puno:
After exploring Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, we will depart for Puno, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours.
Activities to Do
Hiking:
To reach the famous Rainbow Mountain, you will need to hike for approximately 2 hours one way and another 2 hours back, totaling 4 hours of hiking. However, the time may vary depending on your physical condition. As an alternative, you can rent an ATV or a horse, which are excellent options to reduce travel time.
Hiking Difficulty:
The route to Vinicunca includes steep paths and a final ascent to the summit of Rainbow Mountain, which can be a bit challenging. However, the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking view the mountain offers.
Attractions to Visit on the Route from Cusco to Puno
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca):
This spectacular mountain, also known as Winikunka or Vinicunca, has captured global attention with over 2,000 daily visitors. Its impressive colors, resembling a rainbow, are the result of mineral layers formed over millions of years and exposed by erosion from wind, rain, and sun. The characteristic colors include red, yellow, green, and touches of light blue.
Lake Titicaca:
Although the lake tour is not included in our package, Lake Titicaca offers an extraordinary adventure. You can explore the lake on boats organized by local agencies. We highly recommend visiting the Uros Islands, situated in Lake Titicaca, just a 30-minute journey from Puno. These floating islands are a wonderful place to visit if you are interested in Puno.
Discover Puno:
Beyond Lake Titicaca and the Floating Uros Islands, your visit to Puno will not be limited to exploring the majestic Lake Titicaca and the fascinating Floating Uros Islands. This place invites you to connect with its rich historical past. According to legend, this is where the children of the sun, Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo, originated, sent by Inti (the sun) to civilize and bring order to humanity. Visiting Puno is delving into the heart of the Inca era, where culture and history intertwine with stunning landscapes and deep-rooted traditions.
Cultural and Natural Experiences:
In addition to exploring the iconic islands of Lake Titicaca, you can immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences. Visit local communities to learn about their way of life and ancient traditions. Discover local crafts, reflecting centuries of artistic skills passed down through generations.
Recommendations and Planning:
To make the most of your visit, we recommend also exploring other nearby attractions, such as the Sillustani ruins, which offer deeper insights into the pre-Inca history and the region’s funerary customs.
Best Time to Take This Tour
The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain and Puno is from May to August, as the weather tends to be clear and pleasant during these months. However, it is important to be aware that, especially at Rainbow Mountain, located at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, the weather can be unpredictable. Even during these months, sudden rains or snowfalls can occur. It’s crucial to be prepared for unexpected weather changes and bring appropriate clothing for cold climates and sun protection.
Additionally, for a more comfortable and safer experience, it is recommended to avoid the intense rainy months, which typically are from December to March, as the conditions can become more challenging for hiking and enjoying the landscapes.
Weather
Cusco:
Typically, the weather in Cusco is quite calm in the mornings, although occasional rain can occur. There’s no need to worry, as we offer hotel pick-up service.
Rainbow Mountain:
The weather at Rainbow Mountain is quite unpredictable and can change rapidly. One moment it might be sunny, rainy, or even snowy. However, most of the time, it tends to be cloudy with some sunny intervals. Temperatures are cold, with winds reaching between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius (50 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit).
Puno:
Similar to Cusco, the weather in Puno is usually calm with some drizzles. Variability is common; one day it might be cloudy and the next very sunny. However, afternoons tend to be quite cold.
Availability of Restrooms During the Journey
Restroom availability during the journey depends on the tourist’s needs, but there are ample restroom facilities at various points such as:
Rainbow Mountain
La Raya, near Sicuani
Pukara, located halfway near Juliaca
If you ever feel the need, don’t hesitate to inform your guide, who will accompany you throughout the trip, to find the best solution.
Stops During the Trip to Puno
We understand that the journey can be long and tiring, so we have planned strategic stops along the way. These stops will allow you to take stunning photographs of the landscapes, stretch your legs for comfort during the journey, and also provide an opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs to remember this special experience. Additionally, these stops offer restroom facilities for your convenience.
Travel Safety
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained to provide you with the best possible experience, ensuring that you follow all necessary instructions for your well-being and protection. It’s important to keep a watchful eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas.
Tour availability
Our tour begins with a minimum of 2 people to ensure a shared experience. However, if you’re traveling solo and seek more privacy, you can choose our exclusive private service. This option allows you to enjoy the tour at your own pace with personalized attention, ensuring a truly special experience.”
Contact and Customer Care
We value your feedback and are here to assist you at all times. If you have any additional questions, concerns, or simply want more information, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp or email. We are available to provide you with the assistance you need before, during, and after your trip.
Itinerary Rainbow Mountain To Puno
- We pick you up at your hotel between 3:00 a.m, leaving Cusco behind in a private transportation during 3 hours until we get to Chilliwani community, place from where the trek will begin, but prior to our arrival we will have arranged the breakfast.
- After breakfast, we will continue our trip by van for an hour to starting point 4650 msnm, at this point we will begin our trekking of 2 hours to the scenic look out point with stunning views, we will take easy for pictures.
- After our exploring time, we will hike back down to the bus station where our van will take us to the lunch spot.
- We will drive to PUNO on the way we will visit RAQCHI an impressive Inca site, we will the continue our trip by van for 3 and half hour arriving to Puno at 8.30pm
Included:
- Competent and attentive Guide that keeps you safe while giving you the most positive and memorable expiriences of the trip.
- Private transport
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Oxigen tank and first aid kit
Not Include:
- Entrance to Rainbow Mountain 30 soles per person
- Entrance to Raqchi Inca Site 35 soles per person
Prices
USD 279.00 per person for a Group of 2 people.
USD 229.00 per person for a Group of 3 to 4 people.
USD 199.00 per person for a Group of 5 to 6 people.
USD 169.00 per person for a Group of 7 + more people.
Packing List:
- Warm clothes such as a jacket, a fleece and woolly hat and gloves
- Camera
- Rain jacket or poncho
- A fleece or jacket,
- Basic toiletries
- Hat for the sun,
- Sunscreen
- Water to drink
- Insect repellent.
- Passport
- Money for souvenirs and tips
Very Important
- If you decide to cancel your tour less than 5 days before it begins, unfortunately, we won’t be able to offer any refunds.
- If you cancel between 5 to 7 days before your tour starts, we’ll refund 50% of your payment.
- Now, if you cancel more than 7 days in advance, we’re happy to refund 90%, but we do need to keep a 10% fee to cover some administrative costs.
- Changing the date of your tour is possible, but it does come with a fee of $20 per traveler, and it’s subject to availability.
- Now, when it comes to unforeseen circumstances like delayed flights, train schedule changes, bad weather, or sudden strikes that impact the tour, unfortunately, we can’t issue refunds in those cases. We’re really sorry for any inconvenience they may cause.
