Here’s one recommendation for every colour of the rainbow.
1
The colours you see in most photos are not true to real life and if you hadn’t guessed are heavily edited, here's a more realistic view. That's not to say it isn't still captivating, it definitely is and one of only a few places in the world where you can witness such a unique landscape. It is certainly one of the most colourful, especially when the sun hits, just don't expect as vibrant colours as some photos portray.
2
Despite it only being a relatively new attraction in the grand scheme of things, it has gained traction fast as a must do hike in Peru. Therefore it is quite crowded. I can only hope that like Machu Pichu, they begin to permit it, to preserve its beauty.
3
The journey to the start point by car is treacherous, (and one of the reasons why some tour companies have only just added this activity) and in my opinion way worse than Death Road in Bolivia, so if your scared of heights, don’t look down but try not to miss the stunning views on the way.
4
If you have flown straight into Cusco, or arrived straight from Lima and expect to hike Rainbow Mountain the following day, think again! We hiked Rainbow Mountain on our first full day in Cusco, however, we had been wiggling our way up and down through Ecuador and Peru for over a month acclimatising ourselves. Even then we really felt the altitude. To put it into perspective, it is over four and a half times the height of Mt Snowdon, making the summit only 100m shy of Everest Base Camp. Don’t let this put you off, all of our group (about 16) who set out to reach the summit did so. However, the local Pampachiri indigenous community basically rely on you being underprepared and tired, so if this is you or for other reasons can't hike up yourself or you just want to help them out you can hire a mule to ride that a local guide will guide up the mountain. (Just make sure your travel insurance covers you for such heights) The hike back down will feel like a breeze, I think some of us were practically running down.
5
The day before we hiked up to the summit, it was blanketed in snow and you did not get to see the mountain's iconic stripes, we got lucky but the weather is very unpredictable. Check the forecast before you leave. Therefore, this one goes without saying; Layer up. The day we hiked it, it was beautiful weather, but the moment you stop to take in all the views (and for some photos of course) it can get very cold because of how high up you truly are. Gloves were also a definite saving grace for us.
6
It is not just Rainbow Mountain, the views surrounding it and over into the Red Valley, including the red river running through, glaciers and llamas make it a hike like no other. If you're feeling up for it you can book a hike that takes you further into the Red Valley.
7
Rainbow mountain is most easily accessible from Cusco, however, it is still a drive away, so expect an early morning about 3/4am and the whole trip will take you an entire day. Usually, breakfast and lunch are provided with the tour company, take your own water and snacks.
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