From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Trekking Review and Tips

Alright, so you’re thinking about seeing Rainbow Mountain, is that right? This striking geological feature, just outside Cusco in Peru, has certainly grabbed the attention of sightseers worldwide. Lots of individuals are drawn to its colorful slopes, but getting there can sometimes be a challenge. I will share my adventure with you and talk about what is good to understand if you’re thinking of going on a similar trek.

Picking a Tour Operator: Things to Consider

Okay, so when choosing how to go to Rainbow Mountain, you find pretty quick that tour operators are all over. Prices and what’s included might actually shift quite a bit, so research becomes really needed. Seek companies known to have positive feedback and really transparent itineraries. It’s really smart to ask what all is covered – things such as meals, how you’ll get there, an English-speaking guide, and even stuff for altitude sickness. It could be that a super low price has hidden fees or is of lower quality. Personally, I feel paying just a little more can drastically enhance your time.

The Altitude Challenge

Just one little detail to watch out for. Rainbow Mountain sits at an altitude that is high up there – like, over 16,000 feet (5,000 meters)! So, if you’re landing in Cusco (which itself is up at 11,000 feet or so) you might just be affected by it, so it’s important to adjust for two or three days first before hitting Rainbow Mountain. Many tours actually provide oxygen tanks, which, truthfully, were beneficial to me and others when climbing. Listen to your body, move slowly, and remain very hydrated. Coca tea and altitude sickness tablets, when okayed by a doctor, will probably assist a whole bunch too.

What to Pack: Be Prepared

As for knowing what to bring, layering happens to be so necessary because weather up in the Andes can shift very swiftly. Take a rain jacket or poncho because showers or some snowfall are possibilities, along with things like a thermal base layer, a beanie and some gloves, along with pants that you would actually want to walk in. And never fail to have sunscreen plus sunglasses; because that sun feels a lot extra intense at that altitude. Hiking boots or good walking shoes make sense as you’ll tread over trails which can be kind of steep and bumpy. Eventually, think about bringing some Peruvian currency, Soles, for purchasing water or souvenirs.

The Trek Experience: My Story

I got up when it was still dark; like 3 AM. I was nervous with that trek, yet really energized as well. That drive from Cusco toward the trailhead at the start went on for about three hours, with really curvy paths. When we got there, this sight just felt incredibly hard. Even so, taking one step after another, all the way step by step, I progressed little by little. Scenery felt pretty amazing! Herds of llamas grazing really close, alongside those snow-peaked mountains; these sights kind of made me just keep heading out. This climb will stress your heart and lungs, and so I’d recommend taking rests frequently. Ultimately getting up to the Rainbow Mountain just really gave a very rewarding sense. Those views of the colorful hills extending as far as I could perceive – really unreal! All who visit felt pride plus shared joy.

Respecting Local Culture and Environment

I’ve come to see that respecting culture alongside natural world happens to be extremely necessary on every expedition. Rainbow Mountain passes straight through native villages. If it is OK to actually photograph inhabitants or their property, seek that approval beforehand. Never leave litter behind, and actually stay on routes to try keeping this landscape secure. You may think about buying souvenirs created locally; that may potentially enable that community straight way.

Photography Tips for Rainbow Mountain

You may want shots from Rainbow Mountain that are picture perfect. Understand that sun is often at its softest really early each day as well as past due afternoon, definitely ideal periods of time if one hopes there isn’t any harsh shadows on these mountains’ stripes. Rainy weather would affect visibility so much. Going soonest during their morning makes more space out of crowds too, making more personal photo captures achievable. If possible, use polarization lenses at the time; these might elevate coloring saturation whilst mitigating glare. Don’t limit pictures specifically in terms of simply “mountain photography” though; think over snapping locals including fauna for even more storytelling images.