Rainbow Mountain Trek Review: Is it Worth the Hike?

Okay, so you’re thinking about trekking to Rainbow Mountain in Peru? I mean, pictures are all over Instagram, right? These painted hills look like a candy store exploded all over the Andes. But seriously, what’s the actual hike really like? Is it one of those things that looks amazing online, and ends up being kind of disappointing once you see it yourself? In this review, I’ll give you the straight story on Rainbow Mountain – what’s amazing, what’s hard, and if it’s worth that early wake-up call.

What is Rainbow Mountain and Why Should You Go?

Rainbow Mountain, also recognized as Vinicunca (or sometimes just “the seven-colored mountain”), is truly something different. You know, this mountain looks almost like someone swirled together a bunch of vibrant paints. That look is not some effect of photo editing. It’s genuinely caused by mineral deposits in the soil. So you end up with these stripes of red, yellow, green, and a bunch of other shades. But it’s far from a simple thing; it’s the mix of minerals, altitude, and light that creates a scene that seems like another planet.

As far as reasons to make the trek, obviously the scenery is the top selling point, or so it would seem. Let me put it this way, the views alone are truly out of this world. It is really stunning to just stand there and take it all in. If you are a big fan of travel photography, well then, you’ll probably have the chance to get some absolutely incredible shots. On top of that, there’s just an excitement to making it to the top. Being at such a high elevation, it gives you this really cool feeling of being on top of the planet.

The Rainbow Mountain Trek: What to Expect

Right then, so let’s break down the trek itself. Keep in mind, what follows is no walk in the park. I mean, you’re talking about a hike that reaches an elevation of around 17,000 feet. Very few people will stroll to that peak completely untouched by the elevation, is that clear? It actually hits most people that will start with headaches to full-blown breathlessness with exertion.

Your day generally kicks off super early – something around 3 or 4 in the morning. A van will then typically collect you from Cusco, then whisk you off on what might seem like a never-ending drive through the valleys. So it’s generally like a scenic, but long, start. After that long ride, you’ll reach the trailhead where the hike actually gets underway. The trail itself? Oh it tends to be a mix of dirt, some rocky sections, and pretty steep inclines in certain parts. While it might be like a moderate challenge for very experienced hikers, those still at novice level may want to prepare.

Is that all? Hardly! So let’s not miss this next part! Once you reach the top, you’ll have the time, depending on the tour, to snag photos, drink in the scenery, and even just catch your breath. The descent, very, very surprisingly, can actually be as difficult as the climb, but mainly because your legs might be a bit wobbly by that time. The entire trek typically takes approximately a full day. In total that makes a very early morning until late evening affair when you’re finally getting back to Cusco.

Dealing With the Altitude

Here we are again at the elephant in the room. The most vital thing about Rainbow Mountain isn’t really the views, or so it might seem; it’s honestly dealing with the altitude. Rainbow Mountain sits at over 5,000 meters (around 17,000 feet), meaning it’s super, super crucial to get used to the height before attempting this hike.

Spending a couple of days in Cusco (which sits at a casual 11,000+ feet itself) is basically what should happen to you as minimum prep time. I say that mainly to help your body get acclimatized, that is if you want a comfortable time during the main event! And oh yeah, during the hike itself, very, very surprisingly, drinking coca tea could be really something that will help. Chew on coca leaves that have been proved, to have reduced effect. I mean, that is like a local tradition to combat altitude issues. Pace yourself, drink tons of water, and perhaps consider consulting your doctor about altitude sickness medication before you travel. These might seem simple and plain, yet they are really key to being prepared!

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

So then, you are definitely going, or so you think? Next choice! Booking with the right tour operator is so vital, truly. There’s a bunch out there, and their offers do fluctuate. To give you the facts; it can make a difference to your experience. Do research, comparing their offered services, costs, and especially reading reviews.

Make sure what I mention comes standard, or so it could be something to watch for: that your operator has first aid, portable oxygen available (especially considering how intense altitude sickness may get), knowledgeable guides (guides who can talk the talk about the place is so crucial, you’d probably be glad they know), along with decent transportation and even meals. Very, very occasionally it also pays to ask what kind of contingency plans they’ve set up in case of nasty weather conditions that’s pretty much going to interrupt the excursion. I guess, in the grand scheme, doing your research upfront can translate into an absolutely secure as well as very enjoyable trek.

What to Pack for Your Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Let me lay this down for you to listen. When it comes to packing, preparing in advance truly improves things so so much. The weather around Rainbow Mountain happens to be extremely tricky. Prepare in such a way as if you were visiting several types of environments throughout just that particular same day, because, yeah you may just get this level of surprise on this day!

Here are what you probably need to bring: layers (as it is possible it may go from frosty cold up to positively pleasant in only hours); durable hiking boots; rain equipment or a windbreaker; a sun hat and sunglasses; sunscreen (the sun happens to be powerful out there at such elevation); plus of course any prescription medications that you use (or might want). I suggest taking some snacks like energy bars, perhaps nuts for that pick-me-up en route. I say again that you shouldn’t forget to have water. If your guide tour company for some reason isn’t already supplying water; be prepared and provide yourself with the water!

Is Rainbow Mountain Worth It?

Well then, so here’s the thing. Is Rainbow Mountain basically a must-see? Should that trip have your name on it? Right, let me summarize for you what’s been said. Even if the hike does test a person (because you happen to be at very high elevations; it gets very cool; not everyone has this level of experience walking uphill), there really is no mistaking that scenery makes all of the inconvenience seem like such an insignificant thing.

Is that everything you ought to consider though? Here is the fact: you can definitely encounter hoards of tourists, and how strenuous it may be might vary, although when you stand right on top of that landscape? Honestly, the Rainbow Mountain absolutely seems something very close to, maybe even almost a literal dream. Given appropriate preparation and really adjusting what you need, this particular spot tends to be positively unforgettable.

I really suppose in conclusion that is is worth every penny, drop of sweat, and every photo is going to be frame worthy, even! I highly recommend!

Breathtaking Scenery: Those multi-colored slopes honestly live up to their photos.
Altitude Challenges: Acclimatize beforehand is pretty much critical.
Pack Smart: Plan what to put inside that rucksack and pack smartly. Layering could prove super significant and beneficial!
Tour Choice: Seriously spend a moment deciding who should get your money because it truly can easily make or break the experience.
Unforgettable: Should it all click? Rainbow Mountain generally represents an unforgettable jewel inside Peru.

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