It may be misleading, but summer in Peru might not actually be the best time to visit the famous mountain. When people imagine summer travel, they picture warm sunshine and clear skies. But in Peru, summer (December–March) is actually the rainy season in the Andes.
So the real question is: is it still worth the nearly four-hour drive from Cusco to visit Rainbow Mountain during the rainy season?
After doing the hike myself in snowy conditions, here’s the honest answer.
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What Is Rainbow Mountain in Peru?
To clarify, there are actually three different Rainbow Mountains near Cusco:
- Vinicunca (Montaña de Siete Colores) — the original and most famous Rainbow Mountain
- Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain — an easier hike with multiple colorful peaks
- Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain — the newest and most dramatic jagged formation
These mountains only became visible recently after glaciers melted, revealing the colorful mineral layers that give the mountain its stripes of red, yellow, green, and turquoise.
Vinicunca, discovered in 2015, is the most popular and the one most tours visit.
Palccoyo offers three rainbow mountains and a much easier hike, while Pallay Punchu—discovered in 2020—is known for its sharp, almost blade-like ridges.
All three mountains sit at extreme altitude (over 16,000 ft / 5,000 m) and require a 3.5–6 hour drive from Cusco.
Because fewer tour operators visit Palccoyo and Pallay Punchu, they are generally much less crowded than the other mountain.
Which Rainbow Mountain Did We Choose?
All Rainbow Mountains sit significantly higher than Cusco, which is why travelers are usually advised to spend at least two days acclimating in Cusco before attempting the hike.
Like I mentioned in my NYE in Cusco article, the altitude medication Diamox also helps tremendously with acclimation.
Since we were two women coming from sea-level cities, the altitude was intimidating. Because of that, the only activity we didn’t book in advance was Rainbow Mountain. We wanted to see how we handled the altitude in Cusco first before committing.
Originally, I had my heart set on Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain after seeing breathtaking drone footage on Instagram for weeks before our Peru trip.
The idea of a less crowded, more remote mountain really appealed to me, especially after hearing other travelers say Vinicunca can feel overly crowded and too touristy.
Our Last-Minute Rainbow Mountain Booking in Cusco
The day before our planned hike, I booked a Pallay Punchu tour online while sitting at a café near Plaza de Armas. But after an hour passed with no confirmation email, I started getting suspicious. When I called the company, they told me they don’t operate tours on weekdays.
Then how the hell did my payment go through for tomorrow? Their website shouldn’t have allowed weekday bookings, and definitely shouldn’t have processed payments for dates when the tour isn’t offered. Luckily, they refunded my payment since I explained to them we couldn’t reschedule because tomorrow is our last day in Cusco.
Now the challenge was finding a last-minute tour at 6pm.
We ended up walking into one of the many tour agencies in Cusco, hoping someone could take us the next morning. That’s when we found Mountain Travels. They only offered the Vinicunca tour, but they promised something that made it worth it:
They pick you up at 3am, making them the first group on the mountain.
No crowds? Sold!
And at $49 including transport, guides, breakfast, lunch, and entry, it was significantly cheaper than Pallay Punchu tours. We booked it immediately before heading to dinner and straight to bed.
Hotel Pick Up and Breakfast Before the Mountain
At 3am sharp, we were picked up from our hotel in the San Blas neighborhood of Cusco.
It was cold, rainy, and completely dark as we walked to the van.
After picking up the rest of our group (about 12 people total), we started the drive toward Cusipata, where breakfast is served. The two-hour drive is the perfect time for a nap before arriving at the newly constructed, massive dining hall for breakfast in Cusipata.
Breakfast was surprisingly impressive — a large buffet with multiple options, easily one of the best included meals I’ve had on any tour.
Our guide did suggest eating lightly because the altitude and physical exertion can be rough with a full stomach. They also served coca leaf tea, which helps with altitude sickness.
When it Rains in Cusco, it Snows at the Mountain
After breakfast, we continued driving another hour toward the trailhead. Just after dawn, I woke up from my second nap and looked out the window. That’s when I realized something the tour company never mentioned:
If it’s raining in Cusco, it’s snowing at Rainbow Mountain.
The ground was completely covered in snow. As we got out the van to collect the hiking poles our guide was passing out, we asked the question that we already knew the answer to—Does that mean we won’t see the colors of Rainbow Mountain?
Hiking Vinicunca in the Snow
Despite the disappointment, we reminded ourselves: How often do you get to hike the Andes Mountains in the snow?
Despite it being far colder than expected and that we would see a rainbow mountain, the scenery was still incredible with llamas wandering the snowy hillsides.
Luckily, as an experienced hiker, I came prepared for all weather and had layers, gloves, waterproof hiking boots, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket with hood. Unfortunately, many people in our group were not prepared at all.
Some were hiking in jeans, some in thin mesh sneakers, and several had no gloves or sunglasses. No one had warned them snow was possible.
At 16,400 ft elevation, the two-hour hike is difficult enough without icy trails.
Before the hike begins, you can hire a horse for about $30USD to take you most of the way. Only one person in our group chose that option. Ironically, she ended up spraining her ankle slipping during the final stairs and had to be transported down by motorcycle and carried back to the van.
Even though you arrive to Rainbow Mountain as a group, the only other time you meet up with your group is at the top and at the van at the end of the hike. The rest is done at your own pace, though the guide tries his best to check in on everyone at some point during the hike to make sure you are doing okay.
I took the hike very slow since the trail did get icy at times (and to take photos every few steps as usual 😇).
Reaching the Summit of the Mountain
When we finally reached the top, it looked less like Rainbow Mountain and more like Mount Everest. Everything was completely white.
At the summit you’ll find Peruvian women in traditional dress selling snacks like llama jerky, coffee, and tea. That instant coffee may have been the best cup of my life, warming up my cold soul after dealing with the wind and snow.
There are also a couple llamas available for photos, which although touristy, is also very a fun photo opt. Because we arrived before any of the other tour groups, we only waited about five minutes for photos. Later in the day, travelers often wait 30 minutes or longer from what I hear.
Even though the colors were hidden under a blanket of snow, it is a gorgeous sight at the top. I could have spent much longer than just the allotted half an hour just enjoying the atmosphere and views.
The Descent and Changing Landscape
On the way down, other tour groups were finally reaching the summit. The pristine snow quickly turned brown and slushy from foot traffic. I was incredibly glad we went with the 3am tour group. Not dealing with the crowds made for a much better experience.
I took my time descending, enjoying the scenery. As the snow began melting, green mountains and small streams started appearing, making the landscape look straight out of Lord of the Rings. It was breathtaking and a whole new experience on the way down compared to the way up the mountain.
The Red Valley (If Conditions Allow)
Normally, tours include an optional stop at Red Valley, another stunning, other-worldly landscape nearby. Our tour skipped it that day. I’m unsure if it due to snow or the injured member of our group, or both.
Lunchtime
On the way back to Cusco, we stopped again at the dining hall where we had breakfast, but this time for lunch. Since the tour skipped the Red Valley, we got there early as they were just setting up the buffet. The spread was just as impressive and delicious with so many options to choose from including Peruvian staples like ceviche.
After lunch, we loaded up in the van and drove past breathtaking sights of Incan farming terraces along the mountainsides. As much as I was in awe, I still ended up dozing off and taking my third van nap of the day, waking up just before drop off near the Plaza de Armas where the tour officially ends around 2:30-3:00pm.
What to Pack for Rainbow Mountain During the Rainy Season
Packing for Rainbow Mountain during summer is surprisingly similar to packing for a winter hike. Rain in Cusco usually means snow at higher elevations.
Bring:
- Layers
- Gloves
- Polarized sunglasses (for snow glare and to prevent snow blindness)
- Water
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Hat or hood
- Wool socks
- Snacks
I saw everything from shorts to crocs on the trail. I guess when you already made the long drive to Rainbow Moutain from Peru, human perseverance insists on completely the journey at any cost. Being prepared makes a huge difference in your experience.
Is Rainbow Mountain Worth Visiting During the Rainy Season?
Yes — but only if you’re prepared for snow and unpredictable weather.
You might not see the famous rainbow colors, but hiking 16,000 feet in the Andes in the snow is still a pretty incredible bucket list experience with scenery I’ve never seen before on other hikes. You also might luck out and not experience any snow or rain, as the weather does vary.
My biggest criticism, though, is that tour companies don’t warn travelers about the snow risk. I’m not sure if they are worried that too many people would cancel, but it’s not fair to those who were not prepared and had to endure those conditions in completely inappropriate gear and clothing. It’s also a risk for older people who can easily slip and fall on the icy paths.
That said, if you’re in moderate physical condition and are prepared for all weather, Rainbow Mountain is still an unforgettable hike, even without the “rainbow”.
And now I have the perfect excuse to return to Peru since I didn’t get to see the colors of Rainbow Mountain. Next time though, I’m going for Pallay Punchu!
Rainbow Mountain Peru FAQ
What months are the rainy season at Rainbow Mountain?
The rainy season in the Peruvian Andes typically runs from December through March, with January and February seeing the most rainfall. During these months, conditions at Rainbow Mountain can include rain, snow, fog, or sunshine — sometimes all within the same morning. For context, we visited the first week of January.
What is the best time of year to visit Rainbow Mountain?
The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during Peru’s dry season from May through September. These months offer the clearest skies and the best chance of seeing the mountain’s colorful mineral layers.
How high is Rainbow Mountain?
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) sits at approximately 16,400 feet (5,000 meters) above sea level, making it significantly higher than Cusco, which sits at around 11,150 feet (3,400 meters).
How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain hike?
The Rainbow Mountain hike is moderately difficult, mainly because of the altitude rather than the distance. The hike usually takes about 1.5–2 hours to reach the summit, and even short stretches of walking can feel strenuous at 16,000+ feet.
Do you need to acclimate before hiking Rainbow Mountain?
Yes. It’s highly recommended to spend at least 2–3 days in Cusco before attempting the hike to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Many travelers also take Diamox (acetazolamide) or drink coca tea to help prevent altitude sickness.
Is Rainbow Mountain crowded?
Yes — especially Vinicunca, the most famous Rainbow Mountain. By mid-morning the summit can become extremely crowded with tour groups.
One way to avoid the crowds is to book an early departure tour (3am hotel pick up) with Rainbow Mountain Travels so you reach the summit before other groups arrive.
Is Rainbow Mountain safe to visit during the rainy season?
Yes, Rainbow Mountain is generally safe as long as you take altitude seriously and come prepared. The biggest challenges are altitude sickness, sudden weather changes, and slippery trails during rain or snow.
Common injuries: sprained ankles, bruises from slips, retina damage from snow glare and lack of eye protection, fractures from falls (or ATV accidents).
How can I get to the top of Rainbow Mountain?
There are three ways to reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain: hiking, horseback, or ATV.
Most visitors hike the trail, which is the most common option and typically takes about 1.5–2 hours to reach the top depending on your pace and how you handle the altitude.
For those who prefer assistance, you can hire a horse or take an ATV ride, which will carry you most of the way up the mountain. However, the final staircase leading to the summit must be climbed on foot regardless of which option you choose.
While ATV tours can be a fun alternative, they are not recommended in snowy conditions. The steep terrain and slippery trails can make ATVs difficult to control when there is snow or ice on the ground.
Are there bathrooms at Rainbow Mountain?
Yes. There are basic restrooms along the hiking route, usually located every mile along the trail. Visitors typically pay a small fee of about 1–2 soles (around $0.50 USD) to use them.
