Discover the colorful landscapes of Vinicunca
In Peru, at an altitude of more than 5 meters, the Vinicunca mountain offers the most courageous a natural spectacle of great beauty. Layers of sediment have accumulated over millions of years to create a unique universe that seems to have sprung from the imagination of a giant painter. An extraordinary experience.
Vinicunca: as many colors as there are names
It is not long since the Vinicunca mountain was revealed to the whole world. However, it has existed for millennia but its access was until then reserved for Peruvian shepherds.
Rainbow Mountain, Cerro Colorado, Montana Siete Colores, Rainbow Mountain, so many names for Vinicunca Mountain are its amazing colors. It is true that to discover it, you have to walk (a long time) because there is no practicable road.
Where does this “rainbow” aspect come from?
This mountain is the very particular result of the accumulation of sediments over millions of years. It looks like a big multicolored berlingot and is “only” the result of the time which mixed the red iron oxide, the green copper sulphate, the yellow sulfur to arrive at an extraordinary palette. Once you get to the top, the view is simply breathtaking.
A wonderful hike
The Vinicunca mountain can be discovered on a one or two day hike. Until recently, only an organized six-day trek allowed access.
Today, in Cusco, all the agencies allow you to go there. But the quality of the services is not always there - this also applies to the excursions to Machu Picchu, not far from there. It really takes a good day to get there but the show is worth it. Better to be in good physical shape because the ascent takes you to more than 5 meters above sea level. It takes between four and six hours to reach this polychrome wonder by walking among llamas, along streams and passing near picturesque villages.
Finally, know that it is also possible to go alone by being well organized and well prepared, and even to make the trip on horseback!
