Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca is the mountain that became a symbol of Cusco: its slopes show red, turquoise, yellow and purple bands painted by minerals over millions of years. It's a full-day, high-altitude tour: you leave before dawn, hike about 2 hours past alpacas and high-plateau scenery, and reach the viewpoint at 5,200 m, with the snow-capped Ausangate behind it.

What makes this tour special

• One of the most photographed views in Peru, with no trekking experience needed.
• Breakfast and buffet lunch included, so food is covered all day.
• If the climb gets hard, you can rent a horse along the trail.

Tips

• Do this tour after at least 2 days in Cusco, once you're acclimatized.
• Walk at your own pace with short steps, and drink water even if you're not thirsty.
• It's cold and windy at the top: dress in layers.