Rainbow Mountain + Sibinacocha 4 Days

Daily program

Itinerary

DAY 1

CUSCO/CHILLCA/SIBINACOCHA

You will be picked up from your hotel at 6:00 AM to transfer to Chillca (head of the trail). We depart from Cusco in our private vehicle. On our journey, we bypass Urcos, where we can see a beautiful lagoon with the matching name, carry on to Checacupe, a farming and cattle-raising district. We continue to Pitumarca (3570m, 11712.6ft), and at long last cross Chillca, a small hamlet that overlooks Mount Ausangate and the Vilcanota mountain range. After a 3-hour drive, we arrive in Chillca. Here we will be met by Quechua-speaking Inca descendants and the emergency local horses, then have an appetizing first lunch. In the afternoon, we continue our hike with a minor climb up the Ajacocha, seeing llamas and alpacas, and Torreqaqa (view point), a new route off the beaten path, until we arrive at the Sibinacocha lagoon (4,873m, 15,988ft), where we settle down and have dinner. Our camp will be set in an area with views of Ausangate and other snow-capped mountains. Sibinacocha possesses a wide biodiversity. We are likely to spot Andean Coots, “Huallatas” or Andean Geese as well as Andean Ducks from our camp. Camping. SNACKS, LUNCH & DINNER ACCOM: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES) – 01

DAY 2

AUSANGATE TREK:/PALOMANI/ANANTAPATA

We leave at around 7:00 am and continue on towards the first mountain pass of our trek, the Abra Palomani (5000m/16400ft), which we will reach after about 4 hours. We then descend towards the Ausangate lagoon, a group of small turquoise lagoons next to which we have lunch. In the afternoon, we continue our hike for an additional 2 to 3 hours until we reach Anantapata (4790m, 15715.22ft), where we set our camp in a valley overlooked by the Puca Punta peaks. Camping. BREAKFAST. LUNCH & DINNER ACCOM: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES) – 01

DAY 3

VINICUNCA TREK: WARMISAYA/K’AYRAWIRE LAGOON

We pack up camp and make a move toward K’ayrawire, or “frog lagoon”. In this section, we discover soil of volcanic origin, its color turning to dark red and black, as well as moraines. We will go over WARMISAYA pass (5050m/16564ft) to then turn up at a valley with colorful mountains and three lagoons, where we will see llamas and alpacas. We will cross the valley to move in the direction of our next mountain pass (5100m/16728ft). From this position, an extra hour of hiking leads us to K’ayrawire, our next campsite. Camping. BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER ACCOM: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES) – 01

DAY 4

VINICUNCA TREK: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN/QESIUNO/CUSCO

Today, we leave early to march along the mountain and peaks for 3 hours until we reach the Rainbow Mountain. We then proceed to move across a pampa where we are likely to spot hundreds of llamas, alpacas, and hopefully vicuñas, and then carry on towards Qesiuno, where we will eat for the last time on our journey. In this isolated spot, enclosed by snow-capped peaks such as Ausangate Mountain and populated by small rustic communities, we meet our private vehicle that will take us back to Cusco, where we expect to arrive after twilight. BREAKFAST & LUNCH

What's included

Inclusions & Exclusions

Services of expert guides in high-mountain treks.
Private transport round trip.
Accommodation: 3 nights of camping in tents.
Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners & Snacks.
Waterproof bags for your belongings.
First aid kit and oxygen.

Flights to and from Peru / Cusco.
Transport before or after the program.
Tips for the staff.
Sleeping Bag (can be rented).

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Long-sleeved shirts: Bring 2-3 shirts to protect your skin from the sun and for layering.
Walking pants: One or two pairs of comfortable, quick-drying hiking pants.
Polar or thermal clothing: A set of top and bottom thermal underwear is essential for cold nights.
Sweater and Warm jacket: A fleece or wool sweater and an insulated, waterproof jacket for cold temperatures.
Thermal sleeping clothes: A dedicated set of warm clothes to wear only for sleeping.
Hiking boots: Waterproof boots with good ankle support, already worn-in to prevent blisters.
Waterproof pants and jacket: Essential outer layers to protect you from rain or snow.
Comfortable cotton pants: To relax in at the campsite after the day’s hike.
Wool gloves: A pair of warm, insulated gloves.
Scarf: Or a neck gaiter/buff for warmth and sun protection.
Wool socks for sleeping: A clean, thick pair of wool socks reserved for sleeping.
Hat or cap for the sun: A wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

Sleeping Bag: A four-season bag rated for at least -10°C (14°F) is required.
Water bottle for the first day: Bring at least a 1.5-liter reusable bottle.
Water tablets (Micropur): For purifying water from natural sources as a backup.
Memory Cards: Bring extra cards for your camera as there is nowhere to charge devices.
Toiletries and first aid: Include your personal medications, blister treatment, and basic toiletries.
Binoculars: Useful for observing wildlife and distant mountain details.
Sunglasses: High UV protection is necessary for the strong sun and snow glare.
Sunscreen: High SPF (50+) is essential at high altitude.
Lip balm: With SPF protection to prevent chapped lips.
Hiking poles: Highly recommended to reduce strain on your knees during ascents and descents.
Flashlight: A headlamp is best for hands-free use around the camp at night.
Pocket knife: A small multi-tool can be useful.
Bottle or canteen: To carry water during daily hikes. Staff will provide boiled water each morning.
Plastic bag: To store dirty or wet clothes and to protect electronics from moisture.
Small backpack: A 20-30 liter daypack to carry your water, snacks, jacket, and daily essentials.

Sibinacocha & Rainbow Mountain Trek

When to Visit The ideal time to undertake this trek is during the Andean dry season, from April to October. During these months, you are more likely to have sunny days and clear views of the mountains. The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October are also good, with fewer crowds.

Recommendations

Book your trek well in advance, especially if traveling during the peak season (June-August).
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking up to 5,100 meters and emergency evacuation.
Bring cash in Peruvian Soles for small purchases in local villages and for tipping the staff.

Climate The climate is typical of the high Andes: highly variable. Days can be sunny and warm when walking, but temperatures drop significantly as soon as the sun sets. Nights are very cold. Be prepared for strong sun, wind, rain, and even snow, sometimes all in one day.

Local People The trek route passes through remote areas inhabited by Quechua-speaking communities who live a traditional pastoral lifestyle, herding llamas and alpacas. They are often shy but friendly. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes.

How to Prepare for the Tour Physical preparation is key. Focus on cardiovascular fitness through activities like hiking, running, or cycling for several weeks prior to your trip. It is also beneficial to do a few long day hikes to prepare your body for extended periods of walking.

Recommended Age Due to the physical demands and extreme altitude, this trek is recommended for experienced hikers who are 16 years of age or older. A high level of physical fitness is required regardless of age.

How to Acclimatize Proper acclimatization is the most important factor for a successful trek. Arrive in Cusco (3,400m / 11,152ft) at least two, and preferably three, days before starting the trek. During this time, rest, drink plenty of water and coca tea, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol. You can take short walks around the city to help your body adjust.

What is the difficulty of this trek? This is a difficult trek due to the high altitude, with multiple mountain passes over 5,000 meters, and long hiking days. You must be in good physical condition and well-acclimatized.

Do I need to acclimatize before the trek? Yes. Acclimatization is essential for your safety and enjoyment. We strongly recommend spending at least two to three full days in Cusco (or another location above 3,000 meters) before starting the trek.

What is the highest altitude we will reach? The highest point on the trek is a mountain pass on Day 3, at an altitude of 5,100 meters (16,728 feet).

What kind of accommodation is provided? Accommodation is in mountain tents for three nights. Basic facilities, including a dining tent and a toilet tent, are provided at each campsite.

Are meals included in the tour? Yes, meals are included from lunch on the first day until lunch on the last day. The menu includes a combination of Peruvian and international food. Please advise of any dietary restrictions in advance.

Is drinking water supplied? You must bring your own water for the first day of the trek until lunchtime. After that, our staff will provide boiled, cooled water at each mealtime for you to refill your bottles.

What is the best time of year for this trek? The best time to go is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This period generally offers more stable weather and clearer skies.

Are the toilet facilities basic? Yes, a portable toilet tent is set up at each campsite. There are no permanent bathroom facilities on the route.

What happens in case of a medical emergency? Our guides are trained in first aid and carry a first-aid kit and an oxygen tank for altitude-related issues. In case of a serious emergency, a horse is available for evacuation to the nearest road, where transport to a medical facility will be arranged.

How cold does it get at night? Temperatures at the high-altitude campsites can drop well below freezing, to approximately -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F). It is crucial to have a warm sleeping bag and appropriate thermal clothing.

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