Peru is a country full of natural and historical wonders, and two of its most famous attractions are the Inka Trail and Rainbow Mountain Cusco. Many travelers wonder if it’s possible to experience both on the same trip, and the answer is a resounding yes! Combining the Inka Trail trek with a Rainbow Mountain Peru tour from Cusco is an unforgettable way to experience Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and deep history.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about combining these two epic adventures, from logistics and best seasons to physical preparation and travel tips.
Why Combine the Inka Trail and Rainbow Mountain?
The Inka Trail hike is a historic journey through ancient ruins, cloud forests, and high-altitude mountain passes, culminating in the breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. On the other hand, Rainbow Mountain Cusco (also known as Vinicunca) is a stunning natural formation with colorful, striped sedimentary layers, located high in the Andes.
Combining both allows you to:
- Experience both historical and natural wonders of Peru
- Challenge yourself physically with two unique treks
- Maximize your time in the Cusco region
- Witness diverse landscapes, from ancient ruins to rainbow-colored mountains
Understanding Each Trek: The Basics
The Inka Trail to Machu Picchu
- Length: 42 km (26 miles)
- Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 4,215 m (13,828 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass
- Best Time to Go: May to September
- Permit Required? Yes, book months in advance
The Inka Trail trek is a bucket-list journey that follows ancient paths built by the Incas. Along the way, you will encounter stunning archaeological sites, lush cloud forests, and challenging mountain passes before arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Rainbow Mountain Cusco (Vinicunca)
- Length: 10 km (6.2 miles) round trip
- Duration: 1-day hike
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult due to high altitude
- Maximum Altitude: 5,200 m (17,060 ft)
- Best Time to Go: April to October (dry season)
- Permit Required? No
Rainbow Mountain Peru tours from Cusco are typically day trips that begin with an early morning departure (around 3-4 AM) from Cusco. The hike itself is relatively short, but due to the high altitude, it can be quite challenging.
How to Combine the Inka Trail with Rainbow Mountain
Option 1: Inka Trail First, Then Rainbow Mountain
Recommended for: Travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu first and recover before tackling high altitude again.
- Day 1-4: Complete the Inka Trail trek to Machu Picchu.
- Day 5: Return to Cusco and take a rest day.
- Day 6: Take a Rainbow Mountain Peru tour from Cusco (1-day hike).
Option 2: Rainbow Mountain First, Then the Inka Trail
Recommended for: Travelers who want to acclimatize to higher altitudes before starting the longer trek.
- Day 1: Arrive in Cusco and rest.
- Day 2: Take a Rainbow Mountain Cusco tour to start altitude acclimatization.
- Day 3: Rest and explore Cusco.
- Day 4-7: Complete the Inka Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
Both options have advantages, but doing Rainbow Mountain first can help with altitude adjustment before tackling the Inka Trail’s Dead Woman’s Pass.
Physical Preparation and Altitude Considerations
Since both the Inka Trail trek and Rainbow Mountain hike involve high altitudes, proper acclimatization and preparation are crucial. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Acclimatize in Cusco
- Spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before starting any trek.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals.
- Drink plenty of water and try coca tea, a traditional remedy for altitude sickness.
2. Train Before Your Trip
- Cardio workouts (hiking, running, cycling) help prepare for long trekking days.
- Strengthen your legs and core for better endurance.
- If possible, practice hiking at higher altitudes before your trip.
3. Bring the Right Gear
- Hiking boots with good grip
- Layered clothing for changing temperatures
- Trekking poles for knee support
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for UV protection
- Water and snacks to maintain energy
Best Time to Combine These Treks
The best months for both the Inka Trail hike and Rainbow Mountain Peru tours from Cusco are during the dry season (April to October). This time of year offers:
- Clear skies for Machu Picchu views
- Less rain and mud on hiking trails
- More stable weather at Rainbow Mountain Cusco
Avoid the rainy season (November to March), as heavy rain can make trails slippery and cloud the stunning views at both sites.
How to Book Your Tours
1. Book Your Inka Trail Permits in Advance
Permits for the Inka Trail trek sell out months in advance, especially during peak season. Book your trek at least 4-6 months ahead through a certified tour operator.
2. Choose a Reliable Tour Operator for Rainbow Mountain
Since Rainbow Mountain Cusco does not require permits, you can book a Rainbow Mountain Peru tour from Cusco closer to your departure date. However, make sure to choose a company that provides:
- Professional guides
- Oxygen tanks in case of altitude sickness
- Comfortable transportation
Final Thoughts
Combining the Inka Trail hike with a visit to Rainbow Mountain Cusco is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the best of Peru. Whether you choose to hike Rainbow Mountain before or after the Inka Trail, proper planning, acclimatization, and preparation will ensure you have an unforgettable adventure.
By trekking through the ancient paths of the Incas and standing atop one of the most colorful mountains in the world, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So start planning your trip today and get ready for an incredible journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes!
