Deep within the Andes Mountains of Peru, sitting on high grounds, lies a very vivid sight—not from any fairy tale but reality—in a very vibrant spectacle referred to as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain. An amazing geological wonder that captured many hearts all over the world. This mountain feature can well be described when painted by its colorful stripes. Its many pictures posted on social media are breathtaking, but they should only be appreciated firsthand.
The Revelation of a Natural Masterpiece
Until 2013, Rainbow Mountain was hidden under thick ice. As the ice continued to melt, it unveiled a beautiful play of colors resulting from the intermingling of minerals inside the earth. The red came from rust mixtures, yellow from iron sulfide, purple from goethite or oxidized limonite, and green from chlorite. The result? A dramatic spread of color that undulates across the surface of the mountain. Therefore, the mountain is often called “Montaña de Siete Colores” or Mountain of Seven Colors.
While the colors in many pictures stretching across the sites are for artistic purposes, reality does not disappoint. Colors really stand out even on the cloudy days that make nature’s handiwork get a very peaceful and unique view.
Planning Your Visit: When to Go?
While the rainbow colors on Rainbow Mountain are vividly seen every day of the year, your visit time can be very differentiating. The best time to visit Peru is during the warmer months. During this period the weather is mostly dry and does not get too harsh to hike. If you have your preference, the best times would be early morning or late afternoon to start the trek for the best light. These are referred to as the “golden hour,” when the mountain had been softly warmly bathed in light, photogenically perfect.
The Hike to Rainbow Mountain
You arrive in Cusco, the old capital of the Inca Empire. From here, you move three hours to the Qesoyuno trailhead, and then you start the hike with real grandeur. The journey to Rainbow Mountain will not leave softies – it is a long upward hike to over 17,000 feet. Along the way you find steep inclines, loose gravel, and stunning views in equal measure.
The altitude is high, and visitors should plan to spend a few days in Cusco before tackling the trek. Of course, altitude sickness is a serious consideration. In this case, many hikers decide to travel with a guide who can provide support and make sure that the journey is safe. Horses are available for rent from local guides for those needing a little extra push up the steepest parts of the trail.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
In a time of heavily edited photographs, some may expect the same level of editing that makes Rainbow Mountain’s beauty over-the-top and gorgeous. But the real beauty is in its serene, understated nature. So how do you capture it? Great photographs are often made without much editing. Come to this place early. Grab the golden hour light, which would actually expand the colors without the need for filters. Try experimenting with different angles, like really getting up close to the mineral-rich earth or setting up a shot that juxtaposes the colorful mountain against a clean blue sky.
The best pictures are the ones that have a story behind them. So, try to capture not just the photo of the mountain itself but also the people you meet on your way-those fellow hikers, local guides, or even the alpacas that live around this rough terrain.
A FINAL NOTE
Peru’s Rainbow Mountain, a leading photo attraction on social media, is graceful and challenging simultaneously. The scenery can make anybody stand in awe of the mountains from a panoramic view. You will find that there is actually no photograph that can be taken to capture the essence of this place; take all your time to soak up in the view, and experience at Vinicunca is what makes you carry home.
