If you’re looking to be dazzled by a rainbow right here on land, head to the Montaña de Siete Colores, also called the Mountain of Seven Colors, which is located in the Andes, Cusco region of Peru. The mesmerizing color effect was created when the ice on the mountain melted and washed away the minerals in the mountain. This Insta-famous region is a vision to behold with its array of light. So, how do you get there? Here is everything you need to know.

How to Get There

Getting to the site might be a task, but the end view is worth it. First, when you get to Cusco in Peru, you have to get transport to Checacupe, either by hiring a taxi or by public transport. For public transport, you'll get buses from Avenida Tomasa Tito Condemayta to Ocongote. From Checacupe, you'll find taxis for hire for a round trip to Vinicunca. Once you reach your destination, you'll start the hike in the colorful hills. The whole trek takes around three hours, with an added hour to make a stop and gaze into the astonishing views. The total trail is around 6.2 miles long.

The Reason for the Colors

According to a CNBC report, the coloring of the mountains is because of weathering, environmental conditions, and sedimentary deposits. All of these reasons have created layering mineralogy, causing the marble-like effect of yellow, turquoise, and purple colors in the hills, in layers. According to a report, the mountain of seven colors was discovered in 2015, in Peru, when the snow covering the geological wonder melted and the beauty underneath was unveiled.

Precautions to Take While Hiking

If you want to trek up the mountain, be prepared for altitude sickness while hiking Vinicunca. The Rainbow mountain stands over 16000 ft above sea level. From the beginning, the trek isn’t very difficult and it’s easy to locate the trail and hike but the final part of the hike is quite steep and has an incline. Tour companies in Peru are always conducting guided trekking tours to this local spiritual place. There are alternative options, including horseback riding, available for those who aren’t fond of trekking. For the adventure seekers, mountain biking through the beautiful vista is another available option. While going for the trek, always try to bring light layers, rain jackets, plenty of water, some snacks, and sunscreen to have a safe and enjoyable journey.

The Best Times to Visit

According to the locals, the best time to visit VInicunca is between June and November, June to August being the perfect season with blue skies and sun rays reflecting upon the clear layered rocky mountain. The natural beauty of the Vinicunca is far from picture-perfect if you end up there in the wrong weather. Depending on the weather of the place, if it gets cloudy you may not even be able to see the peak. Most photos on the internet are heavily edited. Many visitors have left the trek disappointed due to poor unpredictable weather. So plan well if you want the perfect shot for the ‘gram of these beautiful colorful mountains of Peru.