“If you want to see the rainbow you have to face the storm”
Cusco’s best-kept secret is Cerro Colorado, an impressive mountain site at 5000 metres above sea level. The mountain owes its colours to a geological process in which different strata formed multicoloured layers: ochres, reds, whites and blues are intermingled to create a magical effect. It forms a magnificent backdrop to one of the world’s most sought-after hiking routes, renowned for its beauty.
Reaching Vinicunca is unique but requires physical and mental preparation. There is considerable ascent, taking about 3 hours, with further time for the descent. Acclimatising to altitude is essential. As one mountaineer says: “Climb like an old man to arrive like a young one.”
The road to Cerro is magnificent and a minimum of two days/one night is required to arrive and ascend without falling into exhaustion.