How come Rainbow Mountain is so colorful?
According to an article in Forbes, “the rainbow coloration in the stratigraphic layers of the Ausangate mountain is largely due to weathering and mineralogy. Red coloration of sedimentary layers often indicates iron oxide rust as a trace mineral. Similar to how a nail will rust and turn red when oxidized, sediments that are iron-rich will change when exposed to oxygen and water.” These stratigraphic layers have been hidden and protected under the freeze of a Peruvian Andes glacier and are only now able to be seen.
At around 5020 meters above sea level, the hike to the top of the mountain is challenging and demands fitness, as altitude levels can change quickly. The best way to visit the mountains is through a tour operator www.rainbowmountaincusco.com The trek will take a few days and you will need time to rest and recuperate afterwards. The dry season is from May to September, which is the best time to do the trek.
Peruvians believe the mountain to be holy, so bear this in mind when visiting and act respectfully in accordance with local traditions. Each year, thousands of Quechua pilgrims hike to Ausangate Mountain (very Close to Vinicunca) for the Star Snow festival (Qoyllur Rit’i) which takes place a week before the Corpus Christi feast on 31 May.
