Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Breakfast is served in the small village of Hanchi Pacha, high in the Andean mountains.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
The trailhead is striking with bright green grass and alpacas dotting the horizon.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Llamas and alpacas greet you for the entirety of the hike.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Due to high numbers of tourists, the trails are often very muddy but improvements are being made.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
The landscape leading up to Vinicunca is breathtakingly epic, with bright red stones peeking out of mountains.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Even if you hire a tour company, you may be separate from your guide for much of the trek, so only attempt this hike if you are a strong hiker.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Horses can be hired for about 80 soles to take you up the hillside.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
The views get better and better as you climb.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Watch out for deep mud on the trails and take your time to stay safe.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
The valley below is almost as impressive as Vinicunca herself.
Emily Pennington
Photo Date: 
04/27/2017
Once you arrive at the Rainbow Mountain, you have the opportunity to hike up to a vista point and take a photo.
Emily Pennington
Vinicunca, Peru.