Rainbow Mountain In December

Things To know

• If it is partly cloudy and sunny, the temperature is very nice, not so hot or cold.
• Crowds are low at the beginning of the month because of the wet season, but start increasing during the last 11 days of December because of the Christmas and New Year holidays.
• The rain still comes with lightning in December so it is dangerous to hike to Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon. 
• The temperature in Rainbow Mountain fluctuates between 24°C (75°F) and 5°C(39°F).
• Any time of the year is a good opportunity to meet furry alpaca creatures, but in December, there will be Alpacas and their newborns grazing across the valleys just up or down the trail.
• Sometimes Rainbow Mountain is clear until 8 am then the mist covers until 12 pm.
• Some days (and occasionally weeks), you will have blue skies with amazing vistas.

Pros Of Hiking Rainbow Mountain In December

• Ground-level furry Cactus plants that populate the slopes below the trails come into blossom.
• The cloud formations make the photos look even better, If you catch the picture right with a bit of sun poking through the mist.
• In December, crowd levels in Rainbow Mountain drop considerably because of the wet season.
• Many species of flora start thriving around Rainbow Mountain. This makes the scenery more vibrant with green landscapes.
• If you are a pluviophile type of person, late December may be a good option for you.

Cons Of Hiking The Rainbow Mountain In December

• When the skies get cloudy, that impacts the beauty of Rainbow Mountain and the nearby Red Valleys, making them look poor.
• Rainy days are frequent as it is close to the peak rainy season in January and February.
• The trail can be waterlogged, which might make your experience not enjoyable, especially during the climb up to the viewpoint.
• Sometimes only real early hikers get to see a beautiful sunrise in the mountain, after that, the fog starts shrouding the mountain until quite late.
• Mountain weather is hard to predict and changes a lot, this will lead to rain showers, snow, and hailstorms anytime in the afternoon or night.
• Lightning strikes mean a big risk, although these come occasionally with hailstorms.

Recommendations

• We highly recommend booking with a company that takes their customers very early to Rainbow Mountain in December because in the afternoon it is very common to experience lightning. We recommend AB Expeditions local company, they pick up their customers at 3 am from Cusco. 
• If you are a good hiker and adapt quickly to Rainbow Mountain’s hardness, go straight to the viewpoint to see the sunshine as soon as you get off the bus, because later most likely, clouds will make the views poor or fog will start to cover it.
• Leave the metal rings and earrings at hotels, there is a danger of being caught by a lightning strike. Especially if you are doing afternoon Rainbow Mountain.
• If you plan to visit Rainbow Mountain in December, we recommend you book in early December because in late December the rain gets worse and it gets crowded.
• Make sure you have a good rain jacket, and a lightweight poncho, and try to pack appropriate apparel.
• We recommend you wear hiking shoes with good soles if you are trekking on Rainbow Mountain in December. When it snows, it is almost impossible to hike with sneakers because you will slip all the time and you won’t make it to the viewpoint to take a classical picture.
• Take with you trekking poles because they help a lot when the ground is muddy.
• Take pictures every time you have good visibility, you won´t want to wait for another hour standing in a cold place.
• Try to be in Rainbow Mountain no earlier than 09:00 am because early in the morning this Mountain is covered with clouds and you can’t see a thing. You need some luck because it is the rainy season.

Bad Weather In December In 2023

On December 26th, 2023. It rained and snowed until 3 pm so all people who went to the Rainbow Mountain didn’t see anything. The Rainbow Mountain was completely white. 

Frequent Asked Questions

Can You See Rainbow Mountain In December?

In December, you can still witness the splendor of Rainbow Mountain, but it’s important to note that the weather can be quite unpredictable during this time of year. At least five times a month, the mountain is likely to be covered with snow and enveloped in mist, which can obscure its vibrant colors. While this may add a mystical and serene quality to the landscape, it also means that visitors should prepare for varying conditions and potentially limited visibility. However, the unique beauty of the snow-covered peak offers a different yet equally captivating experience compared to the clearer days.

How Cold Is Rainbow Mountain In December?

In December, when the sun is shining over Rainbow Mountain, the temperature tends to be mild, creating a comfortable environment for visitors. However, this pleasant warmth can quickly dissipate if the sky becomes overcast. The presence of clouds can cause the temperature to drop significantly, bringing a noticeable chill to the air. Furthermore, if it begins to snow, the conditions become even more severe, with temperatures plunging further, making the experience considerably harsher for anyone in the area.

Is December A Good Time To Hike Rainbow Mountain?

December can be a challenging but rewarding time to hike Rainbow Mountain in Peru. The month falls within the rainy season, which means the trail can be muddy and visibility might be reduced due to clouds and precipitation. However, the rain can also enhance the vibrant colors of the mountain, making for a more striking visual experience. Hikers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, including possible snow at higher altitudes, and ensure they have appropriate gear for wet and cold weather. With fewer tourists during this period, it can also offer a more solitary and serene hiking experience.

Should I Be Concerned About Heavy Rainfall In December?

Yes, you need to worry about heavy rain in Rainbow Mountain in December because it is the rainy season. During this time, the weather pattern is characterized by frequent and intense downpours, often occurring after 12 PM.

Are There Still Guided Tours Available In December?

Yes, we still organize trips to Rainbow Mountain in December. However, we have temporarily suspended some of our Ausangate trips that include the Rainbow Mountain, such as the Ausangate Trek, which spans five days. This decision has been made to ensure the safety and enjoyment of our travelers, considering the seasonal weather conditions and operational challenges during this time of the year.

Is Rainbow Mountain Opened In December?

Rainbow Mountain, located in Peru, is typically accessible year-round, including in December.

How Rainy Is Rainbow Mountain In December?

In December, Rainbow Mountain experiences a typical weather pattern where rain predominantly falls in the afternoon. However, occasional variations occur when rain showers arrive in the morning, followed by sunny afternoons. This seasonal climate often results in rain occurring on approximately 13 days throughout the month. These weather fluctuations contribute to the unique atmosphere of Rainbow Mountain, blending moments of precipitation with clear, sunlit skies, offering visitors diverse and dynamic outdoor experiences amid the natural beauty of the region.

What Should I Wear To Rainbow Mountain In December?

When preparing to visit Rainbow Mountain in December, it’s essential to dress in layers to accommodate the changing weather conditions. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep dry and warm, followed by a thermal or insulating layer to retain body heat. A waterproof and windproof outer layer is crucial to protect against potential rain, snow, or strong winds common in the area. Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots with good traction are recommended due to the challenging terrain. Don’t forget accessories like gloves, a hat, and sunglasses to shield from the sun’s glare and cold temperatures at higher altitudes.

Is It Worth Going To Rainbow Mountain In December?

Hiking Rainbow Mountain in December may not be worthwhile due to the rainy season, which often means you’ll experience frequent rainfall. However, if you’re fortunate enough to encounter good weather, the trek can be rewarding. Post-rain, the natural colors of the mountain become particularly vibrant, eliminating the need for post-processing adjustments like those in Photoshop. Therefore, while the weather poses a significant risk, favorable conditions can enhance the experience and showcase the mountain’s beauty in its true, unaltered form.

What Is The Average Temperature For The Rainbow Mountain In December?

In December, Rainbow Mountain, located in Peru, experiences varying temperatures between day and night. During the day, temperatures generally range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), while at night, temperatures drop significantly, typically ranging from 0 to 5 degrees Celsius (32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). These temperatures can fluctuate based on weather conditions and altitude variations across different parts of the mountain

Is Rainbow Mountain Crowded In December?

Rainbow Mountain experiences lower visitor numbers in December due to the rainy season, which deters many travelers. The precipitation typically keeps tourist volumes relatively low earlier in the month. However, towards the end of December, particularly around Christmas, there is a noticeable increase in crowds. This surge in visitors coincides with the holiday season when many people take time off to travel and explore new destinations. As a result, while early December offers a quieter experience at Rainbow Mountain due to weather conditions, late December sees a rise in tourist activity as holidaymakers seize the opportunity to visit this unique natural wonder.