Rainbow Mountain. Vinicunca. Montaña de Siete Colores. Montaña de Colores. High on the lists of backpackers stopping in Cusco and the agencies know it. Walk anywhere close to Plaza de Armas and you’ll have pictures of “Rainbow Mountain” (heavily saturated mind you) shoved in your face and pointed towards their agency storefront.

While everyone calls it “Rainbow Mountain” it is actually a portion of Ausangate Mountain in the Peruvian Andes and its colors are due to weathering and mineralogy. While of course it’s been there for ages, it’s only within the past few years it was discovered for tourism. It is known for its Instagram worthy pictures, tough climb (located at 5200m/17060ft), and well, a ton and a half of people.

What if I told you there is an alternative “Rainbow Mountain” without the tough climb AND without the crowds.