15 epic rainbow mountains around the world (and how to visit)
Rainbow mountains are unique because of their colorful stripes, created by minerals in the soil.
Most people know about Peru’s Rainbow Mountain, but there are similar places around the world.
In this post, I’ll give you practical advice on visiting these spots, including Peru’s Rainbow Mountain and China’s Zhangye Danxia. I’ll also cover how to get there.
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What is a rainbow mountain?
Rainbow mountains are colorful peaks with mineral layers that look like rainbows.
They’re made of different minerals and rock sediments, including iron and calcium, which give them their unique stripes.
These mountains form from erosion and plate tectonics pushing up the earth, creating the vibrant hills we see.
You can find them in several countries, not just Peru’s famous spot.
Famous rainbow mountains around the world
Here are some of the most famous rainbow mountains you can visit around the globe.
1. Zhangye Danxia – China
In the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, the colorful mountains draw visitors from afar.
Millennia of mineral deposits and red sandstone have created layers of hues, making it one of the most beautiful mountains of the world.
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site for a truly unique sight.
🌈 Book a tour – Private Tour of Zhangye Danxia Geopark
2. Serrania de Hornocal – Argentina
Admire the 14-color palette of the Serrania de Hornocal, part of the Humahuaca valley in Argentina.
Located near Jujuy, this range forms a lesser-known segment of the rainbow mountains in the world, with sharp angles and vivid stripes.
🌈 Book a tour – 3-Day Quebrada de Humahuaca from Salta
3. Vinicunca – Peru
Also known as Montaña de Siete Colores, Vinicunca is a bucket-list destination near Cusco.
The sediments have painted the mountain rainbow with an impressive display, making it clear why some ask, “Is Rainbow Mountain worth it?”
The answer is a resounding yes.
🌈 Book a tour – The Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain in a day from Cusco
4. Painted Hills – Oregon, USA
The Painted Hills reveal how climate change over millions of years left behind layered mineral and rock deposits.
These colorful hills in Oregon’s John Day Fossil Beds National Monument boast rich reds, golds, and blacks.
5. Seven Coloured Earths, Mauritius
Seven Coloured Earths in Mauritius is like a giant natural paint palette. These sand dunes showcase vibrant colors, thanks to volcanic eruptions and mineral deposits.
You can check them out in Chamarel Village. Simply drive or join a tour.
🌈 Book a tour – Mauritius Sightseeing – South west tours
6. Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors), Argentina
Cerro de los Siete Colores, or the Hill of Seven Colors in Argentina, is a unique natural site with colorful layers.
It’s located in the Quebrada de Humahuaca region, easily reachable by road or guided tour.
🌈 Book a tour – Quebrada de Humahuaca and Purmamarca
7. Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain in Peru is a colorful gem tucked away in the Andes.
Unlike the more challenging hikes, reaching Palccoyo is easy, either by foot or with a guide.
🌈 Book a tour – Rainbow Mountain Palcoyo from Cusco
8. Pallay Poncho Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Pallay Poncho is another option if you’re looking to see a Rainbow Mountain but want to avoid the crowds at Vinicunca.
You can reach it by joining a guided hike from Cusco.
It’s a tough walk, so make sure you’re ready for a physical challenge. Starting early in the morning is best to avoid the crowds.
🌈 Book a tour – Pallay Poncho Private Tour from Cusco
9. The Wave, U.S.
The Wave in Arizona is a unique rock formation known for its wavy patterns and stunning colors.
Access is limited to protect its fragile beauty, so you need to win a permit through a lottery. It’s a challenging hike to get there, so be prepared with water, sun protection, and good hiking shoes.
Start early to avoid the heat!
10. Landmannalaugar – Iceland
Iceland’s Landmannalaugar region has otherworldly landscapes.
Here, the rainbow mountains of Iceland are part of a vast volcanic field with rhyolite mountains reflecting vibrant colors.
🌈 Book a tour – Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall tour
11. Valley of Fire State Park – Nevada, USA
The fiery red rock formations of Valley of Fire State Park have earned their name.
While not your typical rainbow mountains, the interplay of shadow and light creates a spectrum of reds and oranges.
🌈 Book a tour – Valley of Fire Hiking Tour from Las Vegas
12. Charyn, Kazasthan
Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan is a natural wonder, less known but equally impressive as its famous counterparts.
It’s accessible by car from Almaty, making it a great day trip.
The hike through the canyon isn’t too demanding, but bring water and wear comfortable shoes. No permit is required, so you can visit any time.
🌈 Book a tour – Kolsai Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyon small-group
13. The Rainbow Mountains, Georgia (the country)
The Rainbow Mountains in Georgia are really something else. They’re part of the Davit Gareja monastery area, right on the border with Azerbaijan.
What makes them stand out are the layers of rock that have all these different colors, thanks to the minerals in them.
It’s a cool spot for hiking and taking in some unique scenery that you probably won’t see anywhere else.
14. Aladaghlar Rainbow Mountains in Iran
The Aladaghlar Rainbow Mountains in Iran are located in the northwest, near Tabriz.
These mountains stand out for their striking colors, a result of mineral deposits like iron, copper, and sulfur.
15. Cappadocia, Turkey
Red Valley in Cappadocia is awesome because it lights up with red and pink colors at sunset. It’s full of hiking trails that take you past cool rock formations and ancient sites.
Cappadocia is great for outdoor activities and learning a bit about history on the go.
FAQ – Rainbow mountains
Where are Rainbow Mountains?
The most iconic rainbow mountains are found in Peru (Vinicunca), China (Zhangye Danxia Landform), and Iceland.
What caused the Rainbow Mountains of China?
The Rainbow Mountains of China were caused by mineral deposits and weathering over millions of years.
Are the Rainbow Mountains in China or Peru?
The Rainbow Mountains are in both China and Peru.
China has the Zhangye Danxia Landform, and Peru has Vinicunca, also known as Montaña de Siete Colores or Rainbow Mountain.
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