Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour 1 Day

Full day
5 Stars
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Tour Overview

Discover the smarter alternative to the famous Vinicunca with the Palcoyo Mountain Tour. This stunning range of three colorful mountains is located south of Cusco and offers a much more accessible experience. Palcoyo is perfect for travelers who want to see the rainbow striations without the demanding trek or the massive crowds.

This tour combines nature, herds of llamas and alpacas, and the unique Stone Forest (Bosque de Piedras). It offers spectacular views of the Red Valley and the Ausangate glacier in a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the Andes at your own pace.

Meals Included: 1 Buffet Breakfast, 1 Buffet Lunch.

Full day
PRICE FROM $76,00 per person
Places to visit: Cusco
Trip starts in: Hotel, AirBnB, or other agreed location.
Physical Level: Moderate
Travel Style: Hiking
Group Size: 5 to 12 People
Total Distance: 2 km
Meals Included: 1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es)
Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Palcoyo Mountain – Stone Forest – Cusco

Palcoyo 1 Day is one of the options apart from rainbow mountain. palcoyo for those people who do not practice much physical activity. Since these colorful mountains are located in the Andes, but super high located over 4700msnm. Which for some people is difficult due to lack of oxygen, so this area has 3 mountains with rainbow colors. And in sima also has a forest of stones which makes it different from the other mountains with colors.

Very impressive day begins when we pick you up from the hotel at 4.00 am, and in our transport we go to Cusipata place of the Breakfast rest. COLCA. Then we head to the town of Checacupe where we will make a stop to appreciate its bridges (depending on the time).

Continuing with our walk we arrive to the town of Palcoyo, a little inhabited but very beautiful town, we continue with the journey at our pace towards the mountain of Palcoyo, we arrive to a viewpoint and we will have our first view of the beautiful mountain of Palcoyo, accompanied by some animals like alpacas and these have earrings in the ears as a symbol of affection or also mark of each home to which it belongs, as well as people who work the land daily.

Once you arrive to the main point on the way to Palcoyo, you will be able to observe the mountains that form part of the colorful mountain of Palcoyo, we will listen to the information of our guide about how it was originated, once the information of our guide is finished you will have time to explore it more and be able to take pictures and videos. You will also be able to observe the imposing Ausangate mountain (6,372 masl / 20,910 feet). We will also be able to see part of the beautiful surrounding valleys.

As we continue exploring the mountain of Palcoyo we will find stone forests that are part of this wonderful colorful mountain that is Palcoyo. After the visit we will have to return at the same place to our departure point to take the bus and continue the journey to our lunch point and then continue our journey to Cusco.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

  • Briefing: The night before the trip.
  • Transfers: Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off.
  • Transport: Tourist transportation to Palcoyo.
  • Tickets: Entrance fee to Palcoyo Mountain.
  • Guide: Professional English-speaking Guide.
  • Meals: 01 Buffet Breakfast, 01 Buffet Lunch.
  • Safety: First Aid Kit and Oxygen tank (Vital for 4,900m).
  • Service: Personalized small group attention.

Not Included

  • Dinner.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Rentals: Trekking poles (Optional, rarely needed).
  • Tips: Optional.

Packing List

To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing the following items:

Essentials & Documents

Local money

Local money

Medical kit

Medical kit

Passport

Passport

Sunscreen

Sunscreen

Water

Water

Clothing & Footwear

Cap and hat

Cap and hat

Tennis and boots

Tennis and boots

Waterproof

Waterproof

Waterproof jacket

Waterproof jacket

Equipment & Gear

Camera and cell phone

Camera and cell phone

Portable charger

Portable charger

Small backpack

Small backpack

Sunglasses

Sunglasses

Recommended Extras

Gel alcohol

Gel alcohol

Lanches snacks

Lanches snacks

Lip balm

Lip balm

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

Even though the hike is short, it is very cold and windy at the top. Bring a warm hat (beanie), gloves, scarf, and a windbreaker jacket.

Book This Tour

Price per person $76.00
$76.00 x 1 Guest(s)
Total: $76.00
Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Palcoyo?

Palcoyo is a range of rainbow-colored mountains located south of Cusco. It is considered the "sister" of Vinicunca but is much easier to access and far less crowded.

Where is it located?

It is located in the Canchis province, near the village of Checacupe, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours driving from Cusco.

What is the altitude?

The viewpoints are located at approximately 4,900 meters (16,076 ft). While you don't hike much, the air is thin, so move slowly.

Is the hike difficult?

No. Unlike Vinicunca (which is a steep 1.5-hour climb), Palcoyo is a mostly flat 45-minute walk. It is suitable for children and older adults who are acclimatized.

Do I need to acclimatize?

Yes. Despite the easy walk, the altitude is extreme (4,900m). You should spend at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour to avoid dizziness or headaches.

When is the best time to visit?

The dry season (April to October) is best for seeing the vivid colors. In the rainy season, snow can cover the colors, though the landscape remains dramatic.

Testimonials

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