Huchuy Qosqo Trek 1 Day (Little Cusco)
Explore one of the most fascinating and least visited Inca archaeological sites near Cusco with our Huchuy Qosqo Trek (Little...
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.
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.
To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing the following items:
















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