Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Full Day

Duration

Full Day

Type of tour

Hiking

Difficulty

Easy

Best Time

April - October

The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is an excellent alternative to Vinicunca, ideal for those who want to make the most of their time in Cusco while enjoying stunning landscapes in a short but complete experience. Along the route, you will discover reddish and colorful mountains, with the option to visit the surprising Stone Forest and admire unique views of the majestic Ausangate. Designed for adventure and hiking lovers, this tour requires basic physical condition but is suitable for people of all ages who wish to live an authentic experience in direct contact with Andean nature.

A perfect opportunity for travelers looking to explore hidden gems of the Andes in little time, with unforgettable views and a journey full of energy and excitement.

04:30 a.m. Hotel Pickup: Start of the trip from Cusco in tourist transport.
Transfer to Cusipata: Journey through valleys and Andean villages until reaching Cusipata.
Breakfast in Cusipata: Short break for an energizing breakfast.
Transfer to Palccoyo: Drive to the area of the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain.
Hike in the Colorful Mountain Range: Walk to explore panoramic landscapes and the Stone Forest.
Return to Cusipata: Return and traditional Andean lunch.
Return: Journey back to Cusco.
05:00 p.m. Arrival in Cusco: End of the service.

We begin our journey early with pickup from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. to head towards the picturesque town of Cusipata, on a trip of approximately two hours. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and have free time to use the restrooms, buy hydrating drinks and snacks before continuing our adventure.

Our trip continues for another hour and a half to the community of Palccoyo, located at 4,200 m.a.s.l., the starting point of our hike. From here, we will be greeted by the imposing view of the Stone Forest and the first colorful mountains, a sign that we are near the Rainbow Range. After an introduction from our guide, we will begin the hike with a gentle ascent of approximately 30 minutes. Along the way, we will be able to observe a great variety of South American camelids such as llamas and alpacas, while approaching the summit, where we will be rewarded with an impressive view of the majestic Apu Ausangate (6,380 m.a.s.l.).

This place is truly magical, shaped by nature into a unique landscape. Here, our guide will provide an explanation about the area. We will have free time to take photos, explore the Rainbow Range and the Stone Forest, and immerse ourselves in the tranquility of this sacred environment.

After enjoying this special moment, we will begin our descent back to Cusipata, where a comforting lunch awaits us. Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco, concluding our adventure around 5:00 p.m.

¿Qué incluye?

Briefing before the tour: Prior information for better preparation.
Included transfers: Transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the hike (round trip).
Trekking poles: Additional support for a safe hike.
Entrance included: Admission ticket to Palccoyo Mountain.
Assistance throughout the tour: Guidance and support during the excursion.
Professional guide: Service available in English and Spanish.
Equipped tourist transport: Vehicle with onboard oxygen.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
Oxygen available: For cases of altitude sickness.
First aid kit: Guaranteed safety at all times.

No incluye

Food and drinks not included: Only those mentioned in the program are covered.
Travel insurance not included: It is recommended to purchase one before the tour.
Extra activities and tips: Optional and at the traveler’s discretion.
Optional horse: Available for an additional cost of USD 30.00.

Recomendaciones

Documentation: Bring your original ID or passport, as it is mandatory to enter Palccoyo Mountain.
Physical condition: Although it is a short and accessible hike, it is recommended to be in good physical condition and to have spent at least one day in Cusco to acclimatize.
Appropriate clothing: Wear light and breathable clothes, but also bring a windbreaker or rain jacket, as the weather can change suddenly.
Comfortable footwear: Trekking shoes with good traction are recommended, as the trail can be slippery in some sections.
Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Hydration and snacks: Bring a reusable water bottle and some energy snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
Small backpack: Carry only the essentials in a light backpack for greater comfort during the tour.
Cash: It is advisable to bring Peruvian soles for personal expenses, as some places do not accept cards.
Respect for the environment: Do not leave trash on the trail and always follow the guide’s instructions to preserve nature.
Punctuality: Respect pickup times and the time assigned for each visit to ensure the itinerary is followed.

How much does the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Full Day Tour cost?
Our Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour offers different service options so you can enjoy this experience according to your preferences:

Standard Service: Includes tourist transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and lunch at a countryside restaurant — ideal for those looking for a complete and affordable experience.
Premium Service: An exclusive option with private transportation, a specialized guide just for your group, and a buffet lunch at the Colca restaurant, offering greater comfort and flexibility throughout the journey.

In either option, you will enjoy an unforgettable day exploring the impressive Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain — a less crowded alternative to Vinicunca — where you can admire mountain formations painted in vibrant colors, surrounded by unique Andean landscapes and the tranquility of nature. Everything is carefully planned to guarantee you a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience in the Andes.

PRICE PER PERSON
SERVICE CATEGORY	Foreign Adult	Peruvian Adult	Student Child
Standard Service Tour: Tourist transportation, guide, lunch at a countryside restaurant.	39 USD	39 USD	39 USD
Premium Service Tour: Private transportation, exclusive guide, buffet lunch at Colca Restaurant (based on 4 people).	79 USD	79 USD	79 USD

Preguntas frecuentes

Is the hike to Palccoyo Mountain difficult?
The route is more accessible than that of Vinicunca Mountain, with a short hike of approximately 1 hour and minimal inclination. It is suitable for all ages and does not require great physical effort.
In what language is the guiding service available?
The guiding service is available in Spanish and English. It can also be requested in French or German in advance. For other languages, a private guide can be arranged.
Does the tour include meals?
Yes, the service includes breakfast and lunch in the town of Cusipata. Snacks and additional drinks are not included.
What is the best time to visit Palccoyo Mountain?
The best time is from April to October, when there is less rain and the weather is more stable. During the rainy season (November to March), the path can become slippery.
Can I change the tour date after purchase?
Date changes are subject to availability and must be requested in advance. Additional charges may apply.
Can I cancel the tour and get a refund?
Cancellation policies depend on the tour operator. Generally, refunds are not allowed for last-minute bookings.
Is it suitable for children and the elderly?
Yes, it is an accessible hike, ideal for families with children and older adults in good health.
How far in advance should I book the tour?
It is recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during high season (June to August).
Is travel insurance mandatory?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended to have insurance that covers medical emergencies or unforeseen events during the trip.
Is the tour canceled due to bad weather?
The tour takes place in any weather condition, but in the case of heavy rain or extreme conditions, route modifications may be made for safety. It is recommended to bring waterproof clothing.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is one of Cusco’s most surprising natural gems and an excellent alternative to the famous Vinicunca. Located in the Ausangate mountain range, at more than 4,900 m.a.s.l., it offers a natural spectacle of mountains painted in reddish, green, and ocher tones that look as if they were hand-painted.

This one-day tour is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Cusco, exploring stunning landscapes in a quieter and more accessible experience than the hike to Vinicunca.

Tour Start
The adventure begins early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. During the drive south of the valley, we pass through Andean villages and farmlands surrounded by mountains, making the journey part of the experience.

Before the hike, we stop to enjoy an energizing breakfast that will prepare us for the route.

Hike and Landscapes
Unlike Vinicunca Mountain, the hike to Palccoyo is shorter and more accessible, taking approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour. It is an easy route but full of rewards: three aligned rainbow mountains, open fields where llamas and alpacas graze, and the impressive view of the Ausangate snow-capped peak, the highest sacred mountain in Cusco.

The Stone Forest
One of the most surprising attractions of this tour is the Stone Forest of Palccoyo, a natural geological formation that looks like something from another planet. Its huge vertical rocks create a unique landscape and are the perfect complement to a day full of adventure and photography.

Complete Experience
After the hike and exploration of the landscapes, we return to enjoy a traditional Andean lunch, perfect for regaining energy before heading back to Cusco. On the way back, you will continue to appreciate traditional Andean life, with local families and their herds of alpacas, in a natural setting that preserves all its authenticity.

Tour Advantages

Short and accessible hike, ideal for those looking for a quieter alternative to Vinicunca.
Impressive views of three rainbow mountains and the Ausangate snow-capped peak.
Opportunity to visit the Stone Forest, a unique attraction.
Complete experience in just one day, perfect for those with limited time in Cusco.
Suitable for people of all ages in good physical condition.

Tour Disadvantages

It takes place at high altitude (4,900 m.a.s.l.), which can cause altitude sickness.
Although easier than Vinicunca, it still requires good physical condition.
The weather is variable and can change quickly.
It is not as popular as Vinicunca, which for some may be a disadvantage, although for others it is a great advantage due to fewer visitors.

Conclusion
The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, less demanding experience away from the crowds. It combines nature, adventure, and Andean culture in a single day, offering unforgettable landscapes and the opportunity to experience the magic of the Andes in a comfortable and accessible way.

From: $39.00 / person

IMPORTANTE

To enjoy the full Machu Picchu experience, it is essential to book in advance, especially for Circuit 2, which is the most recommended. This tour offers the most comprehensive coverage of the citadel, combining breathtaking panoramic views with the most important archaeological sites.