Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Full Day

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Duration

Full Day

Departures

All year

Difficulty

Easy

Age

All ages

Another one of the beautiful Rainbow Mountains in Cusco, Palccoyo presents striking colors thanks to its mineral content. This route is less demanding than the classic Seven Color Mountain (Vinicunca), making it suitable for many travelers who do not enjoy walking for long periods.

Lugar de Salida:Hotel / Lugar de Retorno:To be confirmed / Hora de Salida:To be confirmed / Hora de Retorno:To be confirmed

Itinerary

Palccoyo Full Day

Hotel Pickup – Departure from Cusco: We start early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We embark on a journey in tourist transport south into the Vilcanota Valley.
Breakfast en Route: We will enjoy a local breakfast in the town of Cusipata or Combapata to recharge before the hike.
Arrival at the Palccoyo Community: We continue the journey to the Palccoyo community, the starting point of the hike. Along the way, we enjoy stunning landscapes and the Salcca River.
Hike to the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains: We begin a short and accessible walk (approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour), where you can see up to three colored mountains, without the need for demanding ascents. It is also possible to observe the majestic Stone Forest and the Ausangate snow-capped mountain in the distance.
Free time for Photography and Exploration: You will have time to explore the area, take photos, and enjoy the Andean landscape in tranquility, away from the crowds.
Return to Cusipata – Lunch: We return to Cusipata to enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local ingredients.
Return to Cusco: After lunch, we begin the journey back to Cusco, arriving approximately between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Inclusions

Included:

Pick-up at the hotel
Transportation
Breakfast
Buffet lunch
Professional guide
First aid kit
Walking sticks
Oxygen tankEntrance tickets

Not included:

Other services not mentioned
Tips

We recommend to bring

Layered Clothing (Onion System): Essential for the cold morning and evening, including thermal base layers.
Trekking Footwear: Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, and high-factor sunscreen (the sun at this altitude is very strong).
Rain Poncho or Waterproof Jacket: Necessary during the rainy season (November to March).
Cash (Soles): For buying snacks, extra drinks, or using the restrooms along the route.
Water and extra Snacks for the journey.

Important Information

Extreme Altitude: The main viewpoint of Palccoyo is located near 16,076 ft (4,900 masl). It is mandatory to spend at least 2 full days acclimatizing in Cusco (11,152 ft) before taking this tour.
Easy Hike: The walk at Palccoyo is significantly shorter and flatter than Vinicunca, with a route of only 40 minutes to 1 hour to the main viewpoint. It is suitable for most people.
Safety and Support: The tour includes first-aid equipment and an emergency oxygen tank. If you suffer from heart or respiratory problems, consult your doctor before booking.
Schedule: This is a full-day tour. Departure is very early (before 5:00 AM) and the return to Cusco is in the afternoon (between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Palccoyo and how does it differ from Vinicunca (the main Rainbow Mountain)?

Palccoyo is the easy and less crowded alternative to see the Rainbow Mountains in Cusco. The main difference is the effort required: at Palccoyo, the hike is short (only 30 to 40 minutes one way), while at Vinicunca, the hike is long and very demanding (1.5 to 2 hours of ascent). In addition, at Palccoyo, you will see three Rainbow Mountains and the Stone Forest from the main viewpoint.

2. What is the altitude of Palccoyo and how does it affect the Easy Palcoyo Tour?

The maximum altitude reached at the main viewpoint of Palccoyo is 4,800 meters above sea level (15,748 feet). Although it is a high altitude, the route is much more manageable than Vinicunca, thanks to the short and relatively flat 30-40 minute hike. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least two days before taking the Easy Palcoyo Tour.

3. How long is the hike in Palccoyo and what is the physical difficulty of the tour?

The main hike on the Easy Palcoyo Tour lasts between 30 and 40 minutes each way (round trip), with a difficulty level rated as Easy to Moderate. This low physical demand makes it an ideal tour for families, seniors, or travelers who want to see the Colorful Mountains without an intense trek.

4. Is it necessary to hire a travel agency to visit Palccoyo?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire an authorized travel agency such as Cusco Apus Tours for the Palcoyo Tour. The site is very far from Cusco and public transportation is neither direct nor safe. An agency guarantees tourist transportation, a professional guide, emergency oxygen, and meals (breakfast and lunch), ensuring your safety and comfort.

5. When is the best time to visit Palccoyo and see the brightest colors?

The best time to visit Palccoyo and enjoy the vibrant colors is during the dry season (April to October), when the sky is clearer. However, the tour runs all year round. Even in the rainy season (November to March), the mountains look incredible with the mist and intense vegetation, although you should bring waterproof clothing.