Pallay Punchu, the New Rainbow Mountain: The alternative with fewer tourists and more reasons to go.

Pallay Punchu Mountain of Apu Tacllo

Pallay Punchu Mountain of Apu Tacllo also known as the Sharp Mountain of Colors, Pallay Poncho Mountain, or Sayana Condor is one of the newest tourist spots to capture attention in the beautiful Cusco region. Its rise to fame began during the pandemic lockdown, when it was first widely shared through photos and videos.

Located over 194 kilometers (about 120 miles) from Cusco, this striking mountain rises to 4,791 meters (15,720 feet) above sea level. What makes it truly special is its incredible variety of natural colors, caused by a unique combination of minerals in the soil.

As you hike its trails, you’ll see slopes and peaks painted in shades of red, pink, purple, green, white, and more creating a jaw dropping landscape that’s been drawing visitors since 2020.

Thanks to Pallay Punchu, Cusco is now home to three famous “Rainbow Mountains”:

• Vinicunca, also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, near the majestic Ausangate.
• Palccoyo, known for its easy access and panoramic views.
• Pallay Punchu, with its sharp ridges and bold, natural color palette

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind Andean adventure, this mountain definitely belongs on your list.

Important Notice:

Currently, tourist access to Pallay Punchu Mountain is not authorized. This restriction is in place to ensure visitor safety and help preserve the site as a valuable natural and cultural resource. Make sure to stay updated through official announcements regarding its reopening to the public.

Key Facts – Pallay Punchu Mountain

• Hiking Time: Approximately 3 hours to ascend and 2 hours to return
• Highest Altitude: 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) above sea level.
• Starting Elevation: 3,720 meters (12,205 feet) above sea level
• Total Distance : 8 kilometers round trip (about 5 miles)
• Difficulty Level: High – You’ll need good physical condition and proper acclimatization to handle the altitude
• Entry Fee: S/ 10.00 (ten soles)
• Horse Rental (Optional): S/ 80.00 (eighty soles) – A great option if you’d prefer to reduce physical strain during the hike.

Do you know why it’s called Pallay Punchu de Apu Tacllo?

The name comes from Quechua and carries deep cultural meaning. “Pallay” means to weave or embroider, while “Punchu” refers to the traditional Andean poncho something you might have seen or even worn if you’ve spent time in the Andes.

When you look at the mountain’s colorful ridges, you’ll notice that they resemble the patterns and colors of Peruvian ponchos, which have been handwoven for generations. These ponchos aren’t just garments—they’re symbols of identity, heritage, and resilience. They remain a vital part of daily life and festive traditions in Andean communities.

So, the name Pallay Punchu is a tribute to this rich textile tradition that has endured for centuries. And when you hear “de Apu Tacllo,” it refers to the Apu a protective spirit or deity believed to dwell in the mountain, according to Andean cosmology. Tacllo is the specific name of the sacred peak in this area.

In saying Pallay Punchu de Apu Tacllo, you’re not just naming a mountain you’re acknowledging a living story of culture, spirituality, and deep connection to the land.

How was Pallay Punchu Mountain formed?

Its story goes back about 250 million years, during a crucial time in the Earth’s geological evolution. Back then, the Earth’s crust was still forming, and layers of minerals, soil, and sand were slowly piling up, one on top of the other, pushed down by their own weight.

As time passed, the South American and Nazca tectonic plates collided, causing these layers to lift dramatically. This collision made the layers crack, fold, and rise, creating mountain ranges, hills, and slopes where you can now see the geological strata standing almost vertical.

After that, nature kept working wind, rain, sun, and extreme weather slowly oxidized the minerals in those layers.

This whole process is what gave Pallay Punchu its vibrant colors, making its unique beauty and rich palette something you can admire naturally today.

Why is the mountain so colorful?

The vibrant colors you see on Pallay Punchu Mountain, in Apu Tacllo, come from its rich and varied mineral makeup, shaped over millions of years through geological processes.

Every shade on its slopes and ridges comes from different minerals and sediments that have built up in layers. When these layers oxidize and get exposed to the elements like wind, rain, and sun they reveal that amazing and colorful palette you can admire today.

Where is Pallay Punchu Mountain?

You’ll find the impressive Pallay Punchu Mountain in the Peruvian Andes, within the Cusco region, specifically in the Canas province. It’s located in the Layo district, where locals call it “Pallay Punchu del Apu Tacllo.”

This spot started gaining attention after photos and videos shared on social media especially Facebook showed off its unique beauty. Since 2020, Pallay Punchu has become a great option for travelers like you who want to explore authentic, lesser-known places in the Cusco region.

When was Pallay Punchu Mountain discovered?

Pallay Punchu Mountain wasn’t exactly discovered recently, but its stunning beauty became widely known and even went viral in April 2020, right during the COVID-19 quarantine.

On April 23 of that year, Tony Ccalta was out gathering the medicinal Sasawi plant for his parents on Pallay Punchu Hill. As he explored, he was blown away by how spectacular the place looked. So, he took photos and videos and shared them on Facebook and that’s when the news spread like wildfire.

By the way, the Sasawi plant is traditionally used by locals to treat respiratory illnesses, and nowadays, the community also relies on it to help with the effects of the coronavirus.

When is the best time to visit Pallay Punchu?

The best time for you to visit Pallay Punchu is during the dry season—from April to November. During these months, there’s much less chance of rain, which makes hiking easier and lets you fully enjoy the stunning scenery.

If you decide to go in the rainy season (December to March), just make sure to bring waterproof gear like a poncho or rain jacket so you stay comfortable no matter the weather.

How can you get to Pallay Punchu de Apu Tacllo Mountain from Cusco on your own?

If you’re planning to visit Pallay Punchu on your own, it’s good to know that there are two main routes to reach the mountain:

• The route through the Layo district
• The route through the town of Occobamba.

We recommend going through Layo, since it’s less physically demanding than the Occobamba route. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible views and experience the mountain without getting overly exhausted during the hike.

Route 1: Cusco – Sicuani – Layo.

Pallay Punchu de Apu Tacllo Mountain is located just over 194 kilometers (about 120 miles) from the city of Cusco. If you’re planning to get there on your own, here’s how you can do it step by step:

1. Cusco to Sicuani: Start by taking a bus from Cusco to the town of Sicuani. The trip takes around 3 hours. To catch the bus, head to Avenida Wayruropata, near the Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium—you’ll find minibuses and larger buses going to Sicuani. The fare is usually around 10 soles (about $2.50 USD).
2. Sicuani to Layo: Once you arrive in Sicuani, take another bus to the district of Layo, which is about 1 hour away. Layo is where the hike to Pallay Punchu begins.
3. Hike to Pallay Punchu:  From Layo, the hike to the mountain takes roughly 4 hours round trip. The trail is considered challenging, with steep sections, but the incredible views and the experience make it absolutely worth the effort.

Route 1 : Approximate Trip Cost. 

If you’re planning to visit Pallay Punchu on your own, here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend during the trip:

• One-way ticket: Cusco to Sicuani 10 soles
• One-way ticket: Sicuani to Layo 5 soles
• Return ticket: Layo to Sicuani: 5 soles
• Return ticket: Sicuani to Cusco: 10 soles
• Admission to Pallay Punchu: 10 soles
• Local breakfast in Sicuani: 5 soles
• Lunch: 10 soles

Total estimated cost: 55 soles (about $15 USD)

This makes Pallay Punchu not only a stunning destination but also a budget-friendly one—perfect if you’re looking for an authentic adventure without spending too much.

Route 2: Cusco – Sicuani – Marangani – Occobamba

If you decide to take this second route to Pallay Punchu, here’s what you need to do:

1.- Cusco to Sicuani:

Just like in the first route, start by taking a bus or minibus from Cusco to Sicuani. The trip takes about 3 hours, and you can catch it from Avenida Wayruropata near the Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium.

2.- Sicuani to Occobamba (via Marangani):

Once in Sicuani, take a taxi to the town of Occobamba, passing through Marangani. Occobamba is the starting point for this hiking route.

3.- Hike to Pallay Punchu: 

From Occobamba, the hike takes around 5 hours round trip at a moderate pace. It’s a bit longer and more physically demanding than the Layo route, so you’ll want to be in good physical shape and well acclimatized to the altitude before starting.

If you’re not fully acclimatized or prefer a less strenuous experience, it’s a good idea to rent a horse to help with the ascent. This can make the journey much more manageable and enjoyable.

Route 2: Approximate Trip Cost .

If you’re planning to take the Occobamba route, here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs:

• One-way ticket: Cusco to Sicuani 10 soles
• One-way ticket: Sicuani to Occobamba 4 soles
• Return ticket: Occobamba to Sicuani 4 soles
• Return ticket: Sicuani to Cusco 10 soles
• Admission: Pallay Punchu 10 soles
• Local breakfast in Sicuani: 5 soles
• Lunch: 10 soles

Total estimated cost: 53 soles (around $14 USD)

This route is slightly more affordable than the Layo route but requires a bit more physical effort. If needed, you can also rent a horse, which would add to the cost but make the hike easier.

How can you visit Pallay Punchu Mountain of Apu Tacllo with a travel agency?

If you’re not quite comfortable visiting Apu Tacllo on your own, a great alternative is to book a tour with a travel agency. In Cusco, and even online, you’ll find several agencies that offer full-day tours to Pallay Punchu Mountain.

These tour packages usually include:

• Direct transportation from Cusco to the Layo district, where the hike begins
• Meals, including breakfast and lunch
• Entrance fees to the site
• A professional guide who’ll share insights about the region’s geography, history, and culture

Your day typically starts early, with hotel pickup around 3:00 or 4:00 a.m., and ends in the evening—usually between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m., when you return to Cusco.

Booking a guided tour can make your visit much easier and more enjoyable. It takes care of the logistics and lets you focus on the experience exploring, learning, and soaking in the beauty of this spectacular Andean destination.

Climate: 

The climate in the highlands of Cusco, where Pallay Punchu is located, is generally cold and can be challenging if you’re not used to high altitudes. At night, temperatures often drop below 0°C (32°F). You should also expect frequent rain and strong winds, which can make the hike more difficult.

Another important factor to keep in mind is altitude sickness (soroche). The mountain reaches high elevations, so it’s crucial to prepare your body before attempting the hike.

Flora and Fauna:

This region’s unique geography is home to a variety of species typical of the high Andes. While hiking, you might spot deer or even vicuñas, which are iconic animals of the Peruvian highlands. Locals also raise horses, which are often available for rent if you prefer not to walk the full route.

The landscape is mostly covered with ichu, a tough, golden grass native to the Andes. It gives the terrain a wild, open feel that’s both distinctive and beautiful.

Recommendations: 

To make the most of your trip and stay safe, here are a few tips:

Spend at least 2 to 3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before the hike to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Dress in layers and bring warm, trekking-appropriate clothing the weather can change quickly.

If you’re not feeling physically up for the full trek, consider renting a horse from a local.

Don’t forget the essentials: 

• A hat or cap
• Sunscreen
• A windproof jacket
• Comfortable pants
• Hiking shoes
• A rain poncho
• Being well-prepared will help you enjoy the hike safely and make your experience at Pallay Punchu truly unforgettable.

What to bring to Pallay Punchu Sharp Mountain?

• A cap or hat for sun protection.
• Gloves to keep your hands warm.
• Sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.
• Toilet paper and tissues.
• Personal medication and medication for altitude sickness, if needed.
• Extra money for unexpected expenses or horse rental.
• A poncho or waterproof jacket for the rain.
• Enough water to stay hydrated (minimum 2 liters).
• Energy snacks such as chocolate bars, nuts, and lemon drops (help prevent nausea).
• Trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support.
• A medium-sized backpack to carry your belongings comfortably.
• Comfortable and durable trekking pants.
• Dry-fit T-shirt or clothing that helps wick away sweat.
• Trekking poles or walking sticks for added stability and support during the hike.