Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain: The alternative with fewer tourists and more reasons to go.

A Well-Kept Secret: Palcoyo

You’ve probably heard of the famous Rainbow Mountain, it’s one of Peru’s top tourist attractions and on the bucket list of many travelers. But let’s be honest: these days, it’s often packed with people.

If you’re someone who prefers to connect with nature in a more peaceful setting, let me introduce you to Palcoyo, the “little brother” of Vinicunca.

It may not be as well-known, and perhaps that’s exactly what makes it so special. The hike is easier, less physically demanding, but the scenery is just as breathtaking. I’m not saying you shouldn’t visit Vinicunca—but I do think you should know there’s another option that might suit your style better.

And honestly, after visiting, there’s a good chance Palcoyo will become one of your favorite memories from your trip.

What Is Palcoyo and Why Is It a Great Alternative?
Palcoyo, also known as the Rainbow Mountain of Palcoyo, is a hidden gem in the Vilcanota mountain range, not far from the stunning Red Valley. It doesn’t get the same attention as its “big sister” Vinicunca (the classic Rainbow Mountain), but that’s exactly what makes it a perfect choice if you’re looking for something more relaxed and authentic.

Surrounded by mountains that look hand-painted, Palcoyo offers a colorful, peaceful experience—without the crowds or the intense physical effort. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to soak in the natural beauty of Cusco at a slower pace.

Unlike the steep trail to Vinicunca, Palcoyo sits at a lower altitude and is much easier to reach. And instead of one rainbow mountain, you’ll see three vibrant hills. Right from the start of the hike, you’re surrounded by epic landscapes. Along the way, you might spot alpacas grazing peacefully, walk through a surreal stone forest, and on clear days even catch a glimpse of the mighty Ausangate in the distance.

Where Is Palcoyo Located?
Palcoyo is in the district of Pitumarca, about 150 km (around 93 miles) southeast of Cusco. The drive takes around 3 hours. Since it’s a bit off the beaten path, it still feels raw and untouched—perfect if you’re looking to avoid crowds.

Once you arrive, there’s a short and beautiful walk among the colorful hills. The path is gentle and not too steep, so you can take your time and enjoy the views without rushing.

Quick Facts:

• Altitude: 4,900 meters (16,070 feet)
• Hike duration: About 2 hours (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate

How Is Palcoyo Different from Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)?
If you’ve been researching Rainbow Mountain, you’ve probably noticed that Palcoyo comes up as a quieter and shorter alternative. It’s a great choice if you’re short on time or prefer an easier hike. Here’s what makes it unique:

1. Lower Altitude, Less Effort
Vinicunca reaches over 5,100 meters, which means a tougher hike—especially due to the altitude. Palcoyo is a bit lower, at 4,900 meters, and the trail starts much closer to the viewpoints, so the climb is far easier.

• Vinicunca: 5,100 meters
• Palcoyo: 4,900 meters

Perfect if you want those colorful mountain views without pushing your limits.

2. Three Rainbow Mountains Instead of One
Unlike Vinicunca, where there’s one main viewpoint, Palcoyo offers three rainbow-colored hills, each with its own charm—and they’re just a few minutes apart.

3. Fewer People, More Peace
This might be Palcoyo’s biggest draw. There’s no single crowded lookout point here. You can walk around freely, take photos from any angle, and really enjoy the space without being rushed or jostled.

4. Stone Forest and Views of Ausangate
Along the way, you’ll pass through a fascinating “Stone Forest” with jagged rock formations, and on clear days, you can see the snow-capped Ausangate towering in the background. All this in a peaceful, uncrowded setting.

How to Get to Palcoyo

With a Tour
The easiest and most popular option is to book a tour. Most tours leave early in the morning (between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m.) and take about 3 hours to get there. Many stop in small villages like Cusipata or Checacupe for breakfast along the way.

Departure time: Between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m.
Return: Around 5:00 p.m.
Cost: Around $80 USD for a group tour, or $200 USD for a private tour
Most tours include a guide, breakfast, and lunch. Just double-check the details when booking, and it’s always a good idea to read reviews from other travelers.

On Your Own
It’s totally possible to visit Palcoyo independently, though it takes more planning. There’s no direct public transport to the trailhead, so you’ll need to:

Take a shared van (colectivo) from Cusco to Checacupe
From there, hire a local taxi to the Palcoyo parking lot
You can also stop for breakfast in Checacupe or Cusipata—just like most tours do.

Alternative:
Hire a private driver or van to take you directly from Cusco to Palcoyo. It’s more expensive (around 450–500 soles, or $120 USD), but much more convenient.

What to See in Palcoyo

The Hike
Palcoyo grabs your attention right away. The trail begins at the entrance, and after just a few steps, you’re already surrounded by vibrant, colorful mountains.

The first part is easy, and within minutes, you’ll reach the first rainbow hill—it’s a sight to behold. As you keep going, the trail gently climbs to the next hills, offering panoramic views that just keep getting better.

There’s no difficult terrain, so it’s a comfortable walk. That said, you’ll feel the altitude, so take it slow, rest when needed, and enjoy the view every step of the way.

Plan to spend one to two hours exploring Palcoyo at your own pace.

The Stone Forest
After enjoying the colorful hills, head a little higher to a lesser-known spot: the Stone Forest.

There, you’ll find sharp, dramatic rock formations that look like nature’s sculptures. Photos can’t quite capture it.

it feels like stepping onto another planet, with reddish soil, crisp mountain air, and a stillness that’s truly powerful.

If you’ve still got the energy, it’s absolutely worth the extra walk.

From the Stone Forest, it’s about a 40-minute walk back to the trailhead. Some tours offer a picnic lunch at the end, but even if they don’t, it’s smart to bring a snack—at this altitude, your body will thank you.

The Alpacas
Alpacas are everywhere here grazing calmly by the path, blending beautifully into the landscape with their thick, cozy coats. Sometimes you’ll see local herders nearby, adding an even more authentic feel to the experience.

If you’re lucky, you might even get a photo with one. The best part? Unlike more touristy spots, no one pressures you to pay for a photo. The locals are warm and friendly, and even a short conversation feels meaningful no Quechua required, just a smile.

Want to Know the Difference Between Alpacas, Llamas, and Vicuñas?
Let me know I’d be happy to explain!

Best Time to Visit Palcoyo
The ideal time to go is during the dry season, from May to October. You’ll have better weather, clearer skies, and more vibrant colors.

Avoid going between January and March, when heavy rain can make the trail muddy and cloud the views. Sometimes snow even covers the colors completely, so be sure to check the forecast before you go.

Tips for Visiting Palcoyo

What to bring:

• Warm layers (mornings are cold, but it warms up)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses (yes, even on cloudy days)
• Water and snacks
• Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
• Altitude sickness pills (optional, but helpful)
• Rain poncho or jacket (weather can change fast)
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer (trust me, bring them)
  Other advice:

Check the weather beforehand rain or snow can affect your experience
Choose a reliable tour company and confirm what’s included (entry, meals, transport, etc.)
Go early less people and better lighting for photos. Morning light makes the colors pop, and skies tend to be clearer early on.

Is Palcoyo Worth It?
Absolutely. I always say a place is worth it if it passes my “wow” test and Palcoyo definitely did. If you’re after an easy, colorful adventure with epic scenery and no crowds, this is your spot.

Honestly, I enjoyed it more than Vinicunca. No elbowing through crowds, no long steep climbs. Just nature, peace, and time to really soak it all in.