+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$35

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475

Length

Full Day

Group

Min 1, Max 16.

Trip Style

Trekking, Aventure.

Difficulty

Easy.

Overview

Discover Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain – A Day Hike Away from the Crowds.

Experience the famous Rainbow Mountains without the crowds—Palcoyo is the perfect choice. This full-day hike follows gentle trails through stunning multicolored peaks, offering panoramic views that will take your breath away.

Known as the “younger sister” of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Palcoyo is quieter, more accessible, and equally spectacular.

The excursion begins with a departure from Cusco and a scenic drive deep into the Andes to the trailhead. Along the way, you’ll encounter herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep guided by local shepherds, as well as Andean wildlife such as condors, eagles, white-faced falcons, and, with some luck, vicuñas.

Upon arrival, marvel at the vibrant shades of red, green, yellow, and orange painting the mountains—a truly unforgettable landscape.

After exploring Palcoyo, enjoy a delicious locally sourced lunch in Cusipata village before returning to Cusco.

This tour is perfect for those seeking nature, moderate adventure, breathtaking views, and a peaceful escape from the crowds, all in a single day.

Highlights:

Vibrant rainbow-colored mountains at 4,900 m (13,779 ft).
Easy 40-minute hike, suitable for most fitness levels.
Breathtaking Andean landscapes and unique rock formations.
Cultural experience with views of traditional villages.
Fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings.
Excellent photo opportunities without the high-altitude strain of Vinicunca.

Palcoyo Rainbow Mountains Trek 1 Day – At a Glance.

Pick-up: 4:00 AM, Cusco hotels.
Drive to Cusipata and Trailhead: 3 hours.
Breakfast: Local restaurant (traditional dishes & coca tea).
Hike: Easy, 40 minutes to Palcoyo Mountains (4,900 m / 13,779 ft).
Explore: Rainbow mountains & surrounding rock forest.
Lunch: Cusipata (Peruvian/local/vegetarian options).
Return to Cusco: Afternoon arrival.
Difficulty: Easy.

Inclusions

Hotel Pick-up: We will pick you up from your hotel near the center of Cusco at 4:00 a.m.
Round trip Transport from: Cusco - Palcoyo - Cusco.
Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide: A professional guide with expert knowledge and trained to handle altitude challenge.
Meals: Includes 1 breakfast and 1 lunch. Buffet meals with local ingredients, soups, traditional Peruvian dishes, salads, and vegetarian and special diet options.
Walking Poles: Walking poles are included to enhance your hiking experience, helping you navigate uneven terrain with greater comfort and stability.
Photographic opportunities: The tour allows for plenty of photographic time to capture the stunning scenery, vibrant mountain colors, and panoramic views.
Adaptability to participants' pace: The walk will be at a pace appropriate to the overall fitness level of the group, with breaks as necessary for rest and acclimatization.
First aid kit and oxygen: For safety reasons, the tour includes a first aid kit and oxygen. This is essential due to the high altitude and potential for altitude sickness among participants.

Excludes

Entrance Ticket to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain: The entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain is not included. It must be paid directly at the checkpoint, so please bring cash in soles to pay it.
Personal Gear: Bring your own personal gear, such as backpacks, hiking boots, and clothing suitable for variable weather conditions.
Travel insurance: Participants are generally responsible for their own travel insurance. It's important to have insurance for trekking at altitude and in case of any unexpected incidents.
Alcoholic beverages: If meals are included, they usually do not include alcoholic beverages, which must be purchased separately.
Tips for guides and staff: Gratuities for guides, drivers and other staff are not included in the tour price. Tipping is optional but appreciated for good service.
Extra Energy Snack: Snacks such as chocolate bars and dried fruit are not included and should be brought by you to keep energized during the trek

What to Bring

Layered clothing: Mountain weather can change quickly, so wear layers that you can add or remove as needed. Bring a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
Sun protection: The sun at high altitude can be intense. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from UV rays.
Warm hat and gloves: Temperatures can drop, especially early in the morning or at the summit, so make sure you have a warm hat
Waterproof hiking boots: Wear durable boots with good ankle support and grip to help you navigate varied terrain.
Rain gear: Bring a rain jacket and a cover for your backpack to keep you and your belongings dry in case of sudden downpours.
Camera or smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery and vibrant colors. Make sure your devices are fully charged.
Drinking water: Stay hydrated, especially at high altitude. Carry at least 2 liters of water or a Camelbak-style hydration bladder.
Personal first-aid kit: Bring altitude sickness medication, painkillers, blister plasters, and any personal medication you need.
High-energy snacks: Carry energy bars, nuts, fruit, or chocolate to keep your energy up during the hike.
Backpack: Use a comfortable, lightweight backpack to carry your essentials, preferably with rain protection.
Reusable water bottle or thermos: Bring one to avoid littering and to keep your drinks at the right temperature.
Emergency cash: Carry extra money in case of emergencies. Around 300 soles or 90 USD in cash is recommended.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Cusipata- Palcoyo- Cusco.

We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. and embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the village of Cusipata, where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients at a charming local restaurant.

Here, you can savor traditional dishes and hot infusions such as coca tea — everything you need to energize and acclimatize. Watch the sunrise over the lush Andean landscapes, dotted with winding rivers and local communities that proudly preserve their traditions.

Next, you’ll continue for about an hour to reach the starting point of the Palcoyo trail. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to use the restrooms and stretch before beginning your hike.

The easy trail takes approximately 40 minutes to reach the stunning Palcoyo Rainbow Mountains, located at an altitude of 4,900 meters (13,779 feet). Surrounded by a unique stone forest, the mountains offer plenty of time to explore, relax, and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

After enjoying the tranquility of the mountains and capturing unforgettable photographs, you’ll begin your descent back to the trailhead. A van will be waiting to take you to the picturesque village of Cusipata, where you can enjoy a hearty lunch with typical Peruvian, vegetarian, and local options — all prepared to make you feel right at home.

On the drive back to Cusco, sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking scenery. You’ll arrive in Cusco around 4:00 p.m., carrying unforgettable memories and a big smile from an incredible day in the Andes.

Photos

Gallery

FAQs

1.What time does the tour start?

The tour starts early in the morning at 6:00 AM.

2.Where does the tour guide pick us up?

The tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco.

3.What is included in the breakfast?

A delicious buffet breakfast prepared by our cooks at the restaurant “La Montana” in the village of Cusipata is included.

4.What is the significance of the ceremony for "Apus"?

The ceremony is conducted to honor the local guardian deities, represented by mountains or lakes, before starting the hike.

5.How long is the hike to the first viewpoint?

The hike to the first viewpoint, located at 4,900 meters above sea level, takes approximately 30 minutes.

1 Review

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Alexander J.

Solo Traveller

The Palcoyo Mountain Range tour was an extraordinary experience that exceeded all expectations. Our day began bright and early with a prompt pickup from our hotel in Cusco at 6 am. The scenic drive to Cusipata village was filled with anticipation, and upon arrival, we were treated to a delicious buffet breakfast at the charming restaurant “La Montana.”

After breakfast, we continued our journey to the Combapata District, where we marveled at the ancient Checacupe Bridge, a testament to the ingenuity of the Quechua natives. Our hike commenced with a short briefing from our knowledgeable guide, followed by a ceremony to honor the local guardian deities, the “Apus.”

The hike to the first viewpoint, situated at 4,900 meters above sea level, offered breathtaking panoramic views of the colorful Palcoyo mountain range and the majestic Mt. Ausangate. Along the way, we were captivated by the unique rock formations that adorned the landscape.

September 18, 2023

Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Trek 1 Day – Alternative.