Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco

The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is better than a rainbow mountain. It includes the three colored mountains of Palccoyo. This alternative route is gentler and less demanding, perfect for those who want to enjoy incredible landscapes. Enjoy a day with the colors of Palccoyo on a hike. On this guided tour, you will also get to know Checacupe, with its three characteristic bridges from the Inca, colonial, and republican eras. After just 1.5 hours, you will be at the colorful mountains of Palccoyo. From there, you will gently ascend to 4900 meters above sea level, where you can appreciate the snow-capped Ausangate, the highest in Cusco. Live the adventure! Discover the Rainbow Mountain Palccoyo on an exclusive tour.

Details of the trip.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Palccoyo Mountain Tour Itinerary:

We will pick you up between 4:00 and 5:00 in the morning in our private transportation from your hotel or Airbnb, which is located in the historic center of Cusco. After a journey of about two hours, we will arrive in Cusipata, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a very nutritious breakfast. We will head to Checacupe, a historic town where you can admire three bridges that symbolize different periods of Peru: the Inca era, the colonial era, and the republican era. Likewise, Checacupe is known for its temple and because it was the site where Túpac Amaru II was defeated at the end of his fight for independence.

We will arrive at the charming town of Palccoyo after another hour and a half of travel. A brief extra journey will take us to the place where we will start the hike; from there, you will be able to see the first views of the Rainbow Mountain. From here, you will walk for approximately 50 minutes at your own pace, while enjoying the company of alpacas grazing nearby.

When you reach the main viewpoint, you will be rewarded with an impressive view. In addition to seeing the imposing Rainbow Mountain, you will observe two other elevations that make up the Palccoyo landscape. Here you will have the opportunity to absorb the grandeur of the environment and contemplate the majestic snow-capped Ausangate mountain, which rises to 6,372 meters (20,900 feet). Afterward, you will ascend to the "stone forest," a geological formation that has undergone changes over millions of years.

After touring the Stone Forest and the Rainbow Mountain of Palccoyo, the group will descend to the parking lot in approximately 30 minutes to begin their journey back. We are going to enjoy an exquisite lunch. After finishing lunch, we will start the return to Cusco and will arrive at the historic center around 4:30 PM.

What is included

Palccoyo Mountain Tour Includes:

Pickup from accommodation in the center of Cusco.
Transportation.
Return to the historic center of Cusco.
Professional guide in English and Spanish.
Breakfast and lunch.
Entrance ticket to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain.
Oxygen supply.
Trekking poles.

Palccoyo Mountain Tour Does Not Include:

Transfers not mentioned in the itinerary.
Travel insurance.
Drinks.

What to bring for the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour

You need to have all the right things to fully enjoy the whole Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco. To get the most out of your time here, you should bring:

Good Walking Shoes: It's very important to wear shoes that are comfortable when hiking because the ground can be uneven and slippery.
Hat or Cap: Bring something to cover your head because it can be cold in the morning.
You can bring your own hiking gloves or buy them in Cusco.
Warm and Light Clothing: Mornings can be cool, so make sure you have a jacket that is warm but not too heavy.
Rain Gear: Don't forget to bring a poncho and a waterproof jacket. The weather can change quickly, and umbrellas don't work well in the wind.
Sunscreen: The sun can be very strong, so use a good sunscreen to protect your skin.
Water: You should bring at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated while you hike. You should use containers that keep your drink at the right temperature.
Snacks: Bring energy bars, nuts, candy, or chocolate to keep your energy up while you hike.
Lightweight Backpack: Pick a backpack that is comfortable and light and has enough room for your things.
Walking Poles: You can bring your own if you'd rather, but they are provided on the tour.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include pain and nausea medicine, bandages, and disinfectant wipes.
Bring a camera or make sure your phone is charged with extra chargers so you can take pictures of special moments.
Binoculars: If you like to look at nature up close, bring binoculars so you can see the scenery better while you hike.

Keep in mind that the weather in the Andes can change a lot and be hard to predict. So, it's best to be ready for all kinds of weather.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Travel Information

How many days do I need to acclimate before the hike?

It is very important to be well-acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before starting the hike to help you acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness during the trek. If you have already been in another high-altitude area in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights.

Pick-Up for Clients

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it is located in the Historic Center of Cusco. Pick-up times are between 4:00 am and 4:30 am, but please be aware that the waiting time may vary. Cusco has narrow and cobblestone streets, which may make it difficult to access your hotel; in this case, the guide will indicate a meeting point.

Considerations

What does it mean that the tour is shared?

A shared tour means you will experience the adventure with other travelers of different ages and nationalities, both from Ausangate Adventure and other operators, with a group of up to 16 people. It is a great opportunity to connect with people from around the world while enjoying the adventure. This type of tour can be organized by Ausangate Adventure or by partner collaborators who meet our high-quality standards. If you prefer a more personalized and exclusive experience, you can opt for a private tour.
For the shared option, you will be informed of the pick-up and return times the day before the tour. It is essential to be punctual to avoid delays that could affect the rest of the group. Times may vary depending on the pace of participants or local traffic, so we offer an approximate schedule. We appreciate your understanding regarding these factors which are beyond our control.
Due to environmental, climatic, or other unforeseen factors beyond our control, the itinerary may be modified. If this occurs, you will be duly informed.

Location

Palccoyo Mountain is located in the Cusco region, Peru, in the Checacupe district within the Canchis province. It is situated approximately 100 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco.

Altitude

Palccoyo Mountain, known for its spectacular colorful mountains, is located at an altitude of approximately 4,900 meters (16,076 feet) above sea level. It is situated in the Vilcanota mountain range in the Cusco region of Peru.

Climate

The climate at Palccoyo Mountain is variable due to its high altitude. During the dry season, from May to October, the weather is generally sunny and cool, with daytime temperatures ranging between 8°C and 18°C, and nighttime temperatures that can drop to -5°C. In the rainy season, from November to April, precipitation is more frequent, and the weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain and similar temperatures. It is recommended to bring appropriate clothing for various weather conditions, including wind, cold, and intense sun.

First Aid

Each guide from Ausangate Adventure is trained in first aid, and we also provide oxygen for the hike. If you need oxygen, you can request it directly from the guide.

Lost Items

Please take special care of your belongings and make sure to collect all your items when leaving our vehicles or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.

Price for the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour

Shared Service Tour.

Price: $45 USD per person.

This shared or group service means that you will be taking the tour with other people. This standard service is conducted with a group of 10 to 16 people. We have daily departures, so if you're alone or with one other person, you can join a group.

Private Service Tour.

This private and exclusive service offers a more personalized way to experience this trip. Prices vary according to the number of travelers: one, two, three, four, or more travelers. Please, if you want private service, request information at info@ausangateadventure.com or through our WhatsApp at +51 914201334.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour FAQs

How difficult is the hike to Palccoyo?

The hike to Palccoyo is considered moderately difficult and is more accessible compared to the traditional Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). The trail is less steep and shorter.

How long does the hike to Palccoyo take?

The round-trip usually takes between two to three hours, depending on the group's pace.

What is the difference between Palccoyo and the traditional Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)?

Difficulty: Palccoyo is easier and less physically demanding.
Tourist Numbers: Palccoyo receives fewer visitors, offering a more peaceful experience.
Duration: The hike at Palccoyo is shorter and requires less effort.

Do I need to acclimate before the tour?

Yes, it is recommended to acclimate in Cusco for at least two or three days before the tour to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

What is the best time to visit Palccoyo?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is more predictable. However, the tour operates year-round, although during the rainy season (November to April), the weather can be more unpredictable.

What is the climate like in Palccoyo?

The climate is variable due to the altitude. It can range from intense sun and cold winds to sudden rain showers, with temperatures ranging between -5°C and 18°C.

What is the altitude of Palccoyo?

The hike reaches an altitude of approximately 4,900 meters above sea level.

Is it necessary to bring trekking poles?

It is not mandatory, but trekking poles can be helpful for those who want extra stability during the hike.