English and Spanish-speaking guide
Small-group tour (up to 12 participants)
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Check the Dates
Skip the crowds of Vinicunca and book this tour to Palccoyo from Cusco for a more tranquil and accessible mountain experience. You will explore the vibrant mineral-rich landscapes and towering rock formations of the Stone Forest while benefiting from the expertise of a professional guide. This 12-hour trip ensures maximum comfort with professional transport and delicious buffet meals.
Highlights:
- Enjoy a gentle 40-minute hike that is much easier than the traditional Vinicunca trek.
- Reach the stunning viewpoints of the Palccoyo Valley without the need for intense physical exertion.
- Witness three different rainbow mountains in a single valley, offering more variety for photos.
- Stay energized throughout the 12-hour journey with an included buffet breakfast and lunch.
- Travel comfortably in a modern minivan with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.
About this tour:
This Palccoyo tour from Cusco is a fantastic alternative for travelers seeking to witness the natural phenomenon of the rainbow-colored mountains without the strenuous physical exertion required by the more famous Vinicunca route. This 12-hour excursion is designed for small groups of only 12 participants, offering a more tranquil and intimate experience. By choosing the Cusco to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour, you can enjoy the stunning mineral-rich landscapes and high-altitude Andean vistas with a relatively gentle 40-minute walk rather than a long, steep trek.
Your adventure begins with a 4:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive south through the Andean highlands to stop for a revitalizing breakfast. The journey continues by minivan to the trailhead, where the thin air and majestic peaks set a dramatic stage. During the easy hike, you will encounter multiple “rainbow” ridges rather than just one, providing diverse angles for photography. Your professional guide will explain the unique geology behind the vibrant stripes of red, ochre, and turquoise that define the Palccoyo Valley.
In addition to the colorful mountains, this tour to Palccoyo from Cusco includes a visit to the mysterious Stone Forest, a collection of towering, jagged rock formations that look like an ancient, fossilized woods. After exploring these enigmatic peaks and soaking in the panoramic views of the distant Ausangate glacier, you will return to the minivan for a hearty Andean buffet lunch.
The day concludes with a comfortable return to Cusco by approximately 4:30 PM, making this Cusco to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour the perfect choice for those who want a rewarding high-altitude experience that still allows for an evening of rest.
Included:
- Hotel pickup
- Tourist transportation
- Professional guide
- First aid kit
- Andean walking sticks
- Buffet breakfast and lunch
Essential Information:
- Exclusions: The entrance fee (15 soles) is NOT included and must be paid in cash on-site.
- Physical Requirements: This tour involves high altitudes. It is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or those with a low level of fitness.
- Logistics: Pickup begins early in the morning (approx. 4:00 AM) and returns to Cusco by 4:30 PM.
- Recommendations: Wear layers to adjust to varying temperatures, bring plenty of water, and carry cash for personal expenses.
Activity provider: PeruVibes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this full-day Palccoyo tour from Cusco include?
This comprehensive 12-hour excursion includes a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco and round-trip tourist transportation in a comfortable minivan. You will be accompanied by an official professional guide and provided with Andean walking sticks to assist with the terrain. The package also covers your high-altitude nutrition with a full buffet breakfast and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
What is not covered by the tour price?
The mandatory entrance fee to the Palccoyo mountain area (approximately 15 soles) is not included and must be paid in cash on the day of the trip. Personal travel insurance and gratuities for the guide and driver are also excluded from the base price. Any additional personal expenses, such as extra snacks or souvenirs purchased at the community stops, are the responsibility of the traveler.
Where and when does this tour to Palccoyo from Cusco begin?
The tour begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel starting at approximately 4:00 AM. This early departure ensures you arrive at the mountain before the afternoon clouds typically move in and allows you to enjoy the scenery in a tranquil atmosphere. The journey involves a two-hour drive to the breakfast location followed by an additional drive to reach the trailhead parking lot.
Who is this tour not suitable for?
Due to the high altitude and environmental conditions, this tour is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with a low level of fitness. It is also unsuitable for travelers with pre-existing heart conditions or chronic back problems that could be aggravated by high-altitude walking. We strongly recommend that all participants spend at least two days in Cusco to acclimate before attempting any mountain excursions.
What should I bring for this Cusco to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour?
We recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes and dressing in multiple layers to adjust to the significant temperature changes throughout the day. You should pack a daypack with high-SPF sunscreen, a warm hat, a camera, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Additionally, ensure you carry enough cash in local currency (soles) to cover your entrance fee and any personal purchases.
What is not allowed on this tour?
To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants and the local communities, smoking is strictly prohibited during the transport and throughout the hike. Consuming alcohol or using illegal drugs is also not allowed, as these substances can be dangerous when combined with extreme altitudes. We ask that all travelers follow the “leave no trace” principle to preserve the pristine natural beauty of the Palccoyo Valley.
What should I know before I go on this tour?
It is essential to get a good night’s rest before the early 4:00 AM start to help your body cope with the physical demands of high altitude. Temperatures can fluctuate rapidly from freezing in the morning to intense sun in the afternoon, so being prepared with layers is key to your comfort. Please be aware that while the hike is much gentler than other routes, you will still be walking at over 4,800 meters above sea level.
What will I experience during this Palccoyo tour from Cusco?
You will experience a breathtakingly beautiful and accessible journey through the Andean highlands, highlighted by the discovery of three distinct rainbow mountains. Unlike the steep, crowded trails found elsewhere, this route offers a gentle 40-minute walk through the Palccoyo Valley where the vibrant mineral stripes of red, turquoise, and ochre are visible from multiple angles. The lack of heavy crowds allows for a more spiritual and intimate connection with the mountains, providing the perfect environment for high-quality photography and peaceful exploration.
In addition to the colorful ridges, you will experience the surreal atmosphere of the Stone Forest, where jagged rock formations rise from the earth like ancient fossilized trees. From the highest viewpoints, you will be rewarded with a majestic panoramic vista of the Ausangate glacier, the highest peak in the Cusco region. The day concludes with a sense of accomplishment and a deep appreciation for the unique geological wonders of the Andes, all while enjoying the comfort of organized transport and traditional local cuisine.