PALCOYO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR

(1 Review)
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From$42
Price
From$42
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PALCOYO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR

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Enjoy a gentle hike among incredible landscapes, alpacas, and multicolored mountains. A peaceful and unforgettable adventure with GEO ADVENTURES!

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Summary Icon

SUMMARY

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ITINERARY

Inclusions Icon

INCLUSIONS

Tips Icon

TiPS

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PHOTOS

Faqs Icon

FAQS

Tour Summary

Our journey will begin from Cusco in the early morning, heading toward the colorful landscapes of the southern Andes. The drive will take around 3:30 hours through small villages and scenic valleys. We will stop along the way to enjoy a local breakfast and prepare for the hike. The altitude will rise gradually, giving us time to adapt to the environment.

We will arrive at the Palcoyo trailhead, located at 4,800 meters above sea level. The hike will be gentle and suitable for most travelers. We will walk for around 45 minutes to reach the best viewpoints. Along the way, we might see alpacas, llamas, and local shepherds.

The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain range will surprise us with its vibrant mineral stripes and surreal formations. We will explore three different viewpoints, each offering wide-angle views of the mountains. A unique stone forest nearby will add even more character to the landscape. Our guide will explain the natural history and cultural value of this region.

After taking photos and resting, we will return by the same trail at a relaxed pace. The descent will be easier and allow us to enjoy the views once again. We will have a delicious lunch in a nearby community restaurant before heading back. Our return to Cusco will happen in the late afternoon.

This full-day experience at Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain will offer an easier alternative to the classic trek. We will enjoy a quieter path, incredible scenery, and a deeper connection with the Andes. With GEO ADVENTURE, this colorful journey will be both inspiring and unforgettable.

Itinerary
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Day Tour

We will start the day early with hotel pickup between 4:00 and 4:45 AM. Our guide will greet us with a short briefing. We will then leave the city heading south toward the Andes. The journey offers beautiful morning views of mountains and valleys.

We will drive for 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the town of Cusipata. A buffet breakfast will be served with warm drinks and Andean food. We can stretch our legs and adjust to the increasing altitude. After breakfast, we continue toward Palcoyo.

We will travel another 1:30 hours to reach the trailhead at the Palcoyo community. On the way, we may stop at Checacupe to visit an Inca and colonial bridge. The landscapes will shift to red cliffs, wide plateaus, and distant peaks. The trailhead sits at 4,800 meters above sea level.

At the parking area, the guide will explain the route and safety tips. We will take some time to acclimate. Bathrooms and basic services will be available. The hike will start shortly after.

We will hike slowly for 30 to 45 minutes on a well-marked and gentle trail. The route is perfect for beginners and families. We might see llamas, alpacas, and shepherds along the way. Stunning views of rolling red hills will appear as we walk higher.

Palcoyo Rainbow Mountains

We will explore three rainbow-colored mountains, each with unique mineral patterns. The mountains show intense red, orange, green, and yellow tones. We will enjoy guided explanations about geology, climate, and local culture. After the tour, we will have time for photos and personal exploration.

We may hike 15 more minutes to reach the Stone Forest, a ridge of jagged rocks with panoramic views. From the top, we can see Ausangate, the highest peak in the region. This optional hike is short but steep and highly rewarding.

We will walk back to the parking area at a relaxed pace. The return will feel easier as we descend slowly. We will meet the driver and begin the ride to lunch. Water and snacks will be available in the vehicle.

We will enjoy a traditional Andean lunch in a community restaurant near Cusipata. The meal includes soup, a main dish, and herbal teas. We will rest and reflect on the amazing landscapes we just saw. The restaurant also has restrooms and places to relax.

We will drive back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 PM at the Plaza de Armas. Our guide will say goodbye and offer final tips for altitude recovery. The day ends with memories of quiet paths and colorful peaks. Palcoyo will leave a lasting impression on our journey through Peru.

Tour – Statistics

  • Total Distance Traveled: 300 kilometers (round trip)
  • Highest Altitude: 4,900 meters (Stone Forest viewpoint)
  • Lowest Altitude: 3,350 meters (Cusco city)
  • Hiking Route: Round trip from Palcoyo parking area to viewpoints
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (Optional short climb to the Stone Forest)
INCLUSIONS

Tourist transportation

Breakfast and lunch

Professional bilingual tour guide

Trekking poles

First aid kit and oxygen tank

Entrance ticket to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain

EXCLUSIONS

Extra personal expenses

Snacks and drinks

recommendations for the tour

Warm clothing (layered: fleece, thermal, and windbreaker)

Waterproof jacket or poncho (weather can change quickly)

Comfortable hiking shoes (preferably waterproof with good grip)

Hat and gloves (essential for cold mornings at high altitude)

Sunblock (SPF 50+ is recommended)

Sunglasses (UV protection for strong Andean sun)

Reusable water bottle (1–2 liters)

Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)

Cash in local currency (for optional purchases or tips)

Trekking poles (optional, often included in the tour)

FAQS
What is the difference between Palcoyo and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain?

Palcoyo is less crowded, easier to hike, and has three colorful mountains instead of one. The hike is shorter and gentler.

How difficult is the hike to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Experts consider the hike easy to moderate. Suitable for most fitness levels.

What is the altitude at Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The highest point on the trail reaches about 4,900 meters.

How can we prevent altitude sickness?

We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1–2 days before the tour.

Is the entrance fee to Palcoyo included?

Yes, the tour package includes the entrance ticket to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

Are trekking poles provided?

We include trekking poles. They help with balance and reduce strain during the walk.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?

Yes. This tour is ideal for families with children, older adults, and beginner hikers because the trail is short, flat, and easy to walk.

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Alejandro M.

Solo Traveller

Our family had an amazing time visiting Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain. We were traveling with kids and chose this tour because it’s easier than the original Rainbow Mountain trek.
The guide was super informative and patient, and we had plenty of time to take in the scenery and snap photos. The views were just as colorful and magical

February 1, 2025