Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
70 usd
- Cusco - Palcoyo - Cusco
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
Discover Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, the quieter and more accessible alternative to the famous Vinicunca. This stunning destination is one of the best day trips from Cusco, offering colorful landscapes and spectacular Andean scenery without the crowds.
After leaving Cusco, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive through the Andes. Once there, an easy hike awaits, surrounded by llamas, alpacas, sheep, and high-altitude wildlife such as condors, falcons, eagles, and even vicuñas.
At the summit, the multicolored sandstone mountains of Palcoyo reveal breathtaking views. Thanks to its open valleys, peaceful trails, and short, manageable route, Palcoyo becomes an excellent option for travelers seeking a Rainbow Mountain experience with minimal effort.
Overall, this tour is ideal for families, couples, and anyone wanting a memorable and less demanding adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
Summary
Palcoyo overview
Explore the stunning Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, one of Cusco’s newest and most impressive natural attractions. Known as the peaceful “Little Sister” of the classic Rainbow Mountain, Palcoyo offers spectacular views with a shorter and easier hike, making it perfect for travelers looking for a colorful Andean experience without the crowds.
Furthermore, Palcoyo’s unique landscapes create an ideal alternative for visitors wanting breathtaking views without heavy physical effort.
Tour at a Glance
- 04:30 a.m. – Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- 07:30 a.m. – Breakfast with panoramic Andean views
- 08:00 a.m. – Start of the 45-minute hike
- 09:00 a.m. – Arrival at Palcoyo viewpoint
- 10:00 a.m. – Return hike
- 11:00 a.m. – Drive to lunch
- 12:00 p.m. – Lunch in a local Andean community
- 01:30 p.m. – Return to Cusco
- 06:30 p.m. – Arrival at your hotel
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour - Itinerary
01
Cusco – Palcoyo - Cusco
Today we venture to one of Cusco’s newest and most breathtaking attractions: the stunning Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, often called the Little Sister of the classic Rainbow Mountain.
At dawn, around 4am, your expert guide and driver will pick you up directly from your hotel, just wait comfortably inside. We’ll travel for about three hours through the towering Andes, passing giants like Ausangate. Before starting the walk, enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast while taking in extraordinary mountain scenery.
After breakfast, we begin the gentle hike, crossing some of the most remarkable Andean landscapes imaginable. Expect sweeping valleys, glaciers, shimmering lakes, and herds of alpacas and llamas. You’ll also observe local communities in their daily routines—and if you glance upward, you might spot the mighty Andean Condor. The walk typically lasts about 45 minutes.
Reaching the viewpoint, you’ll be struck by nature’s artistry as the mountain’s mineral bands reveal their iconic colors. Your guide will share fascinating insights while you soak up the scenery and enjoy this unique moment.
When you’re ready, we descend the same path—another easy 45 minutes—to return to our vehicle. From there, we drive roughly an hour to a well-deserved lunch, savoring delicious Peruvian dishes surrounded by Andean peaks.
By 1:30pm, we head back toward Cusco, passing charming villages and vast valleys along the way. We arrive at your hotel around 6pm, completing a day filled with unforgettable views and remarkable experiences.
Included
- Round-trip transportation
- Professional bilingual guide
- Breakfast and lunch
- Environmental care
- Visit to the Stone Forest
- First aid kit
- Tickets to the Palcoyo mountain.
Not Included
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Hiking equipment
- Personal expenses
- Additional activities
What to bring on the tour palcoyo rainbow mountain tour
- ID card or passport
- Warm layered clothing
- Waterproof jacket (during the rainy season)
- Hat, gloves, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Trekking shoes or shoes with good grip
- Water, snacks, and a camera
- Small backpack (max. 20 liters)
Prices
Palcoyo Mountain Tour
70.00 USD
Private Tour
This experience is offered exclusively as a private service, perfect for families, couples, or small groups. Pricing depends on the total number of travelers booking together.
Group Size — Price per Person
2 travelers — $140 USD
3 travelers — $120 USD
4 travelers — $100 USD
5 travelers — $80 USD
6+ travelers — $70 USD
Group tour ( 30 USD) (Does not include entrance fees) Subject to availability”
Optional Add-Ons
Trekking poles — $10 USD per pair (high-quality, adjustable poles)
Complimentary Extras
Airport–hotel transfer (Cusco only)
Oxygen tank available throughout the hike
Frequent Asked Questions About Palcoyo Mountain Tour
What time does the tour start and end?
The tour starts around 4:30 a.m. with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and ends at approximately 5:00 to 5:30 p.m. upon returning to the city.
What is the altitude of Palccoyo?
The main viewpoint is located at 4,900 meters (16,076 feet) above sea level. The hike begins at about 4,700 meters.
How difficult is the hike?
The hike is easy to moderate, with well-defined trails and a short distance (about 1 km). It’s a great option for those who want to avoid the strenuous hike to Vinicunca.
How long does the hike take?
It takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the panoramic viewpoints, depending on the group’s pace.
Do I need to acclimate before going to Palccoyo?
Yes. Even though the hike is short, the altitude is high. It is recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco prior to the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
Are there bathrooms available?
Yes, basic bathrooms are available at the breakfast and lunch restaurant, and also near the starting point of the hike (rustic facilities).
Can I rent a horse at Palccoyo?
No. Unlike Vinicunca, horse rentals are not available at Palccoyo due to the short and easy nature of the trail.
What is the best time to visit Palccoyo?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (April to October) when the skies are clearer and visibility is better. However, the tour is operated year-round.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, it’s an excellent option for families, children, and older adults who want to experience Rainbow Mountains without a strenuous hike.
Can this tour be done in a group or privately?
Yes, the tour is available as a shared group experience or as a private tour, depending on the traveler’s preference.
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
Book now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Private and Group
- Duration: Full Day
- Activity: Hike
- Group Size: 2 - 10
- Difficulty: Easy
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Distance Trip: 50 km