Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour – Palccoyo Cusco

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Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Details

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour offers an experience like no other. In the heart of Palccoyo Cusco, you can embark on a day trip that will take your breath away. Many visitors flock to see the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, but Palccoyo stands as a serene alternative. A visit to Palccoyo ensures fewer crowds, a more intimate setting, and equally stunning views of colorful mountains.

Imagine waking up early in the morning in your hotel in Cusco. Your anticipation grows as you prepare for the day’s adventure. The journey to Palccoyo starts on a dirt road, taking you through breathtaking mountain ranges. While the drive might be a tad challenging, the views are worth every moment.

Upon arriving, you will notice the vast parking lot. From there, you’re only a 45-minute walk away. You’ll witness the majesty of the stone forest. 

You’ll also see the surrounding hues of the mountain. As you walk, you might even get a glimpse of alpacas and llamas grazing in their natural habitat.

Altitude sickness can be a concern for many. So, we highly recommend acclimatizing in Cusco before you embark on this journey. The dry season provides the best conditions for your visit, ensuring clear views and safer treks.

Whether you choose a private tour or a group tour, your visit to Palccoyo will surely be memorable. And if you have more time, why not pair it with a full day tour to other attractions like Machu Picchu? Combining both visits allows you to experience the vastness of Cusco’s natural and historical wonders.

In conclusion, a visit to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a must for any traveler. It offers a unique perspective, different from the more frequented Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. So, when planning to visit Rainbow mountain, Palccoyo should be on top of your list.

Departure Time

04:30 AM

Price Includes

  • Round-trip transportation: From Cusco to the starting point of the trek and back.
  • Professional guide: A trained and knowledgeable guide to lead the group, providing insights about the area, its history, and ensuring safety.
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch are provided during the tour
  • First aid kit: For safety reasons, we carry a basic first aid kit.
  • Oxygen: Given the high altitude of the trek, we provide access to oxygen if needed.
  • Cultural insights: Besides the natural beauty, our tours also focus on the local culture, traditions, and history, providing a richer experience.

Price Excludes

  • Personal expenses: Any purchases or services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions, such as souvenirs or additional snacks and drinks.
  • Travel insurance: It's the responsibility of the traveler to secure appropriate travel and medical insurance.
  • Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, or other staff are not included and are left to the discretion of the traveler.
  • Equipment rental: Specific gear, other than basic provisions are available for rent but not included in the initial price

Recommended To Carry

  • Appropriate footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential, especially given the terrain and potential for rapidly changing weather conditions.
  • Layered clothing: The weather can vary dramatically throughout the day. It's wise to wear layers, so you can adjust to the changing temperatures. This could include a base layer, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof and windproof jacket.
  • Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from both the sun's rays at high altitude and the cold.
  • Sunscreen and lip balm: The sun at high altitudes can be surprisingly intense, so it's essential to protect your skin and lips.
  • Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and keep your energy up.
  • Personal medications: Including any you take regularly and any specific to the trek, like altitude sickness medication.
  • Camera and binoculars: Capture the breathtaking views and observe distant wildlife or landmarks.
  • Personal identification and copies: Always good to have on hand, especially in a foreign country.
  • Walking poles: These can help with stability on uneven terrains and reduce strain on knees during descents.
  • Cash: For any small purchases, tips, or unexpected expenses. Many remote areas won't have ATM facilities.
  • Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, and a reusable bottle is environmentally friendly.
Itinerary

A Day to Remember: Your Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Itinerary from Cusco

Your journey to the enchanting Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour begins bright and early. We’ll start your day with a departure from your hotel in Cusco. 

As the first light of dawn breaks, a comfortable transportation will be there for you. It will pick you up. This signals the start of an unforgettable adventure in Palccoyo Cusco.

The drive to the mountain’s base is an experience in itself. As we make our way through the scenic routes, the panoramic views of the mountain ranges will captivate you. This drive typically takes around 3 hours. It offers ample time to soak in the beauty and perhaps catch a few winks before your trek.

Upon reaching the parking lot, you will find yourself surrounded by the raw beauty of nature. Here, you can take a moment to adjust to the altitude, stretch your legs, and prepare for the hike ahead. You must prepare, as the altitude can affect even the most seasoned hikers.

The trek to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain will take approximately 45 minutes. While this might seem short, the path can be challenging due to the altitude. But every step rewards you with sights of colorful mountains. Additionally you can also see diverse flora, and possibly even encounters with local wildlife like alpacas and llamas.

As we reach the summit, the 360-degree view will leave you in awe. The blend of colors, from rich reds to deep blues, is a sight to behold. Here, you can take your time, capture photos, and immerse yourself in the splendor before beginning your descent.

The return trip to Cusco will be a time of reflection, as the day’s memories replay in your mind. By late afternoon or early evening, you should be back at your hotel, feeling accomplished and grateful for the experience.

For those wondering about the statistics of the more renowned Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Trek, here they are:

  • Distance covered: Approximately 15 km (9.3 miles)
  • Highest altitude: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level
  • Lowest altitude: 4,326 meters (14,189 feet) above sea level
  • Level of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

While both treks offer unparalleled beauty, Palccoyo provides a unique, less crowded alternative. Whether you choose Palccoyo or Vinicunca, the experience will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Cusco visit.

Photos
FAQs

How does Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain differ from Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo is often less crowded than Vinicunca and offers multiple colored mountains in view. The hike is also shorter and less strenuous.

How long is the hike to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The trek to Palccoyo usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, making it less demanding compared to the full-day hike of Vinicunca.

What altitude is Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo is situated at an altitude of around 4,900 meters (or 16,076 feet) above sea level.

Is altitude sickness a concern in Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, given its high altitude, some visitors might experience symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s advised to acclimatize in Cusco for a couple of days before the trek.

What is the best time to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The dry season, which is between April and October, is generally considered the best time to visit for clearer skies and better trekking conditions.

What should I wear?

Layered clothing is ideal due to fluctuating temperatures. Sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and rain gear are also essential.

Can I see alpacas and llamas during the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain trek?

Yes, it’s common to encounter herds of alpacas and llamas grazing in the area.

How far is Palccoyo from Cusco?

The drive from Cusco to the starting point of the Palccoyo trek is around 3 hours.

3 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Thomas

Solo Traveller

Embarked on the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour with Explore Peru Guide and was blown away! Incredible views, expert guide, and top-notch service. A must-do in Cusco! Highly recommend!

October 9, 2023

Adrew

Couple Traveller

Took the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour with Explore Peru Guide, and it was an absolute highlight of my trip! The majestic, colorful landscapes of the mountains are a sight to behold, and our guide added depth with his rich insights into the region’s history and geology. The team’s professionalism and attention to detail were commendable, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. Trekking at such a high altitude could be challenging, but with Explore Peru Guide, it felt safe and enjoyable. I can’t recommend this tour enough. Hats off to the entire team for making it a day I’ll always cherish!

October 5, 2023

Keisha

Solo Traveller

I recently embarked on the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour with Explore Peru Guide, and it was truly a memory for a lifetime! The vibrant hues of the mountains were nothing short of mesmerizing, and the views were spectacular from every angle. Our guide was knowledgeable, sharing intriguing stories and facts that enriched our understanding of the area. What stood out was the team’s professionalism and genuine care for our comfort and safety. The journey was well-paced, ensuring everyone could enjoy the beauty without feeling rushed. Highly recommend this tour and especially with Explore Peru Guide. A bucket-list-worthy adventure done right!

October 4, 2023