Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, Peru is one of the popular tourist attractions. This is one of the two Rainbow Mountains in Peru. The alternative Rainbow Mountain Palccoyo was discovered quite recently. after the emblematic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain was already popular.
In contrast to Vinicunca mountain of the 7 colors, Palccoyo is often overlooked by tourists. Infact many travellers don’t know its existence. That is why it gets only a handful of visitors a day. As it is less crowded, visitors get to spend their time exploring in solace.
If you are not keen on high altitude trek to Vinicuna, then this is the option. It is much easier and interesting on Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour.
On this full day tour, we will be stopping in Checacupe. This is a remote Andean village where people still continue to speak Quechua. The village houses a rope bridge that was built during the Spanish rule. This rope bridge somewhat resembles the last suspension bridge built by Incas, Qeswachaka.
Unlike in Vinicunca, where you have to trek for an hour and a half to reach the summit. On this day trip from Cusco to Palccoyo, we drive you to (4850m/15912ft). From here it is an easier hike to the summit. It takes you along a natural rock formation known as Stone Forest.
You will also see many Llamas, Alpacas and Vicuñas on your way to the summit at (5,000m/16,404ft.) You will also have the opportunity to meet people from the local community. The distance is around a kilometre and it takes 45 minutes to an hour to reach the top.
The view is absolutely breathtaking. Infact, it offers a closer view of the highest peak in Cusco, Ausangate. We highly recommend you to spend at-least 3-4 days in Cusco to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.
The Andes mountains of Peru are subject to two seasons, dry season and rainy season. During monsoon, from December to March, it gets cloudy and the weather often remains unpredictable. Often the mountain is covered in snow.
The dry season lasts from April to November. Often there are clear skies during the dry season offering you a pristine view of the mountain.
We also organise this in a small group private tour with a minimum of two travellers.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
0700 AM
We will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco at 0700 AM. In our private transport, we will be driving you along the South Valley of Cusco to Checacupe. It is a small colonial village. Here you will have some free time to explore the town and walk on the suspended rope bridge built by Spanish conquistadors.
From here, we will begin our drive up the hill to the trail head. On our way, we will be passing through different communities. Once at the trailhead, our guide will share some tips on hiking and will give you a safety briefing.
All set, we will start climbing gradually to the summit of the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. On our way, we will also be passing through bosque de piedra or the stone forest. Once at the summit, our guide will give you a guided tour explaining the importance of both Palccoyo and Ausangate in Incan mythology.
Once you have had your fill of the breathtaking views, we will start descending back to the trailhead. Here we will be taking the car back to Checacupe. We will be stopping at a local restaurant for lunch.
After lunch, we will be driving you back to Cusco. We will be dropping you off at Plaza Regocijo at 05:30 PM.