Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Range
Discover a better-kept secret in the Peruvian Andes: the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Range. Unlike its sister Vinicunca, this route offers a quieter, less crowded experience, allowing you to appreciate not just one, but up to three colored mountains that majestically stretch before your eyes. Palccoyo is the ideal option for travelers who wish to marvel at the multicolor geology without facing an exhausting hike. With a short and low-difficulty walk, this tour rewards you with panoramic views of the impressive Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain and the opportunity to explore a unique Stone Forest. It is the perfect choice for families, travelers of all ages, and those seeking a visually epic adventure with less physical exertion.
Vilcanota Mountain Range (Cusco, Canchis, Checacupe), Palccoyo
Scenic, Gentle Trekking, High-Altitude Nature
Spanish and English
Small, Maximum 12 people
Itinerary
The day begins with morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco (approximately 5:00 a.m.) to start the journey south. Our route takes us through agricultural landscapes and deep valleys.We stop in the town of Checacupe, notable for its colonial and Inca bridges, where we enjoy a substantial breakfast to prepare for the high-altitude day.We continue the journey to the starting point of the hike in the Palccoyo community, located near $4,700$ meters / $15,420$ feet above sea level.Once at the starting point, we begin the hike, which is notably gentler than other high-altitude treks. The trail is predominantly flat with a gradual ascent.After only 40 to 60 minutes of walking, we reach the main viewpoint, at $4,900$ m / $16,076$ ft a.s.l. The great advantage of Palccoyo is the immediate panoramic view of the entire mountain range and its three striped colored mountains.You will enjoy time to explore, take photographs, and, optionally, take an additional short walk to the fascinating Stone Forest or appreciate the Red River (depending on the season).After this incredible encounter with nature, we begin the descent (quick and easy) back to our transportation.Then, we head to a local area to enjoy a well-deserved hot lunch before starting the return journey to Cusco. Arrival in the city is scheduled for the afternoon/evening, concluding a colorful and accessible day.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and group tourist transportation (round trip).
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English).
- Breakfast and Lunch (nutritious local menu).
- Entrance tickets to the community and the Palccoyo viewpoint.
- Visit to the colonial bridge and the Inca bridge of Checacupe.
- Assistance with a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- Entrance to the Stone Forest (may require a minimal additional communal fee).
- Gratuities for support staff.
- Rental of trekking poles (available at an additional cost).
- Extra beverages and snacks, in addition to the included meals.
- Personal or emergency expenses.
- Acclimatization: It is vital to have spent at least 2 days in Cusco ($3,400$ m / $11,155$ ft a.s.l.) to get used to the altitude before this excursion.
- Clothing: The weather at $4,900$ m / $16,076$ ft a.s.l. is very cold. Dress in layers: thermal wear, gloves, hat, and a windproof/waterproof jacket.
- Footwear: Trekking shoes or sturdy footwear with good grip.
- Health: Carry altitude sickness pills (Soroche Pills) and chew coca leaves if necessary.
- Hydration and Energy: Drink plenty of water and carry high-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate).
- Protection: Use sunscreen and sunglasses due to the high solar radiation on the Andean puna.
- Cash: Bring Peruvian Soles in small bills for restroom fees or any local purchases.