Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain – Full-Day Tour
Many travelers are familiar with the famous Rainbow Mountain, one of Cusco’s most popular destinations. However, there’s a lesser-known but equally impressive gem: Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, considered the region’s second most beautiful rainbow mountain. This stunning place, recently discovered by local residents, lies south of Cusco at over 4,920 meters above sea level, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and breathtaking landscapes. The hike is shorter and easier than Vinicunca’s, and being less crowded, it offers a peaceful experience, ideal for those seeking to enjoy nature without the crowds.
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain – Full-Day Tour
Full Day
LOCATION:
Cusco
AVAILABILITY:
Every day
PHYSICAL FITNESS LEVEL:
Easy – Moderate
MAX. ALTITUDE:
4,900 m.a.s.l.
Trip Details
Day 1: Cusco - Cusipata - Combapata - Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, Cusco
- Pick-up in Cusco: Our representative will pick you up early, around 4:00 a.m., to begin the journey to the town of Cusipata (approximately a 2-hour drive).
- Breakfast in Cusipata: We will stop to enjoy a delicious Andean buffet breakfast, accompanied by our guide, at a local restaurant.
- Journey to the Mountains: We will continue our journey for another hour and a half, ascending along a narrow road that reveals ever-changing landscapes: valleys, picturesque villages, and the first rainbow mountains, as well as alpaca and llama farms.
- Start of the Hike: Upon arriving at the starting point, we will begin a leisurely 45-minute hike with spectacular views of a rainbow mountain that will accompany us throughout the ascent.
- Palccoyo Viewpoint: We will reach the summit at 4,900 meters above sea level (16,141 feet), where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the three rainbow mountains and take incredible photos without the crowds.
- Optional Exploration: Those who wish can hike a little further to admire the famous stone forest and its curious natural formations.
- Descent and Lunch: We will return along the same trail to the boarding point, from where we will go to the restaurant to enjoy a buffet lunch.
- Return to Cusco: In the afternoon, we will begin our return trip and drop you off at your hotel, concluding this unforgettable experience.
Included
- Pre-tour information session.
- Professional bilingual guide.
- Private round-trip transport from your hotel in Cusco.
- Andean buffet breakfast.
- Buffet lunch.
- Trekking equipment (poles).
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
Not Included
- Entrance fee to Palccoyo Mountain.
- Hotel in Cusco.
- Horse rental.
- Other services not mentioned.
What To Bring
- Original passport or ID.
- Small daypack.
- Waterproof, comfortable hiking boots.
- Warm layers: fleece, down jacket, wool hat and gloves (mornings are very cold at altitude).
- Rain jacket or poncho.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, sun hat and lip balm.
- At least 1.5 liters of water and light snacks.
- Cash (soles) for entrance fees, tips and souvenirs.
- Camera or phone with a spare battery.
Prices
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Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain – Full-Day Tour
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