Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain near Cusco, Peru
NO CROWDS SHORT HIKE

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Full-Day Tour

  • 1 Day (Full Day)
  • Cusco · Checacupe · Palccoyo, Peru
  • From $40 USD ≈ S/ 138
Alpacas with snow-capped peaks in the Cusco Andes
Lagoons and peaks of the Ausangate mountain range
Alpaca in the southern Andes of Cusco

The quieter alternative to Vinicunca: three colorful hills, a stone forest and views of Ausangate on a short hike, without the crowds.

DURATION 1 Day (Full Day)
MAX ALTITUDE 4,900 m (Palccoyo)
DIFFICULTY Easy / Moderate due to altitude
GROUP SIZE Shared group (max. 16)
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Experience Overview

Palccoyo is the alternative rainbow mountain to Vinicunca. Located in the district of Checacupe, in the province of Canchis, it offers not one but three rainbow mountains, plus a unique stone forest and views of the Vilcanota range and Mount Ausangate. Its big advantage is that the hike is much shorter and gentler: about 3 km in total, with almost no incline, making it ideal for families, older travelers or anyone who prefers to skip the effort and crowds of Vinicunca.

What will you see at Palccoyo?

  • Three hills striped with colors formed by minerals.
  • The stone forest, rock formations sculpted by erosion at almost 4,900 m above sea level.
  • Views of the Vilcanota range and Mount Ausangate.
  • The colonial and Inca bridges of Checacupe along the way (time permitting).

Hike facts

  • Distance: approx. 3 km round trip.
  • Time: 1 to 1.5 hrs in total.
  • Max. altitude: approx. 4,900 m a.s.l.

Tips

  • Although the hike is easy, the altitude is high: acclimatize beforehand and walk slowly.
  • Bring warm clothing, a beanie, gloves, sunscreen and sunglasses.
  • Water, snacks and some cash for the community entrance fee.

Signature Highlights

Three rainbow mountains in one place, with few visitors.
Short, nearly flat hike suitable for almost all ages.
Stone forest and views of Mount Ausangate.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Professional guide with first-aid kit and oxygen.
STEP BY STEP

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Each day has been carefully planned to optimize acclimatization and avoid peak tourist hours.

DAY 01

Cusco – Checacupe – Palccoyo – Stone Forest – Cusco

⛰ 4,900 m a.s.l. 🚶 3 km round trip ⏱ 1 to 1.5 hrs hiking ⛺ Return to Cusco

We pick you up early and drive south of Cusco, with breakfast on the way. From Checacupe we climb a mountain road to the Palccoyo parking area. We walk a gentle trail that links the three rainbow mountain viewpoints and reach the stone forest. Time for photos and rest. We return to the vehicle, have lunch and head back to Cusco in the afternoon.

FULL TRANSPARENCY

What's Included in the Expedition

✓

Included Luxury Services

  • Pickup from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center.
  • Round-trip tourist transportation.
  • Breakfast and lunch.
  • Professional guide (English / Spanish).
  • First-aid kit and oxygen tank.
✕

Not Included

  • Palccoyo entrance fee (paid locally to the community).
  • Additional drinks and snacks.
  • Tips.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRIP

Optional Upgrades & Perks

Complement your journey with exclusive comfort experiences and panoramic summits.

Private service (per person)

Dedicated vehicle and guide for your group.

+ $50 USD ≈ S/ 173
WE ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions about Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Full-Day Tour

Palccoyo or Vinicunca: which should I choose?

Vinicunca is more famous and its colors are more intense, but the hike is tougher and busier. Palccoyo has three rainbow mountains, a much easier hike and fewer visitors.

Can I go with children or older adults?

Yes, it is one of the best options for families. Just keep the altitude in mind and check with your doctor if you have any health conditions.

How long is the drive from Cusco?

About 3 to 3.5 hours each way.