Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain tour
We will delight 3 mountains of colors in 1 single day!
4900 m / 16076 ft
Not Included
Small group
Daily departures
TRAVEL DESCRIPTION
The 1-day Palcoyo tour with Illa Kuntur Travel invites you to discover one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Cusco. The adventure begins with a visit to the charming town of Checacupe, where you can admire its famous Inka bridge, an architectural jewel that connects three important periods of Peruvian history. Then, after a gentle one-hour walk, you will reach Palcoyo, a unique destination where three multicolored mountains unfold before your eyes like a natural masterpiece.
This journey allows you to enjoy a peaceful environment free from crowds, ideal for those seeking to connect with nature in its purest form. As you walk among the imposing Andean mountains, you will be able to contemplate the magical Red Valley and feel the presence of the majestic Apu Ausangate, the spiritual guardian of the region. Finally, the experience concludes at the impressive Stone Forest, a mysterious landscape whose ancestral significance is deeply connected to Ausangate. Every corner of the trail offers the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable photos and experience a day full of wonder and discovery.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Cusco – Cusipata – Palcoyo (Rainbow Mountains) – Stone Forest – Cusco
Pick-up from the hotel between 4:30–5:00 am, followed by a 2-hour drive to Cusipata for breakfast before continuing to the community of Palcoyo (4,200 m a.s.l.). A 30-minute hike leads to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountains and the Stone Forest, with stunning views of Apu Ausangate (6,380 m a.s.l.). The experience includes a Pachamama offering ceremony, time for photographs, lunch in Cusipata, and return to Cusco around 5:00 pm.
TRAVEL ITINERARY
Cusco | Checacupe | Rainbow Moutains Of Palcoyo / The Rock Forest / Cusco
- Our tour begins with pick-up from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. We then head toward the town of Cusipata on a drive of approximately two hours. There, we will enjoy a comforting breakfast and have some free time to use the restrooms or purchase drinks and snacks before continuing. We then resume the journey for an additional hour and a half until we reach the community of Palcoyo, located at 4,200 m a.s.l.
- As we begin the hike, we will be greeted by the impressive view of the Stone Forest and the first colorful mountains that mark the approach to the Rainbow Mountain Range. After a brief introduction from the guide, we will start a gentle 30-minute ascent, during which we may observe South American camelids and appreciate the unique Andean landscapes.
- Upon reaching the summit, we will enjoy the privileged view of the majestic Apu Ausangate, receive an explanation of the site, take part in a traditional offering ceremony to the Pachamama, and have free time for photography and exploration. After this meaningful connection with nature and the Apus, we will begin our return to Cusipata for lunch. Finally, we will continue back to the city of Cusco, where the tour will conclude at approximately 5:00 p.m.
INCLUDES – NOT INCLUDED – DETAILS
Included
Quality and Safety Service:
- Pre-departure briefing.
- Guided tour to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.
- Handcrafted walking sticks.
- Portable oxygen.
- First-aid kit.
- 24/7 customer assistance.
Permits and Entrance Fees:
- Entrance tickets to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.
- Breakfast and lunch included.
- Water and snacks included.
Transportation:
- Transportation included from hotel pick-up in Cusco to return drop-off.
No Included
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Additional drinks or extra snacks.
- Travel or accident insurance.
- Dinner.
What to Bring
- Original passport.
- It is recommended to bring a windbreaker jacket (it is always windy in the mountains).
- Comfortable walking pants.
- Rain poncho.
- Sunscreen.
- Cap or hat.
- Trekking shoes.
- Water and snacks.
- Extra cash for last-minute purchases (there are small shops at the entrance).
Recommendations for your trip
Health Recommendations
- This tour takes place at more than 4,200 m.a.s.l., so it is important to arrive in Cusco with proper acclimatization (1 to 2 days beforehand). If you have heart or respiratory conditions, high blood pressure, or are pregnant, inform the agency before booking.
- During the short walk to the Palcoyo viewpoints, go at your own pace. Although the hike is easy, the altitude can cause fatigue, so it is recommended to rest whenever necessary.
- Stay hydrated throughout the activity to improve acclimatization and prevent altitude sickness.
- Bring sunscreen, lip balm with UV protection, insect repellent, basic pain relievers, and any necessary personal medication.
- Avoid heavy meals and alcoholic beverages the day before the tour, as they may affect your performance at high altitude.
- The weather is variable: cold mornings (10–15°C), windy high areas, and strong sun at midday. Wear warm layered clothing, a hat, gloves, and a waterproof jacket.
- Maintain a respectful attitude toward nature and the local communities that inhabit the Andean region.
Rules and Recommendations for the Route to Palcoyo
- Always follow the guide’s instructions throughout the tour and during the walk to the viewpoints.
- Do not litter during the tour. Bring a small personal bag for your waste and dispose of it in designated areas.
- Using trekking poles is optional; if you bring them, they must have rubber tips to protect the terrain.
- Respect natural areas and sacred sites. Palcoyo and Apu Ausangate are part of the spiritual identity of local communities.
- Do not leave the marked path or approach edges or unstable areas, especially at high viewpoints.
TRAVEL PRICES
|
PALCOYO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN EXCURSION Price Per Person - From 2 people |
|
|
GROUP SERVICE
|
US$ 45.00 |
|
PRIVATE SERVICE
|
US$ 165.00 |
Special Rates
- 1 person: Personalized quote
- Groups of 3+ people: Group discount
- Minors: Special discount
Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.
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