Comparing The Rainbow And Palccoyo Mountains

If you’ve heard of the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in Cusco, but have also seen images of the impressive Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, you might be wondering which is the best option for your trip. Both mountains are known for their spectacular natural colors, but they have key differences in accessibility, views, and overall experience.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to choose the best option based on your travel style.

1. Palccoyo vs. Vinicunca: General Overview

The colorful mountain ranges of the Peruvian Andes are an unmissable destination for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind natural spectacle. Among them, Palccoyo and Vinicunca stand out as the two main options for those wanting to witness this geological phenomenon, but each offers a different experience.

Vinicunca, the Original Rainbow Mountain

Vinicunca is the most popular and visited of the rainbow mountains in Cusco today, without a doubt. Its combination of reds, yellows, greens, and oranges makes it a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers. However, its popularity has made the experience more crowded.

Palccoyo, the other Rainbow Mountain

On the other hand, Palccoyo is a group of three colored mountains located in a less explored area. Its main advantage is that the path to reach it is shorter and less steep, making it a perfect alternative for those looking to enjoy the landscape without an extreme hike. Additionally, the area features a stone forest.

Location and Altitude

Both mountains are located in the Cusco region and are accessible via full-day or half-day tours from the city. The difference in altitude is an important factor, as the hike to Vinicunca is more challenging due to the lower oxygen levels in the air.

Accessibility: Which is easier to visit?

If you’re looking for a challenging adventure, Vinicunca is your best option, but keep in mind that the hike to the top takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your physical condition and altitude adaptation, Some Alternatives for Trekking to Rainbow Mountain are: Quad bikes or Atv, Horses and Motorcycles. On the other hand, Palccoyo is an excellent choice for those seeking easier access. The hike lasts about 40 minutes, and the trail has a gentle slope, making it accessible for travelers of all ages. Due to the ease of the route, no transport options such as horses or ATVs are offered.

Visual Differences: Which is more impressive?

Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca stands out for having a single large mountain with well-defined color bands, creating a very unique image. In Palccoyo, however, there are three colored mountains along the trail, offering wider panoramic views. Additionally, in Palccoyo, you can observe unique rock formations, such as the Stone Forest.

Which is better for photography?

• If you want an iconic photograph with the backdrop of multicolored stripes, Vinicunca is the best option. However, the influx of tourists can make it difficult to capture an image without crowds. For the best shots, it’s recommended to go early in the morning when there are fewer visitors.
• In contrast, Palccoyo offers more freedom to take photos without hurry or interruptions. Its multiple mountains allow for capturing different angles and landscapes, making it more appealing for photographers looking for variety.

Reasons to choose Palccoyo:

• Short and easy hike (40 minutes).
• Lower altitude (4,900 meters above sea level), reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
• Fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and safe experience.
• Panoramic views without the need to walk long distances.

Vinicunca can be a good alternative if the family is accustomed to hiking and altitude, but Palccoyo is definitely the more comfortable and accessible option for all ages.

2. Price and Availability of Tours

Both mountains can be visited on day tours from Cusco. Here’s a comparison of approximate costs:

Prices vary depending on the travel agency and include transportation, guide, breakfast, and lunch. Tours to Palccoyo are usually less in demand, which may result in a slightly higher price.

3. Entrance Fee to the Mountains

Palccoyo has a more affordable entrance fee with fewer access restrictions.

4. Nearby Attractions

Vinicunca

• Ausangate: The holiest mountain in Cusco, with impressive trekking routes. Ausangate will be visible throughout much of your hike.
• Red Valley: Just 30-40 minutes of hiking from the main viewpoint of Vinicunca, the Red Valley is an optional visit worth including in your tour. It’s recommended to explore it before ascending to the Rainbow Mountain, as doing it afterward may be more tiring due to altitude and accumulated physical exertion.

Palccoyo

• Stone Forest: Just a 20-minute hike from the Palccoyo viewpoint, you’ll find impressive rock formations resembling a forest of petrified trees. This attraction can be visited before or after reaching the last of Palccoyo’s viewpoints (Palccoyo has 3 viewpoints).
• Ausangate: It’s no surprise that from Palccoyo, you can also see the sacred mountain of Ausangate throughout the hike.

5. How Many Rainbow Mountains Are There Currently?

In addition to Vinicunca and Palccoyo rainbow mountain, there are other mountains in Cusco with similar mineral formations that have recently been gaining popularity:

• Pallay Punchu Mountain: Also called “Apu Taqllo,” this mountain stands out for its sharp geological formations and intense colors that resemble the embroidery of an Andean poncho. Its unique appearance makes it one of the lesser-explored natural wonders, but still equally impressive.
• Wilcacunca Rainbow Mountain: Known by locals as the “Mountain of Love,” Wilcacunca offers an even more diverse natural spectacle than Palccoyo. While Palccoyo has three colored mountains, Wilcacunca surprises with more than four multicolored mountains and valleys with unique tones.

6. Conclusion: Vinicunca or Palccoyo?

If you still have doubts about which of the Rainbow Mountains to visit in Cusco, we invite you to check our comparison chart, where you can see the main features of each and decide which one seems more interesting to you based on your preferences.

Similar articles that might interest you:

1. How many Rainbow Mountains are actually in Peru, Do you know?
2. Rainbow Mountain Trail: What Makes This Hike So Special?
3. Vinicunca vs Palccoyo and Wilcacunca: Which is Better?
4. Wilcacunca The New Alternative Rainbow Mountain in Peru
5. Rainbow Mountain Half Day vs Sunrise Tour: Which is Better?