If you’ve heard of Palccoyo, “the other Rainbow Mountain,” you’re probably curious or have questions about this unconventional destination located in the Combapata district, within the Palccoyo community.
Well, in 2025, things have changed: access has improved, prices have slightly increased, there’s more security, and there are also some new features that almost no blog mentions—like whether there’s signal, bathrooms, card payments, or if you can still go without a guide.
That’s why we’ve prepared this definitive, honest, and up-to-date guide. No stories, no repeating the same old stuff. Just what you need to know to decide whether it’s worth going or not.
What Exactly Can You See in Palccoyo?
Palccoyo’s trail is easy to walk, quick to finish, and full of unexpected views. Along the way, there are several natural viewpoints, but two stand out for their privileged views of the famous Rainbow Mountains. Here’s what you’ll see at each:
Viewpoint 1: The Classic View of the First Rainbow Mountain
Location: Getting there takes only about 10 minutes on foot from the parking area. From this point, you get a clear, panoramic view of the first Rainbow Mountain.
Viewpoint 2: Panoramic View of the Second and Third Rainbow Mountains
Location: Approximately 20 minutes farther from the previous viewpoint. This spot offers a broader view of the colorful geological formations that define this mountain range.
Stone Forest
To reach the famous Stone Forest, you’ll need to hike an additional 15 minutes uphill. However, the effort is totally worth it—from there, you can see all three Rainbow Mountains at once, as well as much of the Vilcanota mountain range.
What Combined Tours Include Palccoyo?
Some agencies offer excursions that combine Palccoyo with other less-explored destinations south of Cusco. Here are some examples:
Pro Tip|Local travel agencies like Rainbow Mountain Expeditions offer the opportunity to combine this tour with Palccoyo, which is usually off the beaten path.
Who Owns Palccoyo?
Palccoyo does not belong to a private individual or company. The land is part of the Palccoyo farming community, which is directly responsible for its administration, maintenance, and access. Community members themselves manage the site, regulate visitor entry, and ensure that the experience is safe and respectful of the environment.
Is It Safe to Visit Palccoyo?
Yes, Palccoyo is a completely safe destination. Although there is no police presence in the area, the community maintains highly organized daily communal surveillance. No security incidents have been reported in the area. Community members themselves organize daily patrols and take care of both the environment and visitors.
How Much Does It Cost to Enter Palccoyo in 2025?
To visit the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, visitors must pay an affordable entrance fee in 2025:
- Foreign tourists: S/15 (approximately USD 5)
- Peruvian tourists: S/10 (approximately USD 3)
This fee helps maintain the trail and supports the local community that manages access to Palccoyo.
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain – Entrance Ticket for Foreigners
Where and How Do I Buy the Ticket?
Unlike other, more popular destinations in Cusco, you don’t need to book in advance or buy tickets online to visit Palccoyo.
Tickets are purchased on the day of your visit, directly at the community checkpoint before starting the hike. The process is quick, simple, and managed by local residents.
Can You Visit Palccoyo Without a Guide in 2025?
Yes, it’s possible to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain (Montaña de Colores) on your own, without hiring a guide. The route is simple and well-marked, but there are a few important things to keep in mind to stay safe:
Tips for Independent Travelers
- Route from Cusco: The most common way to reach Palccoyo is by taking a bus or minivan from Cusco to the town of Combapata. From there, you’ll need to hire a taxi to get to the beginning of the hiking trail. (There are no official tourist stops, so be sure to coordinate your return time in advance.)
- No cell phone service: Don’t expect coverage during most of the trip.
- Local language: Most locals speak Quechua as their primary language, and some speak basic Spanish.
- Limited services: There are no English signs or tourist assistance like in more developed destinations.
- Remote environment: While safe, keep in mind that you’re in high-altitude terrain, far from medical services. Be prepared.
- Follow the rules: Pay your entrance fee directly at the community checkpoint, stay on the marked trail, and don’t wander off the route.
Are There Restrooms, Cell Signal, Wi-Fi, or Card Payments at Palccoyo?
Currently, Palccoyo has basic restroom facilities, which have improved compared to previous years. They’re located near the entrance and, while rustic, they’re functional for visitors.
There is no Wi-Fi available at Palccoyo, and cell signal is spotty — you might get a bit of reception in some areas, but most of the time you’ll be completely disconnected.
Payment methods: Be sure to bring cash. There are no ATMs or card machines, as everything is managed directly by the local community.
Is the Use of Drones Allowed?
Yes, drones are allowed at Palccoyo, but you’ll need to pay an additional fee of S/100 (about $27 USD), which grants you an estimated flight time of 20 minutes. This fee is collected by the local community, and the funds go directly toward maintaining the site and supporting local residents.
Tip|It’s a good idea to ask for permission before flying your drone and to follow any instructions given by community members.
What Is the Road to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Like in 2025?
Getting to Palccoyo isn’t difficult, but it’s important to know what kind of route to expect. As of 2025, the journey includes paved roads up to the nearest district, followed by a rural dirt road that winds through scenic Andean landscapes until you reach the starting point of the hike.
A 4×4 vehicle isn’t required, but it’s highly recommended to travel with a driver experienced in rural high-altitude roads.
What Has Changed in Palccoyo in 2025?
Over the past year, the Palccoyo community has made several improvements to make access easier and protect the environment:
- Parts of the trail have been paved with stones, especially on the steeper sections.
- Two new rest areas made of local stone have been added, where visitors can take a break and catch their breath.
- New signs guide visitors along the correct path and mark restricted areas to help preserve the natural environment.
- The parking area has been expanded and is now better organized to accommodate more vehicles.
- At the start of the trail, local vendors have set up small stalls where you can buy water, hot chocolate, warm drinks, and basic snacks.
Ready to Add Palccoyo to Your Itinerary?
Now that you’ve got all the essential info about this lesser-known rainbow mountain, you can decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans. Palccoyo is a great option for all kinds of travelers — families, those who prefer gentler hikes, or anyone looking for something a bit more off the beaten path.
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