1 Day Trek to Palccoyo Cusco – Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
Rainbow Mountain of Peru is one of the popular tourist attractions in Cusco. It is the second most visited site after Machu Picchu. Often travelers prefer hiking Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain on a full-day trip from Cusco. Most travelers however skip this because of the arduous hike.
1 Day Trek to Palccoyo Cusco is a popular alternative to the full-day trip to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Often referred to as Alternative Rainbow Mountain in Peru, Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is less strenuous and uncrowded.
Unlike the trek to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, on this Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour, we will be driving you closer to the summit. It normally is a 45 minutes easy hike through picturesque sights including the mighty Ausangate Mountain and Stone forest (Bosque de la Piedras).
Before reaching the colored mountains, we will be visiting Checacupe Village. It is a traditional village that is home to Inca, republican and colonial bridges.
Palccoyo Altitude:
Although Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is easier than Vinicunca Trek, it is also a high-altitude experience. The highest point is at 4900 meters above sea level (16070ft). We highly recommend that you spend a few days in Cusco and acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.
When is the best time to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a part of the Andean mountain range. It is subject to two seasons, dry season and Rainy Season. It is worth visiting Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain during the dry season, between March and November. It is often sunny and you will be getting a clearer view of the seven colors under clear blue skies.
1 Day Trek to Palccoyo Cusco – Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure starting bright and early at 4:00 AM, when we’ll swing by your hotel in Cusco to kick off the day. Our cozy private transport will whisk you away to the charming Andean town of Checacupe, where history and beauty blend seamlessly.
Checacupe is more than just a stop; it’s a step back in time. With its colonial church and ancient Inca, republican, and colonial bridges, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a living postcard. Take a moment to soak in the colonial charm and snap some photos – trust us, you won’t want to miss it!
Once we’ve savored the sights of Checacupe, we’ll hit the road again, climbing higher into the hills. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views at every turn, including the mesmerizing sight of the “blood river,” named for its striking red hue caused by iron oxide deposits.
Our journey takes us through vibrant Andean communities, where we often invite local children to join us, providing them with a rare opportunity to connect with the wider world beyond their village.
After a scenic drive, we’ll arrive at the trailhead for Palccoyo Mountain. From here, it’s just a 45-minute hike to the summit, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views and the playful antics of alpacas and llamas grazing in their natural habitat.
As we ascend, keep an eye out for the awe-inspiring Ausangate peak looming in the distance, as well as the fascinating stone forests that dot the landscape like nature’s own sculptures.
At the summit, our knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of Andean mythology, adding depth to your appreciation of this sacred landscape. Take your time to soak it all in – the views alone are worth the journey.
After our descent, we’ll make our way back to Checacupe for a well-deserved lunch, where you can refuel and reflect on the day’s adventures. Then, with hearts full and memories made, we’ll return to Cusco city by 5:00 PM, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the Andean highlands.
Imagine waking up to a knock on your hotel door, the start of a day filled with adventure. Our friendly team will be there bright and early to pick you up, ensuring you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Step aboard our private bus, your chariot for the day, as we begin the scenic drive to Palccoyo. Sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking views unfolding outside your window. Our expert driver will navigate the winding roads with ease, leaving you free to enjoy the ride.
Accompanying us on this adventure is our professional tour guide, fluent in both English and Spanish. They’ll be your storyteller, your navigator, and your source of knowledge throughout the journey, enriching your experience with fascinating insights and local lore.
But first, let’s fuel up for the day ahead. We’ve got a delicious breakfast waiting for you on board, ensuring you’re ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way. And don’t worry about lunch – we’ve got that covered too, with a mouthwatering buffet spread that’ll satisfy even the heartiest appetite.
Safety is our top priority, which is why we’ve equipped our bus with a first-aid kit and an oxygen tank. Rest assured, you’re in good hands every step of the way.
And let’s talk packages – this isn’t just a tour, it’s an all-inclusive experience. From the moment you step onto our bus to the moment we drop you back at your hotel, everything is taken care of. No hidden fees, no surprises – just pure, unadulterated adventure.
So why wait? Join us on this journey of a lifetime and discover the wonders of Palccoyo in style and comfort. Your adventure awaits!
- Alcoholic drinks and others not mentioned on the list
- Dinner
- Rain poncho (can be bought anywhere in the city or along the trail)
- Entrance fee
- Daypack, warm clothes (scarf, sweaters, rainjacket, gloves)
- Walking boots.
- Walking sticks
- Rain poncho
- Sun hat + sunglasses.
- Toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
- Sun cream
- Camera & Extra Film & Batteries
- Personal medical kit
