Palcoyo, also known as Palccoyo or the “alternative rainbow mountain”, is one of the most beautiful destinations in Cusco. Unlike Vinicunca, Palcoyo is a group of small rainbow mountains located approximately 3 hours from Cusco city, in the Canchis province. Additionally, the stone forest and the mysterious red river can be found on the route to Palccoyo.
Palccoyo is located at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level. It has a lower altitude than Vinicunca, which has an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level. So visiting Palccoyo is slightly easier than going to Vinicunca.
Additionally, the trekking time to Vinicunca has an average duration of 3 hours. On the other hand, the route to Palccoyo just takes 1 hour to complete. Also, Palccoyo receives less visitors than Vinicunca, so it is possible to admire the natural landscape without being interrupted by other tourists.
The best time to visit Palcoyo is during the dry season, between June and September. During this season, the trail is easier to walk due to the lack of rain and snow. However, the red river is usually not visible during this season.
At Andean Luxury we are committed to provide the best tours and treks in the region of Cusco. Whether you want to visit the incredible Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, or explore the sinuous trekking routes of the Andes, we are your best option.
Visit the picturesque Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain accompanied by our expert team of professional tour guides. We also offer group tours to the most famous destinations of the region, such as the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Rainbow Mountains of Cusco. Explore the marvels of Cusco with us.
Cusco hotel transfer
7:00 am
Our full day tour to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain starts at 7:00 am, when we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco city. After boarding our private vehicle, we will drive to Checacupe town, a small Andean village where the trailhead to Palcoyo is located.
Once at the trailhead, we will walk for around 1 hour before reaching Palcoyo. During the trek you will get incredible views of the surrounding mountain ranges. On a clear day, it is possible to spot the Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak of the region.
While hiking to Palcoyo, you will pass the incredible stone forest, a geological formation that features numerous stones of curious shapes. If you are visiting Palcoyo during the rainy season, you will be able to find the mysterious red river.
After arriving at Palcoyo, you will have free time to enjoy the natural beauty of the place. Our tour guide will give you a short explanation of the cultural importance the mountain has to the nearby Andean villages. Then, we will hike back to Checacupe.
We will stop at Checacupe to have lunch. Afterwards, we will board our private vehicle to return to Cusco city. Once we arrive at Cusco, our staff will transfer you back to your hotel. If you want to visit more incredible places in the Andes, we also offer day trips to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.
