🗓️ Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Adventure – Full Day Tour
Itinerary
🚐 Early Pick-up from Your Hotel
We begin our adventure with pick-up from your hotel between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. From there, we’ll take a comfortable bus ride of approximately 2 hours to the community of Cusipata, where a nutritious and delicious breakfast awaits you — perfect to fuel up for the day ahead.
🚍 Journey to the Starting Point of the Hike
After breakfast, we continue by bus for about 1 hour and 30 minutes through the scenic Andean countryside until we reach the starting point of the hike.
🥾 Start of the Hike & Panoramic Views
Upon arrival, we’ll begin our easy 1-hour hike at a high altitude of 4,650 meters above sea level, enjoying the incredible vistas of the Ausangate Valley and its three colorful rainbow mountains. Each one presents unique stripes of mineral pigments, forming an unforgettable natural display.
🪨 Visit to the Stone Forest
Midway through the trek, we’ll stop at the surreal Stone Forest, a set of jagged rock formations that create a mystical atmosphere. This is a perfect moment to take in the silence, breathe the crisp air, and take stunning photos.
🍽️ Return and Lunch
After exploring, we’ll head back to the bus and travel to a local restaurant to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch — a well-earned reward after a morning of exploration.
🏙️ Return to Cusco
We’ll finish our journey with a comfortable ride back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:30 p.m., with drop-off at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the historic center.
What’s included
This tour is thoughtfully designed to ensure you enjoy a complete and worry-free experience from start to finish. Here’s everything that’s included:
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🚐 Private Transportation: Comfortable 20-passenger vehicle for the round trip to Palcoyo.
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🍽️ Breakfast: A hearty breakfast served in Cusipata to start your adventure with energy.
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🥘 Lunch: A delicious full-course meal after the hike, featuring local flavors.
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🗺️ Professional Bilingual Guide: Knowledgeable and friendly guide who will share insights about the natural wonders, local culture, and traditions.
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🏙️ Return to Cusco: Transport back to Cusco, with drop-off at the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) around 5:30 p.m.
What’s not included
To help you plan ahead, here’s what is not covered in the tour:
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🎟️ Entrance Fee to Palcoyo Mountain: Not included; the cost is 20 soles per person, payable on-site.
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💧 Cold Water: Not provided, but available for purchase along the route.
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🍫 Snacks or Chocolates: Bring your favorite treats to enjoy during the hike.
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💵 Tips: Optional and voluntary — a kind gesture for your guide and driver if you enjoyed the service.
What You need to bring
To make the most of your Palcoyo experience, be sure to pack the following essentials:
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🧳 Backpack (30 Liters): Ideal for carrying your water, snacks, and other personal items comfortably.
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🌧️ Rain Jacket or Poncho: The weather in the Andes can change quickly — stay dry and comfortable.
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🧥 Thermal Jacket: Mornings and high altitudes can be chilly; dress in layers to stay warm.
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🧴 Sunscreen, 🕶️ Sunglasses & 🧢 Hat/Cap: UV rays are strong at altitude — protect your skin and eyes.
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📸 Camera or Smartphone: Capture breathtaking landscapes and special moments along the way.
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💰 Extra Money: For entrance fees, water, snacks, souvenirs, or emergencies.
FAQs
🕓 What time does the tour start?
Pick-up is between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. from your hotel. The early start ensures you have time to enjoy the full experience without crowds.
🥾 How long is the hike?
The hike takes around 2 hours, allowing you to explore at a relaxed pace while soaking in the amazing views.
📉 What is the level of difficulty?
This is a moderate and accessible hike, ideal for all ages and fitness levels. Unlike the Vinicunca trek, Palcoyo offers gentle trails with minimal elevation gain.
🎒 What should I bring with me?
We recommend packing:
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A 30-liter backpack
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Rain jacket or poncho
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Thermal jacket for the cold
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Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap
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A camera or phone
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Extra money for snacks, water, and entrance fees
🍽️ Is food provided?
Yes! A hearty breakfast is served in Cusipata, and after the hike, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
💸 What’s not included in the tour?
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Entrance to Palcoyo Mountain (20 soles)
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Water or drinks
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Snacks (bring chocolate or energy bars)
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Tips (optional, but appreciated)
🏔️ How high is the hike?
You’ll reach an altitude of approximately 4,650 meters (15,255 ft) above sea level. It’s high, but the short and gradual walk makes it manageable.
🕠 When will we return to Cusco?
After lunch, you’ll travel back and arrive at Plaza de Armas around 5:30 p.m..
🙋♀️ Additional Questions
👶 Can children or older adults join the tour?
Yes, the hike is gentle enough for children and seniors. Just make sure everyone is acclimatized to the altitude before the tour.
💊 Do I need to take altitude sickness pills?
It’s optional. While Palcoyo is easier than other high-altitude treks, some travelers prefer to take soroche (altitude) pills or coca tea as a precaution.
📅 Is the tour available year-round?
Yes! However, the dry season (April–October) offers the clearest skies and best views. During the rainy season (November–March), expect muddy trails and bring extra waterproof gear.
📷 Can I use a drone?
Drone use may be restricted in some areas. Ask your guide beforehand to avoid any issues.
