Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain - Full Day Tour

Why choose this experience with us?

Small groups and guaranteed departures: The trip is organized in groups of a maximum of 18 people, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience throughout the journey. Additionally, departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, giving you the flexibility to plan your adventure with complete confidence.

Full meal plan: Breakfast and lunch buffet included, for a more complete and comfortable experience, with food provided before and after the hike.

Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pick-up at your hotel to the end of the experience, you will have the continuous support of our professional guide. He will be able to address each of your questions, as well as provide you with information and safety throughout the entire journey.

Enjoy each destination without haste: Our itinerary is designed to explore each attraction along the route at a leisurely pace, appreciating the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination in detail.

Full Day | Cusco – Cusipata – Palccoyo – Cusco

Discover the three colored mountains of Palccoyo and its unique stone forest on a full-day excursion from Cusco with a gentle hike and spectacular views of the Andes.

Technical data

Walking distance: 3 km / approximately 1.86 miles (round trip).

Walking time: approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes (round trip).

Maximum altitude: Palccoyo - 4900 m a.s.l. / 16,076 feet.

Minimum altitude: Cusipata - 3310 meters above sea level / 10,860 feet.

Difficulty level: Easy.

Temperature: During the day, clear. The maximum temperature is 15 °C.

Highlights

Cusipata: traditional Andean village south of Cusco, a place where breakfast and lunch are enjoyed during the excursion.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains: three multicolored mountains that can be seen from a single viewpoint, formed by minerals that give them their characteristic hues.

Stone Forest of Palccoyo: a unique geological formation of needles and rock columns that creates a landscape exclusive to this route.

Views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain: from the viewpoints, the glaciers of Ausangate, the most important apu of the region, can be appreciated.

Full day | Cusco - Cusipata - Checacupe - Wallata Qasa - Palccoyo Mountain - Stone Forest - Cusipata - Cusco An unforgettable journey through dreamlike landscapes surrounding the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain.

The tour to Palccoyo begins very early in the morning, between 04:30 and 05:00, with pick-up in private transportation from your hotel in Cusco. The journey crosses the Southern Valley toward the town of Cusipata (3,310 meters above sea level / 10,860 feet) where, after approximately 2 hours of travel, a comforting buffet breakfast is enjoyed to start the adventure with energy.

The journey continues to Checacupe (3,450 meters above sea level / 11,319 feet), where a brief stop is made to appreciate its colonial bridge and take photographs of this very well-preserved Andean gem.

Then the journey continues to the area of Wallata Qasa (4,600 meters above sea level / 15,092 feet), the starting point for the hike to the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. From here, the landscapes of the mountains surrounding the route can be seen, including the snow-capped Warsaqyani.

Subsequently, a gentle walk of approximately 40 minutes begins to the viewpoints of Palcoyo (4,790 meters above sea level / 15,715 feet), enjoying along the way the Stone Forest and its incredible natural formations. Since it is a route with little demand and moderate slopes, it is ideal for families and those who prefer a leisurely walk.

Upon arriving at Palcoyo, there is time to explore the viewpoints, relax, take photographs, and connect with nature in a tranquil environment, while the guide explains the natural formation of the colors and the importance of the apus or sacred mountains within Andean culture. From this point, the three colored mountains can be appreciated, and if the weather permits, the views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.

Afterward, the group descends to the meeting point with the transport to return to Cusipata, where a buffet lunch awaits. Finally, the journey back to Cusco begins, arriving approximately at 5:00 PM.

Guaranteed entry

The entrance ticket to Palccoyo is included in the service, avoiding long lines to pay on-site.

Accompaniment and safety

Virtual assistance before the tour starts, the team provides virtual support to resolve all the traveler's questions and doubts about the program, so they can enjoy their trip without worries.

Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English) An excellent staff of professional guides, highly trained in history, culture, and tourist information, accompanies the entire tour to provide a safe, informative, and memorable experience.

First aid kit and oxygen tank Sakura Expedition prioritizes safety during each tour. Therefore, the guides receive constant training in first aid, ensuring timely assistance and a safe journey for all passengers.

1 trekking pole. Trekking poles provide greater stability and support during ascents and descents, reducing effort throughout the journey.

24/7 Customer Service The team is available to address the traveler's inquiries from start to finish, with an emergency phone number they can call whenever needed.

Gastronomic experience

During the adventure, a buffet breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in Cusipata, a resting point before and after the hike. The proposal combines traditional flavors of Andean cuisine, prepared with local ingredients and accompanied by a selection of typical desserts from the region.

Tourist transfers

Pick-up in tourist service from the hotel in Cusco.

Tourist transportation during the tour.

What is not included?

Travel insurance (recommended for greater peace of mind in case of any eventuality).

Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.

Voluntary tips. The entire team receives fair compensation, so any gratuity is at the traveler's discretion.

Enhance your experience

Private service at your own pace. A more comfortable and personalized experience, with flexible schedules, more time for photographs, and the freedom to take breaks. To consult with the sales executive.

Horse service on the ascent: approximate cost S/ 80.00.

Take the first step toward your adventure. Check availability with our sales executive and receive a personalized quote.

Mandatory documents

Original valid passport or ID card (mandatory).

Recommended luggage

Lightweight backpack or handbag (20 to 30 liters) for the essentials.

Water bottle and snack.

Cash in "soles".

Clothing and footwear

Trekking shoes or boots with a good non-slip sole.

Layered clothing: breathable base layer, coat, and waterproof jacket.

Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.

Chullo and gloves for the morning.

Hat or cap for the sun and sunglasses.

Bandana or buff to protect against wind, dust, and solar radiation.

A special set to capture unforgettable photographs in Palccoyo.

Personal items

Sunscreen.

Personal medication.

Basic personal first aid kit.

Wet wipes or toilet paper.

Hand sanitizer.

Energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars).

Equipment and extras

Camera or cell phone.

Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, or tips.

Important considerations

It is recommended to acclimate for at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour.

Avoid heavy luggage to better enjoy the experience.

Always keep documents and valuables with you.

What level of difficulty does Palccoyo have?

It is of easy difficulty. The hike is short and has gentle slopes, making it one of the most accessible color mountain routes. Even so, it is done at high altitude (above 4700 meters above sea level), so proper acclimatization in Cusco is recommended.

What is the difference between Palcoyo and Vinicunca (the Rainbow Mountain)?

Palcoyo is a quieter and more accessible alternative. It offers three colored mountains in one viewpoint and a unique stone forest, with a much shorter and easier hike (less than an hour), in addition to receiving fewer visitors. Vinicunca, on the other hand, reaches a higher altitude (5200 meters above sea level) and requires a more demanding hike. Palccoyo is ideal for families, children, seniors, or those seeking a relaxed experience.

Can I suffer from altitude sickness?

Yes, it is possible to experience altitude sickness (soroche), as the hike takes place above 4700 meters above sea level. It is recommended to acclimate in Cusco beforehand, stay hydrated, and walk calmly.

Is it a good tour for families with children or seniors?

Yes. Thanks to its short and low-difficulty hike, Palcoyo is one of the best options for families with children, seniors, or people who prefer an easy route, as long as they have acclimated in Cusco beforehand.

Can you rent a horse in Palccoyo?

Yes, horse service is available on this route, its approximate cost is S/80.00 (uphill).

Does the agency provide an oxygen tank during the tour?

Yes. Sakura Expedition provides an oxygen tank for the group, and the guides are trained in first aid to assist with any altitude-related eventuality.

What is the best time to visit Palccoyo?

The dry season, between April and October, offers clearer skies and better conditions to appreciate the colors of the mountains. During the rainy season (November to March), the landscape is greener, but there is a higher chance of precipitation.

How many people are in the shared group?

The groups have a maximum of 18 passengers, for more personalized attention. Those who prefer a more exclusive experience can request private service.

How far is Palcoyo from Cusco?

Palccoyo is located approximately 130 km southeast of Cusco. The trip takes about 3 to 4 hours each way before starting the hike.

What clothes should I wear?

It is recommended to dress in layers due to the cold, wind, and intense sun: warm jacket, comfortable pants, trekking shoes, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and rain poncho.

How long does the hike in Palccoyo last?

The walk to the viewpoints takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, and it is of gentle slope. The total round trip takes approximately between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is the Palccoyo Stone Forest?

It is a unique geological formation of spires and rock columns that is found on the same route as Palccoyo. It is an exclusive attraction of this route, which does not exist in Vinicunca, and one of its great distinguishing features.

What happens if I feel unwell during the hike?

Passenger safety is the top priority. The guides are trained in first aid and assess any discomfort during the tour. Depending on the situation, the return to transportation is coordinated or the necessary assistance is provided.

Is there cell phone or internet signal during the visit?

The signal is very limited and, in most cases, it is not available during the hike. It is recommended to inform family members or contacts that you might be out of communication for several hours.

What is the reservation process like?

Step 1 - Availability inquiry: write to info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates. A reservation form will be sent that each participant must complete.

Step 2 - Passenger Information: to manage the reservation, the following details as they appear in the passport are required: full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy), and nationality.

Step 3 - Deposit and confirmation: a guarantee per person is required to secure the space. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during holidays and peak season.

Step 4 - Final confirmation: once the reservation is confirmed, the traveler receives the official invoice and their spot is guaranteed 100%.

Can the date be canceled or changed?

Yes, it is possible to cancel or change the date of the reservation up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases, an administrative fee is applied, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.

Do you have any more questions?

You can contact the sales team via WhatsApp at the numbers +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.

Why choose Sakura Expedition?

Sakura Expedition is a 100% Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco destination. It has a team of certified guides, porters, and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences. Responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service set them apart.

Backed by its tourism quality certification, it guarantees standards of excellence in every detail of the operation.