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PortuguêsPalcoyo in Cusco: Unique Landscapes with a Short Hike
Do you want to see rainbow mountains without enduring extreme hikes? The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain is the perfect answer for you. This route is one of the most spectacular and accessible south of Cusco. Here, you won’t see just one, but three multicolored mountains decorating the Andean horizon.
The Palcoyo Mountain Range offers an unmatched visual experience with moderate physical effort. You will enjoy panoramic views of the Ausangate glacier and walk among unique geological formations. It is the ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, pure nature, and dreamlike photos without the crowds found on other routes.
Tipo de Servicio
Tourist with Professional Guide
Duración
Approx. 13 hours
Tipo de viaje
Nature and Landscapes
Disponibilidad
Every day
Itinerario
Adventure and Energy Begin
04:30 – 05:00 a.m. | Hotel pickup in Cusco: We will pick you up at your hotel in the downtown area to begin the journey south. 07:00 a.m. | Breakfast: After an hour and a half of travel, we will arrive at our tourist restaurant. We will enjoy a light breakfast to recharge our energy.
History and Landscapes on Route
07:30 a.m. | Trip to the Palcoyo Mountain Range: We will continue the journey through the picturesque Combapata Valley.
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Stop in Checacupe: We will visit the historic Checacupe Colonial Bridge. You can take photos and learn about this architectural gem from the colonial era.
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To the starting point: We will travel two more hours to 15,100 ft, where the hike begins.
Hike to the Rainbow Mountains
09:30 a.m. | Start of the hike: We will walk short stretches of 40 to 50 minutes (one way). This route is ideal for those who prefer less demanding experiences.
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What will you see?: You will admire three colored mountains with stunning natural hues. You will also observe local wildlife such as alpacas and llamas under the watch of the Ausangate glacier.
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Stone Forest (Optional): If you want an extra challenge, climb 15 more minutes to the stone forest. From 16,070 ft, the panoramic view of the mountain range is spectacular.
Return and Andean Flavors
11:30 – 12:00 p.m. | Return to transportation: We will begin the descent toward the parking lot. 01:30 p.m. | Buffet lunch: After a two-hour drive, we will enjoy a varied buffet lunch at the restaurant. 03:30 p.m. | Return to Cusco: We will start the final leg of the trip back. Approx. 06:00 p.m. | Arrival in Cusco: We will end the tour in the Imperial City.
Incluye
- Safe tourist transportation.
- Professional bilingual guide.
- Palcoyo Mountain Range entrance fee.
- Local buffet breakfast and buffet lunch.
- Oxygen tank and first aid kit.
- Trekking poles and rain ponchos.
No Incluye
- Meals not mentioned in the program.
- Personal expenses.
Recomendaciones
Bring the following to enjoy your trip without setbacks:
- Warm clothing: The weather in the mountains is cold; use thermal layers.
- Hiking shoes: These will give you better stability on the trail.
- Sun protection: Use sunscreen and a hat; the radiation is high.
- Hydration: Bring bottled water to stay hydrated.
- Camera: Don’t forget charged batteries to capture the three mountains.
- Cash: Bring money for purchasing handicrafts or local snacks.
Preguntas Frecuentes
Vinicunca has a longer and steeper hike. Palcoyo is flatter and shorter, offering three colored mountains instead of just one. It is ideal if you want to avoid large crowds.
No. The level is Easy – Moderate. The main hike is short (maximum 50 minutes) and does not have very steep slopes.
Yes, we start at 15,100 ft and reach up to 16,070 ft. Therefore, we include an oxygen tank and recommend being acclimatized in Cusco for at least two days.
Yes! It is very common to see herds of alpacas and llamas grazing on the slopes of the multicolored mountains. It is a perfect opportunity for natural photos.
The tour includes rain ponchos. However, we always recommend carrying an additional waterproof jacket for safety against the changing Andean weather.
