Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day 2026

Cusco - Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

2 to 8 persons

Group Size

Easy

Difficulty level

Trip styles

Accommodation

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour – Overview

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a breathtaking, colorful destination in the Peruvian Andes, offering a serene alternative to the famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. With fewer crowds and a shorter, easier hike, it’s perfect for those seeking stunning landscapes without the heavy foot traffic.

Why Choose Palccoyo over Vinicunca? Palccoyo provides a quieter experience, with vibrant rainbow-colored hills and spectacular views of the Andes, without the long and strenuous hike of Vinicunca. It’s ideal for those looking for a less crowded and easier trek.
Distance & Difficulty: The hike is only 1.5 km (1 mile), with a gradual incline that makes it accessible to travelers of all fitness levels, including families and beginners.
Altitude: At an altitude of 4,900 meters (16,000 feet), acclimatization in Cusco for at least 2 days is highly recommended to avoid altitude sickness.
Duration: Expect a total of 3.5 hours from Cusco, including transport and the hike itself, making it a half-day tour that’s perfect for those on a tight schedule.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit, when the skies are clear, and the vibrant colors of the mountain are at their most vivid.
What You’ll See: Enjoy views of the famous rainbow-colored hills, the Red Valley, and panoramic vistas of the Andes that will leave you in awe.
Price Range: Group tours generally cost between $50 to $100 USD, including transport, a professional guide, and sometimes meals.

In summary, Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain offers a stunning, easy-to-access trek with incredible landscapes, making it the perfect alternative for those who want to experience the beauty of the Andes without the difficulty of more strenuous hikes.

Itinerary of Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Full Day 2026:

Day 1: PALCCOYO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

This Day: Cusco – Palccoyo Mountain – Cusco

We begin our day with pick-up from the hotel at 5:00 am and begin our drive towards the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain trailhead. Located south of Cusco, we drive for approximately 4 hours in private transport until the trail, where we will provide you with breakfast.

Along the way, we see beautiful Andes mountains as well as lush green valleys, local people working on their land, and hundreds of alpacas and llamas. If we are lucky, we will stop for vicuñas and observe them in their natural free state. When we get to Apacheta, we will begin our hike toward Palcoyo Mountain. After hiking for 10 minutes, we get to the viewpoint from where you enjoy the first Rainbow Mountain. We take pictures and drink our wáter. Then we hike for another 10 minutes, and we get to the second viewpoint, where we will take pictures of the second Mountain. Then we hike another 10 minutes to the third viewpoint, and you will be impressed by the third mountain. This viewpoint is the place from where you take the classical Postcard Picture of Palcoyo.

After enjoying the beautiful, colorful mountains, we will hike back to the Trailhead. Then we take the van for about 2 hours until Ttio town, where we will have our lunch in a local house prepared by our Chef. After enjoying our delicious meal, we drive another 1 and a half hours to Cusco. We will drop you off at your hotel at 05 pm roughly.

Stone forest(optional)

If you feel good once you get to the third viewpoint, we can hike another 10 minutes to the Stone Forest. You will see beautiful rock formations once you get to the top. The trail is switchbacked and steep. But the view from the top is amazing. You will see Ausangate Mountain in the distance and all 3 Rainbow Mountains. Another good thing about climbing is that you don’t come back by the same trail; you hike in a loop.

Palccoyo Mountain Included

English-speaking guide, plus an assistant guide for a big group.
First aid kit, including oxygen.
Breakfast and lunch.
Snacks for the trek.
Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco.
Entrance fees to Palcoyo Mountain.
Pick up and drop off from the hotel.
Pre-Trek briefing the night before the trek to go over the itinerary, meet your guide(s), and answer any questions.

Not Included Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Gratitudes for the staff.

Prices: Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain

The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is available all year round. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2026 through January 2027. All prices quoted are in $USD.

Pricing details

Group tour: $100 USD per person

Packing list for the best Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour

Clothing & Footwear

Layered clothing: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating layer, waterproof jacket
Hiking pants: breathable and waterproof, avoid jeans
Gloves and hat: warm hat for cold mornings, gloves for wind protection
Sunglasses and sunscreen: high-altitude UV protection is essential
Hiking boots: waterproof, comfortable, with good grip

Essentials & Accessories

Daypack: lightweight and spacious for water, snacks, and extra layers
Water bottle: at least 1.5 liters recommended
Snacks: energy bars, nuts, or fruit for extra fuel
Personal medications: including altitude sickness prevention if necessary
Camera or phone: to capture the landscapes

Extras for a comfortable experience

Trekking poles: optional but helpful for stability
Rain poncho: weather can change quickly
Hand and face wipes: for a quick refresh
Cash: for small purchases, tips, or souvenirs

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

1. Where is Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, also known as the “Mountain of Colors,” is located in the Cusco region of southern Peru. It is a stunning alternative to the famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, offering equally breathtaking landscapes but with fewer tourists.

Location: Approximately 100 km (62 miles) southeast of Cusco, about a 3.5-hour drive from the city. The journey passes through scenic Andean villages, the Red Valley, and the Checacupe colonial bridge before reaching the trailhead.

2. How to Get to Palccoyo

The easiest way to reach Palccoyo is by joining a guided tour or hiring private transportation, as the site is in a remote location. Here’s how you can get there:

From Cusco: The journey begins in the city of Cusco, where you’ll take a transport vehicle heading towards the Red Valley. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, depending on road conditions.
Tour starting point: The transport will take you to the starting point of the hike, where the trek to Palccoyo begins.

3. How Long Does the Tour Take?

The Palccoyo hike is significantly shorter and easier than the Vinicunca trek, making it a great option for those looking for a less strenuous experience.

Tour duration: The hike typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours in total, depending on your pace and any breaks you take to enjoy the stunning views.
Distance: The trail is approximately 1.5 km (1 mile), and the hike involves only moderate inclines, taking about 30 to 45 minutes.

4. What to See at Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Palccoyo is famous for its incredible array of colors, created by mineral deposits in the ground and the sunlight’s interaction with the landscape. Key highlights include:

The Three Colored Mountains: Palccoyo is unique because you can see three different colorful mountains, offering a striking view that’s equally spectacular as Vinicunca.
Panoramic views: From the highest point of the hike, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Red Valley and the surrounding Andean landscape.
The Red Valley: Close to Palccoyo, the Red Valley offers another picturesque spot, perfect for photography.

5. How Difficult is the Hike?

The hike to Palccoyo is considered one of the easiest treks in the Cusco region, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Andes without a challenging hike.

Easy terrain: Although the altitude can be tough, the trail is mostly flat with some gentle inclines. The hike takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
Perfect for families and beginners: This hike is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

6. What to Bring on the Palccoyo Tour

Although the trek is easy, preparation is key, especially due to the altitude and the unpredictable weather conditions in the Andes. Here’s what you should bring:

Layered clothing: The weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s important to dress in layers. A light, thermal layer and a waterproof jacket are essential.
Sun protection: The sun in the mountains can be intense. Make sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
Water: Stay hydrated throughout the hike, especially at high altitudes.
Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers with good grip.
Plastic bags: These can help keep your belongings dry in case of rain.

7. Best Time to Visit Palccoyo

The best time to visit Palccoyo is during the dry season in the Andes, from April to October. This time of year offers more stable weather conditions with clear skies, making the vibrant colors of the mountain even more spectacular.

High season: From June to August, when Cusco and the surrounding areas attract more tourists.
Rainy season: From November to March, when rainfall can make trails slippery and visibility may be limited.

8. Safety Tips

Altitude: The high altitude in the Andes is one of the biggest challenges. Make sure to spend at least two days in Cusco to acclimate before your tour and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
Local guides: It’s highly recommended to do the tour with a professional guide for both safety and a more enriching experience.
Health check: If you have any pre-existing health conditions, especially heart or lung issues, consult with a doctor before embarking on the trek.

9. Tour Prices and What’s Included

The prices for Palccoyo tours vary depending on the company and the type of service. Most tours include transportation from Cusco, a professional guide, and sometimes lunch. Here’s an idea of what to expect:

Group tours: Prices typically range from $50 to $100 USD per person.
Private tours: Private tours generally cost between $100 and $150 USD, depending on the level of service.

Some tours also offer visits to nearby attractions, such as the Red Valley or the Checacupe Colonial Bridge, which can enhance your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour

1. What is Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a lesser-known alternative to the famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain in Peru. It is known for its stunning multicolored hills, a result of mineral deposits that create a vibrant rainbow effect. Unlike Vinicunca, Palccoyo offers a shorter and easier hike with fewer tourists.

2. How do I get to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain from Cusco?

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is located about 100 km (62 miles) southeast of Cusco, and it takes around 3.5 hours to get there by car. Most visitors travel to the trailhead via a guided tour or private transport, passing through scenic Andean villages and the Red Valley.

3. How long does the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour take?

The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain trek is relatively short. It usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, with the total walking distance being about 1.5 km (1 mile). The terrain is mostly flat with gradual inclines, making it an easy hike suitable for most travelers.

4. What is the difficulty level of the Palccoyo hike?

The hike to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is considered easy to moderate. While the altitude (4,900 meters or 16,000 feet) can be challenging, the terrain itself is much less strenuous than Vinicunca. It is suitable for beginners and families who want to enjoy the beautiful scenery without an exhausting trek.

5. What should I bring to the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour?

Make sure to bring the following essentials for your Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour:

Layered clothing to adapt to the changing weather.
Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the strong Andean sun.
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip for the trail.
Water to stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes.
Camera to capture the breathtaking views of the colorful mountains.

6. What is the best time to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This period offers clear skies and great visibility. The rainy season (November to March) can bring muddy trails and overcast conditions, reducing visibility and making the hike more challenging.

7. How high is Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain sits at an altitude of around 4,900 meters (16,000 feet) above sea level. While this is slightly lower than Vinicunca, the high altitude still requires acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. It’s recommended to spend at least two days in Cusco to adjust before going on the tour.

8. Is Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain less crowded than Vinicunca?

Yes, Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a quieter alternative to the more famous Vinicunca. While Vinicunca attracts large crowds, Palccoyo offers a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the mountain in a less crowded environment.

9. How much does a Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain tour cost?

The price of a Palccoyo tour depends on the type of service you choose. Group tours typically cost between $50 to $100 USD per person, while private tours range from $100 to $150 USD. Prices usually include transportation, a guide, and sometimes lunch.

10. Can I do the Palccoyo tour if I’m not very fit?

Yes! The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain hike is considered one of the easiest hikes in the Cusco region. The trail is relatively short (about 1.5 km) and mostly flat, with only gentle inclines. However, keep in mind the altitude, which may make breathing more difficult for some people.

11. Is it safe to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, it is generally safe to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. However, as with any high-altitude activity, it’s important to be aware of the risks of altitude sickness. Make sure to hydrate well, avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the trek, and spend at least a couple of days in Cusco for acclimatization. It’s also advisable to go with a local guide for safety and to enrich your experience.

12. Do I need a guide for the Palccoyo tour?

While it is possible to visit Palccoyo without a guide, we highly recommend joining a guided tour. A guide can help you navigate the trail, provide important safety tips, and offer insight into the natural and cultural history of the area. It also ensures that you don’t miss any of the hidden gems along the way.

13. Can I visit other places near Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, you can combine your Palccoyo tour with a visit to nearby attractions such as the Red Valley, which is known for its unique red-colored landscapes, or the Checacupe Colonial Bridge, a historical landmark. Some tours offer extended itineraries to include these stunning nearby spots.

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What Our Adventurers Say: Real Reviews

Discover why adventurers love traveling with Go Treks Peru. Read client reviews and explore top adventure destinations in Peru. Check our reviews on Tripadvisor or Google.

★★★★★

(1 review)

Kim J Couples

Palccoyo with Rainbow Mountain Expeditions…so beautiful!!!

We booked our trip through Rainbow Mountain Expeditions (highly recommended).
Eber and our driver picked us up at our hotel in Cusco at 4am. We drove to the breakfast restaurant then went off to the village of Palccoyo.
It is difficult to describe the scenery there other than to say it is spectacular. Eber was with us every step of the way explaining everything about the area. He generously offered to take pictures of us throughout the tour, and of course Eber knew all the great spots for pictures. The rainbow mountains and red mountains were stunning. Each different viewpoint made the scenery look slightly different due to the sun, clouds, colors. Sooooo beautiful there.
We made our way to the third rainbow mountains where you are very close to the natural striations with the other rainbow mountains in the background. Amazing views and a wonderful guide. Eber packed hot muña tea again which helped us warm up, such a great way to soak in the views all around us.
The elevation here is quite high, so we took our time on the short hike up to the stone forest. Eber stopped often to let us catch our breath.
The stone forest is also breathtakingly beautiful ( looks like something out of Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings). The sharp stone walls shoot out of the ground…nature is truly amazing.
We have many pictures of us at Palccoyo taken by Eber that we will treasure and help remind us of our time in Peru.
We are so glad we did this tour with Eber and pretty much had the place to ourselves. We only started seeing other tourists on our way back to the car. We really enjoyed our tour of Palccoyo with Rainbow Mountain Expeditions…glad we skipped the crowds of Vinicunca rainbow mountain.

★★★★★

16 November, 2023

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   William K 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful Sulkantay Experience
I went on the Sulkantay Trek, a wonderful experience . It comes with a guide, a chef and a horseman. The guide was very knowledgeable and answered all questions. The chef accommodated vegetarian/pescatarian eating habits and made different food for every lunch and dinner. The hike is medium difficulty, you will need to adapt to the altitude before you go on this hike so please, spend 5 days adapting before the start date. I paid roughly 550$ for a 5-day 4-night accommodation. And you should also bring soles for the bathrooms along the hike (2 soles each), if you want to buy any snacks, coffee at the farm. And bring some to tip the staff at the end of the trip. Very peaceful atmosphere. The hike is a great place to connect with people, and in the evening you can get some well needed rest.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Janet 
 
 
 
 Verified Machu Picchu 2026
I met up with my son in Aguas Calientes for a planned Machu Picchu visit. Go Trek Peru organized everything from the hotel accommodations to the roundtrip bus to Machu Picchu, to an excellent guided tour of circuit 2 (approximately 3 hours) by Nilo. He has been a tourism expert for years, which is evident as he shares his knowledge of Inca history. Go TREK Peru also organized the train tickets to Ollantaytambo with private transport to Cusco. I highly recommend Go Trek Peru! They are a newer tour company who provides an outstanding tour experience. Thank you to everyone at Go Trek Perú who made this experience memorable for my son and I. ¡Gracias por todo! ~ Janet
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Paulo P 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay Trek
It is 5 days of tracking. There has to be some experience because some parts are difficult. You may have to walk for 10 hours in one day. Everything was well organized. The Nile guide speaks fluent Spanish and English. It is 4 nights, with 3 of them sleeping in Domes, comfortable but sometimes there is no electricity and the bathroom is outside. It is recommended to have a portable charger and appropriate rain gear. The cook Santiago who made us food during the journey is very attentive and professional. The horseman who was in charge of carrying the bags was also very professional. I recommend
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lian T 
 
 
 
 Verified 5 day Salkantay Trek
We did the 5 day Salkantay Trek with Nilo as our guide and it was amazing. He was very knowledgeable and considerate with how our energy levels were throughout the hike. We had a small group of 3 travelers (us and one solo traveler), Nilo, chef Santiago, and horseman William. I loved traveling with everyone and it felt like a little family by the end! This was the most beautiful hike I’ve been on and I cannot recommend it enough. Each night you will be briefed on the next days activities/itinerary and it was so nice to just show up and have Nilo lead the way. It ended up being a little pricier because 2 people dropped out and to operate the company needs 4 travelers - so the original $500 turned into $667 each. For a practically private hike I think it was still a great deal. I just wish we had known ahead of time that 4 people is a requirement and we would have to offset if people dropped out.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dylan L 
 
 
 
 Verified Salkantay 5-day
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best Trek of Our Lives – Salkantay 5-Day with Nilo! Choosing Go Treks Peru for the 5-Day Salkantay Trek was the absolute best decision we could have made—this was, without a doubt, the best trek of our lives! We basically had a private experience (one other person accompanied us on the hike.) We did have to pay a little more since a few people backed out, so if this happens to you just pay the extra bit- because it is 100% worth it!!! Our guide, Nilo, was incredible. He was so nice, deeply knowledgeable, and his passion for the trail and Andean history made every mile unforgettable. He took amazing care of our entire group, kept us motivated through the tough passes, and truly felt like a friend by the end of the journey. We were also blown away by the campsites. The accommodations were above and beyond what we ever expected for a high-altitude mountain trek. Falling asleep in such comfortable setups after a long day of hiking made the physical challenge so much more enjoyable. From the seamless organization to the hard-working crew, everything was handled flawlessly. If you are planning to do the Salkantay Trek, do yourself a favor and book with Go Treks Peru. We cannot recommend Nilo and the team highly enough!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Alejandra Garcia 
 
 
 
 Verified One of the most unforgettable hikes I've ever done
The Ausangate Trek exceeded all my expectations. The scenery is simply incredible, with beautiful glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, and peaceful trails far from the crowds. The trek is challenging but completely worth it. Everything was well organized from start to finish, and the guide was knowledgeable, supportive, and made the whole experience even more enjoyable. The food, camping, and overall logistics were much better than I expected. If you're looking for an authentic trekking experience in Peru, I highly recommend this adventure. It was definitely one of the highlights of my trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   William Z 
 
 
 
 Verified Great value
The tour company took care of us well, especially in our group. The food and the guide were amazing. Had heaps of fun
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ralph Marcus 
 
 
 
 Verified A unique experience
Everything very good, very good organization and coordination, everything was according to the plan, there were no unforeseen events. It is a physically very tough experience (due to the altitude above all) but rewarding and unique.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Weronika P 
 
 
 
 Verified Would highly recommend
We had an amazing experience with Go Treks! We went for a short Inca trail which was perfect as we were short on time. Everything was planned very well and we didn’t have to worry about absolutely anything during the tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We were lucky to be the only people on the tour so we got a very personalized experience. We also booked the extra circuit 2 for Machu Picchu which was definitely the right choice. I’d definitely recommend this tour to anyone!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Yamile Sanchez 
 
 
 
 Verified Totally worth doing the 2 Day Inca Trail
I had been wanting to visit Machu Picchu for a long time, but I wanted something more than just arriving by train, so I decided to try the 2 day Inca Trail and honestly, it was such a good experience. It’s demanding at moments, but very manageable and completely worth it. The landscapes along the route are amazing, and getting to Machu Picchu after walking part of the trail makes the experience feel much more special. The guide was friendly, organized, and explained a lot about the history during the trip. If you’re planning Machu Picchu and want something a bit different, I’d definitely recommend it.
  
 
  
  
 
 
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