Pallay Punchu trek | Full day

Min 2 Persons

Group Size

Moderate

Difficulty level

Hiking

Trip styles

Cusco - Pick up from your hotel

Accommodation

Pallay Punchu Trek 1 Day

This amazing Pallay Punchu trek is located in the Andes of Cusco and in the province of Canas (4780 m-15710 feet) meters above sea level, near the district of Layo. This impressive mountain is known as Pallay Punchu de APU ( god of the Tacllo mountains). This is perfect because the farmers will work like cowboys, and that way they will support their families.

Pallay Punchu Trek 1 day. Along the trail, you will be able to observe some varieties of fauna, such as Vizcachas, Llamas, Alpacas, and, if you are lucky, the Condor, also with little flora such as Andean grasses or ichu, a type of straw widely used in this place to make ropes and for the roofs of your homes

Pallay Punchu Trek, 1 day from Cusco, is a new tourist destination off the beaten path, where you will enter an off-the-beaten-path place, now so you can be here since this place is still not known, and in the very near future, it will be very popular, and it will lose its charm.

Itinerary of Pallay Punchu trek | Full day:

Day 1: CUSCO – LAYO – APU PALLAY PUNCHU - CUSCO

We will pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco and depart via bus through the Southern Valley. The journey begins at Cusipata (Alt. 4,326 m)

After breakfast, we Will continue to hike for 3 hours to the towns of Langi and Layo from this place Will start our hike. We’ll be passing along a charming brook that hosts herds of llamas and alpacas. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Ausangate Mountain. We will tour the villages and interact with the locals. We will have the opportunity to see chinchillas and vicuñas. The vicuñas are the only non-domesticated animal of the llama family in Peru.

After 45 minutes of climbing, we’ll arrive at our destination, the Pallay Punchu or “The Mountain of the 7 Colors”. You’ll have the opportunity to take photos. Afterward, we will depart at 2:30 p.m. reaching our place for lunch. After lunch, we return to Cusco and to your hotel.

Included

Private transportation to Kayrawiry
Pre-trek Briefing 1 or 2 days before your trek.
Pick up from your hotel in Cusco (no matter which hotel)
Entrance fee into the Park
Tour guide for the entire trip (English speaking)
Transportation to the beginning of the Rainbow Mountain hike
1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and snacks.
First Aid kit
Oxygen tank
walking stick
Taxes

Not Included

Horse.
Walking poles.
Water/snacks.

Pallay punchu full day price

Permits are needed for your chosen start date. 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 $USD

group service: $90 per person

Pallay Punchu 1 Day tour from Cusco

LOCATION AND ALTITUDE
The Pallay Punchu mountain is located in the district of Layo, province of Canas, Cusco at about 4700 meters above sea level. The arrival time is approximately 3 hours, departing from the city of Cusco.

CLIMATE
As in most of the Peruvian mountains, the climate is similar. This mountain has a climate very similar to that of Vincunca (Rainbow Mountain of Peru). Which makes it very cold, with strong winds.

During the day it is very sunny and at night it is very cold, with a wind that burns and a sun that does not seem to warm anything.

Let’s not confuse the Climate of Machu Picchu with the other tourist destinations in Cusco, Machu Picchu is in the jungle and is temperate almost all year round.

BEST TIME TO GO
The best time to go see this place is during the dry season in Cusco. This season runs from May to October, so we can see the mountain clear and full of color.

Why is Pallay Punchu Mountain a new tourist attraction in Cusco?
Also known as Pallay Punchu del Apu Tákllo Apacheta, it is a destination that, unlike Vinicunca, has more pronounced mountains. Furthermore, the attraction of this place is that we can see one of the largest lakes in Cusco (Langui), which makes it a unique and amazing place.

How to get to this new rainbow mountain in Cusco?
Like Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain Perú, and Palccoyo, this place is located far from the city of Cusco, the good thing is that we can access it by taking a car to the Layo – Cañas district.

The distance to travel is about 5.3 km, once there the walk can last from 2 hours to about 4 hours, depending on your physical condition.

Being a new place there is still no access for cars to get us as close as possible, but the city council is thinking about making one, which will make access easier.

Recommendations for the walk
First, you must be well acclimatized to the altitude; it is advisable to go after being in Cusco for 2 or 3 days.
You must be in good physical condition to reach the top of Pallay Punchu mountain.
Carry a trekking pole or walking stick to support you and help you with the hike.
Bring and use sunglasses with UV protection, a hat or cap, and strong sunscreen.
Wear trekking shoes that fit your size.
Wear light, warm clothing such as gloves, scarves, jackets, etc.
Go with a travel agency or go alone
Before the pandemic we could tell you that you can take 1 of 2 options, but, with this whole COVID-19 situation, the best option is to go with a travel agency. Since at the moment, there is no interprovincial transportation, and if you find it, it will be difficult to get there on your own.

To get to Pallay Punchu Mountain with an agency you just have to coordinate with them and go in the best way possible and without complications.

Travel profile for this destination
It is ideal for hikers, adventurers, nature and landscape lovers. The recommended age is from 12 years to 50.

PALLAY PUNCHU TREK FROM CUSCO FAQS

Pallay Punchu vs Rainbow Mountain?

Pallay Punchu and Rainbow Mountain are two spectacular natural destinations in Peru, both known for their stunning landscapes, but they differ in their appearance, location, and the experience they offer to visitors.

Can I do a day tour of Pallay Punchu?
If possible, contact GO TREKS PERU and we will be happy to take you to this new circuit

What does the Pallay Punchu day tour include?
includes transportation, tour guide, breakfast, lunch, entrance fees and walking sticks

Can I do a multi-day trek to Pallay Punchu?
If possible with camp, cook mules and muleteers

What should I bring for the Pallay Punchu tour?
Hiking shoes, camera, clothing for the cold, sunscreen, sunglasses, and rain gear since the mountains are unpredictable

Is the Pallay Punchu tour suitable for children?
Children should be in good shape and adapt in Cusco for at least 2 days

Can I bring my food to the Pallay Punchu tour?
Not necessarily, since it includes breakfast and lunch, but you can bring snacks

Is the Pallay Punchu tour wheelchair accessible?
It would be very complicated and unfortunately not possible.

What is the elevation of Pallay Punchu?
The elevation of Pallay Punchu is 5,290 meters (17,356 feet).

How difficult is the Pallay Punchu tour?
With good physical condition and acclimatization, you should not have problems but in emergency cases, you can rent a horse

Can I book a private Pallay Punchu tour?
Yes, it is possible, contact us and you will have an unforgettable experience on this little-known trail

What is the maximum group size for the Pallay Punchu tour?
Maximum is 8 people, if there are more there are 2 guides

What is the best time of year to do the Pallay Punchu tour?
In Cusco, between the months of April and September, there are very sunny and beautiful days to be able to fully enjoy this trail.

How long is the walk on the Pallay Punchu tour?
At an unhurried pace and enjoying the place, it takes 5 to 6 hours in total.

Do I need to be physically healthy to do the Pallay Punchu tour?
Necessarily yes, you should go to the gym in your country and also acclimatize in Cusco for 2 days and if not you should have problems

Is there any age restriction for the Pallay Punchu tour?
In general no, but if I want to come with children or adults they should be in good physical condition.

Is camping included in the Pallay Punchu tour?
No, since this trail is only 1 day and there is no camp.

What is the cancellation policy for the Pallay Punchu tour?
Payment is by Paypal with a 25% advance and once in Cusco you should pay 100% since one day before the trial you will have the information about this trail

Is there any discount for booking the Pallay Punchu tour in advance?
On very special occasions like BlackFriday up to a 30% discount

Can I bring my pet on the Pallay Punchu tour?
No problem, since this trail does not yet have restrictions

Is the Pallay Punchu tour safe?

With good hiking equipment and good training, you will be great on this trail

What is the terrain like on the Pallay Punchu route?
It is a dirt trail and if it rains it is slippery so come prepared with hiking equipment

What is the weather like on the Pallay Punchu tour?
The climate is hot in the dry seasons of May and September, the rest is the rainy season.

How long does the Pallay Punchu Tour last?
The tour lasts from 4 am to 5 pm and the trail is 5 to 6 hours round trip

Is there any age restriction for the Pallay Punchu Tour?
So far there are no restrictions and you can come with children and adults in good physical condition or, in the last case, you can rent an emergency horse.

Do I need to acclimatize before taking the Pallay Punchu Tour?
Yes in Cusco for around 2 days minimum

Is there a guide on the Pallay Punchu Tour?
No, it is recommended to hire a travel agency in Cusco and learn more about the Inca culture and the history of this place.

Are meals included in the Pallay Punchu Tour?
Yes breakfast and lunch

Can I do the Pallay Punchu Tour independently?
Yes, but to have an unforgettable experience it is advisable to hire a travel agency

Can I book the Pallay Punchu Tour online?
Yes, of course by entering the website and pressing the book now button

Tour Price

Tour Classic

Day(s)

Price USD

$90.00

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Price per person
USD $ 90.00
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USD $ 90.00

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Why Choose Go Treks Peru

100% Locally Owned by a Tour Guide
Go Treks Peru was founded by Elisban Condori, a local tour guide with years of experience leading treks to Machu Picchu. His goal is simple: to offer top-quality, authentic experiences led by passionate professionals who truly know the Andes.

Fair Work Conditions
We believe in ethical tourism. That means no exploitative working hours and fair pay for all our staff. We work with trained, freelance professionals who have the flexibility and respect they deserve.

Personalized Service
At Go Treks Peru, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We tailor each tour to your preferences, always focusing on small groups to ensure a flexible, high-quality experience. For us, personal means unforgettable.

Sustainable Travel
All of our treks are 100% eco-friendly. We follow a strict “leave no trace” policy and encourage our travelers to protect nature and respect local communities at every step of the journey.

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We’re proud to have consistent 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor and other platforms. Our travelers love the personal attention, seamless logistics, and genuine local connections we provide.

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.

    
 
 
       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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