Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain short hike (Private Service) Peru Tour

Description

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour – A Colorful Alternative in Cusco (Full Day)
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s lesser-known gem: the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains. Located just outside Cusco, this alternative trek offers a more relaxed and scenic way to witness Peru’s stunning multi-colored mountain landscapes—without the crowds.

Unlike the classic Rainbow Mountain hike, Palccoyo features three vibrant rainbow mountains and a much easier trek—just 45 minutes (1.4 km/0.9 miles each way)—making it ideal for all fitness levels. You’ll enjoy peaceful trails, panoramic views, and even the chance to walk alongside friendly alpacas.

With our expert guides, you’ll be the first to arrive at this geological wonder, learning about the mineral-rich soil that creates the rainbow hues. Palccoyo is a perfect choice for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure with epic views and fewer tourists.

TOUR OVERVIEW:

DEPARTURE & RETURN LOCATION	Day hike tour
DURATION	Full Day 5:00 – 17:00
DISTANCE	1.4 km (0.9 Miles) Round trip hiking
ELEVATION	4,600m (14,391 feet) / 4,850m (15,912 feet)
GOOD FOR	Those with a sense of adventure and in good hiking shape.
CONSIDERATIONS	Please remember comfortable shoes, rain poncho, sun hat and sunglasses.
HIGHLIGHTS	Amazing landscapes of herds of alpacas and llamas, the Ausangate Mountain.

INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED

Private roundtrip transportation
Lunch
Professional guide (English-Spanish)
walking stick
breakfast
Oxygen balloon

First aid kit
Travellers pillow.

Blankets.
Tea in the restaurant.

NOT INCLUDED

Entrance for the natural area (25 soles, 6 dollars)

Entrance to the Red Valley (20 soles, 5 dollars)

Tips for the guide and driver (Voluntary).

Other not mentioned.

PACKING LIST

Daypack (about 30-40 liters)
Long sleeve shirt
Trekking footwear
Thermal layers
Waterproof trekking trousers
Wool gloves

Beanie.
Hat

Sunglases and sun cream
Cash for extras

Rain Poncho.
Bottle water

Snacks (nuts, chocolate and a fruit)

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Itinerary – Full Day Adventure from Cusco

🚐 1. Early Morning Pickup (4:30 AM – 5:00 AM)
We begin our journey with hotel pickup in Cusco. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Andean countryside as the sun rises over the mountains.

🍳 2. Breakfast Stop (Approx. 7:00 AM)
We’ll stop at a local restaurant in the village of Checacupe for a hearty Andean breakfast to fuel your day.

🌉 3. Visit Colonial Bridge in Checacupe (Optional)
Before continuing, you’ll have the chance to explore a unique colonial-era bridge and learn about its significance.

🚗 4. Drive to Palccoyo Trailhead (Approx. 1.5 hours)
Continue driving through spectacular landscapes and red valleys until we reach the starting point of the Palccoyo trek.

🥾 5. Hike to the Three Rainbow Mountains (45 minutes each way)
Enjoy a gentle hike with incredible panoramic views of three colorful rainbow mountains, stone forests, and snow-capped peaks. The short trail (1.4 km each way) makes this trek perfect for all ages.

🦙 6. Scenic Exploration + Wildlife Encounters
Take your time soaking in the views. Your guide will explain the unique geology of the area and you might meet alpacas along the way!

🍽 7. Return & Lunch Stop (Approx. 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
After the hike, we’ll return to Checacupe for a delicious buffet lunch featuring local Peruvian cuisine.

🚐 8. Drive Back to Cusco (Arrive by 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
We’ll head back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon, with unforgettable memories and stunning photos of this hidden treasure.