Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Day Trip
From US$28 per person
Cusipata | Combapata | Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain | Stone Forest
Trip Summary
Total time
12 hours
Meals included
Breakfast and Lunch
Group size
Up to 18 people
Transportation
Bus
Why Pick This Tour
Palcoyo is the perfect alternative for experiencing the beauty of Andean rainbow mountains without the physical demands of Vinicunca. This full-day tour lets you enjoy a group of three colorful mountains from a single viewpoint, with an uphill hike of only about 45 minutes to 1 hour on much more accessible terrain. It is ideal for travelers who want the rainbow landscape with less physical effort.
The best part of the tour: Guided tour of Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Day Trip
Over View – Palcoyo (Short Route)
Enjoy a unique experience of approximately 10 hours in the south of Cusco. The day begins early (around 4:00 a.m.) with a hotel pickup and transfer to the province of Canchis.
The first stop is in Cusipata, where you will enjoy a Buffet Breakfast (included). We will continue the journey through picturesque Andean villages to Checacupe, where we will make a brief stop to admire the impressive Inca bridge and its colonial successor.
We will arrive at the Palcoyo trailhead. The ascent is only about 45 minutes to 1 hour, much easier than other mountain routes. Upon reaching the main viewpoint, you will be amazed by the group of three colorful mountains and the mystical Stone Forest, located at 4,900 m.a.s.l. (16,076 ft). After enjoying the scenery, we will descend and return to Cusipata for a comforting Buffet Lunch (included) before heading back to your hotel in Cusco, finishing in the afternoon.
Day 1 Day 01: Cusco - Cusipata - Combapata - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain - Stone Forest - Return Cusco
Our day begins very early with a hotel pickup in Cusco at around 4:00 a.m. We depart by tourist transport toward Cusipata.
After a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, we will stop in Cusipata for the Buffet Breakfast (included), with a variety of herbal teas and foods to start the day full of energy.
After breakfast, we will continue our journey, making a brief stop in the district of Checacupe to observe the historic Inca and Colonial bridges. We will then continue to the Palcoyo trailhead. Here we will begin a gentle hike of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, considered easy difficulty.
Upon reaching the Palcoyo viewpoint, you will have breathtaking views of the region: a group of three mountains with rainbow-like colors. We will also explore the mysterious Stone Forest, a series of unique geological formations.
After enjoying this natural setting, we will return to Cusipata for our Buffet Lunch (included). Here you can sample a variety of traditional dishes and try muña herbal tea, ideal for digestion at high altitude.
After a delicious lunch, we will return to the city of Cusco, ending the tour with a drop-off at your hotel in the afternoon.
What’s Included
- Tourist Transportation: Cusco – Palcoyo – Cusco (round trip to your hotel).
- Professional Bilingual Guide: (English – Spanish) throughout the entire tour.
- Buffet Breakfast in Cusipata.
- Buffet Lunch in Cusipata.
- Permanent Assistance: Support and assistance from the organizing team.
What’s Not Included
- Palcoyo Mountain Entrance Ticket: S/ 10.00 Soles (Nationals and Foreigners). This payment goes to the community for trail maintenance, signage, and services.
- Travel Insurance: Not included, but recommended.
- Extra Expenses: Snacks, beverages, and personal purchases.
Essential Recommendations
I. Altitude Preparation
- Crucial Acclimatization: Although the hike is short, the altitude of 4,900 m.a.s.l. (16,076 ft) requires spending at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before this tour.
- Pace: Walk at a slow, steady pace during the ascent.
II. Logistics & Gear
- Cash Required: You must bring cash (Soles) for the entrance ticket, as there is no cell signal to use cards on-site.
- Layered Clothing: Warm clothing for early morning, but light or windbreaker layers for the day, as temperatures can vary.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are essential.
- Footwear: Trekking shoes or non-slip soles.
2026 Rates – Palcoyo
Fair Prices for Our Travelers
This 2026, we invite you to discover the stunning Palcoyo Mountain, famous for its vibrant colors and panoramic landscapes in Cusco. Enjoy a short hike, spectacular views, and nearby natural lagoons, perfect for those looking for an accessible high-mountain experience and an unforgettable Palcoyo tour.
At Viajes Perú, we offer fair prices for our travelers, combining quality, safety, and an authentic tourism experience in Cusco.
I. 2026 Prices
- Adult: $28 USD per person
- Student: $28 USD per person
Our prices are designed to provide a balance between affordability, safety, and an authentic mountain experience, ensuring every traveler has the best possible Palcoyo Full Day tour.
2026 Cancellation Policies – Palcoyo Tour (Short Route)
The Palcoyo Short Route tour takes place in a high-mountain area of Cusco (approx. 4,800 m.a.s.l.) and is subject to the following conditions:
- Reservations & Payments
- To confirm your Palcoyo tour reservation, a 50% deposit of the total tour amount is required.
- The remaining balance must be paid 1 day before the trip.
- Payment can be made via bank transfer or in person at our offices in Cusco.
- Cancellations
- Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance: no refund applies.
- No Show (failure to appear on the day of the Palcoyo Full Day Cusco tour): 100% of the contracted service will be charged.
- In the event of voluntary withdrawal during the hike, there will be no partial or full refund.
- Date Changes
- Date changes are permitted with at least 48 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
- An administrative fee may apply depending on the season.
- Weather Conditions & Force Majeure
- The tour depends on high-mountain weather conditions in Cusco.
- In the event of cancellation due to extreme weather or force majeure, the service may be rescheduled.
- Safety & Responsibility
- The passenger must be in good physical condition and follow the guide’s instructions.
- The company is not responsible for incidents resulting from failure to follow safety guidelines or pre-existing medical conditions.
Where is Palcoyo located?
It is located in the Cusco region, in the community of Palcoyo, known for its natural colors and panoramic landscapes.
What is the altitude of the Palcoyo tour?
The route reaches approximately 4,800 m.a.s.l. (15,748 ft), so it is important to be acclimatized before the high-mountain excursion in Cusco.
How long does the full tour last?
It is a full-day tour, ideal for those looking to enjoy the mountain without long hikes.
How long is the hike and what is the difficulty level?
The hike lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes (round trip). The level is moderate, mainly due to the altitude.
Is acclimatization necessary before the Palcoyo tour?
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
What should I bring for the excursion?
- Warm clothing (thermal jacket, hat, and gloves)
- Trekking shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water
- Cash for additional expenses
Is it recommended for children or senior travelers?
It depends on their physical condition and adaptation to altitude.
How are the Palcoyo tour groups organized?
Groups are organized in tourist vehicles with a professional guide, ensuring safety and good organization.
How far in advance should I book?
During the low season, it is recommended to book at least one week in advance.
During peak season (May to October), earlier booking is recommended due to high demand.
Is the tour safe?
Yes, as long as the guide’s instructions and recommendations for high-mountain activities in Cusco are followed.
