Palccoyo full day tour

1 Day

General description

What’s better than just a rainbow mountain? The three rainbow mountains of Palccoyo. This new alternative route is lighter, less strenuous, and with no crowds battling for a picture. If you are hungry for spectacular and remote scenery, come join us on this one-day tour to merge a wide smile with the colors of Palccoyo on a hike that will make you feel like the only one on the planet!

You will hike for only an hour and a half to see not just one but the three colorful mountains of Palccoyo. Then, you will ascend at your own pace up to 4,900 meters to admire the sacred Ausangate, the highest snow-capped mountain in Cusco. In addition, you will feel that indescribable tranquility experiencing the unique silence of the Vilcanota mountain range. Give it a try and get thrilled by history, culture, and mind-blowing nature.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Palccoyo

The tour to Palccoyo starts with a trip to the south direction of Cusco. Traveling for approximately 2 hours until you reach Cusipata town, where we have a delicious breakfast. After breakfast, we continue with the Tour to Palccoyo. Here we take a detour to the left bank of the Salka River along an unpaved road. Throughout the trip, you enjoy beautiful high Andean landscapes and you will also see herds of alpacas and llamas. After 1 hour and a half approx of travel, we finally arrive at the end of the route.

THE HIKE TO PALCCOYO:

As soon we get there, we can already see one of the mountains of Colors. We have 10 minutes to get ready and start the walk. You will hike a short walk between 40 minutes to reach the main viewpoint. From this viewpoint, it can be appreciated the 3 Rainbow Mountains of Palccoyo, the Red valley , and the impressive Ausangate mountain, the highest glacier in Cusco.

Also, we have the option of doing a short 20 minute walk to the stone forest from where you can have even more impressive views. After a prudent time, the group will return to the vehicle by the same route. Then, back to the town of Cusipata in the afternoon, where we will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. After lunch, you return to Cusco, where we will arrive there around 5:00 pm.

Included

Transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the start of the hike and back to your hotel at the end
Entrance ticket to palccoyo
Experienced tour guide fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua. Our guides are equipped and
trained to practice First-Aid and administer oxygen if needed.
Breakfast and lunch at a buffet restaurant

Not Included

Trekking poles (can be rented from us) Water
Tips for your guide and driver (optional)

Recommendations

A small day backpack to carry your personal belongings and boxed lunch Trekking poles (or
you can rent a pair from us)
Good sneakers or light hiking boots
Camera
Rain jacket and plastic poncho (especially if traveling in the wet season, from October to
March)
Comfortable hiking clothes Sunscreen and sunglasses Cap for the sun
Warm clothes including a fleece, warm hat, and gloves Toilet paper
Water

Prices

Price: shared group:
35 USD per person.

Price: Private service.
2 persons 99 USD per person
3 persons 89 USD per person
4 persons 79 USD per person
5 persons 69 USD per person
6 persons 59 USD per person

Frequently Asked Questions:

How To Book Palcoyo Mountain 1-Day Trek With Cachi Life Peru?

To book your tour to Palcoyo Mountain with us, please click the “BOOK NOW” button above. Next, choose your departure date and fill in the personal details for each person joining the trip. Finally, you will need to pay for the tour. After we receive your deposit, we will send a confirmation email. This means your trip to Palccoyo Mountain is fully confirmed.

Do I Need To Bring My Original Passport On The Palcoyo Mountain Peru Tour?

You don’t need to bring your passport for our Palcoyo Mountain day trip. You can simply bring a photocopy of it.

Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Palcoyo Mountain 1 day Trip?

Yes, but it’s not recommended because our Palcoyo Mountain tour groups start from Cusco. If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley, we can provide a private service, but there will be an additional $30 charge for transportation from the Sacred Valley.

Can I Rent A Horse In The Palccoyo Mountain?

Horses are not allowed on Palcoyo Mountain because they can damage the mountain and the path, which is made of flat rocks. The trail is also easy for people to hike.

Best Time To Hike The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The ideal time to visit Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain is from April to November when the weather is dry. On the other hand, from December to March, it is the rainy season. During this time, the trail can be muddy and wet, and the mountain might be covered in snow and mist.

Is It Cold At The Palcoyo Mountain trek?

At Palcoyo Mountain, mornings are usually cold, often going below freezing. As the sun comes up, the temperature gets warmer. At the top of the mountain, it can be cold and windy, especially when it’s cloudy, with temperatures between 5-15°C (40-60°F). When it’s cloudy or raining, the temperature usually drops to between 0-10°C (32-50°F).

If One Experiences Altitude Sickness, What Do You Do?

All of our tour guides have an oxygen tanks on our Palcoyo Mountain day trip. If you start to feel unwell, the guide will check your oxygen level and give you oxygen if needed. If you still don’t feel better, we will take you to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.

Are There Any Age Restrictions For The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour?

The Palcoyo Mountain tour does not have any age limits. However, Cachi Life Peru suggests that children be at least 6 years old because younger children often have a hard time with the cold and can get sick from the high altitude. If you want to take your child to Palccoyo Mountain, it is a good idea to dress them warmly and arrive in Cusco at least three days before the tour so they can get used to the altitude.

How Far In Advance Should I Book The Palcoyo Mountain Trek?

Tickets for Palccoyo Mountain are always available and don’t sell out, so you can book them even at the last minute. However, from May to August, which is the busy season, it’s highly recommended to book at least one month ahead of time, as we may run out of guides during this time.

Are There Toilets During The Palccoyo Mountain Hike?

There are only two toilets at Palcoyo Mountain. The first toilet is where you pay the entrance fee, which is still in the town of Palcoyo. The second toilet is at the start of the hiking trail. We suggest you use these toilets before you start hiking. There are no toilets along the hike, so you will need to wait until you finish the hike. The area is open, making it difficult to find a private spot. It costs 2 soles to use the toilets, and you will receive toilet paper.

Do I Need Extra Money For The Hike?

We highly recommend bringing cash in soles when visiting the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain. Many local people sell items like handicrafts, snacks, and drinks such as soda, Gatorade, and beer. You will also need cash to use the restroom. Please note that none of the sellers accept credit cards, so it’s important to carry cash.

Are Hiking Sticks Helpfull For The Palcoyo Mountain Trek?

At the beginning of the hike, you won’t need walking sticks because the path is mostly flat. However, if you decide to take the extra hike to the Stone Forest, the sticks will be very useful. During the rainy season, it’s important to bring the sticks since the trail can get muddy and slippery, and it sometimes even snows. The sticks will help you find solid places to step.

I Don’t Like To Go In A Shared Group, Can You Arrange A Private Tour For Me?

Sure! We can arrange your private trip to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

Can I Charge My Devices My Palcoyo Mountain 1 Day Tour?

There are no spots to charge your device at Palcoyo Mountain, so be sure to bring a portable charger. You can only charge your devices in our van.

Is It Safe To Go On A Palccoyo Mountain Tour?

Yes, it is safe to visit Palcoyo Mountain with us. Our guide has over 5 years of experience and always carries an oxygen tank and a first aid kit. And the driver also has 5 years of experience.

How Difficult Is The Palcoyo Mountain Trek?

The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain hike is considered easy. It is found in the Peruvian Andes and goes up to an elevation of about 4,940 meters (16,207 feet), which can cause problems due to altitude sickness. The trail is around 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) round trip, with a gentle uphill path, except for a steep part if you head towards the stone forest.

How Many Days Should I Spend Getting Used To The Altitude Before Hiking Palcoyo Mountain?

It is a good idea to stay in Cusco for at least 3 days before hiking to Palcoyo Mountain, so your body can get used to the high altitude. Even if you are coming from a place with a similar altitude, you should still take at least one day to rest before starting the hike.

Can You Visit Palcoyo Mountain Without Hiking?

Sadly, there are no horses or motorcycles available at Palcoyo Mountain. The only way to reach it is by hiking.

If I’m Afraid Of Heights, Can I Still Join Palcoyo Mountain In Peru?

The trail to Palcoyo Mountain is wide and easy to follow, with no steep drop-offs. So, if you’re scared of heights, you’ll feel comfortable. There is a lookout point to see the three rainbow mountains that may seem a little scary, but you don’t have to go there if you don’t want to.

I Will Be Traveling With My Family, Including Two People Who Are 65 Years Old. Do You Think They Can Handle It?

We had people between the ages of 50 and 65 who were active and healthy. We recommend using a private service so you can travel to Palcoyo Mountain at your own pace. It’s also smart to see your doctor, tell them you’re going to an altitude of 4,940 meters, and follow their guidance.

Can I Keep My Extra Stuff In Your Van?

Yes, you can keep your extra items in our van.

Can You Drop Me Off In The Airport After The Palcoyo Mountain hike?

Yes, we can take you to the airport after your trek. We’ll drop you off first since the airport comes before reaching Cusco city center.

Is The Any Student Discount?

Unfortunatly, we don’t have a student discount for our Palcoyo Mountain day trip.

Extra information:

IMPORTANT INFO

Thing To Know

Don’t go to Palccoyo Mountain in the afternoon in the rainy season because of lighting. Since the high concentration of mineral. There is a high chance to get stricken by lighting.

You will enjoy the beauty of the área without flocks of other tourist so that sounds rather appealing to you as well. Of course you will see Quechua-speaking herders tending to their llamas and alpacas grazing on the land. don’t hesitate, just go for this alternative tour- before it is too late.

The walk grants some spectaculars views of the range. Every 100 meters another gorgeous red or Green valley or unique rock formation is to be seen. This another advantage over Classic Rainbow Mountain; you won’t see one beautiful multi-color Mountain. But Many.

On the alternative Rainbow Mountain hike, the van stops at 4800m (15 850ft). From the parking you can already see the colorful mountains and you only have to hike up for another 150m (492 feet)or so, along a nice and easy path.

If you want a better view, at a slow pace you can reach the viewpoint of the Palcoyo mountain range in 45 minutes.

If you see the Mountain covered with snow in rainy season, just wait! and the snow will melt. However, If you see Mountain covered with snow in dry season. The snow will melt slow beacuse it is frozen.

The local community have already organized basic infrastructure to welcome visitors. They have proper toilet!.

The journey begins at 4:30am It is also a 3.5 hour drive and 3.5 hour return trip.

Our Recommendations

It is recommended for all ages and all genres, It is also a great option for those travelling with their kids.

We don t recommend to go early to Alternative Rainbow Mountain(Palcoyo). when it is cloudy its colors will be dimmer or darker and if the day is sunny it will be vibrant colors.

It is better to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco first, giving you time to adjust to the mountain air.

If you’re short on time and want to tick-off impressive landscapes in a hurry without committing to much hiking, then Palcoyo is a very interesting option as a day trip.

Dietary Needs

We take care any dietary restrictions on our Palcoyo day trip. Many people who are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other food allergies or intolerances have joined us before. Please tell us your specific needs ahead of time!

Palcoyo Mountain Difficulty

The trail is shorter and involves less steep inclines, making it suitable for hikers of varying skill levels, including beginners. The hike typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round-trip, depending on pace, with gradual ascents rather than sharp climbs. However, the high altitude, reaching around 4,900 meters (16,000 feet), can still present a challenge, and proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Overall, Palcoyo is considered less strenuous but still requires preparation.

What To Carry On Your Daypack

When hiking to Palcoyo Mountain, you should bring a small backpack that includes your camera, a water bottle or hydration bladder, snacks, hand sanitizer, warm clothes, and a raincoat or poncho just in case it rains (although it probably won’t rain from May to October, which is the dry season).

Red River In Palcoyo Mountain

As you drive to Palcoyo, you will see a red river flowing nearby. This happens only during the rainy season, from November to March. The red color comes from sandstone full of iron oxide in the Palcoyo mountains. When it rains, the red sediment from the mountains washes into the river, giving it a unique red color, which can vary depending on how much it rains.

In the dry season, the water level is low, and the river looks clear. If you want to see the red river, it’s best to visit during the rainy season. However, you might still catch a glimpse of it during the dry season if it rains for a few days, which can happen at least once a month.

Cost For Photos

There are local people in the area wearing traditional clothing. If you want to take a picture with them and their llamas, they usually expect a tip of 5 soles (about $2). This small amount helps give them some extra income.

Local Culture

You can see many local people wearing their traditional clothing on the way to Palcoyo Mountain. They wear it not to sell or make money, but because it is a custom that has been passed down through generations. You may also notice some of them guiding their llamas and alpacas along the path.

Animals

At Palcoyo Mountain in Peru, you can take unique photos. Local people often bring their alpacas and llamas, dressed in funny outfits, for tourists to snap pictures. The llamas have colorful ear tags, and some even wear sunglasses.

Prepare For The Altitude

Palccoyo Mountain is more than 4,900 meters above sea level, so it’s important to prepare for the trip. The best way to get ready is by arriving in Cusco at least three days before your visit. It’s a good idea to start with a city tour, then visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, leaving Palccoyo Mountain for your last day. Make sure to drink lots of water. If you still feel affected by the altitude, you can take altitude sickness medicine, such as Diamox. Just be sure you’re not allergic to it before using it.

Dress In Layers

The weather at Palcoyo Mountain changes quickly and is hard to predict. It might be sunny one minute, but then cloudy, windy, and cold soon after. That’s why it’s a good idea to wear layers, so you’re ready for any weather. Bring warm clothes for cold moments and lighter clothes for when it’s hot.

Respect The Environment In The Palcoyo Mountain Peru

Palcoyo Mountain is a beautiful natural place. As more people visit, it’s important to protect the environment so future generations can enjoy it too. The mountain area has unique plants and animals that can be easily hurt if people aren’t careful. To help protect this area, stay on marked paths, don’t leave trash, and avoid disturbing the animals. By being respectful visitors, following local rules, and minimizing harm to nature, we can keep the three mountains as stunning as they are today.

Tips To Hike The Palcoyo Mountain

Go slowly: When you hike to higher places, move at a slow and steady speed to help prevent altitude sickness.

Drink water: Make sure to drink plenty of water during your hike to stay hydrated and avoid getting sick from the altitude.

Rest often: Take breaks regularly and pay attention to how your body feels. If you feel tired or dizzy, stop and rest.

Groups Tours

When you join a group service, you agree that some people might walk faster or slower than you. Because of the altitude, it can be hard for everyone to stay together the whole time. If some people are faster, we let them go ahead at their own speed and they will wait for us at certain spots to get more information. Our guide will make sure the entire group stays safe.

Strike And Demontrations

If there is a strike on the day you are supposed to go to Palcoyo Mountain, we will monitor the situation. If the roads are totally blocked, we will cancel your tour and give you a full refund. Your safety is our top priority.

Cancellations And Refunds

Full Refund: If you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts, you will get all your money back.

Partial Refund: If you cancel within 24 hours but before 7 PM the day before the tour, you will lose your deposit.

No Refund: If you cancel after 7 PM the day before the tour, you will not get any money back and will lose the full payment.

Starting from

US$35 USD

Duration

1 Day

Destination

Cusco

Type of activity

One Day Trek, Trekking in Cusco

Our team is ready to help. Send us a message on WhatsApp or contact us online — we’ll get back to you right away.

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What Our Travelers Say

Authentic stories from travelers who explored Peru with us.

Rinaaroundtheworld

Highly recommended Great company and great experience... very knowledgeable and great service

Christhian Alej... C

Experiencia Inolvidable! Nuestra experiencia con Cachi Life Peru fue espectacular. David y Franc fueron nuestros guías durante nuestra jornada por el valle sagrado. Franc se dedicó a explicarnos con detenimiento y dedicación todo a través del Valle Sagrado! Nuestro día en Machu Picchu empezó desde muy temprano, pero las vistas que experimentamos y las fotos logradas son algo que nunca podremos olvidar. Recomendamos Cachi Life para cualquier experiencia que desees en Cusco, Peru

Yappie

Peruvian hospitality before my trip even began :) I reached out to David from Cachi Life Peru while planning my Cusco / Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu itinerary. David was always responsive, patient and genuinely helpful. Thanks to David, I experienced true Peruvian hospitality even before setting foot in Peru :) Thank you David, I wish you and your team at Cachi Life Peru the very best :)

Cagi2013

Cachi Life - Peruvians bringing you an authentic Peruvian Experience!!! Just returned from an amazing five-day trip to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Patabamba, and Palccoyo, all organized by David Aragon Villagra at Cachi Life! From the very beginning, David was extremely responsive and helpful, answering all my questions promptly and making the planning process easy and stress-free. Everything throughout the trip was smooth and well-coordinated. When I arrived in Cusco he sat down with me and gave me a detailed run down of the plans for the week. A special highlight was my guide, Frankin Aragon Villagra, who over three days took me through the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Patabamba. He is knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about sharing details of the history, culture, flora and fauna of his home region. I learned a lot!! I always look to support locally owned businesses when I travel, and Cachi Life truly stands out as a well-connected family-run company that provides a personalized touch. As a solo traveler, I felt completely safe and cared for by the Cachi Life Team! I highly recommend them to anyone planning a trip to Peru—especially if you’re looking for a more authentic and thoughtfully organized experience!!

Warren C

Friendly and knowledgeable tour company creating memories of a lifetime We did a 5-day tour with Cachi Life Peru, including 3 days in and around Cusco and 2 days in Machu Picchu. David was very knowledgeable and friendly in every step from planning to execution, and everything was taken care of perfectly. David was an excellent Machu Picchu guide providing lots of info as we toured the historic site and we went home with memories of a lifetime! All in all, highly recommended 👌

Maurizio G

Amazing Machu Picchu With Cachi Life Perù has bene an experience that was nothing short of fantastic. David organized everything perfectly, and Franc was an exceptional guide. A mystical journey of tracking and spectacular views. This experience will remain indelible in my memories, as will the people who accompanied.

Cloe H

Amazing experience We had an amazing experience doing the 2 day/1 night sacred valley and Machu Picchu private tour. Price was very reasonable and Franklin was a great tour guide. They booked everything for us, so we didn’t need to worry about anything other than our flights to Cusco. The first day included a buffet lunch that was delicious and had many options. Franklin was very knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the history of Machu Picchu and the sacred valley. I highly recommend booking with them!

kerbuck11

Best tour!!!! David was an excellent tour guide. From the first moment of contact he was informative and responsive. He provided great options especially since we were traveling with a 5 & 7 year olds he helped us navigate challenges and brought us to a beautiful restaurant on the water after our tour of Machu Picchu! Highly highly recommend Cachi Life Peru!

Lilyloveblacklab425

Wonderful experience for 1st time solo traveler After my business trip to Peru, I booked 2D/1N tour to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu with Cachi Life. David was prompt in communication throughout. He met me the evening before the tour convened to give me the details, etc. That was very helpful! For the Sacred Valley tour, I opted for Chincero, Moray and Maras Salt Mines, instead of Pisac, which David was able to accommodate. The Machu Picchu tour was seamless. Julio, the guide was awesome and very knowledgeable. All in all, I highly recommend Cachi Life!

Inspire65446209466

Let Cachi Life Peru guide you on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu This is an amazing journey. If you haven't been before, make it happen! Cachi Life Peru provided the perfect experience. Our tour group was smaller, so we never felt like part of a herd. Our Chasqui (porters) and cook made the journey so much easier. They knew our names and were always looking for a way to help. We were traveling in mid-January, which meant slightly cooler temperatures (daytime highs in the 50-60's F, nighttime lows 30-40's F -- or 10-15 C and 0-5 C respectively) and some overcast and lightly rainy days. Wow! colors came alive. Every ecosystem was simply more beautiful. There were less travelers on the trail. For us it was the perfect time to trek the pilgrimage towards Machu Picchu. Despite the cooler temps and intermittent use of our rain ponchos, our Chasqui, Cook, and Guide cheerfully made this weather cheery. We slept warmly at night. Warm meals and shelter from the elements in camp, warm boiled water to wash our hands and face in the morning. Modesto, Esteban, Jose, Mateo, Vicente, Gabino, Samuel, and Alejandro ... you are the best! Someday we hope to be as good a Chasqui as you were on our trip! Speaking of which: they were meticulous in boiling water and cleansing our food and camp. We simply had no worries about water- or food-borne illness. And the meals were not simply delicious and warm, but also were perfectly balanced. If you pay attention to your macros (carbs, proteins, and fats), and appreciated fresh ingredients from all 4 food groups, you'll have no concerns about having delicious energy for your hike. I don't think we had the same meal twice during our 4 days. We didn't eat at restaurants ... a professional chef brought excellent cuisine to us. Our guide (Miguel) knew how to help us move along without rushing. We never felt hurried, and although our small group had various fitness levels, he helped us travel at a perfect variety of paces. We stopped to take a picture, or ask a question, or notice anything of interest, at our own wish. Yet we never seemed to leave or arrive too early or too late. He could offer insights into the people, the history, culture, flora and fauna, geography, and a host of other perspectives that helped us connect with the trail, the country, the Inca, our group, and ourselves. If you could request a guide, ask specifically for "Miguelito." On a personal level, I'll always be grateful for his rescuing my glasses from a precipice, and for strengthening within us a connection with Pacha Mama. The Sun Gate and our day in Machu Picchu were magical. If you go, make time to hike Wayna Picchu as well, the vistas and perspective will uniquely connect you to the geography. The value of these and other Incan sites really make this site a gem within the cultural and natural treasures of the world. Cuzco is a charming and vibrant city. The trail is a connection to culture and history that a bus ride to Machu Picchu cannot confer upon you alone. Machu Picchu is beyond amazing. Cachi Life Peru, our Chasqui, and Miguel made this experience a lifetime memory. Thanks! By Greg J on Feb 21, 2026