Cusco Tours

Tour Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain from Cusco

12 hours From $35 / per person
Alojamiento Icon
Not included Accommodation
Tamaño del grupo Icon
From 2 to 19 People Group Size
Altitud máxima Icon
13,451 ft / 4,100 masl Maximum Altitude
Dificultad Icon
Easy Difficulty

The Tour Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain offers a quieter and more accessible way to experience one of the Andes’ most remarkable natural wonders. Unlike the more crowded routes, Palcoyo welcomes visitors with sweeping views of colorful mountains, wide-open landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the region.

This full-day excursion combines scenic drives through the Peruvian highlands with a short and rewarding hike suitable for a wide range of travelers. Along the route, you’ll discover multiple rainbow-colored peaks, encounter traditional Andean scenery, and visit the impressive stone forest and natural rock formations that make Palcoyo unique.

Ideal for families, photographers, and travelers looking for a gentler outdoor adventure, this experience showcases a different side of Cusco’s mountain landscapes. Continue through the itinerary to see why Palcoyo has become one of the region’s most rewarding hidden treasures.

Itinerary

Your adventure begins early in the morning as you travel through the spectacular Andean landscapes south of Cusco. Along the route, you will pass traditional villages, wide mountain valleys, and herds of alpacas grazing across the highlands. After breakfast, the journey continues toward Palcoyo, a lesser-known but equally stunning alternative to the classic Rainbow Mountain.

Upon arrival, you will admire three colorful mountains painted by natural mineral deposits and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. An optional walk to the Stone Forest offers even more breathtaking panoramic views across the Andes. After exploring the area and capturing unforgettable photographs, you will enjoy lunch before returning comfortably to Cusco.

04:30Hotel pickup and departure from Cusco
07:00Arrival in Cusipata or Pitumarca for breakfast
07:45Continue the journey toward Combapata
08:30Scenic drive along the Red River
09:30Arrival at the Palcoyo community
10:00Explore the three Rainbow Mountains
10:30Optional hike to the Stone Forest
11:15Free time for photos and panoramic views
12:00Return to the transportation
13:00Lunch
14:00Return journey to Cusco
16:30Arrival in Cusco and end of the tour

Included

  • Hotel pickup
  • Round-trip transportation
  • Professional guide
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Not Included

  • Palcoyo entrance ticket
  • Services not mentioned
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Recommendations

  • Bring a small backpack
  • Wear warm thermal clothing
  • Use trekking shoes with good grip
  • Bring rain gear from November to April
  • Wear a sun hat
  • Apply sunscreen
  • Carry drinking water
  • Bring your passport or ID

Important

  • Maximum altitude reaches 4,100 masl
  • The Stone Forest hike is optional
  • Schedules may vary due to traffic or weather conditions
  • Altitude acclimatization in Cusco is recommended
  • Morning temperatures can be very cold
  • Entrance fee is paid directly at the destination

Frequently Asked Questions