Peru
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
Duration
Day tour
Start/End
Cusco
Tour type
Private · Group
Level
Moderate
Overview
Palcoyo is the lesser-known sister of Rainbow Mountain: three colorful mountain ridges and views of snow-capped Ausangate, the highest peak in the Cusco region – reached with only a short hike. After a scenic drive through the South Valley and a breakfast stop on the way (breakfast not included), you hike about 45 minutes to the Palcoyo pass at 4,900 m and enjoy the panorama for about an hour. On the way back, you stop for lunch (not included) in the village of Checacupe and stroll across its small bridge. Fewer visitors, less effort and spectacular views – ideal for travelers who want to see a rainbow mountain without the long climb.
Tour Code
Tour Language
English, SpanishMaximum altitude
Itinerary
Itinerary
Cusco – Palcoyo – Checacupe – Cusco
5 km / 3.1 mi · approx. 1.5 h · max. 4,900 m / 16,076 ft
We pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco at 4:00 am and drive through the South Valley towards Palcoyo. On the way, we stop for breakfast (not included) before reaching the trailhead after about 3.5 hours. From there, a hike of about 45 minutes leads up to the Palcoyo pass at 4,900 m (16,076 ft). The view takes in the three colorful peaks of Palcoyo and Ausangate, the highest mountain in the Cusco region. We spend about an hour at the pass to take photos, have a snack and enjoy the scenery before returning the same way. Our private transport then takes us in about an hour to the village of Checacupe for lunch (not included) and a short walk across its small bridge. The drive back to Cusco takes about 2.5 hours; you arrive at your hotel between 5:00 and 5:30 pm.
Cusco – Palcoyo – Checacupe – Cusco
Itinerary
5 km / 3.1 mi · approx. 1.5 h · max. 4,900 m / 16,076 ft
We pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco at 4:00 am and drive through the South Valley towards Palcoyo. On the way, we stop for breakfast (not included) before reaching the trailhead after about 3.5 hours. From there, a hike of about 45 minutes leads up to the Palcoyo pass at 4,900 m (16,076 ft). The view takes in the three colorful peaks of Palcoyo and Ausangate, the highest mountain in the Cusco region. We spend about an hour at the pass to take photos, have a snack and enjoy the scenery before returning the same way. Our private transport then takes us in about an hour to the village of Checacupe for lunch (not included) and a short walk across its small bridge. The drive back to Cusco takes about 2.5 hours; you arrive at your hotel between 5:00 and 5:30 pm.
Price from
US$120.00
Services
What's included
Pre-Trip Briefing: Briefing at your hotel the evening before the tour.
Private Transportation: Pick-up from and return to your hotel in Cusco.
Professional Guide: Experienced local guide (English and Spanish).
Entrance Fees: Access to the private land.
First Aid Kit: Including emergency oxygen.
What's not included
Meals: Breakfast and lunch are not included.
Trekking Poles: Not included.
Tips & Personal Expenses: Tips for the guide and driver are optional and appreciated; personal expenses are not included.
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.
Character of the trip
Condition
Moderate
Altitude
Very high (up to 4,900 m)
Culture / nature
Balanced
Fitness – moderate: About 5 km (3.1 mi) in around 1.5 hours of walking, with a short climb of about 45 minutes. The main challenge is the altitude.
Altitude – very high: The Palcoyo pass lies at 4,900 m (16,076 ft).
Culture & nature – nature-focused: Colorful mountains, views of Ausangate and the village of Checacupe.
Long day: Pick-up at 4:00 am and return to Cusco between 5:00 and 5:30 pm, with about 6 hours of driving in total.
Dates and Prices
Individual Dates
Groups of 5 or more: contact us for special rates and tailor-made options.
Travel Information
Good to know
Acclimatization: This tour reaches very high altitude. Please spend at least two to three days in Cusco beforehand so your body can adjust.
What to bring
Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack for the day.
Original Passport: Required at entrance checks; bring your ISIC card if you claim a student discount.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes or hiking boots with ankle support.
Clothing: Rain jacket or poncho and warm layers (fleece, beanie, gloves) – mornings and evenings in the Andes are cold.
Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and insect repellent.
Extras: Water bottle (metal or Nalgene), snacks, camera with spare batteries, personal medication and some Peruvian soles for drinks and emergencies.