The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains are the best alternative to the traditional Rainbow Mountain for those who want to avoid mass tourism and are looking for an easier, shorter and more accessible hike. Palccoyo, also known as the "Three Rainbow Mountains," isn't one but three colorful mountains, and it's a less crowded, simpler way to discover the beauty of Cusco's rainbow mountains. It's perfect for families and couples without much hiking experience, as well as for those looking for off-the-beaten-path routes away from the crowds.
The hike takes about 1 hour and most of the route is flat or nearly flat, unlike Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, which has a longer, steeper route at higher altitude. It's a full-day tour with meals included and, to give you a better experience, it's offered only in small or private groups.
| Duration | 1 day |
|---|---|
| Altitude | the hike starts at Abra Huallata Cunka, at about 4700 m a.s.l.; the Palccoyo range rises above 4900 m a.s.l. |
| Difficulty | easy; you walk 2 km in 45 minutes. |
| Format | small or private groups. |
| Weather | from December to April, mild with rain; from May to November, cold but very sunny during the day. |
The tour starts with pickup from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Once the whole group is together, we'll head south of Cusco. Our first stop will be in Cusipata, where we'll have breakfast.
We'll then continue to Abra Huallata Cunka, in the community of Palccoyo, at about 4700 m a.s.l. From this point, we'll be able to see three rainbow mountains. Once we're ready, we'll start a 45-minute walk, visiting the Palccoyo range and the stone forest.
After the tour, we'll return to the city of Cusco. On the way back, we'll have lunch in the village of Cusipata, arriving in Cusco at approximately 5:00 p.m.
The Palccoyo range rises above 4900 meters above sea level. The hike starts at about 4700 m a.s.l.
Between December and April, the weather is mild with rain, while between May and November it's cold but very sunny during the day.
The difficulty level is easy: you walk 2 km in about 45 minutes.
A breakfast and a buffet lunch, both in Cusipata. Dinner and mineral water are not included.
The entrance costs 15 soles and is not included in the tour.
