The rainbow mountains without the crowds.
Palcoyo is the peaceful alternative to Vinicunca: three multicolored mountains and a stone forest, reached via a short and accessible hike.
Instead of the long climb up Vinicunca, Palcoyo rewards you with just 40 to 60 minutes of moderate hiking — ideal for families, relaxed travelers, and those looking to avoid the crowds.
Beyond the vibrant color bands, the scenery includes an impressive stone forest and sweeping views of the Andes mountain range.
What makes this itinerary unique.
Three rainbow mountains from a single viewpoint.
Stone forest and mountain range views.
Short hike — great for families.
Less crowded route than Vinicunca.
Breakfast and buffet lunch included.
Day by day.
Early morning departure from Cusco, with a stop for a local breakfast, followed by a scenic drive through high-Andean landscapes to Palcoyo.
A moderate 40 to 60-minute hike to the rainbow mountains and stone forest viewpoint, with free time for photos. Buffet lunch and return to Cusco.
Everything we take care of for you.
Inclusions
- Hotel pickup and round-trip tourist transportation
- Professional bilingual guide
- Palcoyo entrance ticket
- Breakfast and buffet lunch
- First aid kit and ongoing assistance
Not included
- Support horse (optional)
- Additional drinks
- Tips and personal expenses
Essential packing list.
- Original ID or passport
- Layered clothing + warm jacket and windbreaker
- Trekking shoes or sneakers with good grip
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cap or hat
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
- Rain poncho (especially between November and March)
- Cash in soles for extra expenses
- Personal medication
Important information
- We recommend 1 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco before high-altitude tours.
- Hike at your own pace and stay hydrated — the altitude makes the effort feel greater.
- Departures are usually early in the morning; get a good night's rest beforehand.
- Please inform our team of any pre-existing medical conditions before booking.
- The tour is subject to changes due to weather conditions — no refunds are given in these cases.
- Booking policy: 50% deposit and the remaining 50% due 15 days before the trip.
The rainbow mountain for everyone.
Because it requires only a short hike, Palcoyo is highly recommended for families, older travelers, and anyone preferring a lighter excursion.
Daily departures are available. Contact our team on WhatsApp to confirm your date.
Common questions about this itinerary.
Yes. The hike is only 40 to 60 minutes, compared to 1.5–2 hours for Vinicunca. It is the best option for those looking for a lighter tour.
Yes — Palcoyo features three rainbow mountains and a stone forest, plus it is much less crowded.
Yes, it is one of the most accessible high-altitude tours, but we recommend prior acclimatization in Cusco.
Related packages.
Rainbow Mountain — Vinicunca
The famous multicolored Vinicunca mountain in the Ausangate range, at 5,036 m.
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Mountain of Colors — Pallay Punchu
The 'new mountain of colors': sharp peaks patterned like Andean textiles, overlooking the Langui-Layo lagoon.
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Humantay Lagoon
A ~1.5 to 2-hour hike to the turquoise waters of the lagoon at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped peak.
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