Palcoyo Mountain The Enchanting Alternative to Rainbow Mountain

Cusco , Peru

Palcoyo Mountain The Enchanting Alternative to Rainbow Mountain

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(1 reviews)

13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you are looking for an incredible experience in one of the most popular places in Peru, you cannot miss the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour. This tour is new in Cusco and has a great projection.
Recognized for being one of the best sites in the country, Palccoyo can offer you an unforgettable trip and is made up of the Rainbow Mountain and the Ausangate. With this tour you will be able to see these wonders, including the town of Checacupe. This site is characterized by having 3 picturesque bridges including an Inca bridge and a Colonial bridge, which will be part of the tour.
This group service together with other tourists is an ideal option to enjoy the picturesque landscapes that only this site can offer.

Available options

Palcoyo Mountain The Enchanting Alternative to Rainbow Mountain

Pickup included

What's included

Trekking poles

First Aid Kit

BUFFET

Air-conditioned vehicle

Professional bilingual guide

American

Detailed itinerary

4:30am – 6:30am: Pick up – Transfer to Colca – Breakfast
Our guide will pick you up very early (5:30 am) at the hotel and then head south to Cusco. Once you arrive at the community of Colca, you will enjoy a good breakfast for 30 minutes. If you need to make any last-minute purchases of candy, water or sunscreen, you will be able to take advantage of this window to do so.

7:00am – 9:00am: Transport to Checacupe – Visit to the 3 Bridges – Transport to Palccoyo
Once everyone is ready, you will embark on a trip to the Palccoyo base camp. On this trip, you will visit the 3 Checacupe bridges (Inca, Colonial and Republican Bridges) and the Colonial town, where the Church is located, and learn about the experiences of its inhabitants, where you will be able to learn about the local lifestyle and culture.

09:00am – 11:30am: Arrive at Palccoyo Base Camp – Hike to Palccoyo – Visit to the Stone Forest optional
When you arrive at Palccoyo Base Camp, you will have a few minutes to listen to the guides’ explanation and then begin the hike. Each section lasts 45 minutes, during which you can walk enjoying the landscapes and panoramic viewpoints until you reach the 3 Rainbow Mountains of Palccoyo. From this site, you will be able to see Ausangate, the highest mountain in Cusco. Then we will continue our hike to the Stone Forest of Palccoyo where we will reach 5000 meters above sea level at the highest point.

11:30am – 4:30pm: Return to the transport – Lunch – Return to Cusco.
Once you have visited the Rainbow Mountain of Palccoyo and the Stone Forest, the group will descend for 30 minutes to the parking lot to return to Colca Restaurant, where a delicious lunch will be served. Once you have finished lunch, you will return to Cusco arriving at Plaza Regocijo around 4:30pm. After that, we begin the return to Cusco for 2 hours, arriving at Plaza Regocijo where the tour ends around 4:30pm.

What's not included

Tip for the guide

Access to Palcoyo

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

We can accommodate vegetarian and vegan restrictions.

Meeting point

It is important that you provide us with your contact information, so that we can communicate with the passenger minutes before the pick-up. The transfer person will wear a black jacket and a cap with the agency logo.

Important notes

24 hour assistance

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions